Ellicottville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Ellicottville, New York. Find out about local food and culture, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Ellicottville

Ellicottville is a picturesque village located in Cattaraugus County in Southern Tier, New York. Situated in Mid-Atlantic, Ellicottville is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, charming streets, and cozy accommodations. Whether you are looking for a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled trip with friends, Ellicottville has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Ellicottville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ellicottville Historical Society Museum: Here, visitors can explore the rich history of the village through artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.
  • Nannen Arboretum: A beautiful botanical garden that features a diverse collection of trees, plants, and flowers.

Natural Attractions of Ellicottville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Holiday Valley: A year-round resort that offers winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating, and summer activities like mountain biking, hiking, and golfing.
  • HoliMont: A ski resort that offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing during the winter months.
  • Allegany State Park: Approximately 30 minutes from Ellicottville, this park offers hiking trails, swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
  • Sky High Adventure Park: Featuring a zip line, aerial park, and mountain coaster, this park is perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ellicottville

  • The Ridge Run trail at Holiday Valley: A moderate hike offering stunning views of the surrounding areas.
  • The Finger Lakes Trail: A 15-mile trail that starts at Holimont and ends at Allegany State Park.

Best Things to Do in Ellicottville: Activities and Tours

  • Experience a hot air balloon ride with Balloons Over Letchworth for a breathtaking view of the surrounding scenery.
  • Much of the surrounding area is designated a Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing.
  • Go on a brewery tour and tasting at the Ellicottville Brewing Company.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ellicottville

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Ellicottville, check-in to accommodations. Explore the village and the unique shops and restaurants.
Day 2 Spend the day skiing or snowboarding at Holiday Valley or HoliMont.
Day 3 Take a hot air balloon ride with Balloons Over Letchworth. Explore the Historical Society Museum.
Day 4 Hike the Ridge Run Trail. Visit the Nannen Arboretum.
Day 5 Explore the Allegany State Park, going for a swim or renting a boat.
Day 6 Spend the day mountain biking, golfing, or hiking at Holiday Valley.
Day 7 Go on a brewery tour and tasting at the Ellicottville Brewing Company and enjoy the local nightlife.

Food and Drink Scene of Ellicottville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken wings: Ellicottville boasts some of the best chicken wings in the area. Try them at Ellicottville Brewing Company or John Harvard’s Brew House.
  • Pulled pork: Head to Villaggio for some delicious pulled pork sandwiches.
  • Mac and Cheese: Indulge in delicious and creamy mac and cheese at Dina’s Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Ellicottville Brewing Company: This brewery is known for its delicious beer, including Blueberry Wheat and Ski Bum IPA.
  • Gin Mill: A popular spot for locals, serving a great selection of beer on tap.

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

  • Tamarack Club: A ski-in, ski-out resort located at the base of Holiday Valley.
  • Wingate by Wyndham Hotel: Located in the heart of the village, this hotel is just a short walk from all the main attractions.
  • The Jefferson Inn: A bed and breakfast located in a gorgeous 1920s mansion, offering luxurious lodgings.

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

  • Maple syrup: Ellicottville is home to several maple syrup producers, making it an ideal place to buy fresh maple syrup.
  • Alpaca wool: Visit the Winery of Ellicottville and the Mager Mountain Alpacas Farm to purchase alpaca wool products like gloves and scarves.

Local Culture and Customs of Ellicottville

Ellicottville is a charming little village with friendly locals who are proud of their community’s rich history and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of the residents and participate in the local customs, such as attending festivals and events.

Best Time to Visit Ellicottville

The best time to visit Ellicottville is from December to February if you enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. However, the village is beautiful all year round, with plenty to see and do in the summer and fall months as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ellicottville

Do:

  • Explore the hiking trails and natural beauty of the area.
  • Participate in local festivals and events.
  • Try the local cuisine and brews.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals or their traditions.
  • Forget to bring appropriate outdoor gear for your adventures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ellicottville

Ellicottville is a safe village for travelers, but visitors should still exercise caution, especially when participating in outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. It is recommended to travel with a buddy, wear proper gear, and inform others of your itinerary.

Health in Ellicottville

Ellicottville is located in a rural area, so visitors should be aware of potential risks like tick-borne illnesses and poisonous plants. It is recommended to wear long sleeves and pants with bug spray and check for ticks after spending time outdoors.

Getting to Ellicottville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ellicottville

  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport is the closest major airport, located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Ellicottville.

Bus Stations Near Ellicottville

  • The Coach USA bus station is located in Olean, a 30-minute drive from Ellicottville.

Other Options

  • Renting a car is a convenient option for those traveling to Ellicottville as it allows for more flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Ellicottville

The village is small enough that most visitors can explore it by foot. However, renting a car or bike is a convenient option for those looking to venture further outside of Ellicottville.

Where to Go Next from Ellicottville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Buffalo, New York: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Ellicottville, Buffalo is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions like Niagara Falls, Canalside, and the Buffalo Zoo.
  • Allegheny National Forest: A scenic destination for hiking, boating, and fishing opportunities, located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Ellicottville.

Conclusion

Ellicottville is a beautiful and charming village that boasts scenic natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or looking for a relaxing retreat, there is something for everyone in Ellicottville. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to exploring the hiking trails and local culture, Ellicottville is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast.