The Garrett Memorial Chapel, also known as the “Little Chapel on the Mount,” is a lovely little destination tucked away in the center of the distinct Y portion of Keuka Lake. Words just can not even convey the beauty of this hidden gem. In addition to the gorgeous medieval-looking church, the view of Keuka Lake from here is nothing short of spectacular.
A Bit of History
The Garrett family was the largest producer of wine in the United States between 1867 to 1962. The Garrett Memorial Chapel was built in 1931 by Paul and Evelyn Garrett to honor their son’s dying wish to return to Bluff Point after he died at the young age of 26 from tuberculosis. Although the Garrett Memorial Chapel was only originally intended to be a memorial, the family decided to build the chapel for the community.
Exploring the Chapel & Grounds
In 2001, the building was added to the National Registry of Historic Places. The architecture of the Chapel has several distinct and unique features. The ornate Tiffany stained glass windows throughout the chapel tell the stories, such as the story of Christ’s life. Visitors will notice many unique touches that add to the immense beauty of this Norman Gothic-style chapel, such as the crypt door that features depictions of everyday life.
Spectacular View
If this exquisite church isn’t enough to knock your socks off, the view will definitely do it. There are several places around the chapel and the grounds where you can get an almost perfectly unobscured view of Keuka Lake. This is what makes this destination a magnet for photographers and dream weddings. When we visited, we found several shoots happening, two family portraits and one senior picture.
Incidentally, If you are looking for another place to snap some more beautiful pictures of Keuka Lake, follow Skyline Drive to the end. A wide open area where the road ends gives you the most perfect view of Keuka Lake.
Getting to Garrett Memorial Chapel
Address: 5251 Skyline Drive Bluff Point, NY 14478 (315)-536-3955
Open: July 4th – Labor Day, Sunday Worship, 9 AM. General Public, Tuesday and Thursday 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
The grounds are open to exploration from May through October, although we were able to visit on an unusually warm and sunny day in early November.
Helpful Link: Garret Memorial Chapel
Other Places to Visit in the Area
Have you had the opportunity to visit this beautiful chapel before? Do you have a favorite New York hidden gem? We would love to hear from you. Please leave us a comment below.