The Finger Lakes region of New York is a study-abroad destination that has it all. From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant culture and delicious food and wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And for students, the Finger Lakes is a particularly great place to study abroad because it’s affordable, safe, and welcoming.
But with so many different places to stay in the Finger Lakes, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the 17 best places to stay in the Finger Lakes for students.
Whether you want to stay in the heart of the action or in a more secluded setting, we’ve got a place for you. And no matter where you stay, you’re sure to have a memorable study abroad experience in the Finger Lakes.
Best Places to Stay in Finger Lakes as a Student
Here are the 17 best places to stay in Finger Lakes as a student:
1. Watkins Glen
2. Geneva
3. Penn Yan
4. Corning
5. Canandaigua
6. Seneca Falls
7. Hammondsport
8. Skaneateles
9. Aurora
10. Cortland
11. Auburn
12. Cayuga
13. Conesus
14. Aurelius
15. Dundee
16. Geneseo
17. Ithaca
1. Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes for students. It has a variety of affordable accommodations, including hotels, motels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts. Students can often find discounts on rooms, especially if they are staying during the off-season.
Watkins Glen is centrally located in the Finger Lakes region, making it a great base for exploring the area. Students can easily drive to other popular destinations, such as Seneca Falls, Ithaca, and Geneva.
Many businesses in Watkins Glen offer discounts to students. For example, students can get a discount on tickets to Watkins Glen State Park and the Glen Watkins International race track. Students can also get discounts on food and drinks at many restaurants and bars in the area.
2. Geneva
Geneva, New York, is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes for students. It is a vibrant and affordable city with a lot to offer.
Geneva is home to Hobart and William Smith Colleges, as well as Finger Lakes Community College. It is also within a short drive of several other higher education institutions, including Cornell University, Ithaca College, and Rochester Institute of Technology.
It has a variety of housing options to choose from, including apartments, houses, and dorms. The cost of living in Geneva is generally lower than in other major cities in New York State.
Also, Geneva is home to a number of businesses and organizations that offer internships to students. Internships are a great way to gain real-world experience and make connections in your field.
3. Penn Yan
Penn Yan is a charming village located at the northern tip of Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, wineries, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Penn Yan is also a great place for students to stay, offering a variety of affordable housing options, a vibrant downtown area, and easy access to nearby colleges and universities.
Penn Yan is located within a short drive of several colleges and universities, including Keuka College, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and Cornell University. This makes it a convenient place for students to live and commute to class.
In addition to the above, Penn Yan also has a number of other amenities that are appealing to students, such as a library, a community center, and a variety of parks and playgrounds.
4. Corning
Corning, New York is a great place for students to stay when visiting the Finger Lakes region. It is centrally located, making it a convenient base for exploring the area’s many attractions, including wineries, breweries, distilleries, state parks, and museums.
Corning is also a relatively affordable place to stay, with a variety of accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds.
Corning is home to Corning Community College, which offers a variety of student activities and events. There are also several other colleges and universities located within a short drive of Corning, including Ithaca College, Elmira College, and Alfred State University.
Overall, Corning is a great place for students to stay when visiting the Finger Lakes region. It is centrally located, affordable, and offers a variety of things to do.
5. Canandaigua
Canandaigua is a charming lakeside town in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York State. It is a popular tourist destination, but it is also a great place for students to live and learn.
It is close to several colleges and universities. Finger Lakes Community College is located right in Canandaigua, and Nazareth College and Hobart and William Smith Colleges are both just a short drive away. This makes it easy for students to get to and from class, even if they don’t have a car.
Canandaigua is also less expensive than some of the other popular tourist destinations in the Finger Lakes, such as Geneva and Watkins Glen. This makes it a good option for students on a budget.
6. Seneca Falls
Seneca Falls is a charming town located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York State. It is a popular tourist destination, but it is also a great place for students to stay.
Seneca Falls is a relatively affordable place to live, especially compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Finger Lakes region. There are a variety of affordable housing options available, including apartments, houses, and dorms.
Also, Seneca Falls is home to several colleges and universities, including Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Finger Lakes Community College, and Keuka College. This means that students have easy access to high-quality education.
7. Hammondsport
Hammondsport is a charming village located at the southern tip of Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region of New York. It is a popular destination for tourists of all ages, but it is especially well-suited for students.
Hammondsport is a relatively affordable place to stay, especially compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Finger Lakes. There are a variety of budget-friendly accommodations available, including hotels, motels, and Airbnb.
In addition to the above, Hammondsport is also a great place to stay for students because of its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The town is known for its strong sense of community, and students are sure to feel at home there.
See Also- 15 Best Places to Stay in London as an International Student
8. Skaneateles
Skaneateles is a charming village located on the northernmost tip of Skaneateles Lake, one of the most beautiful of the Finger Lakes. It is a popular tourist destination, but it is also a great place for students to stay.
There are a variety of affordable hotels, motels, and Airbnbs in Skaneateles. Students can also find summer jobs at many of the local businesses, which can help them offset the cost of living.
Skaneateles is located within a short drive of several colleges and universities, including Syracuse University, Le Moyne College, and Onondaga Community College. This makes it easy for students to commute to class and participate in extracurricular activities.
Skaneateles is a safe and friendly community where students can feel at home. The village is also very walkable, making it easy for students to get around without a car.
9. Aurora
Aurora, New York, is a charming village located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region. It is a popular tourist destination, but it is also a great place for students to stay and explore the Finger Lakes.
It offers a variety of affordable accommodations, including hotels, motels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. Many of these accommodations offer discounts for students.
Aurora is centrally located in the Finger Lakes, making it easy to get to other towns and attractions in the region.
