Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Lewiston, NY

  • Published 2023/03/06

Many know about Niagara Falls, but do you know about its birthplace?

Approximately 12,000 years ago, the natural wonder was first in the town of Lewiston before time and nature moved it elsewhere.

Lewiston is one of the many towns in New York States’ Niagara County.

It got its name from the fourth governor of New York, Morgan Lewis.

You’ll find plenty of places to explore, eat, and relax in Lewiston.

In addition to this, you can look out for different historic pieces scattered around.

Here are the best things to do in Lewiston, NY:

Cross the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge

Daytime view of the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge

Spiroview Inc / Shutterstock.com

The Lewiston-Queenston Bridge is one of the most notable historical places you’ll find in town.

Otherwise known as the Queenston–Lewiston Bridge, it is not the oldest structure in town, but it does have over 60 years under its belt.

The bridge spans nearly 500 meters and is open for cycling and driving.

It may not be the most exciting spot, but it does offer great views of the town and surrounding nature for travelers to enjoy.

See a Concert at Art Park

Art Park, otherwise known as the Earl W. Brydges Artpark, is where to check out local events and concerts.

The state park, established in 1984, features several facilities for guests to enjoy.

If you’re interested in the events and concerts held in the park, head to the amphitheater.

Some of the events in this park include theater workshops and outdoor festivals.

Besides being a venue for several local events, the state park features multiple nature trails you can hike and different historical sites.

If that isn’t enough, there are also areas for cross-country skiing.

Whether you want to see a concert, look at art installations, or explore the trails, there is plenty to do in this 150+ acre park.

See the Pieces at the Castellani Art Museum

Enjoy local history and art by visiting the Castellani Art Museum.

The Castellani Art Museum is an art museum that features various collections.

It first opened in 1978 at a different location.

In 1990, the museum gained its current name and moved to a new building within the Niagara University campus.

Browse various works ranging from sculptures to photographs and mixed media.

Besides different types of artworks from several artists, the museum hosts multiple programs and offers tours for guests.

If you love the arts or want to see local works, the Castellani Art Museum is where to go.

Check out the Freedom Crossing Monument

Close view of the Freedom Crossing Monument

Marciam30, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There are several historical pieces in Lewiston; one of them is the Freedom Crossing Monument.

The Freedom Crossing Monument is a series of bronze statues near the Niagra River.

They have stood there since 2009.

History plaque of Freedom Crossing Monument

Doug Kerr from Albany, NY, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The monument is a tribute to the escaped slaves who sought freedom in Canada.

The statues illustrate a family of five slaves mid-escape on a rowboat.

The artist Susan Geissler sculpted the statues.

Stroll the Honorary International Peace Garden at Lewiston

Head to the Honorary International Peace Garden at Lewiston.

Anyone that loves history and nature will find plenty to enjoy at this garden.

The Honorary International Peace Garden at Lewiston pays homage to the War of 1812.

It’s been around since 1813.

In July 2010, the garden received a dedication in the form of a poem reading by International Award Winning Poet Robert Giannetti.

You can now see the poem engraved on a marker plaque in the park.

Some of its features include several types of flowers, such as lilacs and red geraniums, plus benches and a fountain.

In addition to the park features, you can check out public art or enjoy the festivals that take place in the garden, like the Lewiston Harvest Festival.

Visit the Lewiston Museum

Lewiston has its share of history to explore, and the best place to learn about it is the Lewiston Museum.

Constructed in 1835, the Lewiston Museum is under the management of the Historical Association of Lewiston.

The museum first started as a St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in 1835.

Then, in 1973, the structure got sold to the Historical Association of Lewiston before reopening as a museum in 1974.

You can find several historical pieces in this museum, ranging from photographs to documents.

The museum is open for self-guided tours, but if you’re interested in a personal guided tour, you can make an appointment.

Get Your Dessert Fix at the Village Bake Shoppe

Find yourself something sweet at the Village Bake Shoppe.

Since 1993, the Village Bake Shoppe has supplied fresh baked goods to the public.

Whether you’re looking for cupcakes or cookies, the bakery has plenty of options for you to indulge your sweet tooth.

In addition to classic baked goods, the bakeshop features a selection of specialty items such as hot cocoa bombs and dessert shooters, to name a few.

