A spectacular stay in Skaneateles makes for the perfect getaway, where the crystal-clear blue lake sits adjacent to a downtown buzzing with diverse shops, superb dining, and serene scenery. This quaint village offers year-round fun, from the spirited Dickens Christmas in winter, seasonal farmers market, popular summertime Antique & Classic Boat Show. Check out our 48-hour itinerary for a guide to the must-stop spots that make this destination unforgettable.
FRIDAY
3pm: Settle in at Mirbeau or Sherwood Inn
Built in 1807 as a stagecoach stop, you can stay at the historic Sherwood Inn in the heart of Skaneateles. Guests are hosted in 25 elegant rooms, each thoughtfully restored and uniquely decorated to preserve the Inn’s original charm. Many rooms offer views of Skaneateles Lake, with some featuring fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, pull-out sofas, or four-poster beds.
Another lavish lodging option is the Mirbeau Inn & Spa, featuring 34 guest rooms spread across two floors and four romantic cottages. Each room has a fireplace and oversized bathroom with a rainfall shower and clawfoot tub, and you can lounge in luxury in your complimentary robe.
4pm: Mosey Down Main Street
Take a jaunt around the streets of Skaneateles, picturesque and filled with assorted shops and restaurants. The Local Branch is the go-to for American-made artisan leather goods, while DROOZ and Company offers a carefully curated collection of art, gifts, decor, vintage items, and furniture. Roland’s is a one-stop-shop for Skaneateles souvenirs, and The Savage Homestead is a great place to find locally-made, handcrafted self-care items and varied accessories. Treat yourself to scratch-made scones, macarons, whoopie pies, cinnamon buns, donuts, and much more at Skaneateles Bakery.
6pm: Chill Out at Clift Park
A centerpiece of the village, Clift Park features the Skaneateles pier, a summer swimming area with striking Caribbean-blue waters, a charming gazebo, and a beautifully landscaped stone seating area complete with gardens and a fountain. Just next door, Shotwell Memorial Park offers a tribute to the area’s veterans of foreign wars.
7pm: Dine at Rosalie’s
A visit to Skaneateles isn’t complete without fine dining at Rosalie’s Cucina, a beloved local gem for over 30 years. The Tuscan-style restaurant has earned national recognition in the New York Times and on the Food Network. Savor signature dishes including the braciole (scaloppine of prime sirloin stuffed with garlic bread crumbs, basil, puttanesca sauce, broccolini, parmigiano-reggiano gnocchi), veal piccata, and Cappa Santa al Prosciutto e Basilico (scallops, lemon butter, fresh tomatoes, prosciutto, basil, spinach, with angel hair pasta). Be sure to save room for their famous banana budino dessert.
SATURDAY
8am: Start the day with Good Eats & Sips
Breakfast is beckoning at Good Eats & Sips, a colorful village café founded by Chef Don Agate and Marie-Hélène Gingras, who bring over 40 years of experience to the table. This casual spot is known for its fresh, wholesome menu, featuring locally roasted coffee, real fruit smoothies, and hearty, nutritious bowls and bagels.
9am: Pamper Yourself at Mirbeau Inn & Spa
Photo credit: Chuck Wainwright
Transport yourself to the French countryside at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa, a chateau-inspired retreat designed with European elegance. Recipient of the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award for 2024, the Mirbeau invites you to soak in the healing waters, stroll through gardens and trails straight out of a Monet painting, enjoy a rejuvenating massage and facial, partake in yoga and wellness classes, and unwind in the herbal-infused saunas, steam rooms, and heated outdoor whirlpool.
1pm: Go Fish at Doug’s Fish Fry
Since 1982, Doug’s Fish Fry has been a Skaneateles staple, serving fresh seafood delivered on ice daily. Take your pick of seafood, chicken, chowders, and classic sides like fries, cole slaw, and onion rings.
3pm: Set Sail on a Sightseeing Cruise
Embark on a scenic cruise with Mid-Lakes Navigation Co. and glide across the crystal-clear waters of Skaneateles Lake. As you cruise a picturesque three-mile stretch, enjoy a narrated tour highlighting the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Take in views of historic lakeside homes, the standout Sherwood Inn, and the steep, wooded hillsides that frame the lake’s shores. Leashed pets are welcome aboard!
6pm: Dine at Elephant and The Dove
Experience the flavors of Mexico at Elephant and the Dove, a lively eatery that blends traditional Mexican recipes with modern flair. A bold and inviting atmosphere across three aesthetically alluring floors invites you to enjoy house-made salsas and signature margaritas, along with mouthwatering dishes like smoked chile shrimp tacos, beef rojo enchiladas, portobello fajitas, and a Mexican Caesar salad.
9pm: Enjoy Live Entertainment at LakeHouse Pub
Wrap up your evening with live music at a local favorite, LakeHouse Pub. Every Saturday from 9 PM to midnight, enjoy a drink and a bite at the spacious copper-topped bar while grooving to the tunes of talented musicians.
SUNDAY
11am: Brunch at The Krebs
Credit: @hilfen11 on Instagram
Treat yourself to a gourmet experience at The Krebs, a historic 1899 institution renowned for its exceptional service and award-winning cuisine, including multiple OpenTable Diner’s Choice Awards. The menu features elevated farm-to-fork fare plus a full bar, all served in a warm and welcoming setting. Start with the chef’s crepe of the day or share the chicken and waffles, then indulge in standout brunch dishes like the lobster eggs benedict or NY strip hash.
1pm: Splash into Carpenter Falls at Bahar Nature Preserve
Credit: @greg_knoll_photos on Instagram
Just outside of Skaneateles Lake, you’ll find the hidden forest that is the Bahar Preserve. This 53-acre oasis offers access to the 100-foot-deep Bear Swamp Creek Ravine, a 65-foot stretch of lakeshore, and Carpenter Falls, a roaring 90-foot waterfall that plunges into a deep pool.
2pm: Choose Your Cheers
From vineyards and distilleries to breweries and cideries, the area offers a full spectrum of local craft beverages. Raise a glass in a scenic setting and toast to a memorable trip, then take home a bottle to savor the flavors of the Finger Lakes. Wander Anyela’s Vineyard and sip world-class wines while overlooking Skaneateles Lake. An orchard oasis awaits at the 114-year-old Beak & Skiff, where a tasting room, distillery, general store, and summer concert series add to the cidery experience. From hoppy IPAs and smooth ales to crisp lagers and bright sours, Skaneateles Brewery offers a rotating selection of a dozen beers on tap, all brewed with some of the region’s purest water. At Last Shot Distillery, locally grown ingredients are handcrafted into whiskey, vodka, and gin.
GETTING THERE
By car:
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From Buffalo: 2 hours, 15 minutes
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From Albany: 2 hours, 30 minutes
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From NYC: 4 hours, 30 minutes
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From Philadelphia: 4 hours, 30 minutes
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From Montreal: 4 hours, 45 minutes
By plane:
By train:
By bus:
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