Penn Yan Travel Guide

Penn Yan, a small New York village off the shores of Keuka Lake, was named after its earliest Pennsylvania and Yankee settlers. With a population of only 5,000 people and quiet residents, Penn Yan is the ideal New York vacation destination for those who want to experience all the amenities that NY has to offer without the hustle and bustle of a big city.

Things to Do in Penn Yan

Known for its fine wines and lush vineyards, Penn Yan is rich in wine-related activities. Visitors can spend the afternoon at any of Penn Fan's vineyards, including the well-known Fox Creek Vineyards and Keuka Spring Vineyards, where they can sample wines, take a stroll through the vineyards, and purchase souvenirs.

Many guests also find themselves at Keuka Lake State Park, relaxing and having a picnic or taking photos of the scenic views of Keuka Lake. The Arts Center of Yates County makes for a unique art experience, as the center is filled with one-of-a-kind exhibits and artworks by local artists, while the Apple Barrel Orchards gives guests the chance to pick a variety of apples and grapes to take home, and to sip homemade apple cider.

Best Places to Stay in Penn Yan

Offering all the comforts of home, the vacation rentals in Penn Yan are luxurious and spacious, some even including a hot tub and multiple levels of living space. Most guests choose to book a vacation home in the center of Penn Yan, as it puts them near the cities amenities and within walking distance of many fun activities.

Best Time to Visit Penn Yan

New York is known for its rainy weather and Penn Yan is no exception, so to be sure to visit when the weather is at its peak for the year, it’s recommended to visit during the summer.

Food in Penn Yan

Penn Yan is home to numerous quaint cafes and eateries that are perfect for having a coffee with your family and friends. One of the most notable is the Penn Yan Diner which serves a variety of American classics such as pancakes, eggs, and baked potatoes. The Spotted Duck specializes in frozen custards that come in over a dozen unique flavors, offering guests a sweet treat. Penn Yan also has international options including Mexican at La Cocina.

Best Events in Penn Yan

Each year Penn Yan residents and their guests gather around for the Keuka Arts Festival. The festival, which is a 2-day event, features art from over 100 artists as well as food vendors, music, and beer and wine tastings.

The Krossin’ Keuka Annual Swim is another fun Penn Fan event -- but it has a good cause. The event is a fundraiser for Keuka Comfort Care Home and participants of all ages can enter and take on the 0.67 mile-long swim across Keuka Lake.

Things to Do for Families in Penn Yan

One of the most well-known fun centers in the Finger Lakes region, Mac's Dairy Bar & Mini Golf is also Penn Yan's most popular family activity center, offering both tasty ice cream treats and mini golf, as well as a family-friendly atmosphere. For a bit of evening entertainment, families can go to the C.E.K. Mees Observatory which features a 24-inch telescope that can be used to soak in views of the constellations in the summer sky.