15 Unmissable Things To Do In Batavia, New York

Founded in 1802, Batavia is the seat of Genesee County and the original headquarters of the Holland Land Company—the firm responsible for settling much of Western New York. This is where land deeds were signed, railroads were routed, and the grid of modern upstate New York started to take shape. The city sits strategically along the historic Iroquois Trail, halfway between Buffalo and Rochester, and has long served as a commercial and transportation hub for the region.

Batavia was an early adopter of industrial progress. By the mid-19th century, it was producing everything from agricultural equipment to cigars, powered by the Tonawanda Creek and connected by key rail lines. That spirit of utility still defines the place: you’ll find one of the oldest county fairs in America here, a harness racing track at Batavia Downs dating to 1940, and the nearby New York State School for the Blind, established in 1868.

Today, Batavia balances blue-collar tradition with low-key recreation. Local breweries, vintage diners, and family-run farms keep things rooted. Museums, outdoor parks, and motorsports venues round out the picture.

1. Golfing at Terry Hills

Location: 5122 Clinton St Rd, Batavia, NY 14020

Terry Hills Golf Course isn’t your average upstate New York fairway. Opened in 1930, this 27-hole public course has hosted regional championships and countless business deals over the decades. Its rolling greens and manicured fairways reflect nearly a century of refinement, with each of the three nine-hole courses offering different levels of challenge.

The signature 18th hole, with its water hazard and demanding approach, is known to make seasoned golfers sweat. But Terry Hills isn’t just about swings and putts—it’s a community hub. The clubhouse, expanded in the 2000s, serves as a prime venue for weddings and corporate events, keeping the facility active year-round. This isn’t a flashy, resort-style golf course. It’s a homegrown institution that combines old-school golf traditions with up-to-date facilities. If you want to experience Batavia’s golfing legacy, this is where you tee off.

2. Savor Mexican Flavors at Los Compadres Mexican Taqueria

Location: 40 Oak St, Batavia, NY 14020

Forget chain restaurants. Los Compadres Mexican Taqueria delivers authentic, no-nonsense Mexican street food straight from the heart of Batavia. Family-owned and operated, this taqueria is known for its house-made tortillas, slow-cooked carnitas, and bold, scratch-made salsas that pack a real punch. It’s a local favorite, not because it’s trendy, but because it’s honest—every dish reflects traditional recipes passed down through generations.

No shortcuts, no frozen ingredients. Just freshly grilled meats, vibrant pico de gallo, and guacamole that’s smashed to order. The modest dining space fills up fast, especially during lunch hours, when locals line up for the daily specials. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the flavors speak louder than any marketing campaign. In a town where dining can lean predictable, Los Compadres stands out by sticking to its roots and doing it right. Simple, bold, unforgettable.

3. Discover the Genesee County Park

Location: 11095 Bethany Center Rd, East Bethany, NY 14054

Genesee County Park isn’t a patch of green space—it’s New York’s first county forest, established in 1915. Spanning over 430 acres, the park was born from a reforestation effort after local farmland was abandoned during the Great Depression. What started as a conservation project evolved into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, dense pine groves, wetlands, and a scenic lookout tower offering panoramic views of the county’s rolling landscapes.

Birdwatchers flock here for glimpses of osprey and herons, while cross-country skiers take over the trails in winter. The Interpretive Nature Center adds an educational layer, showcasing local wildlife and ecosystems through interactive exhibits. Genesee County Park isn’t a polished tourist trap—it’s an authentic, working landscape where nature’s recovery story is told in every tree line and trail bend. This is where locals unplug and breathe.

4. DeWitt Recreation Area

Nestled just off Cedar Street in Batavia, the DeWitt Recreation Area spans roughly 63 acres filled with diverse outdoor amenities centered around a serene 38-acre pond. Once a sand and gravel quarry for Genesee LeRoy Stone Company until the mid‑20th century, the land was transformed into a public park in 1992 when B.R. DeWitt Inc. donated it with the condition that it remain dedicated to family recreation—not organized sports—ushering in a new chapter of natural restoration.

