The Best Things to Do in Aurora, New York: A Picturesque Town on Cayuga Lake

Aurora, also known as Aurora-on-Cayuga, is a village in Cayuga County with a unique history and even more unique charm. It’s not all that big, but it packs a big tourism punch, meaning it’s ideal for day trip, a weekend getaway, or even just a memorable stop for a local lunch or coffee during a larger road trip.

Nestled in the heart of New York State, Aurora beckons with its charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a hidden gem that captures the essence of small-town charm, making this quaint village a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil escape. It is the sort of village in the United States where, once you’re in the heart of things, it feels like you could take a postcard-worthy picture in almost any direction.

The Finger Lakes Region is one of my favourite in the United States —so much so that I quite literally started a New York State Travel category on my site because I knew I had a lot to say, and that people needed to have the Finger Lakes (and other New York State gems) on their radar.

I was in the region to better acquaint myself with the Cayuga Lake Blueway Trail, a water-recreation trail for non-motorized water crafts, but also made stops in places like Seneca Falls, Union Springs, and Aurora—small towns with big charm, and even bigger stories attached to them.

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What Do You Need to Know About Aurora, NY Before Visiting?

Indigenous peoples called this place home for thousands of years, and this place was originally known by the name Chonodote. In 1779, the village was destroyed during the Revolutionary War, as the Cayuga were allies of the British army at the time.

In the 19th century, the village become a stopping point (and port) for canal traffic after the Cayuga-Seneca Canal opened, and the village of Aurora was eventually incorporated in 1837.

Its history was shaped by the presence of notable schools, academies and seminaries as the village was growing. The Cayuga Lake Acamedy (founded in 1797) was well known, but it was the founding of the Wells College (for the education of women) by Henry Wells that left perhaps the most indelible impact on Aurora.

Wells College is still the major employer (and epicentre, in some ways) of the village.

Today, this small but mighty village packs a large punch when it comes to what it offers to tourists. Even though it’s less than one square mile in size, it makes up for it in terms of its charm and history. Its well preserved core composes the Aurora Village-Wells College Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (alongside the Aurora Steam Grist Mill and the Mosher Farmstead).

In the 2000s, Pleasant Rowland, founder of the American Girl brand and former Wells College attendee, took a renewed interest in Aurora. She began buying up buildings and renovating them with the goal of better showcasing the historic character and attractiveness of the village.

There was no shortage of controversy throughout the process (with some locals not appreciating the changes), but in the end, it’s hard to deny what 20 years of funding and restoration can accomplish. Town and Country summed things up rather succinctly when noting that Pleasant Rowland had, in the end, created “a dollhouse-worthy village.”

Where to Stay in Aurora, New York

Quite possibly the most luxurious and memorable place to stay in Aurora is the Inns of Aurora. It has been featured in prominent travel magazines and journals as an exquisite place to stay, and its history is indicative of that. I’ve detailed more about the Inns below for you to read about, but you can’t go wrong if you book a stay here during your trip to this beautiful corner of New York State.

If you are travelling with a larger group and looking for shared spaces, there are some more charming places to stay in this picturesque town, too. Gracious Guest House and the Village Guest House are beautiful options to stay while you’re in town with a group of family or friends.

Of course if you’re planning to spend the evening in Aurora or on the shores of Cayuga Lake, the map below can help you find the place to stay that’s perfect for your trip.

What to Do in Aurora, New York

Visiting Aurora feels like stepping into a bygone era. With its cobblestone streets and 19th-century architecture, the village creates a timelessness that’s been lost in so many other historic places to visit.

Whether you plan to simply stroll along the scenic shores of Cayuga Lake or find something else to do from this list, there’s actually quite a bit to do here, considering it’s a village that has a permanent population of less a thousand!

Visit the Inns of Aurora

This was, has been, and is the focus of much of the attention of Pleasant Rowland. The bones of the original structure, The Aurora Inn, hearken all the way back to 1833. Now this property wears the crown of the premier resort in the Finger Lakes, after significant restorations were completed by 2003.

However, it wasn’t just The Aurora Inn, it is the inns, plural, of Aurora, after all. The buildings associated with the Inn include the E.B Morgan House, the Rowland House, the Zabriskie House, and the Wallcourt Hall.

There are ten guest rooms available for visitors, all of which have their own charm (and typically a delightful view and fireplace as well). Booking a stay at the Inns of Aurora is a much more memorable experience than just visiting them, so I’d highly recommend this when you visit town.

People come from far and wide for their spa, located on the crest of the hill above Aurora, so as to offer some of the most serene views of Cayuga Lake.

The 1883 Kitchen & Bar is also a major draw. Eric Lamphere, the Executive Chef, notes that “respect for ingredients, for farmers, and for our shared environment is the foundation for a good meal. That’s why, from pasta to ice cream, we make everything from scratch whenever possible, and why we source from local purveyors and responsible harvesters.”

Make Time For Mackenzie-Childs Aurora

Mackenzie-Childs Farm is about a two minute drive off the main strip in Aurora, but well worth the visit. It was actually founded back in 1983 in the basement of Wallcourt Hall, but eventually moved to their present-day headquarters.

