City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Geneva, New York

Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region northwest of Ithaca, Geneva, New York is a charming town with a rich history. It’s surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers a variety of attractions for travelers and boaters of all interests.

Here are some key attractions to visit from private boat lifts for rent near Geneva or while navigating New York’s canal system.

Seneca Lake

Geneva is situated at the northern tip of Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes. It’s a popular destination for boating, fishing, kayaking and swimming. Seneca Lake State Park offers a beautiful setting with picnic areas, a large family-friendly sprayground water play area, walking trails and a marina with boat rentals.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat tour of the lake or visit some of the nearby wineries that overlook its scenic waters. There are more than 30 wineries offering tastings of award-winning wines, particularly Rieslings for which the region is famous.

Rose Hill Mansion

Are you looking for a peek into the historic side of Geneva? Rose Hill Mansion, a Greek Revival mansion built in 1839, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in the Finger Lakes region. It’s part of the Geneva Historical Society and provides guided tours showcasing period furnishings, architecture and the history of the Swan family who lived there.

Downtown Geneva

Geneva’s vibrant downtown area is filled with charming shops, restaurants and cafes. The downtown streetscape offers a blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences, making it a great place to explore by foot on a day trip from private boat slips for rent. Be sure to visit local eateries like FLX Table, which offers a unique communal dining experience with farm-to-table cuisine.

Finger Lakes Premium Outlets

Just a short drive from Geneva and private boat lift rentals, Finger Lakes Premium Outlets is a shopping destination with more than 100 stores offering discounts on a variety of brand-name goods. The outlets feature a range of shops from fashion to home goods.

Sampson State Park

Located a bit further down Seneca Lake, the 2000-acre Sampson State Park offers camping, hiking, kayaking and fishing in a serene natural setting. The park’s expansive trails and lakefront access make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts to visit from private boat dock rentals. The park is also home to the Sampson Military Museum, which honors the site’s history as a military training base.

Finger Lakes National Forest

Finger Lakes National Forest, nestled between Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, spans more than 16,000 acres of diverse landscapes. It offers a mix of woodlands, gorges and open pastures to explore from private boat lift rentals and marinas. The forest is home to numerous trails, ideal for hiking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing.

Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot deer, foxes and a variety of birds. The area's history is rich with old stone walls and remnants of past settlements. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing and picnicking while taking in the scenic beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

Let us know your favorite attractions in Geneva. Happy boating!