Here is a review of my book that appeared in yesterday's Buffalo News
"This month, an impressive regional resource sure to be of interest to Buffalonians, current and expatriate alike, as well as travelers to the upstate region, hits bookstore shelves: "Western New York: An Explorer's Guide. This thick, information-packed volume, presented as an updated second edtion, is published by the Countryman Press, a division of W.W. Norton and is the work of local writer, Christine A. Smyczynski. The guide totals 608 pages and sells for $21.95 in bookstores and online. Besides a town-by-town guide to the best places to eat, sleep, shop and tour in Western New York, the well-designed paperback guide includes 17 maps, more than 100 photographs and brief histories of various inportant spots in the Buffalo Niagara area. Seasonal calendars of events and festivals, recommendations for the most family-friendly sites and eateries, and listings of the best amusement parks, nightclubs, fish fry diners and more-this book covers the territory throughly. A great find for people new to the area, and longtime residents as well." Charity Vogel, News book reviewer, The Buffalo News June 29, 2008.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Teddy bear picnic time
Here's a press release I got about an upcoming event.
Teddy Bear Picnic
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
4:00 – 6:00 pm
$5 per child (includes picnic supper – grilled hot dog, snack and beverage) Adult dinners - $3
Due to construction at the Theodore Roosevelt Site teddy bear picnic will be held at Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
2655 South Park Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14218
It’s Teddy Bear Picnic time again and this year is sure to be extra special thanks to our friends at the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens. What a beautiful place to have a picnic! Special entertainment, a visit from Buffalo Clown Alley, yummy picnic food, games, stories and other good things will all be part of the fun. Teddy Bear Picnic is a fun day for all – mom, dad, grandparents, and friends. Get your team together and don’t forget a blanket to sit on and your favorite teddy! By reservation only, please call the TR Site, 884-0095.
Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra at the Gardens. Plan to stay on for a wonderful outdoor concert after the picnic! The BPO will perform patriotic selections in this beautiful park setting from 7:00 until 8:15 pm. The BPO concert is free and open to the public.
Teddy Bear Picnic
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
4:00 – 6:00 pm
$5 per child (includes picnic supper – grilled hot dog, snack and beverage) Adult dinners - $3
Due to construction at the Theodore Roosevelt Site teddy bear picnic will be held at Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
2655 South Park Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14218
It’s Teddy Bear Picnic time again and this year is sure to be extra special thanks to our friends at the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens. What a beautiful place to have a picnic! Special entertainment, a visit from Buffalo Clown Alley, yummy picnic food, games, stories and other good things will all be part of the fun. Teddy Bear Picnic is a fun day for all – mom, dad, grandparents, and friends. Get your team together and don’t forget a blanket to sit on and your favorite teddy! By reservation only, please call the TR Site, 884-0095.
Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra at the Gardens. Plan to stay on for a wonderful outdoor concert after the picnic! The BPO will perform patriotic selections in this beautiful park setting from 7:00 until 8:15 pm. The BPO concert is free and open to the public.
Summer's Here! Now what do we do?
Looking for things to do? Now that summer is here, there is a multitude of activities to chose from. I was at the library this morning and picked up a whole bunch of brochures on things to do.
First, if you're looking for some free activities, stop by your local libray and pick up a list of their summer programs for both adults and kids. I will be speaking about nearby day trip destinations at a program at the Clearfield library on Hopkins Road in Williamsville on Monday June 30 at 7 pm.
On Saturday mornings from 8 am to 1 pm, from now until October 25th, head to the Farmers Market at the Williamsville Mill, 56 East Spring Street, Williamsville. Choose from fruits, vegetables, cheese, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and more. There is even live entertainment and children's activities.
A Canal Concert series will take place every Friday night in Lockport from June 27 to August 22 (no concert July 4). The concerts are free, and take place rain or shine, begining at 5 pm. The concerts take place in Ulrich City Courtyard on Main Street. for more information www.canalconcerts.com
I haven't check out the Summer Carillon Concerts at Calvary Episcopal Church, 20 Milton Street in Williamsville, but it sounds interesting. In it's 30th year, the concerts take place outdoors at 7pm on the following Wednesdays July 2, 16, 23, 30 and Augsut 6.
Buffalo Tours offers numerous architectural tours in the city of Buffalo throughout the year. see their website www.buffalotours.org for a complete schedule.
First, if you're looking for some free activities, stop by your local libray and pick up a list of their summer programs for both adults and kids. I will be speaking about nearby day trip destinations at a program at the Clearfield library on Hopkins Road in Williamsville on Monday June 30 at 7 pm.
On Saturday mornings from 8 am to 1 pm, from now until October 25th, head to the Farmers Market at the Williamsville Mill, 56 East Spring Street, Williamsville. Choose from fruits, vegetables, cheese, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and more. There is even live entertainment and children's activities.
