Outdoor adventures abound when visiting Ellicottville, NY. With a busy winter season on world-class ski slopes and summer excursions along scenic nature trails, we’re here to show you precisely what makes this place feel great!
Book a stay at Aranar, one of Ellicottville’s most luxurious vacation rentals, ready to pamper anyone for a serene stay in this charming town.
This travel guide is your gateway to one of West New York’s favorite destinations.
About Ellicottville
Begin your ascent into the Allegheny Mountains to discover the iconic ski slopes of Ellicottville. The town was founded in 1820 and named after Joseph Ellicott, an agent of the Holland Land Company who sold the land to help establish it.
While agriculture and lumbering were the earliest industries, the arrival of ski resorts in the mid-1900s helped establish Ellicottville as a renowned ski destination.
Now, Ellicottville is a year-round destination with outdoor activities, a small-town Downtown atmosphere, and enough charm to make it the perfect getaway.
Best Things to Do in Ellicottville
1. Skiing, Snowboarding, and other Winter Sports
Winter sports are Ellicotville’s first claim to fame. Grab your ski poles and snow goggles and gear up for a day on the slopes. Holiday Valley Resort and the HoliMont Ski Club are the main ski resorts in town that have visitors flocking from all over to experience the runs every time ski season rolls around in late November.
These ski resorts are popular for skiing, snowboarding, cross-country ski trails, tubing, and more. They’re great for all ages. Show off your skills on expert runs or sign up for lessons if you need to learn the basics.
With views of the HoliMont Ski Club from our Ellicottville vacation rental, you can admire the snowy slopes from the comfort of your warm, cozy bed.
2. Explore Hiking and Biking Trails
Bootprints and bike tracks replace ski tracks when the snow melts away during the warmer months. Hiking and biking are an excellent way to explore the beauty of the Allegheny Mountain region.
Calling hikers of all experience levels. Trek the easy 1.9-mile Spruce Lake trail for an hour in nature or navigate a section of the Finger Lakes Trail, which extends more than 500 miles in total. Stay close to home on the HoliMont Ridge Trail, or take a short drive to Alleghany State Park to explore trails in New York’s largest state park.
Shift into gear with mountain biking fun. The HoliMont Bike Park features more than 16 mountain biking trails, and the Ellicottville Loop takes you on a 29-mile excursion. Head to McCarty Hill State Forest for popular trails like Big Merlin and Sidewinder for downhill fun.
For a complete list of exciting trails we recommend, check out this blog post of the most scenic treks.
3. Explore Charming Downtown
With vintage store signs dangling over the sidewalks, colorful storefronts, and decorative display windows, Downtown Ellicottville is one of the most charming places in western New York.
Nicknamed “The Village of Ellicottville,” this one square mile area spans just a few blocks; it’s the perfect afternoon destination to shop, dine, and snap Instagram-ready pics for your trip photo dump. Wander down Washington Street for a hand-craft espresso from Ellicottville Coffee Co. Check out the Purple Doorknob sock store for hilarious designs that will – well, knock your socks off! Wander the curious shelves inside Kazoo II for knick-knacks and souvenirs of your trip. The Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce is also a great location for visitors to find out what’s new around town.
4. Romantic Walks in the Nannen Arboretum
For our guests in town for a romantic getaway, we have the perfect date spot for you—Nannen Arboretum! Take that special someone on a relaxing nature walks through fragrant pathways and ‘floralscapes’.
The Nannen Arboretum has more than 250 species of plants, many relocated to this eight-acre site for your enjoyment. See the exotic plants like the colorful Japanese Maple and drooping Weeping Cherry. Also, rare plants like the Dawn Redwood and Ginkgo trees. It’s hard not to get romantic while strolling past roses and peonies.
If all goes well, remember that this arboretum is also a popular wedding venue!
5. Wine and Spirits Tasting
Add a taste of spirits to your Ellicottville visit. Wine lovers and beer enthusiasts have a mountain of flavors to discover, crafted right here in Cattaraugus County.
Visit the Winery of Ellicottville tasting room in downtown. The tasting bar lets you sample six of their award-winning wines created from locally-grown grapes. Check out the production room to see how the wine is bottled and labeled. Then, don’t forget to purchase a bottle of your favorite to-go to enjoy back at Aranar.