If you’re having trouble choosing what to buy or gift someone a treat, the Village Bake Shoppe offers gift baskets and cookie trays.

Besides offering various treats, the Village Bake Shoppe also has breakfast and lunch options, plus coffee.

Try the Frozen Custard at Hibbard’s Custard

Hibbard’s Custard is a custard shop running since 1902 and features dozens of frozen custard flavors for you to try.

The overall flavors at the shop range from fruits to chocolate blends.

In addition to flavors like blueberry and chocolate chip, the shop offers seasonal flavors that include cinnamon and pumpkin pie.

The shop also offers other custard options, such as sundaes and custard floats.

You can also enjoy their milkshakes, canned drinks, and slushies.

Hibbard’s Custard also offers packed pints and quarts you can take home.

You’ll find plenty of cold treats to enjoy by visiting Hibbard’s Custard on Portage Road.

Stop by the Niagara Power Project Visitors Center

Exterior of Niagara Power Project Visitors Center

Andre Carrotflower, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Visit the Niagara Power Project Visitors Center to learn something new.

The Niagara Power Project Visitors Center is an information hub on energy distribution in the area and features different facilities for guests.

The main features you’ll find at the center are a VR ride and a fishing pier.

You can find the visitor center by heading to Lewiston Road, and if you want to learn more, you can book a tour.’

Dine at the Silo Restaurant

Experience dining in an old silo by going to the Silo Restaurant.

The Silo Restaurant has operated since 1998.

The eatery specializes in different burgers and sandwiches and has even appeared on TV.

Besides different burgers and other savory dishes, the Silo Restaurant has an ice cream section called the Silo’s Ice Cream Caboose.

The Silo’s Ice Cream Caboose is a retired train caboose that was once an old wooden boxcar in 1890.

During the 1930s, they converted it into a caboose.

It got retired in the 1970s.

In 2010, the caboose got added to the restaurant and currently features 40 ice cream flavors and a custom custard each week.

If your group comprises 20 people, the restaurant also features a menu specifically for you.

At the Silo Restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options to try.

Enjoy a Stay at the Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa

The Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa is one of the many places you can book for a comfortable rest in Lewiston.

You can find this hotel around the Center Street area and enjoy plenty of amenities.

With their spa area, you can book different services ranging from body wraps to massages.

The hotel has four types of rooms and three types of suites you can reserve for your stay.

If you are looking for a comfortable place to stay and relax, book a room at the Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa.

Find the Tuscarora Heroes Monument

If you head to Portage Street and look across the Hibbard’s Custard shop, you’ll find the Tuscarora Heroes Monument.

The Tuscarora Heroes Monument is a homage to the Tuscarora Nation, which saved residents from the British attack during the War of 1812.

The monument consists of four lifesize bronze sculptures depicting two Tuscarora men helping a woman and her baby as they flee.

For those interested in local history, check out the Tuscarora Heroes Monument.

Eat Greek Dishes at the Syros Restaurant

Are you interested in trying new food?

Then head to the Syros Restaurant.

Syros Restaurant is an eatery that features Greek & American dishes.

You can try various dishes at this restaurant, ranging from classic American dishes like meatloaf to Greek specialties like moussaka.

Besides American and Greek dishes, the restaurant features several breakfast options, including omelets and pancakes.

By choosing to dine at Syros Restaurant, you’ll find no shortage of meal options.

Take a Tour with Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours

Discover a thrilling ride on the water by booking a ride with Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours.

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours is a boating service that features two types of rides for guests.

If you’re looking for a thrill ride on the water and don’t mind getting soaked, then book the Get Soaked option.

For a more leisurely ride where you can enjoy views of the area and take photographs, the Stay Dry ride is what you want.

Book Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours if you want to experience a new way to tour the town.

Shop from Inspirations on Canvas

Inspirations on Canvas is a gallery that doubles as a shop and is an ideal spot to visit for art enthusiasts.

The gallery features several artworks done in different mediums.

Some of the pieces you can find at this gallery include original paintings and luminaries featuring floral designs.

Besides different art pieces, you can buy merchandise such as blankets and shirts.