A Canal Concert series will take place every Friday night in Lockport from June 27 to August 22 (no concert July 4). The concerts are free, and take place rain or shine, begining at 5 pm. The concerts take place in Ulrich City Courtyard on Main Street. for more information www.canalconcerts.com
I haven't check out the Summer Carillon Concerts at Calvary Episcopal Church, 20 Milton Street in Williamsville, but it sounds interesting. In it's 30th year, the concerts take place outdoors at 7pm on the following Wednesdays July 2, 16, 23, 30 and Augsut 6.
Buffalo Tours offers numerous architectural tours in the city of Buffalo throughout the year. see their website www.buffalotours.org for a complete schedule.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Like to eat? Feed your soul
Like to eat? Check out this press release I got from some local foodies.
For Immediate Release
June 23, 2008
Contact: Christa Glennie Seychew
716-812-1615
Buffalo NY – Calling all foodies!
Love to eat? Love to cook? Love WNY culture? Then check out Feed Your Soul Buffalo. This new culinary tourism initiative showcases exciting Western New York gastronomic adventures that feature the bounty that is our region’s legacy.
Feed Your Soul Buffalo’s objective is to package and promote the region’s culinary treasures as marketable and sellable attractions. Christa Glennie Seychew, freelance journalist and former Food and Dining Editor of Buffalo Rising Magazine and Sandy Starks, Founding Member of Slow Food Buffalo, have joined forces to create exclusive, culinary adventures.
Seychew’s experience as a food editor has led her to a unique understanding of Buffalo’s dining scene as well as the area’s remarkable agricultural resources and foodshed issues. Combined with Starks’ years of experience in crafting custom tours for area cultural institutions, the two are a perfect combination--capable of generating entertaining, informative and tasty events.
According to the International Culinary Tourism Association, ‘culinary tourism’ is defined as the pursuit of unique and memorable eating and drinking experiences. That includes food-related experiences of all kinds; it's much more comprehensive than the typical wine tastings and food festivals. Feed Your Soul will develop culinary events more engaging and inventive than what is currently available in Buffalo and much of the United States.
Additionally, Feed Your Soul’s dynamic duo is encouraging Western New Yorkers to be food tourists in their own backyards. Their inaugural event is the offering of two once-in-a-lifetime programs at the remarkable Chautauqua Institution.
‘Meet the Chefs: Ruhlman and Barber at Chautauqua’ and ‘Behind Zagat’
Each week during the summer season, the Chautauqua Institution structures their programming around a theme. This summer during the week of August 10th, the theme is “Food and Politics in the 21st Century”.
The Chautauqua Institution website describes the week of programming as follows:
“Food - from the old family recipe to the culinary arts - consumes a central role in our lives and is our most intimate and direct connection to nature. It elicits both passion and guilt, it comforts and satisfies, it sustains the body, and is a source of beauty and art. What we eat and how it arrives in our kitchens and restaurants is also influenced by political and economic decisions. From the 100-mile diet, five-star restaurants and peppy television chefs to giant agri-business, this week will add context to our understanding of how food is produced, biologically altered and distributed, the rise of organic agriculture and the simple joys of eating.”
Starks has been invited to the Chautauqua Institution to teach classes on local food issues during this session. “Realizing the fantastic opportunity the Chautauqua Institution was offering to foodies of all kinds, I spoke with the General Manager of the Athenaeum Hotel and asked if Feed Your Soul Buffalo could bring a group down from the city to create a unique experience around the food programming at the Institution,” said Starks. They happily agreed.
What Starks and Seychew have created is sure to thrill anyone with a passion for honest cooking, food writing, locavorism or sustainable agriculture. The August 11th trip consists of limo bus transportation to the Chautauqua Institution and lectures from nationally celebrated author, Food Network regular and chef, Michael Ruhlman and one of the most well-known and highly-awarded farm-to-table chefs, Dan Barber, chef/owner of Blue Hill restaurant in New York City and Blue Hill at Stone Barns, a sustainable farm in Pocantico Hills, N.Y. Guests will also enjoy a special lunch prepared by Culinary Institute of America-graduate Chef Scott Bova of The Athenaeum Hotel, free time to explore the beauty of Chautauqua and a wine and cheese reception at a private home on the grounds of the Chautauqua Institution. Local chefs are very excited about this particular program and Feed Your Soul anticipates that at least a third of the guests on this adventure will be some of Buffalo’s most skilled chefs.
A second date was added to Feed Your Soul’s Chautauqua schedule when Starks and Seychew approached Diana and Gino Principe of the Mansion on Delaware Avenue. Tim Zagat of The Zagat Survey will be the featured speaker at Chautauqua on August 13th. Approaching the Principes was an obvious choice since the Zagat Survey considers the Mansion on Delaware Avenue to be the Top Boutique Hotel in the United States. Feed Your Soul’s “Behind Zagat” event begins when guests gather at the Mansion for breakfast and then travel to the Chautauqua Institution in a limo bus for the Zagat lecture. Afterwards they will enjoy a special lunch at The Athenaeum, spend some free time on the Chautauqua grounds and then return to the city for a private tour and cocktail hour at the Mansion on Delaware Avenue.
Tickets for both of these culinary adventures go on sale Monday, June 23rd. They can be purchased online or by mail. More schedule and ticketing information can be found at www.feedyoursoulbuffalo.com.
