Visit For The Views: 10 Most Beautiful Lake Cities In Western New York (2023)

Know for breathtaking natural attractions such as Niagara Falls as well as beautiful adventure vibes, Western New York is such a charming holiday destination. Whether it’s discovering New York's hidden gems or enjoying a peaceful romantic escape, tourists are sure of a thrilling experience in this part of the Empire State. In this region, there are a ton of beautiful lake cities that are like slices of heaven on earth, and every avid adventurer would be delighted to visit each one of them. Here’s a list of the most beautiful lake cities in Western New York to visit that allow travelers to feast their eyes on stunning views.

10 Buffalo

Aerial view of the city of Buffalo, one of the best places to live in New York, USA

Perched on the eastern tip of Lake Erie, Buffalo is one of the most amazing places in Western New York to spend a vacation. While in town, nature lovers can explore wildlife at The Buffalo Zoo. They can also spend their free time enjoying nature strolls at Delaware Park.

Those interested in learning about the city’s past can visit sites such as Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site and Buffalo Naval Park, as well as Buffalo AKG Art Museum.

9 Jamestown

Scenic view ofChautauqua Lake near Jamestown, New York

Found on the southwestern shores of Chautauqua Lake, Jamestown is one of the best places in New York to explore the great outdoors. Thrill-seekers can indulge in fun water activities such as swimming and kayaking on the lake.

Traveling southward of the city, there is the beautiful Allegheny National Forest, where tourists can go hiking and cycling, as well as wildlife viewing. Families can go picnicking at the lovely Allen Park, which comes with grills.

8 Rochester

Skyline of Rochester in New York

Travelers looking to enjoy a relaxing and fun-filled escapade should pack their vacation bags and head to Rochester, one of the most beautiful places in Western New York. Young adventurers would be excited to check out the toys and dolls at the Strong National Museum of Play. Water activities fanatics can have a fun time at Ontario Beach Park with activities such as swimming and boating.

There are rentals near the park perfect for those who wish to enjoy a beachside escapade. Another perfect spot where families can hang out is Seabreeze Amusement Park.

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7 Cooperstown

Otsego Lake in Cooperstown

Sitting at the southern edge of Otsego Lake, Cooperstown is one of the most beautiful places in New York to visit; it's a blissful paradise that boasts endless possibilities. Apart from its laid-back rural vibe, the town also comes with attractions such as the National Baseball Hall of Fame that make it a hotspot for tourists.

This is one of those quieter, secret places in Western New York that adventurers would be over the moon to visit. History buffs can explore local museums such as The Farmers’ Museum, Hyde Hall, and New York State Historical Association (NYSHA).

6 Ithaca

An aerial view of Cornell University as it sits on the southern edge of Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, New York

Nestled on the shores of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is a fabulous destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to have a great adventure. It is home to sites such as Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls State Park, where tourists can spend their leisure time enjoying activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. Travelers can interact with residents while shopping for local produce or tasting wine at the Ithaca Farmers Market.

Traveling families can take their toddlers to Ithaca Children’s Garden or to Cass Park for a fun day out. All in all, this is one of the best lake cities in New York State for those seeking an authentic dose of the region's charm.

5 Canandaigua

Canandaigua Lake in Upstate New York in the springtime

Named after the lake it’s located on, Canandaigua is a gorgeous city that serves as a popular destination for family getaways and romantic escapades. It’s one of those places in Western New York where thrill-seekers can enjoy a perfect winter vacation as well as year-round, thanks to attractions such as the Bristol Mountain Ski Resort.

Canandaigua City Pier is a great spot where the whole family can have an exciting adventure, as it comes with a playground for kids, an ice cream shop, and a nice restaurant.

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4 Skaneateles

Skaneateles Lake in Central New York

With attractions such as Anyela’s Vineyard and Skaneateles Conservation Area, the town of Skaneateles is one of the most scenic lakeside places in Western New York. Set on the shores of the lake it inherits its name from, the town allows adventurers to indulge in leisure activities such as boating, fishing, and sightseeing.

Establishments such as Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles and Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa, finding accommodation in the area won’t be a problem. Tourists can enjoy waterfront dining at The Sherwood Inn, tasting delicious dishes as they gaze over one of the most beautiful kaes in New York State.

3 Geneva

The city of Geneva at the northern end of Seneca Lake, New York

Basking on the northern shore of Seneca Lake, Geneva is one of the most beautiful cities in Western New York that adventure lovers and thrill-seekers seem to be gravitating towards. The city is home to a number of amazing wineries, such as Ravines Wine Cellars and Ventosa Vineyards, making it a top hideout for romantics in the region.

One of the most popular places in the city is Seneca Lake State Park, where tourists come to frolic on the beach and enjoy picnics. Kids will be thrilled to play in the water sprayground at the park.

2 Fredonia

Sign at the entrance to Van Buren Point near Fredonia, New York, a summer community on the shores of Lake Erie

Tired of the hurly-burly of big cities and a yearning for a quiet and peaceful getaway? Visit the quaint town of Fredonia and enjoy a serene and relaxing vibe. Sitting south of Lake Erie, the town is home to the famous Lake Erie State Park, where nature lovers congregate to participate in enthralling adventures such as camping and birdwatching.

Travelers can tickle their taste glands with some fine, locally crafted wine at Liberty Vineyards & Winery or at Woodbury Winery & Vineyards.

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1 Chautauqua

Dockside at Lake Chautauqua in Western New York State

Another popular travel destination in Western New York is the blissful town of Chautauqua. Located just a short stroll from the waters of Chautauqua Lake, this is one of the best places in New York State to explore the great outdoors. While in town, water activities enthusiasts can spend their free time at the lake indulging in fishing, boating, or even romantic sunset cruises.

Midway State Park is another fantastic spot where visitors can hang out, while the ultimate place to go hiking in the area is Long Point State Park on Lake Chautauqua.