Discover Ellicottville

Ellicottville lies at the foot of the Allegany Mountains in the Southern Tier of western New York. The village combines a mountain setting with activities for different kinds of trips: skiing and snowboarding are on offer in winter, while golf is available in the warmer months. There is also local history, a mountain coaster and opportunities to observe nature. Families can tailor their plans according to whether they are most interested in activities together, history or time in nature.

Local History in the Village Center

The Ellicottville Historic District covers the central business district and parts of the immediately adjacent residential areas. It includes 93 buildings, 13 of which are noncontributing. The historic district therefore extends beyond the business district to include parts of neighboring residential areas. Ellicottville Town Hall has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973. It was built in 1825 as the Cattaraugus County courthouse.

Another way to explore the village’s past is the Ellicottville Historical Museum, which tells the history of Ellicottville. Together, the Town Hall, Historic District and museum offer different historical perspectives: a former courthouse, a district with residential and commercial buildings, and the history of the village as a subject in its own right. Those looking to include culture and local history in their trip plans will find concrete places to start.

Activities for Different Seasons

Holiday Valley is a year-round resort destination in Ellicottville. It offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, with golf available in the warmer months. These seasonal differences may influence when you choose to travel: winter centers on two snow sports, while golf is an option for a stay in the warmer months.

The Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster is another activity. Its ride winds through fast turns and undulating stretches, with views along the way. The full ride is 4,805 feet long and takes about 6 minutes. Riders control their own speed. The coaster operates year-round.

Village Amenities and Nature in the Town

The village of Ellicottville has boutiques, cafés and dining options. For tastings, consider Ellicottville Distillery and Winery of Ellicottville: visitors can sample spirits at the distillery and take part in a tasting at the winery. If you would like to include these experiences in your stay, you can plan for them as a separate part of your trip alongside outdoor activities and local history.

One way to enjoy nature is in the neighboring Town of Ellicottville: Nannen Arboretum has more than 250 species of trees and shrubs and offers opportunities to observe nature and relax. The arboretum is a different kind of outing from the mountain coaster or resort activities. When choosing a vacation rental, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on: the village amenities, including cafés, boutiques and dining, or also nature observation in the Town.

Rock n’ Roll Weekend is also part of Ellicottville’s event calendar. It has been held there annually for more than 20 years. If a recurring event fits your travel interests, you can factor it into your plans and check the latest dates before your trip.

More destinations: Yorkshire, Allegany, Salamanca, Chautauqua, Franklinville.

Back to the main travel guide: Cattaraugus County.