Ellicottville Brewing Co. is a microbrewery specializing in craft beers. Order a flight and enjoy five house-brewed flavors inside the beer garden. Don’t miss out on a chance to try the limited-time seasonal flavors. For an even more scenic vista, they have a lakeside location set on Chautauqua Lake, less than an hour’s drive from Ellicottville.
6. Off-Season Fun at Holiday Valley
Holiday Valley has many seasonal attractions to fill your day with thrills and excitement. Ascend into the forest canopy at the Sky High Adventure Park. It’s New York state’s largest aerial park with 13 courses testing your balance and bravery while zip-lining, swinging from platform to platform. Speed through the Allegheny Mountains on the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster.
You’ll reach top speeds while winding around the curves and even a surprise jump. Put your tree-climbing skills to use in the Climbing Forest. This vertical course takes you up to 45 feet high.
If you prefer something more leisurely, the winter ski lifts transform into seasonal scenic lift rides, which allow you to take in the views.
Best Time to Visit Ellicottville
Ellicottville has evolved from a winter ski destination to a year-round getaway to West New York. Each season has something new to offer—if you’re lucky, you’ll get the chance to experience it in each one!
While you’re considering the best time to visit Ellicottville, here’s what to expect in every season.
Winter in Ellicottville (busiest travel season)
Bundle up because EVL gets cold during the winter! You can look forward to highs in the 30s, and there’s always a chance of snow. However, this is ideal weather for winter sports enthusiasts, with plenty of snowy terrain to explore.
Top winter events:
- Christmas in Ellicottville – December
- Winter Blues Weekend – January
- Winter Music Jam – February
Spring in Ellicottville
Located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, you’re surrounded by lush nature, ready to bloom during spring. The climate warms to highs in the 40s-60s. It’s warmer in the latter part of the season. Be sure to check the weather often for temperature and precipitation. Also, pack layers when visiting during these months.
Top Spring Event:
- Mardi Gras Weekend – March
Summer in Ellicottville
The weather is excellent for outdoor fun during the summer. Explore the area with average highs in the upper 70s and cools to a mild 50s at night to enjoy a peaceful evening by our outdoor fire pit.
Top Summer Events:
- Jazz & Blues Weekend – July
- Taste of Ellicottville – August
Fall in Ellicottville
The fall climate in Ellicottville ranges from an average high 60s during the start of the season before cooling to the low 50s near the end. It’s also the wettest time of year, so check the weather often before heading out for the day.
Top Fall Events:
- Rock N’Roll Weekend – September
- Fall Festival – October
Where to Eat in Ellicottville
Eat up at some of the best restaurants in Ellicottville. Downtown is a hub for popular restaurants, offering everything from casual sit-downs to elegant eateries ideal for a romantic dinner. The diversity of restaurant options gives something for every taste.
One of the unique things about dining in Ellicottville is that there are no chain restaurants. So, put a few of these local restaurant suggestions on your “to-eat” list.
Wake up in the morning and get your day started with breakfast at:
Drop in for a casual lunch at these places:
Make reservations for fine dining at these top selections:
Travel Tips For Visiting Ellicottville
Before your trip to Ellicottville, NY, here are a few things to help prepare you for your stay.
- Check the weather. Weather varies significantly across seasons, so make sure you’re prepared with the right clothing and accessories packed and ready to go.
- Watch for deer. Deer love the nature as much as you do, so use caution when driving, exploring nature, or even just hanging in the backyard.
- Book Accommodations Early: Ellicottville can get quite busy during peak seasons, especially winter and summer. Reserve your lodging well in advance to secure the best options.
- Check Event Calendars: As mentioned above, the village hosts numerous events throughout the year, from festivals to concerts. Check the local calendar to make sure you don’t miss out on any exciting happenings.
Your Luxury Stay In Ellicottville, NY Awaits
Make Ellicottville the getaway destination of your dreams. Experience the charm of this town and lose yourself in the vast natural setting all around you.
We’re happy to host guests seeking an intimate stay in Ellicottville. Book a stay at Aranar, where you can indulge in a life of luxury.