Today, the park offers four self-guided trails—including the Ellicott Trail—along with a quarter-mile paved loop, playground, picnic shelters, an accessible fishing dock, canoe/kayak launch, and a snack‑friendly pavilion with restrooms, electricity, and water. Local efforts, including contributions from the Batavia Jaycees, led to the installation of the first pavilion and picnic tables, and a master plan developed in the mid‑1990s shaped the park into what it is today.

Visitors can fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, or northern pike (notably stocked with brown trout in spring), bike, hike, canoe, or in winter, enjoy ice skating, cross‑country skiing, and snowshoeing. The county maintains the area year‑round, with summer hours extending to 9 p.m. and winter daylight closure around 5 p.m

5. City Slickers Bar & Grill

Location: 59 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020

City Slickers Bar & Grill doesn’t fake “local flavor”—it is local flavor. Housed in a historic Batavia building, this joint is where small-town charm meets serious culinary ambition. The menu? Classic American comfort food, but elevated. Handcrafted burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and wings that locals will argue are the best in the county. They rotate craft beers from regional breweries, keeping the taps fresh and hyper-local.

The vibe is laid-back, but the kitchen doesn’t cut corners. Weekly specials experiment with bold flavors—think bourbon-glazed ribs or lobster mac & cheese—not your typical bar grub. It’s also a nightlife staple; live music, trivia nights, and game-day crowds give it a pulse that big-chain restaurants can’t replicate. City Slickers isn’t aiming for “fine dining.” It’s aiming for full bellies, repeat customers, and a place where everyone—from bikers to business suits—feels like they belong.

6. Enjoy Family Fun at the Indoor Waterpark on Palm Island

Location: 8250 Park Rd, Batavia, NY 14020 (inside Quality Inn & Suites)

Palm Island Indoor Waterpark brings the beach to Batavia—without the hassle of weather forecasts. Connected to the Quality Inn & Suites, this tropical-themed waterpark is a year-round escape for families needing to burn off energy. It’s not massive, but that’s the point. Compact, clean, and packed with just enough thrill to keep kids entertained while parents relax.

Two waterslides spiral overhead, a lazy river loops around palm trees, and a kiddie pool ensures younger swimmers aren’t left out. Lifeguards are on constant watch, and the entire facility is climate-controlled, making it a lifesaver during Upstate New York’s brutal winters. The arcade and snack bar complete the loop, giving families a full afternoon of indoor fun without driving to a mega-resort. Palm Island isn’t about luxury. It’s about convenience, safety, and keeping cabin fever at bay when snow piles up outside. In a town this size, it’s a gem.

7. Experience the Thrills at Six Flags Darien Lake

Location: 9993 Alleghany Rd, Corfu, NY 14036

Six Flags Darien Lake isn’t just an amusement park—it’s Western New York’s adrenaline headquarters. Sprawling across over 1,000 acres, it’s been serving up high-speed thrills since it opened as a campground in the 1960s. Today, it’s a full-blown theme park with over 45 rides, including the Ride of Steel, one of the tallest and fastest coasters in the Northeast, hitting speeds of 75 mph. Water rides? Check. Classic midway games? All there.

But Darien Lake isn’t a one-day hit. The attached campground and lodging options make it a weekend destination for families, thrill-seekers, and concert-goers attending live shows at the adjacent amphitheater. It’s a place where kids conquer their first rollercoaster and adults get their nostalgia fix on the Giant Wheel. No fluff. Just pure, unapologetic fun with a New York edge.

8. Leisure at Lions Park

Location: 95 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020

Lions Park isn’t flashy, but it gets the job done. Tucked along the banks of the Tonawanda Creek, this local park is where Batavians go when they want fresh air without fuss. It’s got the essentials: walking trails, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and plenty of open space for pickup games or casual afternoons under a shade tree. Fishermen line the creek banks in spring and fall, and the boat launch gets steady use from kayakers and canoeists looking for a quiet paddle. There’s no admission fee, no overcrowded parking, and no reason not to swing by. Lions Park thrives on simplicity. It’s not a headline attraction, but it doesn’t try to be. It’s where locals unwind, and where visitors can get a slice of Batavia life without a tour guide.

