Just returned home from a great weekend in Aurora, NY. I knew nothing about Aurora before I visited, but am so glad to have gotten to know a little about this gem of a town. The anchor of this town might be Wells College, but our anchorage was at the Aurora Inn, owned by Wells College. With a heritage that originates with Henry Wells (of Wells Fargo, et al) and picks up again in 2001 with a benefactor who re did this charming old hotel into a destination that we'll be looking forward to returning to.

I stayed at the Aurora Inn the beginning of January and have nothing but great things to say about it. There really is so much to compliment them on. From the way my guest and I were greeted upon our arrival (and walked to our room), to the decor and arrangement of the room, everything was perfect.

You could say that I am a discerning customer; I suppose I have an idea in my head about how things should be, especially when it comes to B&Bs and Inns. I have to say Aurora Inn surpassed all of my expectations. I'm sure it had a lot to do with the room I stayed in (#4). It was absolutely amazing - the quaint balcony and view of the lake (even though freezing) was beautiful. I really liked the fact that the entrance to the outdoor patio had a hallway between the room and outside, acting as a buffer from the frigid air. The options of lighting were very well thought out, and really help set the mood of a cozy winter getaway. The complimentary coffee and muffins before breakfast was such a pleasant surprise. And even way into the night, when I made a call downstairs to see if there was any way to get a snack, the young lady informed me that although the kitchen was closed, she was more than happy to go into the Village Market and get me something. I was honestly blown away at the hospitality and accommodations.

Both the servers in the restaurant were unbelievable. They did everything to make my dinner a great one. From the outstanding service to extra attention, they really outdid themselves. Plus, the food was exceptional. By far the best scallops I've ever had - cooked to perfection. My guest and I liked it so much we decided to stay an extra day. When we finally did leave, we were sad. Although a long trip from NYC, it was well worth it!

I will, however, add a disclaimer and say that my great experience might have had something to do with the fact that it was winter, right after New Years, and didn't seem to be at high capacity. I'm not sure if I would have received the attention I did if it had been peak season, but I like to think I would have.

I prefer modern, sleek hotels when I travel, but I must say the accomodations at the Aurora are very modern, clean and sleek, while still giving an "inn" feel. The fireplace was wonderful. We stayed in room #4 which is one of the best in the inn. The only reason that there are not 5 stars is that they have no in room refridgerator or microwave, ice machine, coffee...so if you are hungry after the restaurants close, 9p, in the country, you will be hungry till the morning. Staff was GREAT, even made us tea at night. Our deal (livingsocial) came with a full breakfast, which was delicious. It also came with a dining credit. It was Thanksgiving eve so we chose the Fargo Cafe across the street where the servers were confused about the dining credit and way overcooked our pub burgers. I'd not go back to that cafe. There is a winery/local store called Bet The Farm next door and the owner is nice. It is about 1.5 hrs from everywhere good, as you have to drive around all the lakes to get to each shore, or Rochester or Syracuse. About half hour from Ithaca. One of the best Thanksgivings and vacations Ive ever had.

We actually stayed at the E B Morgan House under the same management. However, we had dinner and breakfast at the Aurora. The staff and accomodations at both were top notch. The room was clean, comfortable and very well furnished. Meals at the Aurora were absolutely first rate. Staff at both locations were uniformly helpful, courteous and thoroughly professional. I would recommend these inns to any one visiting the Finger Lakes region.