Exciting Things To Do In Ellicottville, NY During Summer & Winter

Exploring Ellicottville, NY, during the summer and winter months unfolds a tapestry of diverse and exciting experiences, blending outdoor adventure with cultural charm. Nestled in western New York, Ellicottville serves as a beacon for those seeking both tranquility and thrill.

Starting with the renowned Holiday Valley Resort, visitors can immerse themselves in a plethora of activities. In winter, the resort transforms into a snowy paradise, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Come summer, it morphs into a haven for golfers, mountain bikers, and adventure seekers, with its sprawling golf course, mountain biking trails, and an adventure park boasting the state's largest aerial park and a mountain roller coaster.

Not far behind in offering winter excitement is HoliMont Ski Club, North America’s largest private ski area. While it caters to members, the public can access its slopes on weekdays. Known for its challenging runs, it's a winter sports enthusiast's dream. Summer at HoliMont is equally engaging, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.

The diversity of Ellicottville's attractions, from the thrilling slopes of Holiday Valley and HoliMont to the tranquil settings of Griffis Sculpture Park and Nannen Arboretum, ensures that every visit is filled with new and exciting experiences, making it an ideal destination regardless of the season.

Holiday Valley Resort: A Year-Round Haven

Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, NY, stands as a year-round haven for those seeking a mix of adventure and leisure. In the winter, the resort transforms into a bustling hub for snow enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders flock to its slopes, eager to carve their way through the powdery snow. With trails designed for various skill levels, the resort caters to everyone from beginners to seasoned experts. Snowshoeing offers a more tranquil way to explore the snowy landscape, allowing visitors to tread softly through the serene, white-blanketed forests.

As the seasons change and the snow gives way to lush greenery, Holiday Valley reveals its summer persona. The golf course becomes a major attraction, offering an exceptional 18-hole experience set against the stunning backdrop of the rolling hills of Western New York. Golfers of all levels find the course both challenging and rewarding, with its unique mix of terrain that utilizes the natural landscape to enhance the game.

Mountain biking at Holiday Valley is another summer highlight. The resort's trails cater to a range of skill levels, offering everything from gentle rides through scenic paths to more challenging courses that test bikers' agility and endurance. The thrill of navigating these trails amidst the natural beauty of Ellicottville is an experience that mountain biking enthusiasts cherish.

Not to be missed is the Sky High Adventure Park, a part of Holiday Valley's summer attractions. This park features an aerial adventure course, which is the largest in New York State. Visitors can challenge themselves on the ropes course, navigating through a series of obstacles set amongst the treetops. The park also includes a mountain roller coaster and a relaxing chairlift ride to Spruce Lake, adding to the variety of activities available.

Holiday Valley Resort, with its diverse offerings, encapsulates the essence of Ellicottville’s appeal as a year-round destination. Whether blanketed in snow or basked in sunshine, the resort delivers memorable experiences. From the exhilarating rush of skiing down a slope to the peacefulness of a summer hike, Holiday Valley is a place where every visit brings a new adventure and an opportunity to create lasting memories.

HoliMont Ski Club: Exclusive Winter Adventures

HoliMont Ski Club in Ellicottville, NY, presents a unique blend of exclusivity and accessibility, particularly renowned for its winter adventures. As North America's largest private ski club, it offers a distinct skiing experience that caters to a discerning crowd. While the club primarily serves its members, it generously opens its doors to non-members during weekdays. This policy allows more people to experience HoliMont's exceptional slopes, known for their meticulous grooming and attention to detail. Skiers of various skill levels find the terrain both challenging and enjoyable, with runs that range from gentle slopes for beginners to more demanding trails for the experienced.

The charm of HoliMont extends beyond the winter months, evolving into a vibrant spot for summer activities. The club's grounds become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities. Hiking trails wind through the scenic landscape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. These trails cater to hikers of all levels, providing both leisurely walks and more rigorous treks.

Mountain biking at HoliMont is another summer attraction. Bikers can explore a network of trails that offer a thrilling ride through the picturesque surroundings. These trails are designed to accommodate a range of biking skills, ensuring that everyone from novices to experienced mountain bikers can enjoy the experience.

Fishing enthusiasts also find a place at HoliMont during the warmer months. The club's proximity to local streams and lakes makes it an ideal spot for anglers looking to spend a peaceful day by the water, engaging in the tranquil pursuit of fishing.

HoliMont Ski Club, with its unique offering of both private club exclusivity and public access, encapsulates the spirit of Ellicottville as a destination that adapts to the changing seasons. Its winter slopes provide an unparalleled skiing experience, while its summer activities offer a multitude of ways to enjoy the outdoors. HoliMont stands as a testament to Ellicottville's ability to provide diverse, high-quality experiences throughout the year.