Feed Your Soul has many other exciting culinary adventures in the works. All of their events are truly unique and have limited seating, so making reservations quickly is important!
To learn more about Feed Your Soul Buffalo log onto www.feedyoursoulbuffalo.com or call Christa Seychew at 716-812-1615.
For Immediate Release
June 23, 2008
Contact: Christa Glennie Seychew
716-812-1615
Buffalo NY – Calling all foodies!
Love to eat? Love to cook? Love WNY culture? Then check out Feed Your Soul Buffalo. This new culinary tourism initiative showcases exciting Western New York gastronomic adventures that feature the bounty that is our region’s legacy.
Feed Your Soul Buffalo’s objective is to package and promote the region’s culinary treasures as marketable and sellable attractions. Christa Glennie Seychew, freelance journalist and former Food and Dining Editor of Buffalo Rising Magazine and Sandy Starks, Founding Member of Slow Food Buffalo, have joined forces to create exclusive, culinary adventures.
Seychew’s experience as a food editor has led her to a unique understanding of Buffalo’s dining scene as well as the area’s remarkable agricultural resources and foodshed issues. Combined with Starks’ years of experience in crafting custom tours for area cultural institutions, the two are a perfect combination--capable of generating entertaining, informative and tasty events.
According to the International Culinary Tourism Association, ‘culinary tourism’ is defined as the pursuit of unique and memorable eating and drinking experiences. That includes food-related experiences of all kinds; it's much more comprehensive than the typical wine tastings and food festivals. Feed Your Soul will develop culinary events more engaging and inventive than what is currently available in Buffalo and much of the United States.
Additionally, Feed Your Soul’s dynamic duo is encouraging Western New Yorkers to be food tourists in their own backyards. Their inaugural event is the offering of two once-in-a-lifetime programs at the remarkable Chautauqua Institution.
‘Meet the Chefs: Ruhlman and Barber at Chautauqua’ and ‘Behind Zagat’
Each week during the summer season, the Chautauqua Institution structures their programming around a theme. This summer during the week of August 10th, the theme is “Food and Politics in the 21st Century”.
The Chautauqua Institution website describes the week of programming as follows:
“Food - from the old family recipe to the culinary arts - consumes a central role in our lives and is our most intimate and direct connection to nature. It elicits both passion and guilt, it comforts and satisfies, it sustains the body, and is a source of beauty and art. What we eat and how it arrives in our kitchens and restaurants is also influenced by political and economic decisions. From the 100-mile diet, five-star restaurants and peppy television chefs to giant agri-business, this week will add context to our understanding of how food is produced, biologically altered and distributed, the rise of organic agriculture and the simple joys of eating.”
Starks has been invited to the Chautauqua Institution to teach classes on local food issues during this session. “Realizing the fantastic opportunity the Chautauqua Institution was offering to foodies of all kinds, I spoke with the General Manager of the Athenaeum Hotel and asked if Feed Your Soul Buffalo could bring a group down from the city to create a unique experience around the food programming at the Institution,” said Starks. They happily agreed.
What Starks and Seychew have created is sure to thrill anyone with a passion for honest cooking, food writing, locavorism or sustainable agriculture. The August 11th trip consists of limo bus transportation to the Chautauqua Institution and lectures from nationally celebrated author, Food Network regular and chef, Michael Ruhlman and one of the most well-known and highly-awarded farm-to-table chefs, Dan Barber, chef/owner of Blue Hill restaurant in New York City and Blue Hill at Stone Barns, a sustainable farm in Pocantico Hills, N.Y. Guests will also enjoy a special lunch prepared by Culinary Institute of America-graduate Chef Scott Bova of The Athenaeum Hotel, free time to explore the beauty of Chautauqua and a wine and cheese reception at a private home on the grounds of the Chautauqua Institution. Local chefs are very excited about this particular program and Feed Your Soul anticipates that at least a third of the guests on this adventure will be some of Buffalo’s most skilled chefs.
A second date was added to Feed Your Soul’s Chautauqua schedule when Starks and Seychew approached Diana and Gino Principe of the Mansion on Delaware Avenue. Tim Zagat of The Zagat Survey will be the featured speaker at Chautauqua on August 13th. Approaching the Principes was an obvious choice since the Zagat Survey considers the Mansion on Delaware Avenue to be the Top Boutique Hotel in the United States. Feed Your Soul’s “Behind Zagat” event begins when guests gather at the Mansion for breakfast and then travel to the Chautauqua Institution in a limo bus for the Zagat lecture. Afterwards they will enjoy a special lunch at The Athenaeum, spend some free time on the Chautauqua grounds and then return to the city for a private tour and cocktail hour at the Mansion on Delaware Avenue.
Tickets for both of these culinary adventures go on sale Monday, June 23rd. They can be purchased online or by mail. More schedule and ticketing information can be found at www.feedyoursoulbuffalo.com.
Feed Your Soul has many other exciting culinary adventures in the works. All of their events are truly unique and have limited seating, so making reservations quickly is important!
To learn more about Feed Your Soul Buffalo log onto www.feedyoursoulbuffalo.com or call Christa Seychew at 716-812-1615.
