5 charming historical sites you can stay at in the Finger Lakes region
Madison Scott- The Finger Lakes region in New York offers visitors a variety of historic sites to lodge in.
- These properties, dating back to the 19th century and earlier, offer modern amenities while retaining their historic charm.
- Many of these locations provide stunning views of the Finger Lakes and serve as popular wedding destinations.
The Finger Lakes Region is known for its stunning views, wineries and rich history, but did you know that you could book a stay inside some of the region's historical sites? Here are five historical sites to book your stay at for your next Finger Lakes trip.
Belhurst Castle, Geneva
The Belhurst Castle, located along the shores of Seneca Lake in Geneva, Ontario County, is said to have a rich history and rumored hauntings. The property was originally the site of Seneca village and home to the Council of the Six Nations of Iroquois until it became the Ontario Glass Company in the early 18th century.
According to the Belhurst Castle website, the Belhurst land was divided and sold multiple times until Carrie Harron bought it and began building the castle in 1885. This construction took over four years and a team of 50 men, one of which is said to have fallen to his death, beginning one of many legendary stories surrounding the castle, according to the site.
Other legends include underground tunnels, embezzlement, deaths and love affairs — including the story of an opera singer who died after an escape tunnel collapsed on her. The rumor is that she is often seen roaming the castle dressed in white. While archivists from the Geneva Historical Society have confirmed some of these historical legends, others have been reportedly found to be embellished or fabricated. The Belhurst Castle is listed on the National and Historical Site listings, according to Ontario County.
The castle offers two hotels, the Chambers in the Castle & Vinifera Inn and White Springs Manor, along with a restaurant in the castle, a pub, a winery, a spa and a gift shop. For more information on the castle's history or to book a reservation, visit https://www.belhurst.com/.
The castle is located at 4069 West Lake Road in Geneva, Ontario County.
Geneva on the Lake, Geneva
Geneva on the Lake, a romantic hotel along the shores of Seneca Lake in Geneva, was built in 1914 as a private home inspired by the Villa Lancellotti in Frascati, Italy. The property then became a monastery before opening up its doors as a business and resort in 1981, according to its website.
Geneva on the Lake has become a beloved wedding destination as it is well known for its beautiful Italian-inspired architecture and garden. The 10-acre resort offers a plethora of suites, studios and townhomes for lodging.
For more information about the history of Geneva on the Lake or to book your stay, visit https://genevaonthelake.com/.
Geneva on the Lake is at 1001 Lochland Road in Geneva, Ontario County.
Inn at Taughannock Falls, Trumansburg
Overlooking Cayuga Lake and sitting adjacent to Taughannock Falls State Park, the Inn at Taughannock Falls is known for its Victorian charm and beautiful garden. The land is said to have been originally settled by Native Americans and their sacred burial grounds remain protected and kept a secret to this day, according to the Inn's website.
Wealthy Philadelphia residents John and Amelia Jones constructed their summer home on the property in 1873 and many of their Victorian furnishings are said to remain in the Inn today. According to the website, Jones sold a majority of his 800 acres, including the famous 215-foot waterfall, to New York State in 1925, helping the creation of Taughannock Falls State Park. The property was then bought by Merritt and Maude Agard in 1945 and was opened as the Taughannock Farms Inn a year later with a country restaurant and rented rooms.
In 2016, the Inn was purchased by an Ithaca graduate who renamed it the Inn at Taughannock Falls. The four buildings on the 12-acre property continue to evolve and get renovated while maintaining its historic charm. A garden called "Enchantment" was opened on the property in 2021 to accommodate large summer events including weddings.
Today the Inn offers 24 accommodations across its four buildings. For more information about the Inn's history or to book your stay, visit https://www.inntfalls.com/.
The Inn at Taughannock Falls is located at 2030 Gorge Road in Trumansburg, Tompkins County.
The Inns of Aurora, Aurora
The Inns of Aurora Resort and Spa is a collection of historic homes on 350 acres of land. It was built between 1833 and 1909, then restored between 2003 and 2019. The inns — Aurora Inn, E.B. Morgan House, Rowland House, Zabriskie House and Wallcourt Hall — each have their own unique histories and styles.
Today, the inns offer plenty of different dining options, spas, outdoor activities and wedding venues. Each of the historic homes on the property has its own unique and interesting history. To learn more about this history or to book your stay, visit https://www.innsofaurora.com/.
The Inns of Aurora is located at 391 Main St. in Aurora, Cayuga County.
The Sherwood Inn, Skaneateles
The Sherwood Inn was established in 1807 by Isaac Sherwood, who wanted a tavern built as the headquarters for his stagecoach business. It went through many different owners, renovations and property types throughout its history, even becoming a temporary hospital during the 1918 influenza epidemic, according to its website. In 1974, the inn was purchased by Bill Eberhardt.
The Inn is located on the north shore of Skaneateles Lake and offers 25 unique guestrooms, all designed to retain the Inn's historic charm. It is also been a popular wedding venue for over two centuries, with its scenic views of the lake, according to its website.
For more information about the Sherwood Inn's history or to book your stay, visit https://sherwoodinns.com/.
The Inn is located at 26 W Genesee St. in Skaneateles, Onondaga County.
— Madison Scott is a journalist with the Democrat and Chronicle who edited our Weld Street Project and also did reporting for it. She has an interest in how the system helps or doesn't help families with missing loved ones. She can be reached at MDScott@gannett.com.