Nestled on the breathtaking shores of Lake Ontario in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State, Sodus Point, a village with a unique charm, is home to 900 or so residents who embody the spirit of ‘like a good neighbor…’

During my numerous visits to Sodus Point and its surrounding areas, I've been consistently struck by the community's warm and inclusive nature. This welcoming spirit, which extends to tourists, vacationers, and each other, makes you feel like a part of something special. 

Established as a village in 1858 and dubbed by the Iroquois as the “Land of Silver Waters,” Sodus has a rich history that’s attracted many artists, actors, writers, golfers, sailors, and others to its vibrant culture—past and future. The depth of this history will pique your interest and leave you wanting to explore more.

I read and write a lot about the ‘Underground Railroad’ and Sodus Point was an ideal place to hide -and help- many of the enslaved people fleeing bondage, sail to freedom in Canada. If you spend time talking with folks in Sodus, you might hear stories about a hidden escape tunnel under the village or how Captain George Garlock carried many enslaved people across Lake Ontario aboard his schooner, Free Trader.

On this visit, I decide to stay at the Bay View, a Bed & Breakfast on the main road leading into the point. When I ring the bell, I hear footsteps, and the door opens to a woman with bright eyes and a sparkling smile. “Welcome!”

Before settling into my room on the 2nd floor, I’m given a tour of the downstairs, the kitchen (Oh my gosh, the breakfasts she serves us!), and outside gardens, where several Koi fish swim around, waiting for dinner. “Do you want to feed them?”  the innkeeper asks, handing me a scoop of food to sprinkle over the water. We stand under her blossoming magnolia tree, breathing in the heady scent of the large white flowers while the Koi come to the surface to feast.

“There once was a tunnel that led into our basement. This house aided with the escape during the many years of the Underground Railroad in the 1800s. It’s closed off now, but I like pointing it out to people who stay with us.” She shares. “Sodus Point is rich with history and stories of good people helping do the right thing.” The community's efforts to preserve and share these stories testify to their commitment to their heritage. 

It’s lunchtime, and I want to do some exploring. Right down the street, Hots Point is open. I’ve visited before and am impressed to see the changes it’s undergone since coming under new ownership. A young couple owns it now, and they’ve added an inviting patio, painted the outside of the building, built up its menu, and added much-needed staff. I contemplate ordering something new but go with the scrumptious hot dog and crispy fries I always get - a perfect complement to the scorcher of the day we were having.

Carly Straubing, owner of The Point’s Mercantile, couldn’t be prouder and happier to live in and run a brand-new business in Sodus Point. “Look, I grew up here. I love the area and am so excited to see so many new faces making a go of it in such a beautiful place.” Her shop has beautiful clothes, unique giftware like lighthouse and sailboat ornaments, local artwork, and other sundries. She even teaches yoga! The shop's unique offerings and Carly's passion for the community make it a must-visit for any traveler.    

Walking into Sweet Indulgence Pastries is a pleasant surprise. A chalkboard along one wall records the names of people visiting from all over the country who sign their thanks after enjoying a great dessert. The owner, Eva Winter, is super friendly, introducing us to the people she works with and even showing us a wedding cake she’s just finished creating. We sit at a table in her colorful bakery (she loves pink and purple!) and enjoy a freshly baked lemon-on-lemon cupcake with a cup of coffee. The front door opens and closes several times. Light bantering goes back and forth across the counter, and another happy customer leaves satisfied.   

Driving around town, I discover gorgeous murals painted on the sides of old buildings, a beautiful lighthouse at the end of a pier, and a waterfall I’ve never been to. 

We visit Sodus Feeds and Needs and chat with one of the owners, Terri, who walks around the store with us, pointing out the seemingly endless animal supplies and taking us through other rooms where the wares of over 50 vendors are displayed – the variety is fantastic. I could spend hours here shopping for distinctive presents.

Restaurants like Skippers Landing offer delicious food. Our meals were cooked perfectly, and we could view the water from our seats inside and listen to the live band.

Youngman Orchards Farm Market is an easy sell—who doesn’t want to buy freshly picked seasonal fruits and vegetables, try a homemade doughnut (I pick blueberry!), or enjoy a cold brew or boozeshake while listening to live music as the sun goes down? Before the drive home, I wander around the gift shop, choosing a few unique gifts for friends and family. It’s busy this Saturday morning, and I enjoy listening to laughter and watching people conversing outside under sunny skies. 

Here's the thing: When businesses in a community come together, there's so much to be gained. By joining forces, they can expand networks, draw new folks in from other areas, foster positive relationships that benefit everyone, and bolster a sense of community that might otherwise be missing. This support and collaboration are truly inspiring and make you want to be a part of it.

When I was in Sodus looking for stories to write about, their collaborative nature surprised me. It came out of left field. I found myself asking questions and listening to answers from business owners—their genuine excitement over both old and new businesses' success was touching. They weren’t competing against each other. Their positive energy pulsated, and it felt as if every person I met had a personal stake in making sure the world knew how great Sodus was and how much they loved living there. 

I love sharing their genuine joy with you and hope you’ll decide to experience it yourself!