Griffis Sculpture Park: Art in Nature

Griffis Sculpture Park, located just a short drive north of Ellicottville, NY, offers a unique outdoor experience where art and nature beautifully intersect. As the first sculpture park in the United States, it has become a significant cultural landmark, captivating visitors with its blend of artistic creativity and natural beauty.

Spread across a vast area, the park is home to over 250 sculptures. These art pieces, created by both local and international artists, range from the abstract to the figurative, each telling its own story. As visitors wander through the park, they encounter these sculptures in various forms and sizes, some towering overhead, while others blend subtly with the landscape. This immersive experience is akin to a treasure hunt, with each turn and trail presenting a new piece of art to discover.

The park's design encourages exploration, with sculptures strategically placed along ten miles of trails. These trails meander through meadows, woods, and hills, offering not just an art experience, but also a chance to connect with nature. Visitors are encouraged to interact with some of the sculptures, adding a tactile dimension to the experience.

Griffis Sculpture Park is particularly ideal for summer visits. The warmer months bring the park to life, with the lush greenery providing a vibrant backdrop to the sculptures. It's a perfect time for picnics, making the park a popular destination for families, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Visitors can bring along a picnic basket, find a spot among the sculptures, and enjoy a meal surrounded by art and nature.

Sugartown Farms: Meet the Alpacas

Sugartown Farms, situated just a half-mile outside the quaint town of Ellicottville, NY, offers a unique and delightful farm experience that stands out for its charming and educational nature. This picturesque farm is particularly known for its friendly and curious alpacas, which have become a highlight for visitors of all ages.

Upon visiting Sugartown Farms, guests are greeted by the sight of over 50 alpacas, each with its own distinct personality and charm. These gentle animals, known for their soft and luxurious wool, are not just a joy to observe but also to interact with. Visitors get the chance to learn about the lives of these alpacas, their care, and the process of turning their wool into the high-quality products for which alpaca wool is renowned.

The farm experience is enhanced by the opportunity to shop for alpaca wool products. Sugartown Farms boasts a diverse range of items made from alpaca wool, known for its softness, warmth, and durability. The on-site gift shop offers everything from yarn for those who wish to create their own garments to a variety of ready-made products like socks, sweaters, scarves, and hats. Each item reflects the quality and natural beauty of alpaca wool, making them perfect souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.

Sky High Adventure Park: Thrills in the Treetops

Sky High Adventure Park, part of the Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, NY, provides an exhilarating experience for those seeking adventure amidst the treetops. This park is renowned for its diverse array of aerial activities that cater to thrill-seekers of all ages and skill levels.

The centerpiece of the park is the aerial adventure course, which is proudly one of the largest in New York State. This course invites visitors to navigate a series of obstacles set high above the ground, including bridges, ladders, and zip lines. Each route in the park is carefully designed to offer a different level of difficulty, ensuring that everyone from beginners to the more experienced adventurers can find a challenge that suits them.

In addition to the aerial course, Sky High Adventure Park features a unique mountain roller coaster. This coaster takes visitors on a thrilling ride through the natural contours of the landscape, providing an exhilarating experience that combines speed with stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

The park is particularly enchanting in the fall when the foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. The aerial views from the park during this season are breathtaking, with a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves stretching out below. This makes autumn an ideal time to visit, offering not only the thrill of the adventure courses but also the chance to witness the spectacular fall foliage of Western New York.

Ellicottville Brewing Company: Local Flavors

Ellicottville Brewing Company, nestled on Main Street in the heart of Ellicottville, NY, is a celebrated destination for craft beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. This brewery stands as a testament to local flavors and artisanal brewing, offering a delightful retreat for those looking to unwind after a day full of activities.

Renowned for its extensive selection of craft brews, Ellicottville Brewing Company takes pride in its innovative brewing techniques and the quality of its ingredients. Visitors can indulge in a variety of beers, each with its unique profile, ranging from rich stouts to refreshing ales. The brewery is particularly known for its seasonal drinks, which capture the essence of the changing seasons. Whether it's a blueberry wheat ale in the summer or a chocolate cherry bomb stout in the winter, each brew is a reflection of the brewery's commitment to creativity and excellence.

The atmosphere at Ellicottville Brewing Company is as inviting as its drinks. The space exudes a warm and friendly vibe, making it a perfect spot for socializing and relaxation. Guests can sit back, enjoy their drinks, and perhaps even strike up a conversation with fellow visitors or the knowledgeable staff.