Wine Trail event on July 5
Leonard Oakes Estate Winery, the newest winery on the Niagara Wine Trail is holding a Wine, Food and Song Festival on Saturday July 5th starting at 3:00pm and going until?! Continue the celebration with a commemorative wine glass and complementary wine tasting, food by the Zambistro and song from John & Mary and the Valkyries! Bring your lawn chair and enjoy! Presale tickets only $20 per person or $35/couple. Visit our website at www.oakeswinery.com or call us at 585-318-4418!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Check out this article about Chautauqua County
Check out the Summer 2008 issue of Drive , the magazine from Subaru, for an article I wrote about attractions in Chautauqua County. The print edition is sent to all Subaru drivers, however, anyone can access the magazine from their website www.drive.subaru.com The online exclusive features the Amish community in Chautauqua County.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Top picks of things to do June 20-21 and next week
Summer's here! Here are some events that kick off the summer season.
St. Gregory the Great Great Race June 20 at 7pm. This race is the unofficial kick-off of summer in the northtowns of Buffalo. The event includes a 5K race along with a 1 mile fun walk. The post race party features kids activities and music by the well-known local band, Switch. For more information call 716-565-2660 or visit www.stgregs.org
Opening weekend of the Chautauqua Institution summer season, June 21. The nine week summer season opens this weekend at the world-renown Chautauqua Institution, a place where one can come for arts, recreation, religion and more. For more information visit www.ciweb.org
Coming up next week - Buffalo Homecoming June 26-29. Events include tours, a career fair, arts in the park, a block party on Saturday night, a Sunday brunch and the From the Heart of Buffalo Fair, featuring items made by local artisans. See www.buffalohomecoming.com for complete details.
St. Gregory the Great Great Race June 20 at 7pm. This race is the unofficial kick-off of summer in the northtowns of Buffalo. The event includes a 5K race along with a 1 mile fun walk. The post race party features kids activities and music by the well-known local band, Switch. For more information call 716-565-2660 or visit www.stgregs.org
Opening weekend of the Chautauqua Institution summer season, June 21. The nine week summer season opens this weekend at the world-renown Chautauqua Institution, a place where one can come for arts, recreation, religion and more. For more information visit www.ciweb.org
Coming up next week - Buffalo Homecoming June 26-29. Events include tours, a career fair, arts in the park, a block party on Saturday night, a Sunday brunch and the From the Heart of Buffalo Fair, featuring items made by local artisans. See www.buffalohomecoming.com for complete details.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Present Tense bookstore a great place to visit in Batavia
If you are in Batavia, be sure to stop by the Present Tense bookstore, 101 Washington Avenue, Batavia, 585-815-7640. Located in an older home, it has a nice selection of books, cards, and gifts. Owner Ericka Caldwell is very helpful and knowledgeable. It is the only bookstore in Genesee County.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Enjoy afternoon tea at the White Linen Tea Room
My friends Mary and Linda and I always go out to celebrate each others birthdays. Today we went out for Linda's birthday to the White Linen Tea Room and we had a delightful time. Located in a Victorian-style farm house next to the Shawnee Country Barns Antique Co-op, the tea room features "high tea" from 11 am-4 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The cost is $19.95 per person and reservations are recommended. We enjoyed assorted tea sandwiches; the girls especially like the cucumber-dill ones, along with delicious home-made desserts and of course, tea. Linda and I had the strawberry-lemon-berry iced tea, which was yummy, while Mary tried the orange peach iced tea. We also sampled some of the "monkey tea." The tea room also sells tea, tea related items and other unique merchandise. The White Linen Tea Room is located at 6610 Shawnee Road, N. Tonawanda. 716-731-1685
A sad day for western New York
Today western New York lost one of its favorite sons. As many of you have heard on the news, journalist Tim Russert passed away this afternoon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Close to home vacation ideas in Chautauqua County
Below are some close to home vacation ideas that were sent to me by Stephanie Burdo, Communications Coordinator of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau (www.tourchautauqua.com)
Vacation in Your Own Backyard
Enjoyable and Inexpensive Chautauqua Mini-Vacation Suggestions
The Travel Industry of America (www.tia.org) recently compiled a list of personal benefits associated with travel and taking a vacation including improved health, relationships, careers and productivity. With the high cost of gasoline, and summer vacationers rethinking their travel plans, Chautauqua County in southwestern New York offers value and health conscious visitors from the Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Erie, Buffalo, Rochester and Toronto areas rewarding vacation options close to home. Here are a few mini-vacation ideas that cost less than a round-trip tank of gas without a lot of extra investment:
Hiking and Cycling
Long Point and Lake Erie State Parks provide several miles of marked hiking trails in lakeside, forested settings. In addition, the park roads are safe and convenient for family cycling outings. Both parks provide picnic and swimming facilities and plenty of parking. Admission for the day is $7 for parking.
The Erlandson Overlook Park in Frewsburg, NY and the Luensman Overlook Park in Portland, NY offer easy hiking trails, spectacular views, picnic facilities and parking. These are great spots to observe local species of birds, particularly birds of prey. Admission is free.
