#The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Niagara Falls, NY to Elma, NY
Niagara Falls, New York and Elma, New York are two quaint towns perfect for a weekend road trip. The trip from Niagara Falls to Elma is about an hour's drive, therefore making it a suitable distance for a day adventure. The scenic drive offers a breathtaking view of the countryside, making it an excellent chance to witness a unique side of New York. Halfway through the trip lies Buffalo, representing a cornerstone of the region's pride and history. Here are some top recommendations for anyone embarking on a road trip from Niagara Falls to Elma.
##Stop 1: Niagara Falls State Park
Niagara Falls State Park is the perfect place to start your adventure. It is the oldest state park in the United States and boasts some jaw-dropping panoramic views of the falls. It has impressively maintained hiking trails that guarantee an enjoyable experience for anyone who loves exercise and nature. Visitors can also go on boat tours, which take you inches away from the rushing waters. Niagara Falls State Park is the ideal spot for those with a keen eye for photography, as it offers some of the most breathtaking and unforgettable shots.
Interesting Fact:
Niagara Falls State Park has been lit up at night since 1925, making it one of the first parks in the world to install lights. The colors used for the lights on the Canada side are different from those used in the USA as they represent different seasons such as silver for winter, green for spring, and so on.
##Stop 2: Cave of the Winds
Cave of the Winds is another attraction worth visiting while on your road trip. It is situated in the Niagara Falls State Park and promises to be a fun day for everyone. Visitors can take a guided tour that will take them down to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls. This is as close to the waterfalls as possible, and water droplets will get you soaked as you make your way through. After climbing a wooden walkway, visitors end up inside the main part of the cave where they can feel the vibrating power of water in each step they take and a cool breeze that comes from the waterfall.
Interesting Fact:
In 1920, the original Cave of the Winds elevator was replaced, and the bottom shaft was blasted into the rock four feet, making the elevator chamber more spacious.
##Stop 3: Anchor Bar
Anchor Bar is located in Buffalo, a town located halfway through the trip. It is a famous bar that claims to have created the Buffalo-style chicken wings. The Bar has been serving these wings since the 1960s to the night owls who would stop by for some food. The wings have become extremely popular because of their tangy and spicy taste. Anchor Bar is also notoriously known for its dive bar atmosphere, which is a perfect mix of friendly and laidback. Any foodie should add this stop to their itinerary for an authentic Buffalo cuisine experience.
Interesting Fact:
The bar was opened in the 1930s by Theresa Bellissimo. Every Wednesday, live music is played in the bar, making it an excellent place for anyone to shake off the stress of the road.
##Stop 4: Walden Galleria Mall
Walden Galleria Mall is a common go-to stop for anyone in Buffalo looking to shop away some time. It's the largest mall in the Buffalo region, boasting over 200 retail stores. Walden Galleria is a shopping destination not only in Buffalo but also miles around the city. Shoppers can take advantage of multiple food courts, movie cinematics, and interactive games provided at this location. Those considering bringing their families along may also consider a visit to the mall's aquarium store, which has a massive selection of sea life animals.
Interesting Fact:
The Walden Galleria mall has been open since 1989, and its unique layout is such that it has a 6-story parking area, enabling shoppers to navigate their way to any store by foot.
##Stop 5: Elbert Hubbard Museum
Elbert Hubbard Museum is a destination that glorifies the life of Elbert Hubbard, a leading figure in the Arts and Crafts movement in America. The museum is situated at East Aurora, and it displays the life history of Elbert and also showcases fine artworks from renowned artists worldwide. There is no entry fee for children below the age of ten, and there is an option for guided tours for a group of more than six people.
Interesting Fact:
Elbert Hubbard's Roycroft Campus has been designated a national landmark for its contributions to the western arts and crafts movement.
##Conclusion
The trip from Niagara Falls to Elma, New York is a wonderful way to take a break from the daily hustle and bustle. With so many enriching and interesting sites along the way, there is always something to do for all ages. The journey takes approximately an hour, and it offers an unforgettable experience rather than a daunting one. There is a terrific balance of history, art, and culture in every stop, making it an excellent road trip that anyone should try.