Several centuries ago the Iroquois named this peaceful lake Canandaigua which translates as a “chosen place” or a “place chosen for habitation”. In later years the locals called Canandaigua Lake the “Gem of the Finger Lakes” and the tourists who come to vacation here simply call it amazing. With a length of 15.5 miles and a width of approximately one mile, Canandaigua Lake is the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes. With the City of Canandaigua and its highly developed shoreline to the north and Naples to the south, the Canandaigua Lake shoreline offers much contrast along its shores.
Because of its located only 30 miles from Rochester, NY, Canandaigua Lake has long been a popular vacation retreat for the residents there and in surrounding communities for decades, and now tourists from all over the country have discovered its beauty. One of the most popular attractions is the Roseland Amusement Park which has operated in the City of Canandaigua for 60 years. Many upstate residents have experienced their first roller-coaster ride on this trusty old amusement. Roseland Water park offers family entertainment in the form of waterslides, wave-pools and beach lounging. Along the shore of Canandaigua Lake, the city Canandaigua hosts the New York Wine and Culinary Center, a multi-million dollar complex serving as the gateway to upstate NY wine country.
The numerous parks, shops and dining options are also a draw from all over the region and give visitors a representative taste of upstate life. Throughout the length of the Canandaigua Lake, you’ll find small towns and county parks that offer everything from scenic views to fishing or swimming. Numerous camps and parks bordered the lake at one time, but now few remain as the demand for summer retreats has claimed the northern shores. Cottages on this lake are hot commodities, some fetching millions of dollars in sales. The rolling hilly farmlands take up the majority of the remaining shore line.
One of the most powerful vacation attractions is the quality fishing offered on Canandaigua Lake. The sport generates over $8,000,000 in revenues, roughly 10% of the total vacation dollars generated by the lake. If attempting to land a trophy fish will cap off a perfect vacation, charter fishing is offered and suggested.
Okay, so you see that there is something to do for the whole family just by this brief bio about Canandaigua Lake. This article is an attempt to give you an overall idea about how much fun you will have if you vacation here. I hope it worked and I hope you’ll come see us.