9. Artistic Exploration at Art Ah La Carte

Location: 201 E Main St, Batavia, NY 14020

Art Ah La Carte flips the script on traditional art galleries. This is not a “look but don’t touch” venue. Located in downtown Batavia, it’s a vibrant studio space where creativity is a hands-on affair. You walk in, pick a project—ceramics, canvas painting, or even glass fusing—and start creating. No pretension, no intimidating art snobs, just a welcoming space where beginners and pros work side-by-side. The studio hosts regular workshops, birthday parties, and community art events, making it a staple for locals who want something more interactive than a standard gallery visit. Finished pieces can be taken home or displayed in the studio’s rotating showcase, celebrating local talent of all ages. Art Ah La Carte isn’t about curating fine art. It’s about getting your hands dirty and walking out with something uniquely yours. A must-stop for anyone who’d rather create than spectate.

10. Oliver's Candies

Established in 1932 by Joseph Boyd Oliver, Oliver’s Candies began humbly—with Oliver blanching peanuts at home and selling them to local stores and gas stations. Over time, his dedication to crafting homemade recipes led to signature creations like Cashew Glaze and Hostess Squares, laying the foundation for a confectionery legacy.

By 1937, Joe and Edna Oliver had relocated the business into a chalet-style house on West Main Street, which still stands as the shop’s charming storefront today. Notably, the company remained true to their demand for quality—even after they sold it in 1960, the new owners pledged to preserve the Candy’s original excellence. Today, under the stewardship of the Quincey family, the tradition continues, using real butter, cream, honey, and other top-tier ingredients to uphold the brand’s standards.

Oliver’s staff exhibit remarkable loyalty, with many employees contributing decades of service—some spanning over 50 years—binding community, craftsmanship, and warmth together. Their most beloved treat? The iconic sponge candy, a light, melt-in-your-mouth delicacy and the store’s top seller

11. Contemplate Art at the Roz Steiner Art Gallery

Location: 1 College Rd, Batavia, NY 14020 (Genesee Community College)

Located within Genesee Community College, the Roz Steiner Art Gallery punches above its weight class. This isn’t a campus art room—it’s a professional-grade gallery that rotates regional, national, and international exhibitions. The gallery’s minimalist design puts full focus on the art, whether it’s contemporary sculpture, photography, or traditional painting. It’s not just for students. Locals frequent opening receptions and artist talks, making it a cultural touchstone in Genesee County’s creative scene. The curators have a knack for selecting thought-provoking shows that balance accessibility with artistic depth. If you’re tired of mass-produced “art spaces” that feel more like gift shops, Roz Steiner is a breath of fresh, serious air. Small gallery, big impact.

12. Photogenic Moments at Devil’s Rock

Location: Pembroke Town Park, Pembroke, NY (just outside Batavia)

Devil’s Rock is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it geological oddity that locals have known about forever, but tourists rarely find. Tucked off the beaten path, this massive glacial boulder sits half-buried in a quiet field, split down the middle like it’s been cleaved by some mythical force. Legend claims the devil himself left his mark here, hence the name, but the truth is more ancient—glacial movement from the last Ice Age. It’s a magnet for photographers, geology buffs, and anyone who appreciates a strange, story-soaked landmark that doesn’t come with a gift shop. The rock’s sheer scale and dramatic fissure make it a perfect photo backdrop, especially during golden hour when the light cuts into its cracks. No tours, no tickets. Just you, your camera, and a rock with more personality than half the roadside attractions in the state.

13. Relax at Eli Fish Brewing Co.

Location: 109 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020

Eli Fish Brewing Co. isn’t just Batavia’s first brewery in over a century—it’s the heartbeat of the city’s craft beer comeback. Housed in a restored historic building downtown, Eli Fish brews small-batch beers that rotate faster than you can pick a favorite. IPAs, sours, lagers—they don’t stick to one style. The brewmasters aren’t afraid to experiment, which keeps locals coming back to see what’s new on tap. Beyond the beer, Eli Fish has created a full-blown social hub.