Rails-to-Trails offers easy to moderate difficulty hiking and off-road cycling trails spanning 30 miles between Brocton, Mayville, and Sherman.
Many of Chautauqua County’s roadways are perfect for the moderately experienced cyclist, offering beautiful settings and clearly marked, paved shoulders. Suggested routes can be found in the Chautauqua County Travel Guide or through Hollyloft Ski and Bike in the Jamestown/Lakewood area.
The Fred Cusimano and Earl Cardot Overland Trails provide miles of cleared and marked trails for nature-loving enthusiasts. These moderately challenging trails have multiple access and parking points and are fulfilling for hikers, birders, and off-road cyclists. Maps are available through the Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities and can be picked up at the Chautauqua Institution Main Gate and the Chautauqua Lake I-86 Rest Area information centers. They are also printable online at www.tourchautauqua.com.
The Jamestown Audubon Nature Center offers the “First Friday Lunch Bunch” and “Little Explorers” programs throughout the year. Schedule and cost information is available at www.jamestownaudubon.org.
Tour Amish Country
Half a tank of gas and a loop of 75 miles through Cherry Creek, Ellington, Kennedy, Randolph, Conewango Valley, Leon, and South Dayton will take you back in time. Over 100 Amish shops and farms dot the landscape and provide visitors with unique shopping options including wooden toys, hand-made furniture, quilts, leather crafts, cheeses, candies, baked goods, and home-grown fruits and vegetables.
Enjoy lunch at the Trillium Lodge in Cherry Creek or grab home-made goodies along the Amish trail.
Stop in at the Cherry Creek Depot for unique Amish and Victorian era goods.
A guided Tour and Tea in Amish Country is offered through the Foxe Farmhouse Bed & Barn, 716-962-3412.
Enjoy a western village, roping, shooting shows and cowboy theater on Prospect Street in Sinclairville at Wild Bill’s Old West Show. Performances take place on Sundays 6/15, 7/13, 8/17, 9/14 from 2:30-6:00 p.m. with admission cost of $10 adult and $5 for 12 and under.
Free Sundays at Chautauqua
Chautauqua Institution is western New York’s, world-renown, cultural and recreational vacation destination. In addition to Chautauqua’s concerts, lectures, golf, and waterfront activities, visitors can enjoy “Free Sundays”. For just a $6 parking fee, a family can enjoy the following Sunday activities at the Institution:
Victorian-era grounds, gardens, paths, and lakeside areas.
Swimming at Chautauqua’s four beaches.
2:30 p.m. free concert performance.
Safe, quiet roadways for easy cycling outings.
Shopping in the Chautauqua Bookstore and around Bestor Plaza
Evening Sacred Song Service in the Amphitheater
History Trail
Chautauqua County has a number of historic sites and museums that are great for family excursions:
The Dunkirk Historic Lighthouse offers guided tours for $5 per adult and $2 per child. Or, just walk around the lighthouse grounds and outdoor exhibits for $1 per person. For information call 716-366-5050 or www.dunkirklighthouse.com.
In Fredonia, the D.R. Barker Museum offers local history exhibits, dollhouse and miniature displays, and a children’s museum. Admission is free and information can be obtained at 716-672-2114 or www.barkermuseum.net.
The Fenton History Center & Museum in Jamestown offers exhibits on life in the Civil War period, local history and development of the area, the Underground Railroad, Lucille Ball, Chautauqua Lake, and much more. Admission is $5 adults, $4 children and information is available at 716-664-6256 or www.fentonhistorycenter.org.
The Robert H. Jackson Center in Jamestown provides a fascinating look at the life, accomplishments, impacts, and historic contexts of U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Attorney General, and World War II war crimes prosecutor Robert Jackson. Admission is $4.00 and information is available at 716-483-6646 or www.roberthjackson.org.
In the Village of Findley Lake, the Waterwheel Overlook and information center provides interpretive panels on the history of the village and a deck overlooking the historic waterwheel.
Also in Findley Lake, near the entrance/exit to I-86, the new Findley Lake Nature and Wildlife Education Center showcases a collection of 300 different species of large wild animal mounts. Hands-on displays emphasize ecology and environmental responsibilities. Open for groups and by appointment by calling 716-769-7610.
Several other museums, requiring little or no admission fee are found in the Chautauqua County Travel Guide. The guide may be viewed online at www.tourchautauqua.com or requested from the Visitors Bureau at 866-909-4569.
Lake Erie shoreline
A ninety mile loop on Routes 5 and 20 along the Lake Erie Shoreline can provide one to two days of entertainment with views and access to Lake Erie, quaint Victorian-era villages and local wineries.
Ripley is home to the famous Ripley Hawk Watch where thousands of visitors annually view hawks and other birds of prey soaring on Lake Erie’s thermal air currents. A favorite nearby meal or “pie” spot is Meeder’s Restaurant on Rt. 20.
