Skaneateles is a historic village set along the 16-mile stretch of one of the cleanest lakes in the country, Skaneateles Lake. Skaneateles provides residents and visitors with an intimate and upscale environment. With Skaneateles' moderate New England climate and scenic views, residents can enjoy their car and bus rides or stroll through the town with ease.
Highly spoken about for its unique food, colonial residences, highly rated school system, and cost of living lower than both the state and national levels, there are so many incredible features in Skaneateles, New York. With a mix of a lively downtown area and quiet parks, there has been an uptick in residents looking to call this hidden historical gem their home.
Things you may not know about Skaneateles
Skaneateles used to be a small hidden town in central New York until former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton spent a week visiting. With constant media attention, Skaneateles quickly took their rightful place on the map.
Additionally, The James Canning Fuller and Lydia Fuller house, which is still standing today, has long been assumed to have been an underground railroad station for those making their way from Syracuse to their final destination of Auburn.
Finally, Lake Skaneateles provides fresh water to over 200,000 people in and around the Syracuse, NY, area and is one of only six unfiltered water sources in the country.
Things to do
Skaneateles Country Club
3344 W Lake St, Skaneateles, NY
At the Skaneateles Country Club, you can experience a first-class golf clinic. You can also utilize the club's tennis facilities, which have hosted a few U.S Open and New York State qualifiers, on top of attending sailing school, and use the venue for special events.
Skaneateles Polo Club
783 Andrews Rd, Skaneateles, NY
A place to practice your skills, enjoy matches, and attend tournaments, Skaneateles Polo Club is a must-visit spot. For its fifth year in a row, Skaneateles Polo Club will hold its annual Crouse Health Polo for Preemies to support the little fighters of Crouse Health's Baker Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Emma + James
25 Jordan St, Skaneateles, NY
Emma + James is a luxury women's and men's boutique for those looking for anything from clothing, jewelry, shoes, sunglasses, and candles. With various top brands available, Emma + James clothing will make you feel trendy and stylish every season.
Nest 58
58 E. Genesee St. Skaneateles, NY
When thinking about a store that truly has everything in one spot, Nest 58 is that place in Skaneateles. From various Mackenzie-Child treats, wall art, holiday decor, and mugs, you'll get lost in the sea of treasures at Nest 58. One of the best things Nest 58 offers is one-of-a-kind upcycled products using reclaimed materials such as tires, innertubes, and billboards.
Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles
851 West Genesee St. Skaneateles, NY
Making you feel like you're residing in a private estate, Mirbeau Inn and Spa combines an Inn, Spa, and Bistro all into one incredible experience. The 34-room Inn provides stunning views and five-star comfort.
When enjoying the Spa, you'll have the choice of seasonal treatments, couples activities, facials, and massages. This 14,000-square-foot facility features dry saunas, herbal-infused steam rooms, full-service fitness facilities, and expert lead yoga classes.
There is a Bistro and Wine bar within the spa too. With locally sourced and regional food, their guests are presented with clean eating options and healthy remakes of classic French dishes. Whether you've come after a morning at the spa, a night out for dinner, or a gathering with your friends to enjoy a Sunday brunch, The Bistro at Mirbeau Inn and Spa is ready to serve you.
Annual events
Festivals
Skaneateles provides multiple themed festivals annually, such as the Curbstone Festival in July, the Fall Festival in October, and the Winter Festival in January. Also, in the summer months, Skaneateles holds a four-week music festival to give artists a chance to shine on their stage.
The Dickens Christmas Celebration
For almost 30 years, Skaneateles has held their Dickens Christmas Celebration from Thanksgiving until Christmas. Each day presents a different piece of Dickens Christmas from Trunk Shows, Wine Tastings, Caroling, and much more.
Places to grab a bite
Elderberry Pond Restaurant
33712 Center Street Road Auburn, NY
Under a 10-minute drive from Skaneateles, Elderberry Pond Restaurant is a fine-dining restaurant that serves its guests a variety of fresh foods, such as seafood, high-quality meat, and produce, which is picked daily from their certified organic farm. This restaurant also has an excellent wine selection for its patrons to enjoy.
Rosalie’s Cucina
841 West Genesee St. Road, Skaneateles, NY
Serving a true Tuscan dining experience, Rosalie’s Cucina prides itself on using the highest-quality ingredients and an extensive selection of wine, beer, and spirits to complement your meal. Featured in various publications, including the New York Times, Rosalie’s Cucina has been delivering delicious Italian meals in Skaneateles.
The Krebs
53 West Genesee Street, Skaneateles, NY
As a historical fine dining experience, The Krebs offers a modern approach to classic techniques. Earning awards from the 2 Glass Award of Excellence and being featured in the Vogue magazines wine guide, The Krebs has an exemplary wine list to match their incredible brunch and three-course dinner options.
Wineries and breweries
Anyela's Vineyards
2433 W Lake Rd, Skaneateles, NY
Beginning its journey in Eastern Europe, Anyela's Vineyards utilizes sustainable practices to present the highest quality product to match the stunning scenery of the Vineyard. With multiple summer events and featured wine tastings, Anyela's Vineyards is a premier spot in Skaneateles.
Skaneateles Brewery
4022 Mill Rd, Skaneateles, NY
Using the water from Skaneateles Lake, a group of friends opened Skaneateles Brewery. On top of producing top-shelf beer, this Brewery promotes a warm atmosphere and is a go-to place for special and private events. Skaneateles Brewery is the place for summer fun, to watch sporting events, and more.
Schools
The school systems in Skaneateles are a major part of the town's culture. The Skaneateles Central School District serves students with the motto of Engage/Enrich/Inspire/Create to produce well-rounded, educated students. Skaneateles was ranked the sixth-best school district in upstate New York in 2019, and it was not their first time appearing in the top 20, nor is it expected to be their last.
Become a part of this charming community
With award-winning restaurants, wineries, and schools, Skaneateles is an ideal location for families and business individuals alike. Moving to Skaneateles means being exposed to breathtaking natural beauty mixed with premier venues and rich historical culture.
Ellen O'Connor of Sotheby's International Realty will bring her Central New York specialization in waterfront and luxury properties to help you find the home of your dreams. With 18 years of experience and a lifetime resident of the area, contact Ellen O'Connor to utilize her extensive local knowledge to discover which lake, village, or country home in Skaneateles is right for you.