Winery of Ellicottville: Sip and Savor

The Winery of Ellicottville, a charming establishment in the heart of the village, offers a delightful experience for wine lovers and novices alike. This boutique winery, known for its small-batch wines, provides a cozy and intimate setting where guests can sip and savor the unique flavors of the region.

Visitors to the Winery of Ellicottville are treated to an array of wine tasting experiences that showcase the winery's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The tasting sessions are an opportunity to explore a variety of wines, from robust reds to crisp whites, each reflecting the local terroir and the winemaker's expertise. The knowledgeable staff guides guests through the tastings, offering insights into the winemaking process and the characteristics of each wine.

In addition to tastings, the Winery of Ellicottville hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These events often feature wine pairings with local cuisine, live music, and other festivities, making the winery a lively and engaging destination in the village.

Ellicottville Salt Cave & Spa: Rejuvenate and Relax

Ellicottville Salt Cave & Spa stands as an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Ellicottville, NY, offering a unique blend of traditional spa treatments and the distinctive practice of halotherapy. This spa is a sanctuary for those seeking to rejuvenate and relax, providing a serene environment that nurtures both body and mind.

At the core of the spa's offerings is its unique halotherapy sessions. This treatment, which involves breathing in salt-infused air, is believed to have numerous health benefits. Originating from Eastern Europe, halotherapy is said to aid in alleviating respiratory conditions and promoting overall wellness. The salts used in these sessions at Ellicottville Salt Cave & Spa are imported from Poland, ensuring an authentic and therapeutic experience. Guests can relax in the specially designed salt cave, surrounded by the natural beauty and calming properties of the mineral.

In addition to halotherapy, the spa offers a range of other treatments designed to provide relaxation and rejuvenation. These include massages, facials, and a variety of body treatments, all performed by skilled therapists who tailor their approach to the individual needs of each guest. The spa's serene atmosphere enhances the experience, allowing guests to escape the stresses of everyday life and enter a state of deep relaxation.

The Ellicottville Salt Cave & Spa has become a favorite destination for those looking to unwind after a day of outdoor activities or simply to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its unique combination of halotherapy and traditional spa treatments offers a holistic approach to wellness, ensuring that guests leave feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Watson’s Chocolates: Sweet Indulgences

Watson’s Chocolates, located in Ellicottville, NY, is a beloved destination for anyone with a sweet tooth, renowned for its delectable array of chocolates and confectioneries. This charming chocolate shop has established itself as a must-visit spot in the village, enticing locals and visitors alike with its array of sweet indulgences.

The star of Watson’s Chocolates is undoubtedly its famous sponge candy, a delicacy that has garnered a devoted following. This unique treat, featuring a light and airy caramelized sugar center coated in rich chocolate, offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that has become synonymous with the Watson's brand. The popularity of their sponge candy speaks to the mastery and tradition behind their candy-making process.

But the allure of Watson’s Chocolates doesn’t end with sponge candy. The shop boasts a wide selection of chocolates and treats, each more tempting than the last. From classic buttercrunch to chocolate-covered pretzels, the variety caters to all preferences. Seasonal specialties also make an appearance, providing unique flavors that align with the time of year, adding an element of surprise and novelty to each visit.

Beyond the quality of their products, Watson’s Chocolates creates an inviting atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Stepping into the shop, customers are greeted by the tantalizing aroma of chocolate and a display of beautifully crafted confections. The staff, passionate about their craft, are always ready to help customers select the perfect treat, whether it’s for a gift, a special occasion, or a personal indulgence.

Nannen Arboretum: A Natural Oasis

Nannen Arboretum in Ellicottville, NY, is a serene natural oasis that beckons nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. This beautifully maintained arboretum, spanning several acres, is a testament to the beauty and diversity of plant life, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration.

As a sanctuary for a variety of trees and plants, Nannen Arboretum presents an educational journey through its well-marked paths. Visitors can leisurely stroll through the grounds, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural world. The arboretum is home to an array of flora, each species thoughtfully curated to create a harmonious landscape. It serves not only as a place of beauty but also as an educational resource, offering insights into the importance of plant conservation and biodiversity.

The arboretum is particularly enchanting during the summer months when the plants are in full bloom, and the lush greenery provides a vibrant backdrop for a day out in nature. The calm and picturesque environment makes it a perfect spot for picnics, photography, or simply a quiet moment of reflection. Visitors can find benches scattered throughout the arboretum, inviting them to sit and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance.

Nannen Arboretum's charm lies in its simplicity and its commitment to preserving and showcasing the natural beauty of the region. It's a place where one can momentarily step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.

