Genesee Valley Trail Town Gateways are Not-To-Be-Missed!
PTNY is excited to share that the holidays are in full swing for Trail Towns in the Genesee Valley region!
The Genesee Valley Trail Town Gateway communities in and around Letchworth State Park are taking full advantage of the festivities, hoping to draw in new and returning visitors. Don’t let the winter weather change your plans to check these places out … they can be even more beautiful with a little snow cover!
Read our second article of the Genesee Valley Trail Towns series below to learn more. You can find the first here.
Genesee Valley Trail Towns
The “Trail Town” model in the Genesee Valley relies on recreation-based tourism. Much more than just a source of income, recreation-based tourism is a great community building opportunity, too.
In 2019 local partners, organizations, and community members launched a “Trail Town” initiative in ten communities across the rural Genesee Valley Region. Modeled after the Great Allegheny Passage Trail Town Program, funding from USDA Rural Development and the Northern Border Regional Commission enabled Letchworth Gateway Villages and a network of partners–including the Friends of the Genesee Valley Greenway and the Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation–to explore different tourism-related market opportunities. Organized as an economic recovery strategy from the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative focused on creating a robust, sustainable outdoor economy centered on natural assets and quality of life. And this Trail Town initiative has seen much success: ten communities now welcome visitors with a united regional Genesee Valley Trail Town brand and identity.
Programs across the country demonstrate the valuable relationship between communities and neighboring greenways, blueways, and similar recreational assets. Outdoor enthusiasts–both residents and visitors–are drawn to these communities to refuel and rest up, supporting local businesses in the process. Whether taking an overnight at the local historic bed & breakfast, or filling up on donuts at the nearby bakery, all visitors need and appreciate great services–and experiences!–while touring the region.
Visitors to the Genesee Valley Region, especially those planning overnight stays, also have a host of other requirements and “nice-to-haves” including access to supplies and equipment. Visitors appreciate great places to stay, lovely spots to eat, and fun, engaging entertainment… And the Letchworth “gateway communities” have plenty to offer! By creating dedicated pages to promote community assets and strengths, each Trail Town has identified their own unique niche and engaging story of place.
Read on to see just a few of the Genesee Valley gems below:
Village of Geneseo
This charming college town invites you to be a part of their tradition. The Historic Village of Geneseo, NY is home to a vibrant community and the nationally recognized State University of New York at Geneseo. Named a National Historic Landmark destination in 1991, Geneseo is known for its Victorian architecture and distinctive charm. During your stay take a stroll down Main Street and peruse the local shops, galleries, and restaurants. On nearby Conesus Lake you’ll find picturesque wineries, thrilling water sports, and the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating escape.
Village of Mount Morris
Home to the north entrance of Letchworth State Park, Mount Morris is an active village with historic roots. Stroll the quaint main street dotted with antique shops and enjoy a stay at the iconic Allegiance Bed and Breakfast. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Mount Morris Dam or the historic walking tours for a peek into the past. Main Street’s diverse restaurant scene spans classic diner fare to gourmet cuisine… and much more in between. Mount Morris invites you to step away from the hustle and enjoy a retreat in small-town USA.
Village of Perry
Nestled between Silver Lake and Letchworth State Park, Perry offers small town charm with world-class cultural attractions. Thriving arts, craft beverage, and culinary scenes make this historic mill village–surrounded by an active farming community–a one-of-a-kind destination. A tree lined trail connects downtown Perry with Silver Lake, where boating, fishing and paddling excursions await. After exploring, take in a show or drive-in movie, enjoy a farm-to-table meal or sip a cocktail under the stars. Or, come for all of the above!
Village of Nunda
In the Seneca language, Nunda translates as “where the valley meets the hills.” Residents and visitors still experience a thrill upon viewing the pastoral scenery of the Nunda Valley from one of the surrounding hills. The Genesee River, Native American trails, Genesee Valley Canal, and railroads all passed through Nunda, NY, leaving a rich history to be explored. The unique and inviting 1830s village square, fascinating architecture, historic murals, trails, state forests, golf courses, Swain Ski Resort, and famous Letchworth State Park all invite visitors to experience the history, culture, and nearby outdoor recreation opportunities that make Nunda extraordinary.
This article is the second of three showcasing Genesee Valley Trail Towns.
Don’t miss our next issue for recommendations on the central gateway communities