The open-concept space blends industrial grit with cozy community tables, while the onsite kitchen serves up elevated pub fare that pairs perfectly with a flight. Bonus: It’s also home to Eli Fish Gaming, a vintage arcade tucked into the back where you can crush high scores between pints. This isn’t a chain brewery experience. It’s a homegrown operation built for people who want quality beer and good conversation, no frills required.

14. Rollercoasters and More at Darien Lake Theme Park Resort

Location: 9993 Alleghany Rd, Corfu, NY 14036

Darien Lake Theme Park Resort isn’t a side trip—it’s a destination. Operated by Six Flags, this all-in-one complex features more than just thrill rides. It’s a fully integrated resort with on-site camping, glamping tents, and a lodge for those who want to stay close to the action. The amusement park itself packs in over 45 rides, water slides, and classic carnival games, but it’s the Ride of Steel that steals the show—a 208-foot drop and speeds that hit 75 mph.

The water park is no slouch either, with wave pools and lazy rivers giving adrenaline junkies a breather. At night, the amphitheater fires up, hosting big-name concerts that keep the energy going after the rides shut down. Families, thrill-seekers, and festival-goers all collide here. Darien Lake isn’t just an amusement park. It’s a 48-hour adrenaline loop that doesn’t let up.

15. Animal Encounters at Hidden Valley Animal Adventure

Location: 2887 Royce Rd, Varysburg, NY 14167

Hidden Valley Animal Adventure flips the script on your typical petting zoo. Spread across 60 acres in nearby Varysburg, this safari-style park lets visitors get face-to-face with over 400 exotic animals—from bison and zebras to camels and water buffalo. The park’s guided trolley tours take you through open fields where the animals roam free, often walking right up for a snack from your hand. This isn’t a high-fenced, sterile zoo; it’s an immersive, interactive experience where the animals call the shots. For a closer encounter, the Small Animal Adventure area lets you meet kangaroos, alpacas, and goats up close. Hidden Valley also boasts a full-service lodge and restaurant, making it a solid day-trip spot with amenities to match. It’s wild, personal, and way more hands-on than any zoo experience you’ve had.

Conclusion

Batavia’s not built for show—it’s built on function, history, and staying power. This is a city that helped map Western New York, housed the land agents who sold millions of acres, and kept evolving through manufacturing, agriculture, and rail.

What’s here now reflects that legacy. A harness track that’s still running, museums that don’t sugarcoat the past, and parks, trails, and local businesses that serve the people who live here—not just those passing through. Batavia doesn’t oversell itself, but it has plenty to offer if you’re paying attention.

What started as a land company outpost is now a city with roots, rhythm, and real character. That’s worth knowing.

Book your vacation rental in Batavia now!

Interactive Map

Where to Eat in Batavia

#	Restaurant	Address	Contact Info	Business Hours	Signature Dish / Specialty
1	Bourbon & Burger Co.	9 Jackson St, Batavia, NY 14020	(585) 219-4242	Mon–Thu: 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat: 11 AM–10 PM; Sun: Closed	Craft burgers and bourbons in a relaxed setting
2	Fortune’s Italian Steakhouse	Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, 8315 Park Rd, Batavia, NY 14020	(585) 367-8863	Sun–Thu: 3 PM–9 PM; Fri–Sat: 3 PM–10 PM	Fine dining—Italian, steaks, pasta & cocktails
3	Roman’s	59 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020	(585) 345-6788	Tue–Sat: 11 AM–9 PM; Closed Sun–Mon	Traditional Italian—wood-fired pizzas, full bar & deli
4	Center Street Smokehouse	20 Center St, Batavia, NY 14020	(585) 343-7470	Typical dinner hours; reservations recommended	Southern-style BBQ—ribs, brisket, pulled pork, mac & cheese
5	Alex’s Place	8322 Park Rd, Batavia, NY 14020	(585) 344-2999	Mon–Thu: 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat: 11 AM–10 PM; Sun: 12 PM–9 PM	Casual steakhouse—baby back ribs, prime rib, seafood
6	La Oaxaqueña Taquería	4152 W Main St Rd, Batavia, NY 14020	(585) 219-4108	Sun & Mon: 11 AM–7 PM; Tue–Wed: Closed; Thu–Sat: 11 AM–7 PM	Authentic Oaxacan tacos, tortas, tlayudas & regional street food

How to Get to Batavia

By Car

Batavia is conveniently located in Genesee County, between Rochester and Buffalo, right along Interstate 90 (the New York State Thruway).