Allegany State Park: Outdoor Adventures

Allegany State Park, located near Ellicottville, NY, is a haven for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. As one of the largest state parks in New York, it spans over 65,000 acres, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests and skill levels. The park is divided into two distinct areas: Red House and Quaker Lake, each boasting its unique charm and array of recreational opportunities.

The Red House area is the larger of the two, known for its extensive network of hiking trails. These trails traverse through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows, providing hikers with an ever-changing backdrop to their journey. For biking enthusiasts, Red House offers numerous biking paths, allowing riders to explore the park's natural beauty at their own pace. The area is also equipped with facilities for camping, making it a popular destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature for an extended period.

Quaker Lake, while smaller, is no less appealing. It too offers a range of hiking and biking trails, each promising an adventure in its own right. In addition to these land-based activities, Quaker Lake area is a hub for water-based recreation. The lake itself is a focal point for fishing, boating, and swimming, drawing visitors who seek to enjoy the water or simply relax by its serene shores.

Allegany State Park's vast expanse and varied terrain make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities year-round. In the warmer months, the park comes alive with campers, hikers, bikers, and anglers, all taking advantage of the abundant opportunities for adventure and relaxation. In the colder months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails.

The Ellicottville Oasis Spa: Ultimate Relaxation

The Ellicottville Oasis Spa, nestled within the Tamarack Club at the Holiday Valley Resort, stands as a sanctuary of tranquility and relaxation. This spa is revered for its comprehensive range of traditional spa services, designed to provide ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation to its guests.

From the moment visitors step into the Ellicottville Oasis Spa, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of calm and serenity. The spa's decor, with its soothing colors and soft lighting, sets the tone for a relaxing experience. Guests are invited to leave their worries at the door and immerse themselves in a world of comfort and pampering.

The spa's menu of services is extensive, catering to a variety of preferences and needs. Massages, a cornerstone of the spa experience, are offered in various styles, from deep tissue to Swedish, each performed by skilled therapists. These massages not only soothe tired muscles but also promote overall wellness, reducing stress and enhancing relaxation.

Facials at the Ellicottville Oasis Spa are another popular service, providing skincare treatments tailored to individual skin types and concerns. Using high-quality products and techniques, the facials leave guests with a feeling of refreshed and rejuvenated skin.

Experience Live Performances at Ellicottville Town Park

Experiencing live performances at Ellicottville Town Park is a highlight for both locals and visitors in Ellicottville, NY. This charming park, located in the heart of the village, serves as a vibrant venue for a variety of shows and events, offering entertainment that caters to a wide range of tastes and interests.

Throughout the year, Ellicottville Town Park becomes a stage for numerous live performances, ranging from concerts and plays to comedy shows and community events. The park's natural setting, combined with its well-maintained facilities, makes it an ideal location for outdoor performances. Whether it's a local band playing under the stars on a warm summer night, a theatrical performance in the open air, or a special holiday event, the park provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances the entertainment experience.

The diversity of events at Ellicottville Town Park ensures that there's something for everyone. Music lovers can enjoy live concerts featuring different genres, from classical to rock and jazz. Families can gather for movie nights or children's shows, creating memorable experiences in a relaxed outdoor setting. The park also hosts festivals and cultural events, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the Ellicottville community.

Attending an event at Ellicottville Town Park is not just about the performance itself; it's about the sense of community and shared experience. The informal and welcoming atmosphere of the park encourages visitors to mingle, make new friends, and enjoy the company of fellow attendees. It's a place where one can unwind, enjoy quality entertainment, and feel a part of the lively and friendly community of Ellicottville.

Golf at the Ellicottville Golf Course

Golfing at the Ellicottville Golf Course provides an exceptional 18-hole championship experience that appeals to golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Located in the picturesque surroundings of Ellicottville, NY, this golf course is renowned for its well-designed layout, challenging play, and stunning natural beauty.

As golfers navigate the course, they encounter a variety of terrains and landscapes that add to the challenge and enjoyment of the game. The front nine holes boast a more traditional parkland style, with fairways lined by trees and natural obstacles that require strategic thinking and precise shots. The back nine presents a different challenge, utilizing the natural elevation changes of the area to create a more undulating and testing golf experience.

The Ellicottville Golf Course is meticulously maintained, with lush fairways and smooth, fast greens that provide a consistent playing surface. Each hole offers its own unique challenge, with a mix of long and short holes, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers. This variety ensures that golfers must use every club in their bag and think creatively about their approach to each shot.

The beauty of the surrounding landscape enhances the golfing experience. The course offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills and forests of Western New York, making a round of golf as visually enjoyable as it is challenging. The natural setting also provides a tranquil backdrop, allowing golfers to immerse themselves fully in their game and the beauty of their surroundings.

