Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buffalo, NY to Clarence, NY

Are you looking for a scenic and adventurous drive in Western New York? Look no further than the route from Buffalo to Clarence, which offers stunning views of the Niagara River, charming small towns, and unexpected roadside attractions. This drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and stops.

At the halfway point of this drive lies the town of Clarence, a suburban community that boasts historic landmarks, family-friendly parks, and an impressive array of restaurants and shops. From here, you can branch out to explore several surprising destinations that are just a short drive away. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your drive from Buffalo to Clarence and beyond:

1. Lockport Caves & Underground Boat Ride

Deep beneath the quaint town of Lockport lies a network of historic Erie Canal tunnels and subterranean passageways. You can explore this hidden world on a 70-minute underground boat ride that takes you through narrow canals, under low bridges, and past incredible geological formations. The knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories about Lockport's industrial heritage, the important role of the Erie Canal in American history, and the surprising geological features of the limestone caves.

Don't miss the chance to grab a bite to eat at Lake Effect Ice Cream on your way in or out of Lockport. Their creative flavors, like Sponge Candy and Paula's Donuts, are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

2. Medina Railroad Museum

If you're a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique museum experience, the Medina Railroad Museum is a must-visit. This museum boasts the largest collection of railroad artifacts in New York State, including vintage locomotives, cabooses, and a working telegraph system. You can explore the museum's eight restored rail cars to get a sense of what it was like to travel by train in different eras, and take a ride on a historic train on weekends from June through October.

Before or after your visit to the museum, head to the Shirt Factory Cafe for a delicious latte or a breakfast sandwich. This cozy coffee shop is housed in a historic building that used to be a shirt factory, and features exposed brick walls, quirky decor, and a friendly vibe.

3. Letchworth State Park

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park offers awe-inspiring views of rolling hills, deep gorges, and roaring waterfalls. You can hike, bike, or snowshoe along the park's 66 miles of scenic trails, or rent a kayak or raft to paddle down the Genesee River. Don't miss the opportunity to see the three major waterfalls - Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls - that plunge up to 600 feet below the surrounding cliffs.

After a day of hiking and exploring, treat yourself to a meal at the Glen Iris Inn. This historic inn, which dates back to 1914, offers fine dining with a view of the Middle Falls. Try the grilled salmon or the braised short ribs, paired with a local Finger Lakes wine.

4. Finger Lakes Wine Country

Speaking of wine, did you know that Western New York is home to some of the best wineries in the country? A short drive from Clarence will take you to the heart of the Finger Lakes wine country, where you can sample award-winning wines and soak up the scenic beauty of rolling vineyards and sparkling lakes. Stop by the beloved Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard in Dundee to savor their exceptional Riesling, or head over to Three Brothers Wineries in Geneva for a playful and eclectic wine tasting experience.

While you're in the Finger Lakes, be sure to try some of the local cheeses and chocolates. The Finger Lakes Cheese Trail features over a dozen artisanal cheese makers, who produce a wide variety of cheeses from goat, sheep, and cow's milk. And for dessert, head to the iconic Seneca Farms in Penn Yan for a scoop of their famous homemade ice cream.

5. Watkins Glen State Park

For another breathtaking natural wonder, make your way to Watkins Glen State Park. This park features a picturesque gorge with 19 waterfalls, a scenic paved trail that hugs the cliff walls, and a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, picnicking, and camping. The highlight of the park is the Rainbow Bridge, a curved stone arch that spans the rushing water below.

After a day of hiking and exploring, unwind at the Village Marina Bar & Grill in Watkins Glen. This waterfront restaurant prides itself on fresh seafood and craft cocktails, and offers a stunning view of Seneca Lake. Try the crab cakes or the grilled shrimp skewers, and wash them down with a local beer or a glass of Finger Lakes wine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a drive from Buffalo to Clarence and beyond offers a diverse array of unexpected destinations that are ripe for exploration. From underground caverns to railroad museums, from wine country to natural wonders, there is something for every taste and interest along this route. So grab your car keys, pack a picnic or two, and set out on a road trip that will take you on an adventure of a lifetime.