Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

About The Hotel

The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel at 16 N Franklin St is a 4.7-rated (2,090 reviews) lakefront hotel on the Seneca Lake harbor in Watkins Glen, with a pool, harbor views, an on-site restaurant, water-sport rentals, and a walkable location near the State Park gorge and the village. The top-rated stay in the southern Finger Lakes; guests praise the lakefront setting, the clean rooms, the excellent service, the beautiful views, and the convenient gorge-and-wine-trail base. The pool and waterfront are the water features; a jetted-tub room is a specific room category to confirm at booking. An ideal choice for couples and travelers who want a top-rated lakefront hotel near the gorge and the wine trail.

What Guests Are Saying

“I was in town for business from Philadelphia but after a long drive I was too tired to drive back, so I found myself searching for a hotel. After stopping at a couple hotels in the area to no avail, I stumbled upon the most beautiful hotel, Watkins Glen Harbor.. anticipating that there was no chance they would have a room for me, but still walked in..hopeful. When I walked up to the desk I was greeted by the nicest gal, Mckayla. I asked her if she had a room for 1, and she smiled at me and said “I’ll see what I can do” she told me she often travels by herself too and understands how much feeling safe and secure means to someone traveling alone especially when you stay in an area you don’t know. I instantly felt understood, and not like an outsider. She found me a room and was so kind and accommodating, making me feel so welcomed. I highly recommend this hotel. Incredible location, wonderful people, and if you wake up early enough you may just get to see the most beautiful sunrise while enjoying your cup of coffee. I will absolutely be back, solo, with friends and family in the years to come, etc… Thank you again Watkins Glen Harbor, and Mckayla for a wonderful stay and exceptional hospitality.” — Amber, 5 stars

“They are rather old and demanding, kind of like us I guess, so we decided to take a short trip for an overnight in what appeared a decent hotel in a decent location. Easter fell on my wife’s birthday this year, so we decided this would be an opportune time. Check-in is normally at four, but a call to the desk enabled us to check in a couple hours early. Our room, overlooking the lake, was clean, the bed very comfortable, the bathroom a bit small but adequate with a nice shower. We had Easter buffet reservations at four thirty, which gave us time to visit the bar. The bartender was friendly and made excellent cocktails. Brunch was held in a large dining area. There were many staff working in concert to ensure everyone had their needs met. Other than the steamship round, which was nicely prepared, seasoned well, but quite tough, the offerings were all really good. Our server was exemplary. Teamwork throughout was noteworthy. Everyone was helpful and pleasant. We look forward to returning.” — swampknot, 5 stars

“Two night stay due to work being done on new house locally. Hotel is beautiful inside and out. Snow and ice the first day, the parking lot was clear, all walkways salted. Room had a view of the lake, balcony - very nice. Room was clean, neat, bathroom first class. Bed, towels, linens all top of class. Very quiet. Coffee and tea on each floor in the AM. Breakfast was excellent - large portions and delicious. Nice dining area and excellent wait staff. Employees very friendly, efficient and competent.This is a 4/5 Diamond hotel. Number one place to stay in the area including Ithaca, Elmira, Corning and of course Seneca Lake. Book early as I know reservations in Season will be hard to come by.” — Mike_vacation_12, 5 stars

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• A 4.7 across 2,090 reviews — the top-rated stay in the southern Finger Lakes
• A lakefront setting on the Seneca Lake harbor
• A pool, harbor views, and an on-site restaurant
• Water-sport rentals and lake access
• A walkable location near the State Park gorge

Cons:

• A modern hotel rather than a historic inn
• A jetted-tub room is a specific room type — confirm at booking; the pool is the shared amenity
• A premium price in peak summer and race weekends
• Books up fast for the gorge and wine-trail season

The Location

On the Seneca Lake harbor in Watkins Glen, walkable to the State Park gorge. You can find more details or book your stay on TripAdvisor.