Waterport Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Waterport, New York with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and more, all in one place.


Introduction to Waterport

Waterport is a small hamlet situated in Orleans County, New York. It is a perfect destination for those who enjoy a quiet and peaceful vacation. With a population of just over 1,000, Waterport makes for an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty that the Niagara Frontier region has to offer. This travel guide will give you a rundown of everything you need to know about visiting Waterport.

List of Places to Visit in Waterport

Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking to unwind and relax, there is something for everyone in Waterport.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cobblestone Society Museum: This museum is a beautiful example of cobblestone architecture, and it serves as a reminder of the region’s early settlers.
  • Holley Water Works: Built-in 1895, Holley Water Works has been refurbished into a museum showcasing the history of Holley’s municipal water system.
  • Medina Railroad Museum: This museum houses a large collection of railroad memorabilia and offers train rides along the historic Medina Railroad.

Natural Attractions of Waterport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oak Orchard Wildlife Management Area: This area is a perfect place for birdwatchers with over 1,500 acres of protected land.
  • Lake Alice Wildlife Management Area: This area is known for its fishing opportunities, and anglers can catch black bass, bluegill, and perch.
  • Glenwood Lake: This lovely small lake is suitable for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Waterport

Waterport offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the area by foot or bike. Here are some popular routes:

  • Erie Canalway Trail: This trail stretches through Waterport and offers sweeping views of the Erie Canal.
  • Oak Orchard State Marine Park Trail: This trail follows the banks of the Oak Orchard River and offers an opportunity to catch glimpses of local wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Waterport: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Waterport, and many tour operators offer unique experiences to make your trip memorable.

  • Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Enjoy a scenic hot air balloon ride over the landscapes of Waterport.
  • Go Fishing: Go fishing at Lake Alice Wildlife Management Area or Oak Orchard River for an exciting experience.
  • Take a Winery Tour: Take a tour of a local winery and sample the best wines of Waterport.

Week-Long Itinerary for Waterport

Here is a week-long itinerary for Waterport to help you plan your trip.

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Cobblestone Society Museum and Holley Water Works.
Day 2 Go birdwatching at Oak Orchard Wildlife Management Area.
Day 3 Take the Erie Canalway Trail, stopping at Lockport and Medina along the way.
Day 4 Go fishing at Lake Alice Wildlife Management Area.
Day 5 Visit local wineries and take a tour of a nearby vineyard.
Day 6 Take a hot air balloon ride over Waterport.
Day 7 Hiking at Oak Orchard State Marine Park Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Waterport

Waterport has a small but thriving food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef on Weck: A local favorite, Beef on Weck is a roast beef sandwich served with a Kummelweck roll.
  • Spiedies: Marinated meat skewers that are grilled and served on a slice of Italian bread.

Local Beverages

  • Genesee Beer: Genesee is a locally brewed light beer that is refreshing and goes well with local dishes.
  • Niagara Wine Trail: Enjoy the best of the region’s wines on the Niagara Wine Trail.

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

Waterport has limited accommodation options, but there are a few options to choose from.

  • Econo Lodge: A budget-friendly option located near major attractions in Waterport.
  • Hampton Inn Brockport: This hotel is located near the Erie Canal and offers luxury amenities for a comfortable stay.
  • Green Acres Motel: A budget-friendly motel located in Holley that offers easy access to attractions and hiking trails.

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

Waterport might be small, but there are still souvenirs and local products worth taking back home.

  • Locally Made Jams: The Niagara Frontier region is known for its great tasting jams, and locals take pride in making them.
  • Cherries and Apples: These local fruits are grown in abundance in the Niagara region and make for a delicious souvenir to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Waterport

Waterport is a small town that is steeped in history. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to respect the town’s culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Waterport

The best time to visit Waterport is during the summer when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves turn color, and the apple harvest is in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Waterport

Here are some do’s and dont’s to keep in mind when visiting Waterport:

Do:

  • Respect the town’s culture and customs.
  • Visit local museums and historical sites.
  • Enjoy the region’s outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter pollutants in the natural environment.
  • Trespass on private land without permission.
  • Ignore safety warnings when outdoors.

Safety and Health

Waterport is relatively safe, but visitors should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Waterport

  • Be wary of ticks and mosquitoes when hiking or spending time outdoors.
  • Take precautions when swimming or boating in local lakes and rivers.
  • Lock your doors and windows when staying in accommodations.

Health in Waterport

  • Always use sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
  • Stay hydrated when spending time outdoors.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any health problems.

Getting to Waterport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Waterport is easily accessible by road, air, and rail.

Airports Near Waterport

  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport: The closest major airport is located about 50 miles from Waterport.
  • Greater Rochester International Airport: This airport is located approximately 35 miles from Waterport.

Bus Stations Near Waterport

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: This bus line operates two stations nearby, located in Buffalo and Rochester.
  • Trailways New York: This bus line operates a station in Rochester.

Other Options

  • Train: Amtrak’s Empire Service line stops in nearby Rochester.
  • Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate in nearby cities and may be a convenient way to access Waterport.

How to Get Around in Waterport

The best way to get around Waterport is by car or bicycle. Public transportation is limited to bus services in nearby cities.

Where to Go Next from Waterport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Waterport is conveniently located near many interesting destinations, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding areas easily. Here are some nearby destinations you can visit:

  • Niagara Falls: One of the world’s most famous natural wonders, Niagara Falls is located just over an hour’s drive from Waterport.
  • Letchworth State Park: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this park is located about an hour’s drive from Waterport.
  • Rochester: The third-largest city in New York State, Rochester is located about 30 miles from Waterport and is worth a visit for its museums, gardens, and restaurants.

Conclusion

Waterport is a charming destination that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and great food and drink. With this comprehensive travel guide, you will have everything you need to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Waterport.