Avon (New York) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Avon, New York. Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Avon (New York) is a charming town located in Western Finger Lakes, in the Finger Lakes region of New York state. Known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural attractions, Avon attracts visitors year-round. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or a relaxing escape, Avon has it all. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about traveling to Avon, New York.

Introduction to Avon (New York)

Located in Livingston County, Avon is a small town that is rich in history and culture. Founded in 1789, Avon has played a significant role in the development of Western New York. The town is home to many historical landmarks, including the Avon Inn and Genesee Valley Canal. Avon is also renowned for its stunning landscapes, including Letchworth State Park and Hemlock Lake.

List of Places to Visit in Avon (New York)

Avon offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit places in Avon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Avon has a rich history, with many historical landmarks and museums that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Avon Inn: Built-in 1840, the Avon Inn is a historic hotel that has been beautifully restored. The inn is known for its stunning architecture and is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
  • Genesee Valley Canal: The Genesee Valley Canal was an important transportation route during the mid-19th century. Visitors can explore the remains of the canal, including the Lock 29 Canal Park.
  • Livingston County Historical Society & Museum: The museum showcases the history of Livingston County and the surrounding areas. Visitors can explore exhibits and artifacts that date back to the early 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Avon (New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Avon is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best places to explore:

  • Letchworth State Park: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is a must-visit spot in Avon. The park offers stunning views of the Genesee River, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Hemlock Lake: Hemlock Lake is a picturesque lake that is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. The lake is surrounded by lush forests, and visitors can explore the hiking trails around the lake.
  • Conesus Lake: Conesus Lake is a popular spot for water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal spot for picnicking and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Avon (New York)

Avon offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the Finger Lakes region. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Genesee Valley Greenway: The Genesee Valley Greenway is a 90-mile trail that runs from Rochester to Cuba, NY. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Letchworth State Park Trails: Letchworth State Park has over 66 miles of hiking trails that offer stunning views of waterfalls, gorges, and forests.
  • Conesus Lake Trail: The Conesus Lake Trail is a 10-mile trail that wraps around the lake. The trail is perfect for biking and hiking, and visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.

Best Things to Do in Avon (New York): Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to choose from when visiting Avon. Here are some of the best:

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take in the stunning views of Avon and the surrounding landscapes from above with a hot air balloon ride.
  • Wine Tours: Discover the Finger Lakes wine region with a wine tour. Avon is home to many vineyards and wineries that offer tastings and tours.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the natural beauty of Avon with a horseback riding tour. Many local stables offer trail rides through scenic forests and countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Avon (New York)

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Avon, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit Letchworth State Park and explore the hiking trails and waterfalls.
  • Day 2: Explore the historic landmarks of Avon, including the Avon Inn and Genesee Valley Canal.
  • Day 3: Take a wine tour of the Finger Lakes and sample some of the region’s best wines.
  • Day 4: Go horseback riding through the scenic countryside and forests.
  • Day 5: Visit Hemlock Lake and enjoy swimming, fishing, and hiking.
  • Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the stunning views of Avon and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Day 7: Explore the local shops and restaurants of Avon and pick up some souvenirs to bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Avon (New York)

Avon offers a diverse food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Genny Cream Ale Beer Battered Fish: This dish features local Genny Cream Ale beer-battered fish. It’s a New York-style twist on a classic dish.
  • Cornell Chicken: Cornell Chicken is a regional specialty that features grilled chicken marinated in a tangy sauce made of vinegar, oil, and poultry seasoning.
  • Garbage Plates: A Rochester favorite, garbage plates feature a mix of macaroni salad, baked beans, fries, and a choice of meat topped with hot sauce and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Finger Lakes Wine: The Finger Lakes region is known for its world-class wines, particularly Rieslings, Gewurztraminer, and Cabernet Franc varieties.
  • Genny Cream Ale: A Rochester favorite, Genny Cream Ale is a smooth, crisp beer that has been brewed in the region for over 100 years.
  • Genesee Beer: Genesee Beer is another local favorite that has been brewed in Rochester for over 140 years.

Where to Stay in Avon (New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Avon offers plenty of lodging options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Avon Inn: The Avon Inn is a historic hotel that offers luxurious accommodations and beautiful views.
  • Riverview Campground: Riverview Campground offers campsites and cabins along the Genesee River, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Big Tree Inn: The Big Tree Inn is a charming bed and breakfast that offers cozy rooms and delicious food.

What to Buy in Avon (New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Avon offers plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best:

  • Maple Syrup: Avon is famous for its maple syrup, which is available for purchase at local farms and shops.
  • Wine: Bring a taste of the Finger Lakes region home with a locally produced bottle of wine.
  • Handmade Crafts: Avon is home to many talented artisans who create handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Avon (New York)

Avon has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, and cuisine. The town is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who are always happy to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Avon (New York)

The best time to visit Avon is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are in full bloom. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit, as the trees and foliage turn beautiful shades of red and orange.

Do’s and Don’ts of Avon (New York)

Do:

  • Explore the many outdoor adventures and natural wonders that Avon has to offer.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, including Finger Lakes wines and Genny Cream Ale.
  • Take the time to appreciate the rich history and culture of the town and its residents.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor adventures.
  • Overlook the lesser-known attractions and activities that Avon has to offer.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs of the town and its residents.

Safety and Health

Safety in Avon (New York)

Avon is a safe town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should always take precautions when exploring the outdoors, including wearing appropriate clothing and gear and following trail etiquette.

Health in Avon (New York)

Avon is home to many health facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage and take precautions to prevent tick bites during outdoor activities.

Getting to Avon (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Avon is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Here are some of the best options for getting to Avon:

Airports Near Avon (New York)

  • Greater Rochester International Airport: The Greater Rochester International Airport is located approximately 30 miles from Avon.

Bus Stations Near Avon (New York)

  • Trailways Bus Station: The Trailways Bus Station is located in nearby Geneseo and offers service to many destinations in New York state.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Many car rental companies operate out of the Greater Rochester International Airport.
  • Train: The Amtrak station in Rochester offers train service to many destinations in the Northeast.

How to Get Around in Avon (New York)

Avon is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can also rent a car or take public transportation to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Avon (New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Avon is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, making it a great starting point for exploring other nearby destinations. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • Rochester: Located approximately 30 miles from Avon, Rochester offers a range of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and theaters.
  • Canandaigua: Canandaigua is a picturesque town located on the shores of Canandaigua Lake. The town is known for its historic architecture and beautiful landscapes.
  • Corning: Corning is home to the Corning Museum of Glass, which features one of the largest collections of glass art in the world.

Conclusion

Avon is a beautiful town that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or a relaxing escape, Avon has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your perfect trip to Avon, New York, and explore all that this charming town has to offer.

The Erie station in Avon, Livingston County, New York, United States of America The Erie station in Avon, Livingston County, New York, United States of America