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New York's Falls to the Finger Lakes
New York's Falls to the Finger Lakes

The Thrill of the Antique Hunt, in the Western NY Wilds

If you’ve ever gone antiquing, you know the fun is in the hunt!  Whether you’re rediscovering the past, learning about history in surprising new ways, finding that perfect piece, or just enjoying the unique local shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way, antiquing is a slow and easy way to enjoy a day of exploration. 

If you’re a seasoned antique hunter, or planning your first trip, Allegany County, known as the Western NY Wilds, offers a full itinerary of antique shops, experiences, and attractions that make for a memorable adventure.

Alfred and Alfred Station, NY

At cozy Bakers Bridge Antiques in Alfred Station, shoppers will discover vintage clothing and textiles, ceramics and glassware, and a wide selection of original artwork.

To keep exploring, make your way into the charming college town of Alfred to see nearly 8,000 ceramic objects and discover thought-provoking exhibitions at the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum.  If you’re ready to “get your hands dirty” and participate in Alfred’s world-renowned ceramics culture for yourself, check out the Alfred Arts Studio at the West, where visitors can enjoy classes and workshops for all ages and ability levels. 

Top the visit off by enjoying a meal at The Rosebush, a small-town restaurant with the feeling and modern menu of a big city establishment. If you plan a trip on a Sunday in the summer or fall months, make sure you pick up some locally grown food, and support local growers, at the Alfred Farmer’s Market.

 

 

 

Angelica, NY

Visitors to Angelica are greeted by historic Park Circle, a designated national historic district that is complete with a village green and some of the earliest governmental and religious structures in Allegany County; immediately, you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.  Surrounded by all this history, antique lovers will know they’re in the right place for hard-to-find pieces.  Admire Angelica’s historic buildings and homes as you discover five antique stores, within walking distance, on Main Street.

Heritage Antiques features over 5,000 square feet of antiques, primitives, vintage and reproductions, so set aside some time to make your way through the entire space. Three doors down is Angelica Country Store & Antiques, where you’ll discover art, glassware, embroidery, and gift items handcrafted in Angelica. Strike up a conversation with your host to learn more about the historic building that houses the shop; its history goes back to 1830 when it housed Angelica’s first bank. . If you’ve worked up an appetite on your adventure, eat like a local at the American House & Hotel, found on the West end of Main Street.  Then take a slice of Angelica home with you with a loaf of Angelica Bakery’s Salt-Rising Bread.  One taste of Angelica’s salt-rising bread (Pro-Tip: TOAST IT and slather it with butter –trust us!) and you’ll soon learn why it’s even more famous than Angelica’s idyllic Main Street; find it at a variety of locations in the area.

 

 

Cuba, NY

The Town of Cuba has a lot to offer in both antiques and experiences. Back in Tyme Antiques is a trip into America’s past. This cozy shop specializes in pieces of local history – from metal signs that harken back to Allegany County’s oil boom and agricultural past, to antique local ads, photos, and postcards, and more.  Cuba Antiques, located on Water Street behind the famous Cuba Cheese Shoppe, is a wonderfully diverse (and large) antique shop with several local vendors. There is something there for everyone.

Once known as “The Cheese Capital of the World,” history-lovers and cheese-lovers alike will enjoy a visit to the Cuba Cheese Museum for a deep dive into cheese and how it adapted to technology and agriculture. Then stop next door to soak in the creative vibes, beverages, and food at The Perfect Blend Coffeehouse & Eatery; pick a seat outside to enjoy views of Cuba’s ever-growing array of murals along Main Street

There’s so much to explore in Cuba, why not make a whole weekend out of your visit?  A great overnight stay can be had at The Inn at 28, which offers luxurious accommodations and a delightful breakfast, or check out one of the many available vacation rentals located on Cuba Lake.

Wellsville, NY

The last, but certainly not least, destination on your antiquing adventure is picturesque Wellsville. Here you’ll discover sites pretty enough for a postcard – like the David A. Howe Library and the famous Pink House.  Venture past the village limits to discover Auntie Em’s Attic, a treasure trove of antiques, collectibles, décor and much more. Auntie Em’s inventory is constantly changing, so you’ll never have the same visit twice.

There’s more to discover back on Wellsville’s charming Main Street – including unique shopping experiences, cool craft brews at Wellsville Brewing Company, and art classes, live music, and café style dining at the Wellsville Creative Arts Center..

No trip to Wellsville is complete without a stop at Texas Hot.  For over 100 years, diners have been enjoying their world-famous Texas hots and delicious milkshakes in a delightfully retro, diner-style atmosphere, complete with your own jukebox in the booth.

 

Your itinerary is set – discover all that awaits you on your next antiquing adventure in the Western NY Wilds!

 

 

 

 

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