Westfield has an interesting statue of Abraham Lincoln and Grace Bedell, a young girl who convinced him to grow his trademark beard. The McClurg Museum provides year-round exhibits on Chautauqua County’s history and early pioneers. Information is available at www.mcclurgmuseum.org or 716-326-2977. Visitors will also enjoy the Westfield Farmer’s Market every Saturday in Moore Park.
For dining in the Westfield area, visitors will enjoy the authentic Westfield Diner or Zebro’s on the waterfront at Barcelona Harbor.
Other Route 5 “must see” points in the Westfield area are the Barcelona Lighthouse, Barcelona Harbor and the replica Sea Lion sailing vessel. Visitors of all ages will enjoy Vinewood Acres Sugar Shack’s locally grown and produced fruit products and Budda’s Whitetail Ostrich Farm.
Families can enjoy camping at Lake Erie State Park, named as one of the top 100 campgrounds in the nation, which includes a public swimming area, trails, recreation area, and memorable “Lake Erie sunsets”. For camping reservations, www.nysparks.com/accomm or 716-792-9214.
The Village of Fredonia offers families and visitors boutique shopping, dining, coffee shops, and an architectural walking tour. For walking tour information, stop in at the Village Hall and Opera House for a brochure. Fredonia also offers a Farmer’s Market every Saturday in the Barker Commons village square.
Dunkirk’s Chadwick Bay and City Pier area are hotspots for pier fishing, lakefront cycling, and enjoying the lake view. The new Boardwalk Market and nearby restaurants offer ice cream, wine, burgers, bicycle rentals, coffee, tie-dyed T’s, and gift shops.
The Village of Silver Creek and nearby Sunset Bay are favorite Lake Erie beach and dining spots, perfect for spending a day at the lake.
Concerts, Festivals and Events
There are events, festivals, or concerts every weekend in Chautauqua County. Many are offered free or with minimal charges.
Bemus Bay Pops Concert Series runs from June 29 to August 30 with free outdoor Sunday afternoon concerts performed from a giant floating stage. For a schedule of concerts and events visit www.bemusbaypops.com.
The City of Dunkirk offers weekend festivals and free entertainment at the City Pier all summer long. Information is available at www.cityofdunkirk.com.
From July 3 to August 28, enjoy Concerts in the Park on Thursday evenings at the Village Square in Silver Creek.
The Village of Mayville offers a Thursday evening entertainment series as well with concerts in the Village Green or Lakeside Parks.
Located in the southwest corner of New York State, Chautauqua County plays host to the renowned Chautauqua Institution, the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center, the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Wine Trail in America’s Grape Country, quaint Victorian villages, and a host of fairs, festivals, camping, outdoor and lakeside activities. For travel planning and information and a comprehensive list of events, call 866-908-ILNY (4569) or visit www.tourchautauqua.com.
Vacation in Your Own Backyard
Enjoyable and Inexpensive Chautauqua Mini-Vacation Suggestions
The Travel Industry of America (www.tia.org) recently compiled a list of personal benefits associated with travel and taking a vacation including improved health, relationships, careers and productivity. With the high cost of gasoline, and summer vacationers rethinking their travel plans, Chautauqua County in southwestern New York offers value and health conscious visitors from the Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Erie, Buffalo, Rochester and Toronto areas rewarding vacation options close to home. Here are a few mini-vacation ideas that cost less than a round-trip tank of gas without a lot of extra investment:
Hiking and Cycling
Long Point and Lake Erie State Parks provide several miles of marked hiking trails in lakeside, forested settings. In addition, the park roads are safe and convenient for family cycling outings. Both parks provide picnic and swimming facilities and plenty of parking. Admission for the day is $7 for parking.
The Erlandson Overlook Park in Frewsburg, NY and the Luensman Overlook Park in Portland, NY offer easy hiking trails, spectacular views, picnic facilities and parking. These are great spots to observe local species of birds, particularly birds of prey. Admission is free.
Rails-to-Trails offers easy to moderate difficulty hiking and off-road cycling trails spanning 30 miles between Brocton, Mayville, and Sherman.
Many of Chautauqua County’s roadways are perfect for the moderately experienced cyclist, offering beautiful settings and clearly marked, paved shoulders. Suggested routes can be found in the Chautauqua County Travel Guide or through Hollyloft Ski and Bike in the Jamestown/Lakewood area.
The Fred Cusimano and Earl Cardot Overland Trails provide miles of cleared and marked trails for nature-loving enthusiasts. These moderately challenging trails have multiple access and parking points and are fulfilling for hikers, birders, and off-road cyclists. Maps are available through the Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities and can be picked up at the Chautauqua Institution Main Gate and the Chautauqua Lake I-86 Rest Area information centers. They are also printable online at www.tourchautauqua.com.
The Jamestown Audubon Nature Center offers the “First Friday Lunch Bunch” and “Little Explorers” programs throughout the year. Schedule and cost information is available at www.jamestownaudubon.org.
Tour Amish Country
Half a tank of gas and a loop of 75 miles through Cherry Creek, Ellington, Kennedy, Randolph, Conewango Valley, Leon, and South Dayton will take you back in time. Over 100 Amish shops and farms dot the landscape and provide visitors with unique shopping options including wooden toys, hand-made furniture, quilts, leather crafts, cheeses, candies, baked goods, and home-grown fruits and vegetables.
