We’ve taken the Work out of Planning Your Next Vacation to the Western NY Wilds – Check out these Itineraries

January 30, 2023

It’s the end of January, and by this point, we’re all starting to day dream of sunny days ahead; and with that, our next great vacation.  Here’s your reminder, on this National #PlanforVacation day, to start planning your time off of work, coordinating your calendars with your family and friends, and of course, booking your next stay in the Western NY Wilds! 

Whether you’re coming to celebrate at one of our biggest events in the Western NY Wilds, like the Great Wellsville Balloon Rally, planning to spend some summer days on the water, or just looking for a quiet weekend in the wilderness, we’ve put together an itinerary just for you.

The Great Wellsville Balloon Rally Weekend (July 21-23)

The quaint village of Wellsville seeks to welcome you with an abundance of shopping and dining opportunities when you join us for the 2023 Great Wellsville Balloon Rally, July 21-23.  Add these stops to your weekend itinerary:

  • Explore Wellsville’s Architectural Gems

Take a photo at the iconic, Italianate Victorian Mansion known as the “Pink House” – it’s one of the most Instagram-famous spots in the Western NY Wilds.

Seen from almost anywhere in Wellsville village, the David A. Howe Library’s copper cupola towers above Main Street; here, you can schedule a private guided tour, experience local art and theatrical events, special lectures, and more.

  • Lunch at the Texas Hot

No trip to Wellsville, or the Western NY Wilds, is complete without a world-famous Texas Hot.  Order like a local – two Texas Hots, fries (pro-tip: try them with gravy), and a milkshake

  • Shopping on Main Street

Before the evening balloon launches, spend a day on Wellsville’s Main Street exploring all the unique boutiques and shops – like the Creative Arts Center, From the Hart, New Vogue, and the Shop at Main.

  • Drink like a Local

At Wellsville Brewing Company, you’ll find a comfortable, Irish-pub style atmosphere and a rotating variety of 10+ craft brews on tap. 

Life at the Lake

Beautiful Cuba Lake beckons travelers looking to enjoy a day (or weekend) at the lake.

  • Get on the Water

Bring your boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, or rent one at Cuba Lake Marina, and get out on the water via the free DEC Access Site on West Shore Road.

  • See, Eat, and Shop

When it gets too hot to be out on the open water, check out the charming village of Cuba. Discover the beautifully restored Palmer Opera House; hunt for antiques, toys, gifts, and local artisan-made items at By the Light of the Moon; and dine at your pick of café, casual, or fine dining restaurants.

  • Evening Excitement

Take a gamble on a good time at Seneca Gaming and Entertainment.

Weekend in the Woods

Explore miles of wild trails, spend the day on the Genesee River, and reconnect with your wild nature.

  • Take a Hike

In the Western NY Wilds, we believe communing with nature brings out the best of our human nature; and our many trails are the perfect place to do just that.  With 23 designated state forests, amounting to over 46,000 acres, and over 165 miles of trails, we have a trail for every season and skill level.

  • Genesee River

Eleven Genesee River Access Sites make exploring the Western NY Wilds by kayak easy – with plenty of stops along the way to enjoy beautiful vistas, quaint villages, and fuel up with delicious fare.

  • Tall Pines ATV Park and Kent Beer Company

Looking for a getaway to ride your ATV or side-by-side?  Tall Pines ATV Park offers over 90 miles of well-marked, professionally groomed trails that can be safely enjoyed by the whole family.  At the end of a day riding, don’t miss Kent Beer Company, also located on Kent Farms.

Looking for more information to start planning your trip to the Western NY Wilds?  Get a copy of our Travel Guide mailed to you.