Skaneateles is a destination for people from around the world. The famous, from General Lafayette to United States Presidents, have stopped here. The village and lake are busy from the beginning of fishing season until Christmas. Summer homes are opened. Dinner and mail boat tours run daily. July hosts an antique boat show. Skaneateles Music Festival celebrates in August with indoor and outdoor venues. Fall foliage and vineyards beckon. During the Christmas season, Charles Dickens pays a visit. The history of the area is enjoyed at any time of the year by touring the Creamery Museum and Barrow Art Gallery. A walk along the Charlie Major Nature Trail follows the Skaneateles Creek where remnants of once thriving industries can still be seen. The serenity and beauty of the lake are a timeless presence. Secretary of State William Seward once said, "I still think your little lake with the smiling village reflected in its blue waters is about the finest I have ever seen."