Leicester New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Leicester, New York.
1. Starr Park
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY OASIS
Starr Park offers visitors a serene retreat in the heart of Leicester. The well-maintained grounds feature playground equipment, picnic areas, and open green spaces perfect for family outings or peaceful afternoon strolls. Visitors can enjoy seasonal community events that showcase the small-town charm Leicester is known for.
2. Gatherings at the Depot
HISTORIC VENUE EXPERIENCE
Gatherings at the Depot transforms a historic railway station into a unique event venue in Leicester. This beautifully restored space hosts community gatherings, private celebrations, and cultural events throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the blend of historical architecture and modern amenities that make this venue a cherished local landmark.
3. Boyd And Parker Park
HISTORICAL MEMORIAL GROUNDS
Boyd And Parker Park commemorates the historical significance of Lieutenant Thomas Boyd and Sergeant Michael Parker who were captured during the Sullivan Expedition of 1779. The memorial park offers interpretive displays that educate visitors about this important chapter in local and Revolutionary War history. Nature trails wind through the peaceful grounds, allowing visitors to connect with both history and the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
4. Fede's Scoops
DELIGHTFUL FROZEN TREATS
Fede's Scoops serves up delicious ice cream and frozen treats that have become a beloved staple in Leicester. This charming ice cream shop offers a variety of homemade flavors that attract locals and tourists alike during the warmer months. Visitors can enjoy their sweet treats while soaking in the friendly atmosphere that embodies Leicester's reputation as the 'Little Village with a Big Heart.'
5. Trail Otter
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HEADQUARTERS
Trail Otter serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in and around Leicester. This local outfitter provides equipment, guidance, and expertise for exploring the natural wonders of the Finger Lakes region. Visitors can connect with knowledgeable staff who help customize experiences based on skill level and interests, making it easier to discover the area's hidden gems.
6. Mount Morris Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL VIEWPOINT
Mount Morris Dam stands as an impressive flood control structure near Leicester, offering spectacular views of the Genesee River gorge. Visitors can explore the visitor center to learn about the dam's construction and its vital role in protecting downstream communities from flooding. Guided tours provide access to normally restricted areas, including the tunnel system inside this massive concrete structure.
7. National Warplane Museum
AVIATION HISTORY SHOWCASE
The National Warplane Museum preserves and celebrates America's military aviation history with an impressive collection of restored aircraft. Visitors can get up close to historic warplanes, including many that are still airworthy and participate in the museum's popular airshows. Interactive exhibits and knowledgeable volunteers help bring to life the stories of these magnificent machines and the brave men and women who flew them.
8. Allegiance Antiques
TREASURE HUNTING PARADISE
Allegiance Antiques invites visitors to step back in time while browsing a carefully curated collection of vintage items and historical artifacts. This charming shop offers everything from furniture and home décor to collectibles that celebrate the rich heritage of the Finger Lakes region. Treasure hunters and history enthusiasts alike will appreciate the knowledgeable staff who share stories behind these unique pieces of the past.
9. Letchworth State Park
GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST
Letchworth State Park, often called the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' features spectacular gorges and three magnificent waterfalls along the Genesee River just a short drive from Leicester. Visitors can enjoy over 66 miles of hiking trails, whitewater rafting, hot air balloon rides, and stunning viewpoints like the Great Bend Overlook. The park's rich biodiversity, historical sites, and year-round recreational opportunities have earned it recognition as one of the most scenic state parks in the United States.
10. Genesee Country Village & Museum
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Genesee Country Village & Museum transports visitors to the 19th century through its extensive collection of historic buildings and authentic period demonstrations. This immersive living history museum features costumed interpreters who bring the past to life through traditional crafts, cooking methods, and daily activities from the 1800s. Special events throughout the year, including harvest festivals and holiday celebrations, offer seasonal glimpses into America's rural heritage.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Leicester offers a charming small-town retail experience with establishments like Allegiance Antiques providing unique vintage finds and collectibles. Visitors can explore nearby Geneseo for additional shopping options or venture to the larger outlet centers in Syracuse and Waterloo for brand-name bargains. The quaint canalside villages in the region also feature boutique shops selling locally made crafts, specialty foods, and Finger Lakes wine.
12. Dining
FLAVORFUL LOCAL CUISINE
Dining in Leicester features local gems like Fede's Scoops for delicious frozen treats and casual fare that showcases the flavors of the Finger Lakes region. Gatherings at the Depot occasionally hosts special dining events that highlight seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. Visitors can also explore nearby Ithaca's walkable downtown, which offers a diverse array of restaurants ranging from farm-to-table establishments to international cuisine, all with easy access to the area's renowned wineries.
13. Hiking
SCENIC TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking near Leicester offers spectacular opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region, with Trail Otter providing equipment and guidance for outdoor adventures. Boyd And Parker Park features nature trails that combine historical significance with peaceful woodland walks suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Just a short drive away, Letchworth State Park boasts over 66 miles of trails with breathtaking views of gorges, waterfalls, and the Genesee River valley.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S PARADISE WATERS
Fishing near Leicester provides anglers with access to the pristine waters of the Genesee River and nearby Finger Lakes, known for excellent bass, trout, and salmon fishing. The Genesee River offers diverse fishing environments, from calm sections perfect for beginners to more challenging spots that reward experienced anglers with trophy catches. For those seeking bigger waters, Great Lake Ontario is within driving distance and provides world-class fishing opportunities for salmon, trout, and walleye throughout much of the year.
15. Camping
NATURAL OVERNIGHT RETREATS
Camping near Leicester offers outdoor enthusiasts several options to connect with nature in the beautiful Finger Lakes landscape. Letchworth State Park provides both traditional campsites and cabin accommodations with easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. For those seeking a more luxurious outdoor experience, the region also features glamping options like Firelight Camps at La Tourelle, where visitors can enjoy the comforts of upscale accommodations while still immersed in natural surroundings.