The location is a quaint farm overlooking Cayuga Lake (which is, in itself, a property worth wandering around and exploring, if you’ve got a moment). Mackenzie Childs, if you’re unaware, are all about creating world-class home furnishings. From hand crafted pottery to furniture pieces, they have it all.

They aim to produce bright, colourful and whimsical items and imagine designs that “surprise with creativity sparked by memories, treasures, and the beauty that surrounds us, interpreted by skilled hands and crafted using time-honored techniques, to add art and joy to daily life.”

Stroll the Wells College Campus

Founded in 1868, Wells College was a notable women’s-only college for over 130 years before becoming a co-ed post secondary institution in the early 2000s.

Its role as a women’s college in New York State is significant, as this area of New York was crucial to the women’s suffrage movement and women’s rights in the United States. While you’re in the area, if you happen to visit Rochester, then a tour at the Susan B. Anthony House will remind you of this history.

For visitors to Aurora today, the campus is a lovely place to go for a walk and snap some pictures of its timeless architecture. You can explore the historic campus, with its captivating architecture and scenic views of Cayuga Lake. You can also learn more about its vibrant arts scene as you discover the charm of this academic haven nestled in the heart of picturesque Finger Lakes.

The public, I’m told, also has access to their swimming area during the summer months (with a lifeguard on duty), as well as the nine-hole Robert Trent golf course that’s on the campus.

Grab a Bite at fargo Bar & Grill

This is your classic village tavern sitting right on Main Street across from the Inn. They claim that they’re “home to the best burger in the Finger Lakes,” and while I’m not sure about that, I do know that they do American comfort food very well.

It’s the place in town to get a pint from one of the local Finger Lakes breweries, which I’d strongly recommend, as I think the Finger Lakes beer scene is sorely underrated.

Their shared bites are popular (especially the duck poutine), the farm-to-fargo salads are also a top choice, and their sandwiches are quality, perfect for a lunch meal (the pulled pork being what they’re likely known best for).

Attend a Show at the morgan Opera House

The Morgan Opera House is a victorian gem that offers an intimate, memorable performance. Shows can be a touch sporadic, so there may not be one during your visit, but you can check their schedule here while you’re in town.

They’re well known for their original raked stage (meaning it slopes upwards, away from the audience), their leaded glass windows, the restored original seating, the acoustics, and the ornate woodwork that you can find when you visit.

Pop Into the Village Market

You’ll find The Village Market in the heart of Aurora, right beside The Aurora Inn.

They’re known for their freshly brewed organic coffee, wide selection of gifts associated with the village and the inn, delicious pastries and desserts, and they’re even starting to get into the craft beer game.

If you’re in a rush and can’t stop anywhere for lunch, this is where I’d recommend that you get something to go. They’ve got an array of soups, chilis and chowders that are all prepared daily and rarely miss the mark.

Visit a Local Winery on cayuga Lake

Many people don’t realize that the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is actually America’s first wine trail, so once again, we’re dappling in some serious history.

A 3 minute drive south of Aurora will lead you to Long Point Winery, a 72 acre property overlooking Cayuga. They’re known in particular for the way they produce dry yet flavourful reds and whites. Their Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Dry Reisling are particular favourites.

A little further south is Bright Leaf Vineyard. It’s a newer, smaller winery than Long Point, but they’re making a name for themselves for what they’ve done with their 14 acres since they began planting vines a little a over a decade ago. If you’re looking to go a little further south, then Treleaven Wines is also a local favourite. It’s been family owned and operated for over 30 years on the east side of Cayuga.

Just north of Aurora is Hearts and Hands Winery. In 2007 they took ownership over this beloved wine-friendly soil and they’ve been off to the races ever since. They’re known for their layered, complex wines. Their Pinot Noir is probably the varietal they’re best known, and it was the first wine they made.

If you’d like to do a full trip around the lake, here’s an easy reference chart with 13 wineries listed.

Catch Some Rays in Long Point State Park - Finger Lakes

Long Point State Park is located on the east shore of Cayuga, just south of Aurora. The 4-lane boat launch, which has a picnic area and playground, is actually one of the stops on the Cayuga Lake Blueway Trail (pictured above).

Long Point State Park is known locally as a destination to catch sunsets over Cayuga Lake, as well as the nearly 5 miles of local hiking trails that give locals and visitors in Aurora a chance to take a deep, fresh breath of air.

The park is known for a few things (its variety of habitats being one of them), but it is especially well known as a place for those who love paddle sports and fishing.

Aurora, New York Awaits!

There’s really nowhere else like Aurora. It’s extremely well manicured and picturesque, with no shortage of amenities to make the visit an enjoyable one for people coming through.

Aurora is not just a destination; it's an experience. Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings, savor the flavors of the Finger Lakes, and embrace the allure of a village that whispers tales of a simpler time. Discover the enchantment of Aurora, where every cobblestone has a story to tell and every sunset leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

It’s an ideal spot to plan your road trip through, or make a road trip to, as fond memories surely await.