A Charming River Town Situated Along the New York-Canada Border Makes for an Ideal, Snug Escapade during Autumn
Lewiston, a charming town nestled on the Niagara River and near the Canadian border, is an ideal destination for a fall getaway. With its rich history, picturesque surroundings, and abundance of activities, Lewiston offers a unique and memorable experience.
Lewiston boasts a collection of well-preserved 19th-century buildings in its downtown, making it a delight for history enthusiasts. The main thoroughfare, Center Street, is lined with attractive brick and white clapboard buildings that tell tales of the town's past.
Just a short trip away, the Niagara Wine Trail, with 12 wineries, is accessible from Lewiston. The wineries on the trail have a year-round calendar of events, with activity peaking during fall. The Harvest Festival weekend in late September allows visitors to visit ten wineries for wine tastings and food pairings for $35. Other wineries on the trail offer fall-themed foods, such as butternut squash and apple soup, and maple-drizzled flatbread.
Artpark, located in Lewiston, is a cultural gem. It offers spectacular views over Niagara Gorge and trails lined with sculptures and murals created by renowned artists like Agnes Denes and the Holt/Smithson Foundation.
For those seeking adventure, Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours provide an adrenaline-rush experience on the Niagara River.
Lewiston's fall calendar is filled with festivals. Earlier in September, the Niagara Peach Festival takes place, offering a range of foods, live entertainment, and amusement park rides. The Harvest and Hops Festival in late September offers craft beer, local foods, and souvenirs from local artisans.
Buffalo, with its unique architecture, is an underrated destination worth visiting. It's just half an hour south of Lewiston and is home to Niagara Falls International Airport, accessible from flights across the U.S. and Canada.
Lewiston's accommodation options include the Riverside Motel, which features classic Adirondack chairs overlooking the river, and the Niagara Crossing Hotel and Spa, offering inviting rooms and rejuvenating treatments like massages and body wraps.
The town's history is well-preserved at the Lewiston Museum, a highly-rated museum that offers insights into the area's past. The Freedom Crossing Monument in Lewiston commemorates enslaved people seeking freedom in Canada and those who helped them. The Tuscarora Heroes Monument depicts Tuscarora Nation members guiding a family to safety.
Niagara Falls is easily accessible from Lewiston, with both American and Canadian sides available for visit. Foliage around Niagara Falls tends to peak in mid to late October, making it a breathtaking sight to behold.
Whether you're a history buff, a wine enthusiast, an art lover, or an adventure seeker, Lewiston, NY is a suitable destination for a fall getaway. Toronto, just an hour and a half away across the border, offers additional urban adventures for those looking to explore beyond Lewiston.
