The Finger Lakes region sits in the heart of upstate New York, roughly four hours northwest of New York City and five hours east of Cleveland.
By air, the closest airports are Greater Rochester International (ROC) and Syracuse Hancock International (SYR), both about an hour's drive from the central lakes. Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH) has limited service and is convenient for the southern end of the region. Elmira-Corning Regional Airport (ELM) serves the southwestern corner.
By car is the most practical option, since the lakes and wineries are spread out and public transport is limited. Interstate 90 (the New York State Thruway) runs east-west across the top of the region, with exits for Geneva, Seneca Falls, and Auburn. Routes 14 and 414 run along the major lakes. From New York City, take I-81 north from Binghamton or Route 17 west toward Corning.
By bus, Greyhound and Trailways serve larger towns like Ithaca, Corning, and Geneva, though schedules are infrequent. Once you arrive, you will want a car to explore the region properly.