Finger Lakes in September

May through October offers the best weather and full access to outdoor activities. Summer brings perfect lake weather — swimming, boating, and long evenings on restaurant patios. But fall steals the show with harvest season, changing leaves, and ideal hiking temperatures. September and October see the wineries at their busiest, with harvest festivals and special events. Spring arrives slowly here, but May brings blooming vineyards and fewer crowds. Winter can be harsh, with many seasonal restaurants and some wineries closing, though cross-country skiing and cozy fireside tastings have their appeal. Here's the insider tip: late May and early June offer warm weather, open attractions, and pre-summer pricing. The lakes moderate temperatures year-round, so summers rarely get oppressively hot and winters near the water stay a few degrees warmer.