A Lakeside Treasure in Upstate New York Is America’s Top Small Spa and Wellness Town

When it comes to small towns that boast big reputations, lakeside Aurora, New York, stands out. With a population of just 724, this charming village along the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake is famous for being the home of MacKenzie-Childs, the renowned homewares brand known for its handcrafted serveware, created in the peaceful backdrop of Cayuga County. Recently, it’s also gained fame as a wellness destination, highlighted by the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa, which comprises six quaint lodgings and a breathtaking hilltop retreat, recently voted by T+L readers as one of the finest resorts in New York state. Add in the abundance of scenic gorge hikes, local breweries, farm stands, and serene beaches in the Finger Lakes region, and Aurora emerges as not only the premier small town for wellness but also a perfect getaway for anyone seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

'The village offers a sense of escape from the hectic rhythm of daily life,' shares Alex Schloop, creative director of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa. 'I see it as a profoundly restorative place that our guests feel compelled to revisit time after time.'

If it seems too wonderful to be real, you might be onto something: exit signs from the town declare, “You imagined it.”

Optimal Times to Visit  

Aurora experiences all four seasons, with bright summer days in June and July, and a cozy winter chill with snowfall. The autumn months are especially magical here, showcasing rolling hills adorned with vibrant foliage, while spring can bring its share of rain and mud, yet also bursts with blooming flowers and the season’s first fresh produce.

Activities to Enjoy  

Cayuga Lake

Stretching about 39 miles and reaching over 3 miles at its widest point, Cayuga Lake is among the largest of the Finger Lakes. Its name is derived from the Cayuga Nation, the original Indigenous people of the region and a member of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Like many of New York's 11 Finger Lakes, Cayuga serves as a hub for recreation—swimming, paddling, power boating, and sailing—featuring numerous public access points in Aurora, including Aurora Village Park and Long Point State Park.

Heart & Hands Wine Company

Just north of Aurora, in Union Springs, this boutique winery run by husband-and-wife team Tom and Susan Higgins specializes in carefully crafted (often estate-grown) wines, primarily focusing on chardonnay, pinot noir, and riesling. They have recently introduced a UTV tour through their vineyards that includes a tasting experience, naturally.

The Spa

The Inns of Aurora's wellness retreat is a transformative addition to this lakeside community. 'Our Spa's philosophy has always been to create a space that fosters optimal well-being and promotes deep, lasting healing from within,' stated Sue Edinger, COO of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa, in a message to T+L. Discover more about its treatments, programs, and unique approach below.

Where to Stay  

Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

This hospitality venture was pivotal in bringing Aurora into the spotlight. Today, the Inns comprise six uniquely designed accommodations, all crafted with exquisite taste by owner Pleasant Rowland, a Wells College alumna from Aurora, and her dedicated team. The 10-room Aurora Inn serves as the resort's heart, surrounded by beautifully restored buildings throughout the village; other similarly sized lodgings include Wallcourt Hall and Zabriskie House. The latest addition, Orchard Cottage, opened in May 2023 as a stand-alone two-bedroom option that, unlike the others, is pet- and kid-friendly.

Where to Eat and Drink

Aurora Brewing Company

Located just south of Aurora in King Ferry, New York, this quirky farmhouse brewery boasts an impressive array of bold brews, featuring classic options like cream ale and West Coast IPA alongside unique creations such as a watermelon sea salt gose and a sour ale infused with molasses and nutmeg. They have also enhanced their food offerings, presenting a lengthy menu of beer-friendly dishes like wood-fired pizzas and smoked chicken wing dip.

Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

This establishment runs several dining options, with the most upscale being 1833 Kitchen & Bar, known for its prix fixe dinners and lavish brunches. Fargo Bar & Grill has a casual, dive-like ambiance but provides exceptional service and generous portions of comfort food. The Village Market offers quick bites for those on the go, as well as delightful snacks.

Salt of the Earth

This charming little venture, located in a storefront in Union Springs, functions as a blend of restaurant, culinary lab, and community supper club. To stay updated on their unique wine-tasting dinners, special events, and seasonal takeout menus, follow them on social media.

Where to Shop

Main Street

Aurora’s main street features a delightful selection of quaint shops, offering a constantly changing collection of antiques, curiosities, and various goods.

MacKenzie-Childs

This homewares brand has garnered a devoted following thanks to its playful, striking designs and commitment to American craftsmanship. At their expansive headquarters just north of the village, you can find everything from tea kettles and cake stands to impressive furniture and outdoor decor. The company also hosts occasional events, including an annual 'barn sale.'

How to Get There

Rural Aurora is somewhat remote, located about 250 miles from New York City and Philadelphia, approximately 350 miles from Boston, and roughly 370 miles from Washington, D.C.

The nearest major commercial airports are located in Rochester and Syracuse, New York, both of which are served by several well-known airlines. Each airport is about an hour's drive from Aurora, so travelers will need to rent a car. Additionally, you can fly Delta or United into Ithaca, New York, which connects to the New York City area. Ithaca also has a fixed-base operator (FBO) for private jet flights and is approximately a 35-minute drive from Aurora.

Spa + Wellness

The highlight of your visit will be The Spa, Inns of Aurora's impressive standalone wellness retreat, available to both resort guests and day visitors with advance bookings. Perched on a ridge with stunning views of Cayuga Lake, this year-round facility offers a wide range of treatments and programs, including massage, skincare, bodywork, hydrotherapy, and Reiki. In 2023, the Spa received Well Certification at the Gold level for its comprehensive approach to both facility operations and community and staff involvement; it is the only spa in the United States to achieve this prestigious recognition.