Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Buffalo, New York and Village of Weedsport, New York
If you're looking for an adventure that combines scenic drives with unusual stops, look no further than the drive from Buffalo, New York to the Village of Weedsport, New York. The trip takes about three hours and will take you through winding roads and small towns. But don't worry; there are plenty of reasons to stop and stretch your legs. Here are five unexpected places to visit on this drive.
Henrietta, NY – The Halfway Point
Before we get to the five must-see stops, let's take a quick break in Henrietta, NY, which is the halfway point of our drive. Henrietta is a quaint town with plenty of food options, including fast food chains and locally owned restaurants. If you're looking for something sweet, consider stopping at Pittsford Dairy, which makes all of its own ice cream and has an extensive menu of flavors. Or if you're in the mood for something more savory, head to MacGregor's Grill & Tap Room for a burger and a beer.
1. Schwartz's Pickles – Buffalo, NY
Our first stop is in Buffalo, NY, where we'll visit Schwartz's Pickles. This family-owned business has been in operation since 1921 and is known for its pickles, of course, but also for its sauerkraut and relish. You can take a tour of the factory, see how the pickles are made, and even sample a few. Don't leave without trying the half-sour pickles, which are crisp and tangy.
Favorite food to eat: Half-sour pickles
2. Medina Railroad Museum – Medina, NY
Next, we'll head to Medina, NY, where we'll visit the Medina Railroad Museum. This museum is housed in a restored New York Central Freight Depot and features exhibits on the history of railroads in Western New York. You'll see plenty of trains, both big and small, and can even take a short train ride if you're there on a weekend. The museum aims to preserve the railroad heritage of the area, so you'll leave with a greater appreciation for the role of trains in American history.
Favorite food to eat: None on-site, but nearby restaurants offer options like pizza and subs.
3. Cobblestone Museum – Albion, NY
Heading east, we'll next visit the Cobblestone Museum in Albion, NY. The museum is situated on three acres and features seven historic buildings, including a one-room schoolhouse and a blacksmith's shop. Each building is made of cobblestones, which were a preferred building material in the area in the 19th century. You'll learn about the history of the area, including the Underground Railroad, and get a sense of what life was like in the early days of settlement.
Favorite food to eat: Brown marshmallow sandwiches, available at Tillman's Historic Village Inn
4. The Jell-O Gallery Museum – LeRoy, NY
In LeRoy, NY, we'll visit the Jell-O Gallery Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of Jell-O, which was invented in LeRoy in 1897. You'll learn about the marketing campaigns that made Jell-O a household name and see vintage advertising materials. The highlight, however, is the Jell-O recipe book collection, which includes over 1,000 books dating back to the early 1900s. You'll leave with a new appreciation for the versatility of America's favorite dessert.
Favorite food to eat: Jell-O, of course! The museum even has samples.
5. Mackenzie's Restaurant – Village of Weedsport, NY
Our final stop is in the Village of Weedsport, NY, where we'll eat at Mackenzie's Restaurant. This family-owned eatery is known for its homemade pies, which are served by the slice or as part of a meal. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a large menu, so there's something for everyone. Be sure to save room for dessert; the pies are truly exceptional.
Favorite food to eat: Any pie, but the coconut cream pie is a standout.
Conclusion
If you're ready for a road trip that offers something a little bit different, consider driving from Buffalo, NY to the Village of Weedsport, NY. Along the way, you'll visit historical sites, sample local cuisine, and learn about the unique history of this region of New York. It's a trip that will leave you both full and fulfilled.