Middleport Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Middleport, NY with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Middleport

Middleport is a charming town located in Niagara County, in the Niagara Frontier region of New York state. It offers a perfect getaway for visitors looking to experience a mix of rich history, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure. The town is easily accessible, and it is nestled between Niagara Falls and Rochester, providing a variety of exciting and entertaining attractions to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Middleport

Here are some of the top places to visit in Middleport:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Medina Railroad Museum: This is a unique museum in an old freight depot that showcases the history of railroads and the impact they had on the local community.
  • Cobblestone Museum: This museum features a collection of historic buildings that have been preserved and restored, showcasing the unique architecture of the area.
  • Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride: This fascinating attraction takes visitors on a scenic underground boat ride along the Erie Canal, highlighting the engineering achievements of the canal construction.

Natural Attractions of Middleport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Erie Canal Towpath Trail: This trail is an ideal destination for hikers and bikers to explore the picturesque scenery along the Erie Canal.
  • Royalton Ravine Park: This park features a series of trails that lead to a beautiful waterfall, offering unmatched views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Middleport

Middleport has a diverse range of trails and routes for hikers and bikers to explore. The Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a popular choice for visitors looking to take in some of the area’s best scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Middleport: Activities and Tours

  • Birdwatching: Middleport is a prime location for birdwatching, with a variety of bird species commonly spotted along the Erie Canal and in the surrounding parks.
  • Fishing: The Erie Canal is a great place for fishing, with a variety of fish species that can be caught. Visitors can bring their fishing gear or rent fishing equipment from local shops.
  • Kayaking: The Erie Canal is also an ideal location for kayaking, with calm and serene waters that are perfect for exploring.

Week-Long Itinerary for Middleport

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Middleport:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Cobblestone Museum
Day 2 Take a boat ride on the Erie Canal and visit Lock 34
Day 3 Hike the Erie Canal Towpath Trail
Day 4 Explore the history of railroads at the Medina Railroad Museum
Day 5 Visit the Royalton Ravine Park for a picnic
Day 6 Take a guided kayak tour of the Erie Canal
Day 7 Sample local cuisine at a Middleport restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Middleport

Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Middleport:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buffalo wings: A local specialty in the area, you can find wings at most restaurants in the region.
  • Beef on weck: Another Buffalo-area specialty, this sandwich is made with slow-roasted beef and served on a kummelweck roll.

Local Beverages

  • Local craft beer: Middleport has a variety of breweries that offer unique and flavorful beers, including Resurgence Brewing Co. and 42 North Brewing Company.
  • Niagara Wine Trail: Wine lovers can explore the Niagara Wine Trail, a collection of wineries that produce a variety of wines, including locally sourced fruits.

Where to Stay in Middleport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Some great options for accommodation in Middleport include:

  • Hart House Bed & Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast that offers cozy rooms and a gourmet breakfast.
  • Byrncliff Resort: This resort offers comfortable rooms, a golf course, and a range of activities for visitors looking for a fun getaway.

What to Buy in Middleport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cobblestone souvenirs: Bring home a piece of Middleport history with a unique cobblestone souvenir.
  • Local crafts: Artisans in the area create a range of unique handmade crafts, including pottery, glassware, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Middleport

Middleport is a friendly and welcoming town that values community, traditions, and family. It is known for its charming cobblestone architecture, historic landmarks, and beautiful parks and trails.

Best Time to Visit Middleport

The best time to visit Middleport is during the fall season (September to November), when the weather is cooler, and the foliage is at its peak. Additionally, this is when many local festivals and events are held, such as the Niagara County Peach Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Middleport

Do:

  • Be respectful of the town’s history and culture.
  • Explore the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of the area.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage historic landmarks and natural areas.
  • Disrupt local festivals or gatherings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Middleport

Middleport is a relatively safe town, and visitors can feel secure when exploring the area. It is always recommended to take the usual precautions when traveling, such as securing valuables and staying aware of your surroundings.

Health in Middleport

Middleport offers a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

Getting to Middleport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Middleport is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Middleport

  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport (35 miles).
  • Greater Rochester International Airport (65 miles).

Bus Stations Near Middleport

  • Greyhound Bus Lines (17 miles).
  • New York Trailways (17 miles).

Other Options

Middleport is also accessible by Amtrak train service, with a nearby station located in Buffalo (35 miles).

How to Get Around in Middleport

Middleport is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Middleport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to consider for an extended trip:

  • Niagara Falls: One of the most famous natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for any first-time visitor to the area.
  • Buffalo: This vibrant city is known for its architecture, museums, and food scene.
  • Rochester: Located just east of Middleport, Rochester offers plenty of cultural and historic attractions to explore.

Conclusion

Middleport is a hidden gem in the Niagara Frontier region, offering a unique mix of history, beauty, and outdoor adventure. With its charming cobblestone architecture, fascinating museums, and scenic outdoor spaces, it’s a destination that is sure to delight visitors of all ages and interests.