Finger Lakes Boating Museum
Discover the maritime heart of the Finger Lakes with a stunning collection of classic wooden boats and a unique lake tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Finger Lakes Boating Museum
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the maritime heart of the Finger Lakes with a stunning collection of classic wooden boats and a unique lake tour.
"A local gem showcasing pristine boats and offering a memorable Keuka Lake experience."
Don't Miss the Boat Tour! :ferry:
The Pat II ferry boat ride on Keuka Lake is highly recommended for all ages.
Check for Live Music :musical_note:
The museum sometimes hosts live music events, adding a special ambiance to your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classic Wooden Boats
Main Exhibition Halls
Marvel at meticulously restored antique and classic wooden boats, a testament to local craftsmanship.
Pat II Boat Tour
Keuka Lake (departing from museum)
Experience Keuka Lake on a historic ferry boat, lovingly reconstructed with volunteer hours.
Workshop Wonders
Museum Workshops
Peek into the ongoing restoration projects and see craftsmen at work in the museum's workshops.
Historic Wine Cellar
Lower Levels
Explore a fascinating old wine cellar integrated into the museum's unique historical building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Charm
Plan for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Boat Tour! :ferry:
The Pat II ferry boat ride on Keuka Lake is highly recommended for all ages.
Check for Live Music :musical_note:
The museum sometimes hosts live music events, adding a special ambiance to your visit.
Combine with Nearby Attractions :world_map:
It's conveniently located near the Curtiss Museum, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Kid-Friendly Activities :child:
Features dedicated kids' rooms with fun activities to keep younger visitors entertained.
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Boat Tour! :ferry:
The Pat II ferry boat ride on Keuka Lake is highly recommended for all ages.
Check for Live Music :musical_note:
The museum sometimes hosts live music events, adding a special ambiance to your visit.
Combine with Nearby Attractions :world_map:
It's conveniently located near the Curtiss Museum, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
Kid-Friendly Activities :child:
Features dedicated kids' rooms with fun activities to keep younger visitors entertained.
Support Youth Programs :gift:
Consider supporting their #GivingTuesday campaigns to help fund youth programs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the museum's impressive collection of beautifully preserved antique wooden boats and the dedication of its local curators. While the building's facilities, like air conditioning, are noted as basic, the passion for maritime history and the unique Pat II boat tour on Keuka Lake are consistently highlighted as major draws.
"Great collection of boats, but the museum is pretty-run down. No air conditioning and the lower levels of the museum smell of mold and mildew. The interpretation is also very minimal. That said, the collection of boats is pristine and you can tell that the preservation craftsmen have put a lot of effort in preserving the collection."
John Giblin
"I missed this a couple of weeks ago when I first passed through.🫤 It is very close to the Curtiss Museum. It is possible to spend a couple hours at each and then continue on your journey. 🙌🏻
Upon approaching the boating museum I realized that I wasn't going to make it up that hill with my camper.😲 Conveniently located on the side of the road was a narrow empty parking area by an abandoned building.👍🏻
This museum was put together by the locals and is most certainly an important part of the history of the finger lakes area. I've always liked antique and classic boats. I lived on a lake for 26 years. ⛵So I was interested in the museum and I enjoyed the collection of boats and motors. 🥸
They had an example of a classic boat much like the one my Fad had when I was a kid. 😀
They have a cute little gift shop and I did purchase a very appropriate camper sized handmade cutting board made from beautiful woods 🤩"
Michael Scott
"I’m giving this rating based on location and accessibility, staff enthusiasm, thoughtfulness of displays, historical commitment and quality of materials. This is a fine location for this boat, museum, and they’re reusing a bit of history in selecting the museum building. I hope all of these old Gold Seal buildings eventually can convert to museum space."
Ceecie Bryson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 8231 Pleasant Valley Rd, Hammondsport, NY 14840. It's accessible by car, and parking is available nearby, though some visitors have noted finding convenient spots can sometimes be a challenge, especially with larger vehicles like campers.
It's situated on the side of the road, making it visible. Some visitors have mentioned a convenient, though sometimes narrow, parking area near an abandoned building.
Driving is the most common method. The scenic Finger Lakes region offers beautiful drives, and the museum is a great stop on a larger itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Specific hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, reflecting its community-run nature. Check their website for current pricing. Some local libraries offer VIP passes that may include entry.
While advance tickets might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to check if they offer online booking, especially if you plan to attend a special event like a concert.
Look into local library programs like the 'Very Important Places' (VIP) Pass program, which can offer discounted or free admission to various attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a fantastic collection of antique and classic wooden boats, learn about their restoration, see old motors, and even visit a historic wine cellar. They also have kids' activity rooms and sometimes host live music. +1
Yes, it's considered family-friendly with dedicated kids' rooms offering fun activities. The boat tour is also enjoyable for all ages.
The Pat II is a historic ferry boat that has been reconstructed and converted to electric power. The tour offers a relaxing and educational experience on Keuka Lake, accommodating up to 16 passengers.
While the collection is pristine, some visitors note the building itself can be a bit run-down, with no air conditioning and potential musty smells on lower levels. However, the staff are enthusiastic and the displays are thoughtfully curated.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions or ask staff if you're unsure, especially when photographing restoration work.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself doesn't typically have a full-service restaurant, but it does have a cute little gift shop where you might find small snacks or souvenirs.
Hammondsport and the surrounding Finger Lakes region offer numerous wineries with restaurants, charming cafes, and local eateries. It's a great area for food and wine enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate details of the classic wooden boats, the ongoing restoration work in the workshops, and the scenic views from the Pat II boat tour. The unique building architecture also offers interesting shots. 
Absolutely. The combination of historic boats, the lake setting, and the charming Finger Lakes countryside provides ample opportunities for beautiful photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main exhibits focus on boats, the interactive elements for children make it a well-rounded experience for the whole family. Remember to check for potential temperature variations in the building and plan accordingly. ⚓ Boat Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to learn about the rich boating heritage of the Finger Lakes region, from steam boats to personal craft. 🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It’s a perfect way to break up a scenic drive and add a dose of local history to your itinerary.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Museum: Boat Restoration
This hands-on approach to preservation is a core part of the museum's mission. It not only saves these beautiful pieces of maritime history but also serves as an educational tool, teaching new generations about traditional woodworking and boat-building techniques. The sheer number of volunteer hours dedicated to projects like the Pat II ferry boat reconstruction highlights the community's passion.
Visitors often express admiration for the pristine condition of the boats, recognizing the immense effort involved. It’s this commitment to preserving the heritage of boating in the Finger Lakes that makes the museum a truly special place.
Experiencing Keuka Lake: The Pat II Boat Tour
This tour provides a wonderful opportunity to see the Finger Lakes from a different perspective. It's described as relaxing and educational, suitable for all ages. The fact that the boat has been converted to electric power also speaks to a forward-thinking approach to preserving maritime heritage.
Many visitors rave about this experience, calling it a 'must' for anyone visiting the area. It offers a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into both the original boat and its extensive restoration.
A Building with a Past: The Museum's Unique Location
While the building contributes to the museum's charm and historical commitment, it's worth noting that some visitors have pointed out its age. There's a mention of a lack of air conditioning and potential musty odors, particularly on the lower levels. However, this is often framed within the context of the building's historical nature and the overall effort to preserve it.
Despite these minor points, the building's integration of features like an old wine cellar adds to the overall fascinating experience. It’s a reminder that the museum is not just about boats, but also about preserving the broader history of the Finger Lakes region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit