By Kelly Hannon
The autumnal equinox arrived last Saturday, marking the official first day of fall. Autumn is one of the best times to visit and enjoy our vibrant village. From seasonal treats to next-level leaf peeping, there are endless options for raking in fall fun in Ellicottville.
One of the best ways to celebrate autumn’s arrival is with a delicious mug of fresh-milled apple cider. Take part in the fascinating, hands-on process of making fall’s favorite beverage at a refurbished 1870’s cider mill – a main feature inside the quaint attraction of Pumpkinville. Freshly picked apples are squeezed in the antique press with its original ram and table to produce a batch of old-fashioned pure cider. The apples are brought in each week from Niagara County, and at least three varieties are used to create a fantastic blend. Enjoy a hot or cold glass on site, or take a gallon home. It’s a great place to visit with the whole family for some educational, flavorsome fun. Pumpkinville is open until October 31. Cider is squeezed regularly throughout the day on Saturdays, Sundays, and through early afternoon on Wednesdays.
After warming up with fall’s favorite beverage, head over to Holiday Valley and enjoy all the beautiful autumnal colors on a chairlift ride to Spruce Lake. This tranquil excursion will take you high above the fall leaves, offering picture-perfect views of Ellicottville in all her glory. Rides are available Saturdays and Sundays through October 29, 11am-5pm.
Want an even closer view of the foliage? Be sure to check out Sky High Aerial Adventure Park, the largest treetop obstacle course in New York State! It offers a range of “aerial trails” for all ages and abilities. Participants navigate from one tree platform to another; crossing bridges, zip lines, and obstacles. After flying through the fiery fall colors, continue your active afternoon with the park’s new fleet of Trek mountain and pedal assist electric bikes for rent. Autumn hours of operation are Friday – Sunday, 9am-6pm through October 13, and 11am – dusk the final two weekends in October.
Fall not only has us thinking about pumpkin patches and the auburn glow of leaves, but also about our holiday shopping strategy. Whether you’re seeking something sentimental for a loved one or a self-care gift for yourself, treasures abound downtown. With over a dozen specialty boutiques and gear shops at a range of price points, shopping is always effortlessly smooth in Ellicottville. Score a pair of festive socks from Purple Doorknob, or one of Gi Thread’s pumpkin dulce candles that provides a rich autumn blend to help you embrace the many joys of the season.
Top off your adventure with the perfect handheld treat for autumn: a pumpkin or applepie cupcake from Cupcaked Bakery on Monroe Street. Swing into Ellicottville Brewery next door for a Fall Festival Lager or the Pumpkinville Pumpkin Ale, brewed with locally harvested pumpkin and seasonal spices – a must-try for fall!