What to do beyond
the Falls in Niagara County
Whether you’re
planning an overnight getaway or a week-long trip, there’s plenty to do in the
charming towns of Niagara County, including Lewiston, Lockport, Wilson, Olcott
and Newfane, just to name a few.
When visiting
Niagara Falls, make room on your itinerary to explore Niagara County’s other
amazing towns. Find everything from the picturesque shops and eateries of
Lewiston to the canal adventures of Lockport, outdoor activities of Wilson and
historic sites and charm of Olcott and Newfane.
Lewiston:
Festivals, Culture & Quaint Streets
A little north of
the Falls, find Lewiston — a historic town home to a bounty of cultural events
and festivals throughout the year. GardenFest kicks off in June, jazz and peach
festivals are late summer and a harvest and hops festival happens in fall. While
you’re in town, don’t miss fun stops like the Lewiston Museum — set in the St.
Paul’s Episcopal Church built in 1835 — and certainly, a walk through
picturesque Historic Lewiston.
If the summer is
in full swing, check the events calendar at Artpark, the unique park
overlooking the Niagara Gorge that hosts concerts, orchestra performances,
Broadway musicals, bands and other performers — all with a world-class view as
the backdrop. Oenophiles and novices alike will love the charming wineries just
outside town, including Bella Rose Vineyard & Winery and Honeymoon Trail
Winery — both on the way to Lockport.
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Lockport:
Wineries, Museums & Cruises
The Erie Canal
provides plenty of opportunity for recreation and historical exploration in
Lockport, located just 22 miles east of the Falls. Stop by a handful of
wineries for a taste of the region’s best reds and whites on your way to the
Erie Canal, where you can board a sightseeing canal cruise and see the historic
locks — the engineering marvel that dates back to the 19th century.
Nearby, in a
stately stone church that dates back to 1842, the Erie Canal Discovery Center
houses a collection of photographs, maps and antique machinery that offer a
unique perspective on the canal’s history. Everyone should plan a pit stop at
Lake Effect Ice Cream for a taste of standout frozen treats in classic and
offbeat flavors (Whiskey Brown Sugar or Frozen Hot Chocolate, anyone?) made
with locally sourced ingredients.
Wilson: Fishing,
Boating & Hiking
This little town
perched on Lake Ontario is home to some of the area’s best fishing. Find a
quiet spot in Wilson Harbor and wait for fresh bass, trout, and salmon. Boaters
can visit Sunset Island, located on the northern border of Wilson Harbor just
five minutes away, for a quiet walk around the shore lined with tiny cottages.
On a sunny summer
day, the 475-acre Wilson Tuscarora State Park is perfect for a picnic lunch
while taking in views of the boat launch and lake. Or, lace up your hiking
boots and set out for a hike on the park’s four-mile nature trail. In winter,
it’s also a popular trail for cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
Situated on the
shores of Lake Ontario and comprised of six quaint hamlets, Newfane is the
perfect place to escape the bustling Falls during busy tourist season. Olcott
Beach Carousel Park is a tiny retro amusement park, home to just one carousel
and a few vintage rides for tots, but the nostalgia it inspires is alone worth
a visit.
Tour the Van Horn
Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, dating back to
1823. The site of Newfane’s first town meeting, the mansion is also said to be
haunted. There are also plenty of wineries on the Niagara Wine Trail, USA in
town, including Chateau Niagara Winery. Owners Jim and Kathy Baker are usually
on hand to pour one of their excellent varieties, including pinot noir,
chardonnay and Riesling.