Watkins Glen is a village centrally located in New York’s Finger Lakes Region and is frequently visited because of its quaint atmosphere and pristine nature. But the true magic that lures visitors is its name: a stunning 400.0-foot (121.9 meters) gorge that cuts through the heart of the village. Watkins Glen State Park leads you to this beauty with hiking trails that weave through the gorge. The Gorge Trail will treat you to a spectacular display of waterfalls, rapids, and rock formations carved by nature over thousands of years. Seneca Lake State Park, located 45 minutes away, is ideal for picnics, boat rides, fishing, and having fun with your kids in the playgrounds. If you’re staying here for a few days, you can find some lodgings in this serene lakeside setting. Continue reading to find the top lakefront hotels in Watkins Glen, New York.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to lake. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 14, 2024.
1. Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel (from USD 179)
Priced at $369/night, the hotel offers a beautiful and clean experience.
The hotel features a pool, hot tub, fire pits, and a coffee bar on each floor.
Conveniently located near Watkins Glen State Park and within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
The hotel's restaurant and bar offer delicious food, with breathtaking views of the lake.
Located on Franklin St. in the heart of Watkins Glen, this hotel offers deluxe accommodations that cater to small families or larger groups. All rooms are furnished with wooden floors, soothing shades of blue, and home-like touches. While some rooms even have a patio or a whirlpool spa tub, each one is equipped with all the modern amenities you’ll be needing throughout your stay.
Outside, there are firepits where you can cozy up while enjoying the lake views. If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk or an early morning jog, Seneca Harbor Park is only a two-minute walk away. Then, cap off with a swim in the pool or have some coffee or tea readily available on each floor.
Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
Address: 16 N. Franklin St.
2.9 km (1.8 mi) from Watkins Glen State Park
Other lakefront accommodations in Watkins Glen, New York
2. Lovely country-style home in front of Seneca Lake (from USD 350)
This lovely country-style home sits in a quiet neighborhood directly fronting Seneca Lake. With plenty of spaces to relax and dine, including an outdoor deck with a table and chairs, you can enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the stunning lake views. Additionally, the patio offers comfortable seating and an awning to keep you shaded on sunny days.
The essentials provided for guests are towels, bath products, coffee packets, and laundry detergent. All you need to do is stock up on food and ingredients if you plan on cooking during your stay. Furthermore, you’ll have no trouble satisfying your cravings or grabbing groceries as downtown Watkins Glen is within a 10-minute walk from the house.
Watkins Glen, New York, United States
3.1 km (2.0 mi) from Watkins Glen State Park
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the house was so charming and very cleaneverything you could need was labeled and very cleanRead more reviewsHost:
julie is a great host super organized and responsiveowner did an excellent job making us feel welcomethe owners are wonderful to talk to and easy to contactdefinitely can’t wait to return julie was an amazing hostnicely decorated and the owner is extremely helpful showing all the highlights of the area
3. Sea Glass Vacation Rental (from USD 290)
This rental on the southern tip of Seneca Lake is ideal for those seeking both leisure and adventure. Guests can explore the esteemed local wineries and distilleries around, plus Watkins Glen State Park is within a short walking distance. Besides that, the lofty windows and the sliding glass door in the living room paint a picturesque image of the lake and the marina while keeping the interior luminous. You can also step outside and enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous views on the balcony.
The open-plan layout, high ceilings, whitewashed walls, and minimal decor create an airy and elegant ambiance. The home is also equipped with a full kitchen with a spacious countertop. Here, each bedroom boasts lake views, so you can indulge in the scenery when you wake up. Additional amenities include parking, WiFi, and laundry facilities.
Watkins Glen, New York, United States
2.83 km (1.8 mi) from Watkins Glen State Park
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
everything is clean modern and well keptplace was very cleanthe townhouse was very clean and had everything we neededgreat property condo was very clean and had great linens/towelsHost:
i met the owner/manager during this visit and they were greatRead more reviewsLocation:
being able to walk to the breathtaking state park is fantasticthis was a great location to stay at for a race weekendnice to be able to walk to shops restaurants and the waterwe walked to all the restaurants for dinner which made things do easywas a great place to stay in watkins glen
4. Family-friendly house overlooking Seneca Lake (from USD 245)
Nestled near the edge of Watkins Glen, this house overlooking Seneca Lake offers a perfect retreat for families. The host has thoughtfully provided toys, books, and games for the kids, so they can be happy here too. For additional entertainment, guests can use the Smart TV and DVD player for a fun movie night. Moreover, relax at the sight of the lake on the front porch and watch the boats come and go from the nearby harbor.
Moving to the inside, the kitchen features ample cupboard space, modern appliances, complete cookware and utensils, and a breakfast bar. Another beloved feature of this property is its proximity to the wineries, restaurants, and shops in the village, as well as the nearby Watkins Glen International racetrack which is perfect for motorsports enthusiasts.
Watkins Glen, New York, United States
2.8 km (1.8 mi) from Watkins Glen State Park
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house was very comfortable with plenty of roomCleanliness:
the house was very clean comfortable and maintained wellthe house was very clean comfortable and invitingHost:
owner nice to work withcommunications with the owner were great so obtaining access to the house was super easyRead more reviewsLocation:
great location close to townvery nice property within walking distance to downtownthis was a perfect location near hiking and the falls plus all the restaurants just a short walk awayalso a great location near everything in watkins glen as well as everything around seneca lakethe location is outstanding walking distance to everything in town with a great view of the lake
A stunning lakeside village
A small village yet with many surprising wonders, Watkins Glen is truly a stunner. Even if you’re only visiting for the weekend, you can already explore many of its beautiful destinations. Take your trip up a notch by choosing one of the lakefront accommodations on the list, and indulge in the views of Seneca Lake.
While here, you can even take part in a range of waterfront activities, adding more excitement to your vacation. With plenty of thrills on land or in the water, it will surely be a memorable getaway.
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