Tucked along the northern tip of Keuka Lake, Penn Yan, NY blends lakeside beauty, small-town charm, and a vibrant local culture into one of the Finger Lakes region’s most inviting communities. Known for its walkable downtown, rich agricultural roots, and strong ties to both Mennonite tradition and modern lakefront living, Penn Yan offers something for every kind of buyer.
Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend retreat, a full-time home, or a smart investment property, real estate in Penn Yan puts you close to the lake, the wineries, and a lifestyle that’s hard to match.



Homes for sale in Penn Yan range from classic village colonials and historic farmhouses to modern lakefront estates with private docks and panoramic views. The mix of architecture and home styles reflects the area’s deep history and growing popularity with second-home buyers and investors alike.
You’ll find:
Whether you’re looking to garden, entertain, rent seasonally, or live year-round, Penn Yan real estate provides space, value, and location.
Living in Penn Yan means embracing the outdoors in every season.
Boating, paddleboarding, and kayaking are everyday activities thanks to public launches and docks along Keuka Lake. Local residents often stroll or bike the scenic Keuka Outlet Trail, which connects Penn Yan to Dresden via waterfalls, old mills, and lush wooded paths.
Other outdoor highlights:
Penn Yan also plays host to seasonal events like:
Penn Yan has one of the most walkable and charming downtowns in the Finger Lakes. Residents and visitors enjoy locally owned shops, artisan coffee, and farm-to-table dining.
Some favorites include:
Whether you’re picking up fresh produce, enjoying a night out, or grabbing ice cream on the lakefront, Penn Yan’s downtown always feels alive, yet never overcrowded.
Penn Yan is served by the Penn Yan Central School District, which includes:
Families also benefit from proximity to Keuka College, a private liberal arts college located in nearby Keuka Park. The campus brings additional culture, performances, and guest lectures to the area, enriching life for students and residents alike.
Local libraries, parks, and community centers offer clubs, youth programs, and public events that help new residents feel at home quickly.
Founded in the early 1800s, Penn Yan takes its name from a blend of “Pennsylvania” and “Yankee”, a nod to the original settlers. It later became a key canal town, connecting to the Erie Canal system via the Crooked Lake Canal, which helped shape its historic downtown and commercial growth.
To this day, Mennonite culture plays an important role in the community, contributing to Penn Yan’s identity as a hardworking, welcoming, and family-oriented place.
Traces of the past remain visible in stone barns, historic buildings, and waterfront warehouses, all alongside new development that keeps the town growing without losing its character.
With over 35 years of experience in the local real estate market, The Mark Malcolm Team understands the nuances of buying and selling in Penn Yan. Whether you’re interested in a lakefront property, a village home, or a quiet country estate, Mark brings deep market knowledge and personal service to every client.
Contact The Mark Malcolm Team today and take the first step toward finding your perfect Finger Lakes property.