Numerous prominent hiking paths can be found on both sides of the lake, providing a wide variety of alternatives for fitness levels and paces. Among them are the spectacular Taughannock Falls, one of the tallest falls east of the Rockies, as well as paths at Great Gully Falls, Watkins Glen, and Robert Treman State Park.

Aurora boasts a nine-hole public golf course on the picturesque Wells College campus, and I was shocked to learn that it is available to the driving directions public from dawn to sunset (March through November). Locals and tourists alike frequent the clubhouse, which has a bar and restaurant.

Aurora's most well-attended events, however, occur on and around the lake during the warmer months. You may fish or swim, or you can use the public Blueway Trail, a river designed for nonmotorized water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, to get about.

"People are always interested in getting out on the water while they're here," says Matt Bianconi, the owner of Bianconi Tours and a native of Aurora. History on the Lake, Sunset Celebration, and Wineries by Water are the three boat trips offered by Bianconi during the busy summer months.

For wine tasting and relaxation, Bianconi's trips stop at three vineyards around the lake, where visitors spend 45 minutes to an hour. In addition, he says, "I believe the Finger Lakes is one of the only places in the U.S. where you can access wineries by boat," and he goes on to say that his pontoon boats can drive up to the winery docks.