It is also close to several colleges and universities, including Wells College, Ithaca College, and Cornell University.
10. Cortland
Cortland is a small city in the Finger Lakes region of New York state, located about 30 miles south of Syracuse. It is home to two colleges, SUNY Cortland and Cortland Community College, as well as a number of other educational institutions.
This makes Cortland a great place to stay for students, both in terms of its affordability and its proximity to academic resources.
It is a relatively affordable place to live, especially compared to other parts of the Finger Lakes region. This is important for students, who are often on a tight budget.
Cortland has a vibrant student population, and the city is very welcoming to students. There are a number of businesses and organizations that cater to the needs of students, such as student discounts, student housing, and student-friendly activities.
11. Auburn
Auburn is a great place to stay in the Finger Lakes as a student for a number of reasons. It is a centrally located city with easy access to all of the region’s attractions, including wineries, breweries, state parks, and hiking trails.
Auburn is also home to a number of colleges and universities, including Cayuga Community College and Auburn Theological Seminary.
This means that there is a large student population in Auburn, and the city is well-equipped to meet the needs of students.
Auburn has a strong economy with a number of job opportunities for students, both part-time and full-time. This can be helpful for students who need to work to help pay for their education.
12. Cayuga
Cayuga Lake is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes as a student for a number of reasons.
It is home to Cornell University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Cornell is known for its strong academic programs, beautiful campus, and vibrant student life.
In addition to Cornell, Cayuga Lake is also home to a number of other colleges and universities, including Ithaca College, Tompkins Cortland Community College, and Keuka College.
This makes Cayuga Lake a great place to stay for students who are looking for a variety of educational options.
Cayuga Lake is also a great place to stay for students because it is an affordable place to live.
13. Conesus
Conesus is a charming town located on the shores of Conesus Lake, one of the Finger Lakes in New York State. It is a popular destination for vacationers and students alike, and for good reason.
Conesus offers a variety of affordable and comfortable places to stay, as well as a wide range of activities to enjoy.
It is located near a number of colleges and universities, including SUNY Geneseo, St. John Fisher College, and Roberts Wesleyan College. This makes it easy for students to commute to and from school.
Conesus is a popular destination for college students, so there is a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Many of the businesses in town offer discounts to students, and there are several student organizations that host events and activities throughout the year.
Overall, Conesus is a great place for students to stay in the Finger Lakes. It is affordable, convenient, and offers a variety of amenities and activities that students will enjoy.
14. Aurelius
Aurelius is a charming village located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York State. It is a popular destination for students and young professionals alike, thanks to its affordable cost of living, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the best things about staying in Aurelius as a student is the affordability. There are a number of budget-friendly hotels and motels in the area, as well as a variety of rental properties. Additionally, many of the restaurants and bars in Aurelius offer discounts to students.
Another great thing about Aurelius is that it is located in close proximity to a variety of outdoor activities.
The village is situated on the shores of Cayuga Lake, which offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Additionally, Aurelius is close to a number of state parks and forests, which offer hiking, biking, and camping opportunities.
15. Dundee
Dundee is a charming village located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York. With its stunning scenery, vibrant downtown, and affordable housing, Dundee is a great place to stay for students attending college in the area.
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Dundee is its affordability. The cost of living in Dundee is significantly lower than in other parts of the Finger Lakes, such as Geneva and Skaneateles. This makes it a great option for students on a budget.
Dundee is located within easy driving distance of several colleges and universities, including Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Keuka College, and Finger Lakes Community College. This makes it a convenient place to live for students who need to commute to campus.
16. Geneseo
Geneseo, New York, is a charming village located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. It is also home to the State University of New York at Geneseo, a highly-ranked public university with a strong academic reputation.
As a result, Geneseo is a great place to stay for students looking for a vibrant and supportive community.
Geneseo is a very safe place to live. The crime rate is low, and the village has a strong sense of community.
Geneseo offers a variety of things to do for students, both on and off campus. The village has a number of restaurants, shops, and bars, as well as a movie theater and a bowling alley. The campus also has a variety of activities and clubs available to students.
17. Ithaca
Ithaca, New York, is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes region, especially for students.
It is home to two major universities, Cornell University and Ithaca College, which gives the city a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. Students who live in Ithaca have easy access to these universities and their resources, such as libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities.
Ithaca is also a great place to live and study because it is surrounded by natural beauty, with Cayuga Lake, gorges, and waterfalls all within easy reach.
Ithaca has a variety of housing options available for students, including on-campus housing, apartments, and houses.
The cost of living in Ithaca is also relatively affordable, especially compared to other college towns like New York City and Boston.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should students consider when choosing a place to stay in the Finger Lakes?
- Amenities
- Budget
- Location
- Reviews
How can students find the best deals on places to stay in the Finger Lakes?
- Book in advance
- Look for discounts
What are some ways to save money on food and activities while staying in the Finger Lakes?
- Cook your own meals
- Take advantage of free activities
- Purchase a Finger Lakes Wine Trail Passport
What are some tips for students who are planning a trip to the Finger Lakes?
- Be prepared for all types of weather
- Purchase a Finger Lakes map
- Make reservations in advance
- Bring a camera
Conclusion
The Finger Lakes region of New York is a beautiful and diverse place, with something to offer everyone.
Students studying abroad in the Finger Lakes will find a variety of affordable and comfortable places to stay, as well as a wealth of activities and attractions to explore.
No matter where you choose to stay in the Finger Lakes, you’re sure to have a memorable study abroad experience.
This beautiful region has something to offer everyone, from stunning scenery to delicious food and wine to a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
References
- destguides.com– Where to Stay in the Finger Lakes? 9 Best Places to Stay
