Watkins Glen, NY

Nestled on the southern tip of Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen is located in the heart of New York’s renowned Finger Lakes region, which is known for stellar outdoor recreation, dining, wineries, and breweries. Perfect for renters looking for a quaint feel or being surrounded by nature, Watkins Glen is bookended between two dynamic green spaces, the Watkins Glen State Park and the Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area. Watkins Glen State Park is a hiker’s dream with 19 waterfalls located along the Watkins Glen Gorge Trail, while the Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area is great for wildlife observation with an array of creatures from turtles to frogs found throughout the park. Even if you aren’t a nature enthusiast, there is still plenty to do in Watkins Glen. Head to the old-fashioned yet vibrant downtown area that houses locally owned pubs, bars, and restaurants serving up casual fare from pizza to ice cream to barbecue. Relax and sip a glass of wine at one of the many wineries nestled along the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, embrace your inner NASCAR driver at Drive the Glen, which celebrates the birthplace of American road racing. There is never a dull moment in town either with festivals and special events filling the community calendar almost every month of the year. The Waterfront Festival along the lake is a must-see with its quirky Cardboard Boat Regatta and the Grand Prix Festival showcasing over 600 classic cars and more. Just when you thought living in Watkins Glen couldn’t get any better, while renting in this small town, you’ll enjoy affordable lakeside apartments and cozy cabin-like houses.