Your Ultimate Guide to a Adventurous and Stress-free Elopement!

Eloping in the Finger Lakes region offers unmatched natural beauty, intimate settings, and endless activities. It’s a beautiful area for couples looking to make their wedding day truly memorable. Each lake has a unique charm, with gorgeous elopement locations, fun experiences, and ideal seasons to plan your special day. In this blog, I’ll share some tips on how to elope in the Finger Lakes.

Why Choose the Finger Lakes for Your Elopement?

The Finger Lakes area in upstate New York is known for its clear lakes, stunning landscapes, and vibrant small towns. For couples who crave adventure, this region is packed with hidden waterfalls, lush vineyards, and beautiful overlooks. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back ceremony by the water or an adventurous cliffside vow exchange, the Finger Lakes can make your elopement vision come true.

1. Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes, is perfect for couples seeking scenic vistas and a dose of local culture. Here are three dreamy elopement locations around Seneca Lake:

• Watkins Glen State Park: Known for its breathtaking gorge trail. Watkins Glen offers waterfalls, lots of stone staircases, and intimate settings for a private elopement. (Learn more about Watkins Glen State Park)
• Seneca Lake State Park: If you’re looking for a classic lakeside elopement, this park offers wide-open spaces with lake views and a peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for couples who want a simple, yet beautiful setting.
• Belhurst Castle: For couples who want a touch of luxury. Belhurst Castle provides a fairytale backdrop with a unique, historic charm. Ideal for an elegant and intimate ceremony. (Learn more about Belhurst Castle)

Fun Activities: Explore local wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, kayak on the lake, or visit the Finger Lakes National Forest for a secluded hike.

2. Cayuga Lake

Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes, is bordered by scenic trails, wineries, and charming towns like Ithaca. Consider these locations for your special day:

• Taughannock Falls State Park: This park offers breathtaking views of Taughannock Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies. The overlook is perfect for a unique and dramatic ceremony. It’s a popular location but one of my favorite spots to take couples!
• Ithaca Farmers Market Pavilion: Located on the waterfront, this open-air pavilion is a unique spot for a casual and cozy elopement. (Learn more about the Ithaca Farmers Market)
• Myer Farm Distillers: A rustic yet elegant venue surrounded by farmland. Myer Farm is ideal for couples who love local spirits and a cozy, countryside vibe. (Learn more about Myer Farm)

Fun Activities: Hike the trails of Robert H. Treman State Park, go wine tasting along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, or explore downtown Ithaca for its vibrant shops and cafes.

3. Keuka Lake

Keuka Lake is beloved for its Y-shaped design and stunning vineyard landscapes. Here are three charming places to consider for your elopement:

• Keuka Lake State Park: A perfect spot for a quiet, scenic lakeside ceremony with panoramic views and easy access to the water.
• Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery: Exchange vows with views of the lake and vineyards at one of the region’s most iconic wineries. (Learn more about Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery)
• Hammondsport Village Square: For couples who want a more town-centered feel. The Village Square offers charming, historic vibes and a cozy setting for a small ceremony.

Fun Activities: Rent a paddleboard, visit the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, or sample the region’s renowned wines at local vineyards.

4. Canandaigua Lake

Known for its crystal-clear waters and lively town! Canandaigua Lake offers elopement spots with a blend of nature and town life.

• Kershaw Park: With lakeside views and scenic green spaces, Kershaw Park provides a lovely backdrop for an intimate lakeside elopement.
• Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park: A classic, romantic location with beautiful gardens. Including a grand mansion if your looking for some epic architecture in elopement pictures. (Learn more about Sonnenberg Gardens)
• Bristol Mountain Overlook: For couples who love panoramic mountain views! This overlook gives a beautiful and natural backdrop for a memorable ceremony.

Fun Activities: Stroll through Canandaigua’s boutiques or sail on the lake. You can even enjoy tastings at New York Kitchen, a center for food and wine lovers.

Seasonal Guide on How to Elope in the Finger Lakes

Each season in the Finger Lakes has unique beauty to offer. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to consider for each season.

Spring

Best Time for: Lush greenery, blooming flowers, and milder weather.
Things to Note: Spring showers are common, so keep backup options or umbrellas on hand.

Summer

Best Time for: Warm weather, outdoor activities, and lakeside ceremonies.
Things to Note: Summer is the peak tourist season, so expect some areas to be busier, especially weekends.

Fall

Best Time for: Stunning fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and a cozy atmosphere.
Things to Note: Fall can be unpredictable, so pack layers for warmth.

Winter

Best Time for: Peaceful snowy landscapes and fewer crowds.
Things to Note: Winter can be quite cold, so if you’re eloping outside, consider bundling up!

Final Tips for Your Finger Lakes Elopement

No matter where you elope in the Finger Lakes, plan to book local vendors, photographers, and accommodations early. Especially if you’re eloping in the fall or summer as those are the busiest times of the year. When working with a local Finger Lakes elopement photographer, they can help you find the best spots. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems or iconic views, I can help you plan your dream wedding day! Send me a message here and we can start making plans for your version of the best day ever!

Each lake has something unique to offer. Whether you’re adventuring along the trails of Seneca Lake or enjoying the wine country vibes of Keuka. Your Finger Lakes elopement is sure to be a day full of love, beauty, and adventure!