Hammondsport, NY is located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York, on Keuka Lake. Hammondsport was voted the coolest small town in America by the readers of Budget Travel Magazine in 2012, so let’s find out what makes Hammondsport a great place to vacation.
Where to Stay
The best place to stay is in the little town of Hammondsport itself. There are a large selection of Bed & Breakfasts and a few motels to choose from. If you are looking for a motel, try the Keuka Lakeside Inn, it is located right on Keuka Lake and many of the rooms offer lake views. From the motel you will have access to the water if you travel by boat.
If you are looking for something a little quieter, try staying in the Champagne House, which is located just a few blocks from themain area of downtown. These are one-bedroom suites with small kitchen areas and private bathrooms. You can leave your car at the house and walk to the many shops and restaurants downtown.
When to Go
If you are visiting for the water and the beach then the best time to go is in the summer. Hammondsport has a small public beach for visitors to use. The Finger Lakes region is also known for their amazing wine and the best time visit the wineries is in the early fall. Head up in mid-October and the harvest will be in full swing and you will see some great fall foliage as well.
What to do
Hammondsport is a great place to relax and unwind. Head downtown and visit the many local shops and craft stores. You can grab a bite to eat as Hammondsport has several restaurants, one of the best is Union Block Italian Bistro. During peak travel times there is usually a wait, but here is a trick: put your name on the waiting list upstairs and then head around back and go down to the bar in the basement. You can grab a drink and listen to live music while you wait. With the first come first served seating policy downstairs you may even be able to grab a seat and eat right at the bar.
If being on the water is your thing, Hammondsport has a public beach and you can find boat rentals, jet ski rentals and more at Keuka Watersports. Find something you like and go enjoy the water.
There are a few restaurants located a short boat ride from downtown Hammondsport that will allow you to dock your boat while you eat. The best is Keuka Waterfront Inn. Head up there on a Sunday afternoon and enjoy great live music and drinks.
If wineries are your thing make sure to hit the Keuka Wine Trail. Before you go visit keukawinetrail.com and buy the passport for $15. While a few places offer complimentary tastings, most charge a $5 fee per person. Buying the passport will waive the tasting fee for up to two people at all wineries officially on the Keuka Wine Trail.
The wineries are a great place to grab some lunch and enjoy scenic views of Keuka Lake. One the best spots to do this is Bully Hill Vineyards. Located on GH Taylor Memorial Drive, you are elevated well above the lake, providing you with a great view of the water and the surrounding land.
If you prefer beer, there are a few breweries located in the Hammondsport area. The best one to grab a flight of a beer and a great view is Abandon Brewing Company on Merritt Hill Road. Most of the wineries and breweries are within a 20 minute drive of downtown Hammondsport.
If you have a group going it may be best to rent a limo or van to drive you for the day. There are plenty of choices for this as the area is used to catering for small groups and tourists who don’t always have their own transport.