• From Buffalo, NY: ~45 miles east (~50 minutes) via I-90 E.
• From Rochester, NY: ~35 miles west (~40 minutes) via I-90 W.
• From Syracuse, NY: ~110 miles west (~1 hr 50 minutes) via I-90 W.
• From New York City: ~340 miles (~5 hr 30 minutes) via I-87 N and I-90 W.

Exit 48 (Batavia) on the NYS Thruway provides direct access into the city.

By Air

The nearest airports are:

• Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC): ~30 miles (35 minutes by car).
• Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF): ~30 miles (40 minutes by car).
  Both airports offer rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.

By Train

There is no Amtrak station directly in Batavia. The closest stations are:

• Rochester Station (~35 minutes away).
• Buffalo–Exchange Street Station (~50 minutes away).
  From either station, you can connect via rental car, taxi, or regional bus to Batavia.

By Bus

• Greyhound / FlixBus: Stops are available in both Buffalo and Rochester, with connections to Batavia through Regional Transit Services (RTS) buses.
• RTS Genesee: Operates local and regional bus service within Genesee County, connecting Batavia to nearby towns.
• Trailways: Some long-distance routes also stop nearby.

Local Transportation

Batavia itself is compact, but:

• Car rentals are the most convenient for exploring beyond the town.
• Taxis and ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) are available but limited.
• RTS provides local bus service for everyday needs.

FAQ

1. Why is Batavia called the “Birthplace of Western New York”?

Batavia earned this nickname because it was the headquarters of the Holland Land Company in the early 1800s. From here, land agents sold and surveyed huge tracts of Western New York, shaping the settlement of Buffalo, Rochester, and beyond. The historic Holland Land Office Museum still tells this story today.

2. What unique local foods or specialties can I try in Batavia?

Beyond classic upstate fare, Batavia has a strong BBQ and steakhouse scene (Alex’s Place is famous for ribs), creative burger bars, and a surprising Oaxacan Mexican presence at La Oaxaqueña Taquería. Being in dairy country, farm-fresh ice cream and cheeses are also must-tries.

3. Is Batavia family-friendly for visitors?

Yes! Families can enjoy Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park (just outside the city), mini-golf, bowling, and local farms with seasonal activities. The Holland Land Office Museum also runs interactive programs for kids.

4. What role does Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel play in the town?

It’s more than just a racetrack and casino. Batavia Downs is a regional entertainment hub, offering harness racing, concerts, dining, and events. For visitors, it’s a chance to combine history (oldest lighted harness track in the U.S.) with nightlife and modern amenities.

5. What outdoor activities are available in and around Batavia?

Batavia sits near the Genesee River and is surrounded by farmland, so activities include:

• Fishing and kayaking on Oatka Creek.
• Hiking and birding in nearby state parks like Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.
• Golfing, with several public courses.

6. How does Batavia compare to nearby Rochester or Buffalo for a weekend trip?

Batavia is smaller and more relaxed, but it’s perfectly located halfway between the two larger cities. You get affordable lodging, access to both metros in under an hour, and a taste of authentic small-town New York charm. It’s a great “hub” for exploring western NY without big-city prices.

7. Are there any quirky or unusual facts about Batavia?

• Batavia was home to one of the first “Hollow Earth” societies in the U.S.—followers believed the Earth was hollow and habitable inside.
• The city was the setting for early experiments in harness racing and track lighting.
• Its baseball team, the Batavia Muckdogs, has one of the most memorable minor league names in the country.

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