Whether you want to check out local art or get artwork for yourself, you’ll find several pieces at Inspirations on Canvas.

Practice Your Golfing Skills at Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course

At Lewiston, there’s plenty of reason to play and have fun outdoors.

Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course makes sure of that.

This golf course, named after the Shellbark Hickory trees growing within the area, offers daily fee play.

Its high-quality golf layout has the Robert Trent Jones II design.

Complete with tranquil lakes and stunning topographical features, golfing at this site is both challenging and pleasing to the eyes.

Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course is on Creek Road, open to your golfing needs.

Walk Down a Picturesque Road at Kiwanis Park Trail

At a length of 8 miles, Kiwanis Park Trail is easily a serene route ideal for hiking and biking.

The trail has no elevation changes either, so first-time or recreational bikers can enjoy the scenery.

The first section of the trail runs along a paved road lined with wooded forests and green foliage.

Further down, it zips past modern houses and residences.

It’s easy to get lost in the charm of nature at this Niagara County gem.

Its trailheads are at Lewiston and Porter.

If you start from Lewiston, Kiwanis Park Trail starts on Mohawk Street.

Train Your Pup at Lewiston Dog Park

Looking for an ideal recreation spot for you and your canine friend?

Then, Lewiston Dog Park might be for you.

This off-leash and fenced park comes in two sections, filled with grassy areas for playing around and socializing.

The park features water fountains for the friendly pets, as well as entertaining obstacles and play structures.

Among its engaging obstacle course amenities include tunnels, agility items, and hurdles.

There’s also a dog walk and small bridges.

The park offers a clear view of the Niagara Gorge Walking Trail, too.

To get to Lewiston Dog Park, head over to Earl W. Brydges Artpark on South 4th Street.

View Native Flora and Fauna at Stella Niagara Preserve

Stella Niagara Preserve is one of the hidden nature jewels of Lewiston that span at least 29 acres.

Purchased in 2015, this site is also one of the most important historical landmarks.

It has walking trails and a multitude of habitats, including forests, vernan pools, and meadows.

This is also why there’s a variety of wildlife and birds scouring the area.

One of the rare animals you may spot while on your visit is the Bald Eagle.

This park is open to the public.

Stella Niagara Preserve is also part of the Niagara County Historic Trail and overlooks the Niagara River.

You can access it on Lower River Road.

Feel Inspired by the Art Showcases at Lewiston Art Festival

You are not experiencing Lewiston the right way when you don’t attend Lewiston Art Festival.

This annual art event is one of the most massive events in the town.

It features over 175 artists and their impressive art masterpieces.

And the best part?

The festival encourages a variety of art forms and media, so there’s an artwork for everyone visiting.

Whether you’ve got an eye for paintings, photos, ceramic pieces, and jewelry, you are sure you’ll find an art piece you’ll feel inspired by.

Get going to Center Street to be part of the Lewiston Art Festival festivities.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Buy Goods and Food from Sanger Farms and Bakery

While Lewiston has its share of charm, you’ll find plenty of nearby spots to check out.

One of these spots is the Sanger Farms and Bakery in Youngstown, less than ten minutes north of Lewiston.

Sanger Farms and Bakery features all kinds of products for you to enjoy and different dishes to try.

If you are interested in fresh products, you’ll find peaches, vegetables, honey, and maple syrup options.

As for the dishes, there is a selection of baked goods, plus a breakfast and lunch menu.

You’ll find plenty of treats to fill your stomach by visiting the Sanger Farms and Bakery.

Visit the Aquarium of Niagara

Plenty of fun spots are available for you to visit in Niagra Falls, and one of them is the Aquarium of Niagara.

The Aquarium of Niagara features several programs for guests to try and several marine animals you can meet.

A few of the programs you can experience at the aquarium include meeting penguins and seals.

The aquarium also offers different educational programs and events for guests to book.

By visiting the Aquarium of Niagara, you’ll find plenty of fun marine life.

Final Thoughts

Niagra County has plenty of towns for you to visit, and you should consider visiting Lewiston.

Lewiston is a town that has a range of places for you to explore and plenty of local delights to try.

Whether you want to search for historical spots or try local sweets, there are all kinds of options you can explore in Lewiston.

Start planning your trip today!

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