Mount Morris Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Mount Morris, New York with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Mount Morris

Mount Morris is a charming town located in Western Finger Lakes, in Finger Lakes, New York state. It is considered a hidden gem, boasting of breathtaking natural attractions, rich history, and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place where you can unwind, connect with nature, and explore the local culture, Mount Morris is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in Mount Morris

Here are some must-visit places in Mount Morris:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Genesee Valley Greenway State Park: Spanning 90 miles, this park is perfect for hiking and biking while enjoying scenic views.
  • Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area: One of the largest earthen dams in the US, the Mount Morris Dam is a must-visit attraction in the town.
  • John W. Martin House: A former mansion built in 1880, it has now been converted into a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the town.
  • The Wadsworth Homestead: A historic mansion built in 1804, it now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the lives of the Wadsworth family who owned the homestead for over 200 years.

Natural Attractions of Mount Morris: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Letchworth State Park: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, this park offers stunning views of the Genesee River, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Stony Brook State Park: With its clear streams, lush forests, and towering waterfalls, this park offers visitors a chance to connect with nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Morris

Mount Morris offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in New York. Here are some routes you should try:

  • Genesee Valley Greenway State Park Trail: Spanning 90 miles, this trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
  • Letchworth State Park Trail: With 22 miles of hiking trails, this park offers some of the best views of the Genesee River and its waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Mount Morris: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Mount Morris:

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the town and its surrounding areas on a hot air balloon ride.
  • Fishing: There are several streams and rivers in Mount Morris where visitors can enjoy fishing.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Genesee River offers visitors the chance to go kayaking or canoeing and enjoy scenic views from the water.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Morris

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Mount Morris:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Mount Morris
Day 2 Visit Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area
Day 3 Explore Letchworth State Park
Day 4 Ride hot air balloon
Day 5 Go fishing or camping
Day 6 Visit Stony Brook State Park
Day 7 Departure from Mount Morris

Food and Drink Scene of Mount Morris

Sample the local cuisine and drinks in various food and beverage establishments in Mount Morris.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Grape Pie: The town is famous for its grape production, and grape pie is a must-try dish.
  • Garbage Plate: This dish is a unique combo of macaroni salad, home fries, hot dog, and cheeseburger.
  • Chicken French: A regional dish consisting of chicken sautéed in a buttery white wine and lemon sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Finger Lakes Wine: The Finger Lakes region in New York has become known for its vineyards and wineries, so wine tasting is a must when visiting Mount Morris.
  • Genny Beer: The Genesee Brewery in Rochester, New York, is one of the oldest breweries in the US, and their Genny beer is a local favorite.

Where to Stay in Mount Morris: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Mount Morris:

  • Letchworth State Park Lodge: Offers cabin and hotel-style accommodation with scenic views of the Genesee River.
  • Greenwoods Bed and Breakfast Inn: A charming B&B with affordable prices and excellent service.
  • Mount Morris Dam View Inn: Offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the dam and the surrounding area.

What to Buy in Mount Morris: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Mount Morris:

  • Grape Jam and Jellies: Made from locally grown grapes, these preserves taste amazing.
  • Antiques: The town has several antiques shops that sell unique and vintage items.
  • Finger Lakes Wine: Don’t leave without bringing home a bottle of Finger Lakes wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Mount Morris

The local culture of Mount Morris is influenced by its natural surroundings and history. The people are known for their friendly nature and warm hospitality, making visitors feel at home. Residents are also proud of their grape production, which is evident in the town’s several wineries and grape pies.

Best Time to Visit Mount Morris

The best time to visit Mount Morris is from April to October when the weather is mild, and natural attractions are at their best. Fall is particularly beautiful in Mount Morris, with colorful foliage and pleasant weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Morris

Here are some do’s and don’ts to follow when visiting Mount Morris:

Do:

  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Morris’s parks and waterfalls.
  • Try the local cuisine, including grape pie and Genny beer.
  • Explore the town’s history and visit its historic landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the parks and natural areas.
  • Don’t ignore the safety instructions on hiking and biking trails.
  • Don’t swim in restricted areas since it can be dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mount Morris

Mount Morris is a safe town to visit, and crimes are rare. However, visitors should follow the general safety rules such as locking their doors and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Mount Morris

Medical facilities are easily available in the town. Mount Morris boasts several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies that are well-equipped to handle most medical emergencies.

Getting to Mount Morris: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mount Morris is easily accessible from New York City and other major cities.

Airports Near Mount Morris

Rochester International Airport (ROC) is the closest commercial airport to Mount Morris, located 38 miles away. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is located 70 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Mount Morris

The nearest bus station to Mount Morris is Geneseo Bus Station, located about 5 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Mount Morris by car or rental car. Amtrak train services operate from the Buffalo-Depew station to the Rochester Amtrak Station, which is 35 miles away from Mount Morris.

How to Get Around in Mount Morris

Mount Morris is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking or biking distance. Visitors can also rent cars or hire taxis to explore the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Mount Morris: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mount Morris is situated in a region with several other exciting destinations to visit. Here are some of them:

  • Seneca Lake: Known for its wine tasting and stunning natural beauty.
  • Niagara Falls: One of the most popular destinations in the US, a must-visit for its natural beauty.
  • Rochester: A vibrant city located just 30 miles away, offering cultural attractions such as museums, galleries, and theaters.

Conclusion

Mount Morris is an ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking to relax away from their everyday routine. With its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, it offers something for everyone. Plan your trip to Mount Morris and experience the beauty of Western Finger Lakes.