If you’ve yet to see the stunning Finger Lakes fall foliage up close with your own eyes, this is your year to head out to Upstate NY. The peak time to visit for these golden and fiery hues is late September to early November, and the weather is often perfection. Still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors with a light coat, with crisp mornings that turn into warm afternoons and cool evenings best spent by the fire. There are many fantastic scenic drives along the lakes for the best views.
One of the most magical places to check out the Finger Lakes fall foliage is in Trumansburg, NY, at Taughannock Falls State Park. This dreamy waterfall plunges 215 feet and is surrounded by rocky cliffs soaring up to 400 feet. When the leaves of the trees turn, this waterfall is framed by autumnal hues, creating a beautiful contrast of grey, greens, and gold. This is a lovely place to start your fall adventure, and it just so happens to be a few minutes from our Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast!
Taughannock Falls State Park is one reason our luxurious B&B is a fantastic homebase for your travels. As you arrive, you’ll see instantly that there’s a long list of other amazing reasons to stay and why we often welcome return guests back time and again. Our professional hospitality team, elegantly appointed guest rooms, and beautiful breakfast each morning are just a few things to note. Join us this fall and see the striking colors in the Finger Lakes; book your lodging today!
Where to Find the Best Finger Lakes Fall Foliage
Touring the area and taking in the beautiful Finger Lakes fall foliage is one of the best additions to your romantic getaways in Upstate NY. The Finger Lakes’ diverse range of trees, including maples, oaks, and hickories, offers a breathtaking display of colors, particularly between late September and mid-October when the foliage peaks and into November. You can track the leaf report here.
Here are the best places to see fall colors near our Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast:
- Taughannock Falls State Park: Known as one of the most exceptional destinations to visit in the fall, offering breathtaking natural beauty enhanced by the season’s vibrant foliage. The park is home to the stunning Taughannock Falls, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls east of the Rockies, which cascades dramatically from 215 feet.
- Watkins Glen State Park: As the autumn colors peak, the park’s iconic 19 waterfalls and dramatic gorges are surrounded by rich hues of red, gold, and orange, creating a perfect backdrop for hiking the scenic trails. With its unique geological formations and crisp fall air, Watkins Glen offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for nature lovers and leaf-peepers alike.
- Finger Lakes National Forest: With numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for outdoor activities like birdwatching and wildlife viewing, this expansive forest is an ideal spot for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape. The crisp fall air and stunning vistas make it a perfect destination!
- Cornell Campus Botanic Gardens: This botanic garden on the iconic college campus in Ithaca offers an extensive collection of gardens, arboretums, and natural areas. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks surrounded by rich foliage, quiet ponds, and picturesque trails.
- Wine Tasting on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail: Follow the trail of the Finger Lakes wineries, which produce lovely wines along the shores of Cayuga Lake. One of the best ways to experience this wine-tasting trail is with Experience the Finger Lakes tour group, which offers door-to-door service at our bed and breakfast.
- Buttermilk Falls State Park: Known for fantastic hiking and scenery, the namesake waterfall, Buttermilk Falls, is especially pretty in the golden hues of fall. There’s an upper and lower area to this Finger Lakes State Park.
- Robert H Treman State Park: Another great park for Finger Lakes fall foliage, Robert Treman is a lovely place for a hike or picnic. Winding trails follow along the gorge with a handful of waterfalls, but be sure to see Lucifer Falls, the 115-foot beauty.
The Best Finger Lakes Lodging for Romance & Relaxation
Fall is one of the most romantic seasons in the Finger Lakes. With perfect weather, the changing of the leaves, and fewer crowds than summer, you’ll love connecting and spending time with your partner. Our historic garden property exudes charm and sophistication, featuring luxurious accommodations that blend modern amenities with classic elegance. Each room is thoughtfully designed for comfort and intimacy, creating a cozy atmosphere for couples to relax and unwind.
The Riesling Suite (pictured above) at our Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast captures the beauty of Taughannock Falls. As our newest renovated first-floor room, completed in winter 2017, this suite features a stacked slate gorge wall that shines as a focal point in the room. The custom-tiled bathroom symbolizes Taughannock Creek, the waterfall, and the ripples on Cayuga Lake. While the Riesling suite might not be our most spacious room, it offers modern luxury and is perfect for a cozy, romantic getaway during the fall.
One of the highlights of your stay will be our breakfast service. We take pride in our ingredients, recipes, and feeding our guests wholesome and nutritious food, but that doesn’t mean we skimp on flavor or decadence. We love to incorporate sweet and savory options! It is always paired perfectly with French press coffee or teas and is the absolute best way to start your day before you head out to see the stunning Finger Lakes fall foliage. Book your room today!
