Nichols New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nichols, New York.
1. Tioga Downs Casino Resort
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Tioga Downs Casino Resort offers visitors an exciting gaming experience with slots, table games, and a race track. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, dining options including P.J. Clarke's, and comfortable accommodations. The resort provides a complete entertainment destination for those looking to try their luck or simply enjoy a night out in Tioga County.
2. Newfield State Forest
PRISTINE NATURAL WONDERLAND
Newfield State Forest is a popular attraction near Nichols offering visitors a chance to explore pristine woodland trails and diverse ecosystems. The forest features abundant wildlife, seasonal recreational activities, and peaceful surroundings perfect for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like bird watching, photography, and seasonal foraging while experiencing the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
3. Danby State Forest
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Danby State Forest provides a beautiful natural setting for outdoor recreation close to Nichols. The forest features miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing in winter. Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse plant and animal life throughout this protected woodland area in the Finger Lakes region.
4. Watkins Glen State Park
SPECTACULAR GORGE VIEWS
Watkins Glen State Park showcases a magnificent gorge with 19 waterfalls along its dramatic two-mile path. Visitors can explore stone pathways that wind over and under cascading water, offering breathtaking views and photography opportunities. The park's natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for those staying in the Nichols area who want to experience the iconic landscapes of the Finger Lakes region.
5. Corning Museum of Glass
ARTISTIC GLASS WONDERS
The Corning Museum of Glass houses the world's most comprehensive collection of glass art and historical artifacts spanning 3,500 years. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations by skilled artisans and even create their own glass souvenirs. The museum's stunning contemporary architecture and interactive exhibits make it a fascinating day trip from Nichols for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
6. F.R. Newman Arboretum
BOTANICAL TREE SHOWCASE
F.R. Newman Arboretum features an impressive collection of trees and shrubs spread across 100 acres of rolling landscapes. Visitors can participate in educational events like 'Exploring the Trees of the Arboretum' to learn about various species and their ecological importance. The arboretum offers scenic drives, walking paths, and seasonal beauty that changes throughout the year, making it worth multiple visits from the Nichols area.
7. Greek Peak Mountain Resort
FOUR-SEASON FUN DESTINATION
Greek Peak Mountain Resort offers year-round recreation with downhill skiing and snowboarding in winter and an exciting mountain coaster during warmer months. The resort features Cascades Indoor Waterpark where visitors can enjoy water slides and pools regardless of the weather outside. Guests from Nichols can also relax at the luxurious Waterfalls Spa or stay overnight in comfortable accommodations for a complete resort experience.
8. Women's Rights National Historical Park
PIONEERING EQUALITY HISTORY
Women's Rights National Historical Park preserves the site of the first Women's Rights Convention held in 1848 and tells the story of the early women's rights movement. Visitors can tour historic buildings including the Wesleyan Chapel where the convention took place and the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House. The park offers an educational experience about this pivotal moment in American history through exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs for those traveling from Nichols.
9. Strong National Museum of Play
INTERACTIVE FUN FOR ALL
The Strong National Museum of Play celebrates the importance of play with the world's largest collection of toys, dolls, games, and video games. Families visiting from Nichols can enjoy interactive exhibits including a butterfly garden, miniature grocery store, and classic arcade games. The museum appeals to visitors of all ages with its nostalgic collections and hands-on experiences that make learning fun and engaging.
10. Finger Lakes Wine Tours
SAMPLE LOCAL VINTAGES
Finger Lakes Wine Tours offer visitors the chance to experience award-winning wineries throughout this renowned wine-producing region near Nichols. Guests can sample distinctive cool-climate varieties including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and ice wines while enjoying spectacular lake views. Tours provide educational opportunities to learn about viticulture, wine-making processes, and the unique terroir that makes Finger Lakes wines internationally recognized.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY OPTIONS
Shopping opportunities near Nichols include the large Waterloo Premium Outlets with designer brands at discount prices. Visitors can also explore Syracuse's Destiny USA, one of the largest shopping malls in New York State featuring hundreds of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. For a more quaint shopping experience, travelers can visit charming canalside villages with boutique shops offering unique local products and souvenirs.
12. Dining
LOCAL CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining options in Nichols include the County Fair Buffet which offers a wide selection of dishes in a casual setting. P.J. Clarke's provides a more upscale dining experience with quality ingredients and attentive service for those looking for a special meal. Other local favorites include Sallie's Country Kitchen and Station Bar and Grill, where visitors can enjoy homestyle cooking and friendly atmosphere that showcase the region's hospitality.
13. Hiking
SCENIC TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking enthusiasts visiting Nichols can explore numerous trails throughout the breathtaking gorges and waterfalls of the Finger Lakes region. Nearby state forests including Newfield and Danby offer well-maintained paths through diverse ecosystems perfect for all skill levels. The area's hiking opportunities showcase seasonal beauty with spring wildflowers, summer greenery, spectacular fall foliage, and serene winter landscapes for year-round outdoor enjoyment.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S DREAM DESTINATION
Fishing opportunities near Nichols include Great Lake Ontario where anglers can target salmon, trout, and bass in one of North America's premier freshwater fishing destinations. The Finger Lakes themselves offer excellent fishing for a variety of species including lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass. Local streams and rivers provide additional options for fly fishing enthusiasts looking to catch native brook trout in scenic settings.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ESCAPES
Camping options near Nichols range from rustic sites in state forests to more developed campgrounds with amenities for families and RVs. For a unique experience, travelers can try glamping at La Tourelle's Firelight Camps, which offers luxury tent accommodations with comfortable beds and access to modern facilities. The region's campgrounds provide an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes while enjoying starry nights and peaceful surroundings.