If you’re looking for the perfect day trip destination in New York, you should consider heading out to Seneca Falls in the middle of the state. This small town covers about five square miles and has a population of almost 7,000. It also has a little bit of everything! If you like history, nature, and enchanting, walkable small-town downtowns, then you’ll love Seneca Falls, New York. Read on to learn more about one of the best small towns in New York and start planning a visit today.

Seneca Falls is the perfect New York small town and an excellent choice for a day trip. There's so much to see and do here!
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The town is nationally and even internationally famous because it was the site of the Seneca Falls Convention in July 1848. The Seneca Falls Convention was the first women's rights convention in the United States. It began the movement that eventually led to the passage of the 19th Amendment which gave women the right to vote.
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The Wesleyan Chapel, shown here, was where the Seneca Falls Convention took place. Built in 1843, it was also the site for anti-slavery efforts, free speech events, and political rallies. Today, it is part of the Women's Rights National Historical Park, something no visitor to one of the best small towns in New York should miss.
Also part of the Women's Rights National Historical Park is the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton. She was an author, philosopher, speaker, and one of the main leaders of the women's rights movement.
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The National Women's Hall of Fame is also in Seneca Falls, New York and it's definitely worth a visit. It opened in 1969 and currently includes over 300 inductees.
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There are so many historic buildings in this area. The Seneca Knitting Mill was built in 1844, and it ran continuously until it closed in 1999.
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And it's not just cool buildings here. There are a ton of other reasons why this is one of the most enchanting towns in New York.

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Seneca Falls is situated on the Cayuga-Seneca Canal, which is quite beautiful. Twenty miles long, it was built to connect the Erie Canal to Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake.
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The canal has four locks and is quite popular with boaters.
It makes sense, then, that the Seneca Museum of Waterways and Industry is located just steps from the canal. This small museum tells visitors about the history of the canal and its impact on the region.
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Many believe that Seneca Falls, New York was the inspiration for the town of Bedford Falls in the famous film It's a Wonderful Life. You can visit the It's a Wonderful Life Museum to view displays and memorabilia from the movie.
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If you want to spend some time in nature while visiting, visit the Seneca Meadows Wetlands Preserve and hike some trails. No matter where I'm visiting, I always build in some time to explore nature.
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Or go ahead and check out the wildlife at the massive Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge nearby.
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And it wouldn't be a trip to one of the best small towns in New York without stopping to visit one of the many vineyards in the area to enjoy a tour and sample some wine. Finger Lakes wine country is beautiful!
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There’s so much to see and do in one of the most enchanting towns in New York. Start planning your trip to Seneca Falls today. It’s the perfect day trip destination in New York!

Turn your day trip into an overnight. Check out what Booking has for accommodations.

In general, the Finger Lakes Region is amazing! Learn more about why you should visit the Finger Lakes in New York.

12 Reasons To Drop Everything And Visit The Finger Lakes In New York

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Exploring The Finger Lakes

Rachel Raimondi | February 13, 2024

What are the most popular restaurants in the Finger Lakes?

Now that you’re familiar with Seneca Falls, check out the best restaurants in the Finger Lakes:

FLX Table: Located in Geneva, this fine dining restaurant is known not only for its food but also its hospitality. Enjoy a five-course meal that changes with the season and availability.

Rio Tomatlan: You may have guessed it already, but this spot in Canandaigua serves Mexican food. You’ll find all your traditional favorites here, like tamales and guacamole, and some other more unique choices like mole poblano.

What are the best small towns in the Finger Lakes?

Seneca Falls, New York is gorgeous. But don’t forget about some of the other best small towns in the Finger Lakes:

Watkins Glen: This town on the southern end of Seneca Lake is home to some pretty big things, such as the Watkins Glen International Racetrack, the 778-acre Watkins Glen State Park, and its Gorge Trail and waterfalls.

Canandaigua: There is a lot to do in this city on the northern end of Canandaigua Lake. Take in the shops and eateries on Main Street, visit the Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Park or Ontario County Park, or take in the lake and all the activities it has to offer.

What are the best hotels in the Finger Lakes?

No matter which enchanting town in New York you are visiting in the Finger Lakes, you’ll definitely want to stay overnight. Check out some of the best hotels in the Finger Lakes:

Morgan Samuels Inn and Venue: This seven-bedroom mansion inn and event venue is located in Canandaigua. It’s a beautiful spot for taking in nature, heading out for a wine tasting, birdwatching, or relaxing at the spa.

Mirabeau Inn and Spa: Head to France without actually having to take a plane ride to Europe at this 34-room resort in Skanteales. You can visit the on-site spa and enjoy its amenities like fitness classes and a steam room. Then, wander the gardens before grabbing something to eat at the restaurant.

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Seneca Falls, NY 13148, USA