Planning a weekend getaway to Skaneateles but don’t know where to start? Let us help! We have compiled our version of a perfect way to spend a day (or two) in Skaneateles! With options for all sorts of travelers, you’ll never want to leave.
Plan Your Stay
Start your weekend off by booking a stay at one of Skaneateles’ hotels and B&B’s. Check out 2W Lake Bed & Breakfast. Surrounded by lake views, this charming Victorian mansion is the perfect B & B for you to recharge. Another great option to check out is The Bond 1835 Inn. Take in the views of Skaneateles in the beautiful renovated farmhouse of The Bond. Farm fresh hot breakfast is served daily, and adult beverages can be additionally purchased. And, you can bring your furry friend if you call ahead of your stay!
For the Active Bunch:
We recommend grabbing some to-go meals at Good Eats and Sips. Using local ingredients, they create some delicious bowls, bagels, and smoothies you can feel good about eating. They offer a fast-casual atmosphere, a perfect place to snag some lunch before your busy day ahead.
After you fuel up, set out on a scenic hike on the Charlie Major Nature Trail. Dog friendly and customizable in length, the trail is perfect for adventurers of all ages. To end the night, we suggest grabbing some dinner at Rosalie’s Cucina. Comforting and classic, the perfect spot to get your much needed fix of cheese, sauce, garlic and more.
For day two of your stay, start the morning off with a coffee at Vermont Green Mountain Specialty Company. Their famous coffee and homemade syrups and candies will get you smiling and ready for the day. After you fuel up, take a quick 10 minute drive to spend some time out at Baltimore Woods Nature Center. The Nature Center is home to many trails, so pick the one best fit for your group. Prior to going, check out their website and events calendar to attend any of their nature classes or guided hikes! After you get your fill of the outdoors, the famous Bluewater Grill will be waiting to seat you right on the water of Skaneateles Lake.! From salad and seafood to tacos and burgers, Bluewater will absolutely have something for everyone. After dinner, enjoy a beautiful walk downtown while the sun sets over Skaneateles lake.
For the Boujee Crew:
Grab a bite and shop your heart out in the downtown of beautiful Skaneateles. Test out the iconic dishes at the Sherwood Inn, and treat yourself to an afternoon of splurging in the shops. While they do have the coveted souvenir shops, there is no shortage of unique homeware and clothing stores downtown. Some of our favorite shops include Drooz, full of eclectic goodies, The Savage Homestead, packed with natural body care, and Roland’s, the spot to grab your cozy sweatshirts and t-shirts. End the night at Anyela’s Vineyard with a wine tasting and a sunset. Perfect photo-op!
On day two, treat yourself by sleeping in and catching a Sunday brunch. We recommend checking out The Krebs for their unique take on old favorites. You can’t go wrong with their delicious crepes, or their indulgent chicken and waffles. After you fill up, stop by The Barrow Gallery and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while observing breathtaking art. The Skaneateles community works extremely hard to keep the museum at its full potential, and the hard work shows. Learn about the history of the pieces and artists alike while pondering the displays. After the art museum, head to a brewery or two to start off the evening. We recommend Skaneateles Brewery for your first stop. With loads of options on tap, Skan Brewery will please everyone in your group. Ready for dinner? Head on over to the Mandana Inn. The best spot for steak and seafood, you are guaranteed to leave more than satisfied. For an added treat, take home one of their homemade rotating desserts!
For the Family
Start your day with a visit to Skaneateles Bakery. Pick out some tasty pastries, and explore their classic breakfast and lunch menu! After breakfast, take the kids to Thayer Park to enjoy the weather, play some games, or relax on a picnic blanket. Take in the lake views and burn off some steam in the park. After the park, we recommend going for a stroll downtown. There are plenty of fun shops for the whole family, and definitely no shortage of ice cream in the warmer months. For lunch check out the famous Doug’s Fish Fry, a famous stop on the Upstate Eats Trail. Ranging from fried seafood, fresh fish, hot dogs, french fries, and more Doug’s will certainly be a crowd pleaser. For an afternoon or evening activity we recommend a boat tour of the beautiful lake. With Mid-Lakes Navigation, you can pick the type of cruise your family would enjoy, and learn about the history of Skaneateles Lake. End the night with some delicious pizza from Gilda’s. Sip on a craft beer and try out their creative and locally sourced menu.
For day two of your adventure, grab some comfort diner food at Clover’s in the heart of the village. Their menu is full to the brim with options, so don’t worry about picky eaters! After breakfast, play a few rounds of mini golf at Mr. Pudder’s Mini Golf & Ice Cream. The winner gets a banana split (Or whatever you agree to)! After mini golf, book a hike with Nature with Nicki. This guided hike can be customized to hikers of all ages, and is a great educational opportunity to learn about the environment as you walk. Make sure you book ahead of your trip! To end the night, and refuel after your hike, carb load at Valentine’s Pizza and Deli. Nothing beats a big slice of pizza after an adventure filled day! Little ones still hungry after dinner? Head to Skan-Ellus ice cream shop for a delicious dessert nightcap!
See You in Skan
Whether your in town solo, with a friend group, or with the family, there is something for everyone in Skaneateles! Check out our Instagram and TikTok for more trip inspo!
📷: @visitsyracuse
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