Enjoy lunch at the Trillium Lodge in Cherry Creek or grab home-made goodies along the Amish trail.
Stop in at the Cherry Creek Depot for unique Amish and Victorian era goods.
A guided Tour and Tea in Amish Country is offered through the Foxe Farmhouse Bed & Barn, 716-962-3412.
Enjoy a western village, roping, shooting shows and cowboy theater on Prospect Street in Sinclairville at Wild Bill’s Old West Show. Performances take place on Sundays 6/15, 7/13, 8/17, 9/14 from 2:30-6:00 p.m. with admission cost of $10 adult and $5 for 12 and under.
Free Sundays at Chautauqua
Chautauqua Institution is western New York’s, world-renown, cultural and recreational vacation destination. In addition to Chautauqua’s concerts, lectures, golf, and waterfront activities, visitors can enjoy “Free Sundays”. For just a $6 parking fee, a family can enjoy the following Sunday activities at the Institution:
Victorian-era grounds, gardens, paths, and lakeside areas.
Swimming at Chautauqua’s four beaches.
2:30 p.m. free concert performance.
Safe, quiet roadways for easy cycling outings.
Shopping in the Chautauqua Bookstore and around Bestor Plaza
Evening Sacred Song Service in the Amphitheater
History Trail
Chautauqua County has a number of historic sites and museums that are great for family excursions:
The Dunkirk Historic Lighthouse offers guided tours for $5 per adult and $2 per child. Or, just walk around the lighthouse grounds and outdoor exhibits for $1 per person. For information call 716-366-5050 or www.dunkirklighthouse.com.
In Fredonia, the D.R. Barker Museum offers local history exhibits, dollhouse and miniature displays, and a children’s museum. Admission is free and information can be obtained at 716-672-2114 or www.barkermuseum.net.
The Fenton History Center & Museum in Jamestown offers exhibits on life in the Civil War period, local history and development of the area, the Underground Railroad, Lucille Ball, Chautauqua Lake, and much more. Admission is $5 adults, $4 children and information is available at 716-664-6256 or www.fentonhistorycenter.org.
The Robert H. Jackson Center in Jamestown provides a fascinating look at the life, accomplishments, impacts, and historic contexts of U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Attorney General, and World War II war crimes prosecutor Robert Jackson. Admission is $4.00 and information is available at 716-483-6646 or www.roberthjackson.org.
In the Village of Findley Lake, the Waterwheel Overlook and information center provides interpretive panels on the history of the village and a deck overlooking the historic waterwheel.
Also in Findley Lake, near the entrance/exit to I-86, the new Findley Lake Nature and Wildlife Education Center showcases a collection of 300 different species of large wild animal mounts. Hands-on displays emphasize ecology and environmental responsibilities. Open for groups and by appointment by calling 716-769-7610.
Several other museums, requiring little or no admission fee are found in the Chautauqua County Travel Guide. The guide may be viewed online at www.tourchautauqua.com or requested from the Visitors Bureau at 866-909-4569.
Lake Erie shoreline
A ninety mile loop on Routes 5 and 20 along the Lake Erie Shoreline can provide one to two days of entertainment with views and access to Lake Erie, quaint Victorian-era villages and local wineries.
Ripley is home to the famous Ripley Hawk Watch where thousands of visitors annually view hawks and other birds of prey soaring on Lake Erie’s thermal air currents. A favorite nearby meal or “pie” spot is Meeder’s Restaurant on Rt. 20.
Westfield has an interesting statue of Abraham Lincoln and Grace Bedell, a young girl who convinced him to grow his trademark beard. The McClurg Museum provides year-round exhibits on Chautauqua County’s history and early pioneers. Information is available at www.mcclurgmuseum.org or 716-326-2977. Visitors will also enjoy the Westfield Farmer’s Market every Saturday in Moore Park.
For dining in the Westfield area, visitors will enjoy the authentic Westfield Diner or Zebro’s on the waterfront at Barcelona Harbor.
Other Route 5 “must see” points in the Westfield area are the Barcelona Lighthouse, Barcelona Harbor and the replica Sea Lion sailing vessel. Visitors of all ages will enjoy Vinewood Acres Sugar Shack’s locally grown and produced fruit products and Budda’s Whitetail Ostrich Farm.
Families can enjoy camping at Lake Erie State Park, named as one of the top 100 campgrounds in the nation, which includes a public swimming area, trails, recreation area, and memorable “Lake Erie sunsets”. For camping reservations, www.nysparks.com/accomm or 716-792-9214.
The Village of Fredonia offers families and visitors boutique shopping, dining, coffee shops, and an architectural walking tour. For walking tour information, stop in at the Village Hall and Opera House for a brochure. Fredonia also offers a Farmer’s Market every Saturday in the Barker Commons village square.
Dunkirk’s Chadwick Bay and City Pier area are hotspots for pier fishing, lakefront cycling, and enjoying the lake view. The new Boardwalk Market and nearby restaurants offer ice cream, wine, burgers, bicycle rentals, coffee, tie-dyed T’s, and gift shops.
