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Visit Hammondsport, One of the Finger Lakes’ “Coolest Small Towns”

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2018-07-01 21:03:00

 Avisit to the Finger Lakes  just wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Hammondsport. Situated at the foot of Keuka Lake, Hammondsport was named the Coolest Small Town in America in 2012  by Budget Travel, and for good reason. This small lakeside town, often referred to as “the quintessential Finger Lakes town”, is big on charm and scenery, and even bigger on reasons to visit.



Hammondsport is known as the Cradle of Aviation, the home of Glenn Curtiss, who is credited with establishing naval aviation and made his first historic flight over Keuka Lake in his machine “June Bug” on the Fourth of July 1908.  Curtiss’ legacy credits him with the first officially witnessed flight in North America and the first long-distance flight in the United States, as well as a race won at the world’s first international air meet in France. The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum  offers a tribute to his revolutionary accomplishments.



Hammondsport is also home to many of the Finger Lakes’ famous wineries, including Dr. Frank’s Vinifera Wine Cellars, where Dr. Konstantin Frank developed the grape growing techniques that allowed the Finger Lakes to become a major player on the world stage of winemaking. Many of the region’s other beloved wineries are also located in or near Hammondsport, along the Keuka
Lake Wine Trail.


Hammondsport is also appreciated for its arts and shopping scene; you can find stores and galleries filled with handmade crafts and creations, antique shops and art studios, home décor, quilts and candles, jewelry and clothing boutiques, and more here. The town also hosts events and live music in the park during the summer. Like in many Finger Lakes towns, there are also unique dining opportunities and overnight accommodations nearby, like bed and breakfasts and cozy inns that highlight the area’s quiet and quaint nature.



Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Hammondsport can take a hike on a section of the famous Finger Lakes Trail, a 950-mile trail network that extends throughout the Finger Lakes region, or just head to the water. Keuka Lake provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, including two beaches within Hammondsport itself—Depot Park and Champlain Beach—perfect for a day of swimming or picnicking.



Fishing is a popular pastime on Keuka Lake as well; book a charter with a local service for the expert experience, or just toss in a line on your own time and see what comes up—often, it’s a variety of bass and trout. And, of course, local marinas  have boat rentals available for those who want to get out and explore the far shores of Keuka Lake as well. With its beautiful lake views, world-famous wines, a thriving arts  scene, scores of unique shops and restaurants, and a rich historical background, the Finger Lakes always gets high marks as an excellent summer destination. Visit and see why Hammondsport earns a spot in any Finger Lakes travel plans.


PHOTO CREDITS:

50s Music in the Park Credit Chris Brooks via Flickr
Sailboat Credit Chris Brooks via Flickr
Day at the beach Credit Chris Brooks via Flickr
Dr. Konstantin Frank Sign Credit Robert Gray via Flickr
Moose painting credit Doug Kerr via Flickr
Cradle of Aviation sign credit Doug Kerr via Flickr
Seaplane Sunrise Credit See1Do1Teach1 via Flickr