Have Fun at Holimont Amusement Park

Holimont Amusement Park, situated near the charming village of Ellicottville, NY, offers an array of exciting attractions and activities that promise fun for visitors of all ages. Known for its thrilling roller coasters, engaging mini-golf courses, and high-speed go-karts, this amusement park is a hub of entertainment and adventure.

The roller coasters at Holimont Amusement Park are a major draw, captivating both thrill-seekers and those looking for a fun ride. From dizzying heights to exhilarating drops, each coaster offers a unique experience, ensuring that every visitor finds a ride that matches their adventure level. The excitement of zooming along the tracks and experiencing the rush of adrenaline is a highlight for many guests.

In addition to the roller coasters, the park's mini-golf course provides a more laid-back but equally enjoyable activity. Families, friends, and couples can engage in friendly competition while navigating the creatively designed holes. Each course is crafted with unique obstacles and themes, adding an element of challenge and fun to the game of mini-golf.

Ellicottville Historical Society: A Journey Through Time

The Ellicottville Historical Society, situated in the heart of Ellicottville, NY, offers a captivating journey through the town's rich history and heritage. This institution plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the historical narrative of Ellicottville, providing visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the town's past.

Within the walls of the Ellicottville Historical Society, guests can explore a wide array of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that chronicle the town’s evolution. The collection includes photographs, clothing, tools, and other items that paint a vivid picture of life in Ellicottville through different eras. Each exhibit is carefully curated to provide insight into the historical events and daily life that shaped the community.

The historical society is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a place where the stories of Ellicottville are brought to life. Through guided tours, educational programs, and special events, visitors can engage with the town's history in a meaningful and interactive way. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are passionate about sharing Ellicottville's story, offering anecdotes and facts that enrich the visitor experience.

One of the highlights of visiting the Ellicottville Historical Society is the opportunity to learn about the town's unique heritage, from its early beginnings to its development over the years. The society delves into various aspects of local history, including the impact of significant historical events, the development of the town's architecture, and the lives of notable residents.

Hike at McCarty Hill State Forest

McCarty Hill State Forest, located near the vibrant town of Ellicottville, NY, offers an exceptional hiking experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature. This expansive state forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting a network of trails that cater to a variety of hiking preferences, from leisurely walks to more challenging treks.

The trails within McCarty Hill State Forest wind through diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands, open meadows, and along serene streams, providing hikers with a constantly changing natural environment to explore. The forest is particularly renowned for its scenic views, which include vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys, offering hikers a chance to pause and soak in the beauty of Western New York's countryside.

One of the unique aspects of hiking in McCarty Hill State Forest is the range of challenges it offers. Some trails are relatively flat and easy, suitable for families and casual hikers. Others are more rugged and demanding, providing seasoned hikers with the opportunity to navigate steeper inclines and more complex terrain. This diversity ensures that all visitors, regardless of their skill level or hiking experience, can find a trail that suits their needs.

For those looking for a more adventurous hike, the forest's more challenging trails offer rewarding experiences, with some leading to elevated points that afford panoramic views of the area. These trails often require navigating through dense vegetation and over rocky paths, adding to the sense of adventure and exploration.

Conclusion

Ellicottville, NY, is a destination that truly encapsulates the essence of year-round adventure and relaxation. From the snow-covered slopes of Holiday Valley and HoliMont, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, to the serene beauty of Nannen Arboretum and Griffis Sculpture Park, ideal for summer explorations, Ellicottville offers a diverse array of activities that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.

In the winter, Ellicottville transforms into a snowy wonderland, inviting visitors to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities. The town's ski resorts, known for their well-maintained trails and scenic beauty, provide the perfect backdrop for exhilarating winter sports. The cold months also bring the unique charm of the Ellicottville Salt Cave & Spa, where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate after a day on the slopes.

As the seasons change, Ellicottville reveals its summer and fall allure. The area becomes a haven for hiking, biking, and golfing, with stunning natural landscapes that offer both challenge and tranquility. The lush greenery and vibrant foliage of places like McCarty Hill State Forest and Allegany State Park provide a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Additionally, cultural experiences like the Ellicottville Historical Society and live performances at the town park add depth and enrichment to the town's summer appeal.

In conclusion, Ellicottville, NY, with its rich array of activities and natural beauty, is a destination that truly offers something for everyone, at any time of the year. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, Ellicottville is a town that beckons visitors to explore and enjoy its many treasures. It's a place where each season holds its unique charm, inviting visitors to return and experience all that Ellicottville has to offer, whether basking in the summer sun or wrapped in the winter snow.