Experience Tranquility at the Inns of Aurora, New York

When it comes to a relaxing getaway in the Empire State, GoTravelDaily readers point north, crowning the Finger Lakes’ Inns of Aurora as the Best Resort in New York in the 2022 World’s Best Awards.

The Inns of Aurora: A Unique Collection

Located in the lakeside village of Aurora, New York, just over an hour’s drive from both Rochester and Syracuse, the Inns of Aurora is, in fact, a collection of five individual properties: The Aurora Inn, E.B. Morgan House, Rowland House, Zabriskie House, and Wallcourt House. Each inn showcases a distinct personality, and the idyllic location on the lake enhances the experience. As noted by a guest, “It’s not to be missed if you’re visiting the Finger Lakes.”

Founded in 1789 on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, this storybook town holds a National Historic District designation. The Inns honor that small-town feel while offering an elevated luxury experience. One guest described it as “a wonderful combination of charm and modern amenities.”

Holistic Wellness at the Hilltop Spa

One of the standout features is the hilltop spa campus, which opened in June 2021 and focuses on personalized holistic wellness offerings. “Our wellness philosophy begins with meeting people where they are,” explains the Spa at the Inns of Aurora’s site. “We are dedicated to offering our guests the resources for an individualized wellness experience.”

The farm-inspired facility features 10 treatment rooms, including six with fireplaces, outdoor hydrotherapy circuit spa pools, an indoor hot spa pool, cold plunge, saunas, steam rooms, a salon, a manicure-pedicure room, a tranquility lounge, and multipurpose room. The therapy treatments are provided by Rasa Spa, offering an array of services including facials, massages, scrubs, and energy work. The Spa Café provides a complimentary grazing table, enhancing the wellness experience.

Engaging Activities for All Guests

Furthermore, the Inns of Aurora offers a variety of activities to engage guests. The resort’s resident outdoorsmen lead archery lessons, guided hikes, and fishing excursions. Meanwhile, the Basecamp adventure center provides programming for activities ranging from knitting and fly tying to card games and walking tours. Additionally, guests can explore nature trails, utilize art kits, and engage in board and lawn games, alongside access to telescopes for stargazing, and first-come, first-served use of bikes, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.

Background of the Creator, Pleasant Rowland

It comes as no surprise that this all-American getaway is the brainchild of American Girl creator Pleasant Rowland. She transformed Aurora into a coveted destination by funding the restoration of the aging inns in 2001 and purchasing them in 2014, ultimately aiding the restoration of 11 buildings in town.