The Village of Silver Creek and nearby Sunset Bay are favorite Lake Erie beach and dining spots, perfect for spending a day at the lake.
Concerts, Festivals and Events
There are events, festivals, or concerts every weekend in Chautauqua County. Many are offered free or with minimal charges.
Bemus Bay Pops Concert Series runs from June 29 to August 30 with free outdoor Sunday afternoon concerts performed from a giant floating stage. For a schedule of concerts and events visit www.bemusbaypops.com.
The City of Dunkirk offers weekend festivals and free entertainment at the City Pier all summer long. Information is available at www.cityofdunkirk.com.
From July 3 to August 28, enjoy Concerts in the Park on Thursday evenings at the Village Square in Silver Creek.
The Village of Mayville offers a Thursday evening entertainment series as well with concerts in the Village Green or Lakeside Parks.
Located in the southwest corner of New York State, Chautauqua County plays host to the renowned Chautauqua Institution, the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center, the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Wine Trail in America’s Grape Country, quaint Victorian villages, and a host of fairs, festivals, camping, outdoor and lakeside activities. For travel planning and information and a comprehensive list of events, call 866-908-ILNY (4569) or visit www.tourchautauqua.com.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Tops picks of things to do June 14-15
Now that summer is almost here, there will be all sorts of things happening each weekend in western New York. I will try to post some ideas of fun things to do in the upcoming weekend every Wednesday or Thursday.
Here are this week's top picks:
Wine & Cheese Weekend. Celebrate National Dairy Month and Father's Day weekend with a special event along the Niagara Wine Trail www.niagarawinetrail.org This trail features 12 wineries located in Niagara and Orleans counties. The event takes place Saturday June 14 from 10-6 and Sunday june 15 from 12-6. Tickets are $20 person.
Allentown Art Festival This is pretty much the kick off of summer in Buffalo. Hundreds of artists from all over the country have their wares displayed along the streets of the historic Allentown district. June 14-15, 11-6 each day. www.allentownartfestival.com
Civil War Living History Weekend. Step back over 150 years to the time of the Civil War at the Amherst Museum, a 35 acre historical park with 12 restored homes. The event features drills, parades and battle reinactments. June 14 10-5, June 15 11-4. $6 adults, $3 children www.amherstmuseum.org 3755 Tonawanda Creek Road, Amherst 689-1440.
Book Signing- If you happen to be in Batavia, stop by Present Tense Book store, 101 Washington Street, where yours truly will be signing copies of my new book, Western New York Explorer's guide, from 1-3 pm on Saturday June 14.
Here are this week's top picks:
Wine & Cheese Weekend. Celebrate National Dairy Month and Father's Day weekend with a special event along the Niagara Wine Trail www.niagarawinetrail.org This trail features 12 wineries located in Niagara and Orleans counties. The event takes place Saturday June 14 from 10-6 and Sunday june 15 from 12-6. Tickets are $20 person.
Allentown Art Festival This is pretty much the kick off of summer in Buffalo. Hundreds of artists from all over the country have their wares displayed along the streets of the historic Allentown district. June 14-15, 11-6 each day. www.allentownartfestival.com
Civil War Living History Weekend. Step back over 150 years to the time of the Civil War at the Amherst Museum, a 35 acre historical park with 12 restored homes. The event features drills, parades and battle reinactments. June 14 10-5, June 15 11-4. $6 adults, $3 children www.amherstmuseum.org 3755 Tonawanda Creek Road, Amherst 689-1440.
Book Signing- If you happen to be in Batavia, stop by Present Tense Book store, 101 Washington Street, where yours truly will be signing copies of my new book, Western New York Explorer's guide, from 1-3 pm on Saturday June 14.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Welcome to Explore Western New York
Hello,
This new blog, created June 2008, coincides with the publication of the second edition of Western New York an Explorer's Guide from Niagara Falls and Southern Ontario to the Western Edge of the Finger Lakes by me, Christine A. Smyczynski. As the author of the only comprehensive travel guide to the region I will offer tips on places to go and things to see throughout western New York. In addition to my book, you'll find my travel articles in The Buffalo News Sunday travel section, the Democrat & Chronicle, Western New York Family Magazine, Lake Erie Living and several other local and regional publications. For more information about my book, visit either http://explorewny.home.att.net or www.westernnewyorkexplorersguide.com
Until next time...enjoy exploring western New York
This new blog, created June 2008, coincides with the publication of the second edition of Western New York an Explorer's Guide from Niagara Falls and Southern Ontario to the Western Edge of the Finger Lakes by me, Christine A. Smyczynski. As the author of the only comprehensive travel guide to the region I will offer tips on places to go and things to see throughout western New York. In addition to my book, you'll find my travel articles in The Buffalo News Sunday travel section, the Democrat & Chronicle, Western New York Family Magazine, Lake Erie Living and several other local and regional publications. For more information about my book, visit either http://explorewny.home.att.net or www.westernnewyorkexplorersguide.com
Until next time...enjoy exploring western New York
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