These 6 Charming Waterfront Towns Near Buffalo Are Perfect For A Day Trip

Travel just a half-hour north of Buffalo to Niagara County and you’ll have the pleasure of enjoying all that the small village of Youngstown has to offer. While there's much to love about this wonderful waterfront village, history buffs will find joy in taking a day trip here. Out along the waterfront, Old Fort Niagara is a must-visit destination while you’re in Youngstown. Built in 1726, this historic landmark fascinates visitors, and you can even witness exciting battle reenactments and other special events at the fort.

Out along the shores of Lake Ontario, the small town of Olcott in Niagara County is home to just 1,000, but in the warmer months, you’ll find that tons of visitors from near and far love to find their way up here to bask in the beauty of this waterfront community. Nearly all of the tiny town’s main attractions can be found right along the water, with everything from a lovely shopping village and kiddie amusement park to a darling little lighthouse and a quaint beach. There’s tons of fun to be had in Olcott - and the best part is that it’s all less than an hour’s drive from home!

Only an hour south of Buffalo in Chautauqua County, you’ll discover the small town of Westfield, which has a population of just 5,000 people. This charming town is one of our favorites to visit during the spring and summertime, and it has tons of different activities and attractions to check out. For starters, stop by the Barcelona Lighthouse. It’s an excellent spot to hang out on the waterfront! You’ll also find an art gallery in town that’s fun to peruse, as well as a handful of nearby wineries to make sure you’re never thirsty while you’re here.

It might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering waterfront destinations, but Lily Dale really is a can’t-miss town. This just might be the most fascinating place in all of New York. It sits just an hour south of Buffalo and has a truly unique feature: only those with proven spiritual medium abilities can live within the gated community! The residents do welcome visitors to their unusual hometown during the spring and summer months, and you’ll find lovely lakefront views, a fantastic fairy trail, glorious gift shops, a pet cemetery, and gorgeous green spaces to stroll. Lily Dale is one seriously intriguing place! If you have yet to visit, make sure a trip to this cool community goes on your bucket list.

Head 1.5 hours south of Buffalo and right along the shores of Chautauqua Lake, and you'll see a small village you'll definitely want to check out. Home to a mere 400 people, Bemus Point is a favorite family day trip destination, thanks to attractions like Midway State Park. Far from your typical park, Midway State Park is more like a family amusement park - and it’s totally worth the road trip. It’s nestled right on the shore of the lake and features vintage rides that generations of Western New Yorkers have enjoyed throughout the decades, as well as modern rides and bumper boats. Pack some snacks and load up the family into the car and make your way out to this wonderful warm-weather destination.

If you’re willing to drive a little further from home and are looking to enjoy some quality time in the Finger Lakes, there’s no better destination than the small town of Hammondsport - in fact, it’s famously considered the "Coolest Small Town In America!" Hammondsport is about a two-hour drive from Buffalo, but the amazing attractions here are totally worth the trip. Relax by the lakeshore, take a boat ride, enjoy the local wineries, and dive into a bit of history if you so choose. There’s something for everyone here!