Just a Half-Hour North of Buffalo, Lewiston Is Packed With History

If you're anything like me, you'll agree that one of the best parts of living in New York is having so many fascinating attractions that let us dive into our state's history. But out of all of the historic towns in New York, there's one in Western New York that we would highly encourage you to visit: Lewiston.

Out in Niagara County, just a half-hour north of Buffalo, the small town of Lewiston in New York is packed full of history.

Home to just over 16,000 residents, the small town of Historic Lewiston is a great place to escape to when you're looking to leave cities like Niagara Falls, Buffalo, or even Rochester. The town was officially formed in 1818, covering 64 square miles of land along the Niagara River.

The town is full of charming street signs that will point you toward popular attractions and places to see.

It's all in the details! There are so many things to do in Lewiston, but it's little characteristics like these that make visiting here all the more delightful.

Take a look around areas in town like Center Street, and you'll find the road lined with historic buildings that are nearly 200 years old.

Well preserved for all to continue to see, you'll find more buildings than you'd expect in Lewiston that date back to the early 1800s. The beautiful buildings in town are a great reminder of just how long Lewiston has been around.

Still standing on Center Street, visitors can see the historic Frontier House, built in 1824.

Once one of the best hotels in the area, the Frontier House was added to the National Register of Historic Places back in 1974. Over the years, the historic building has served many purposes (even as a McDonald's) and has, time and again, been reported as a place full of haunting spirits and ghosts. People on the property have had things go missing, heard strange sounds, seen doors close unexpectedly, and even seen actual spirits. Talk about a fascinating history!

When it comes to Lewiston's history, though, the main reason you'll find people talking about this town is that it was one of the last stops on the Underground Railroad.

This area of New York played a big part in an unforgettable time in history—groups of residents in the town of Lewiston broke the law to help fugitive slaves safely make their way into Canada.

On North Water Street, right along the banks of the Niagara River, the Freedom Crossing Monument is a must-see when in Lewiston.

Pulling the emotion out of everyone who visits, seeing the Freedom Crossing Monument is something you must do before leaving town. Right near the monument, you'll find the plaque (as pictured above), giving you a brief history of Lewiston's part in the Underground Railroad.

Reminding you of our history everywhere you turn, you'll also find other monuments in town that pay homage to different parts of Lewiston's roots.

Easy to spot along Portage Road, the Tuscarora Heroes Monument is meant to stand as a lasting thank-you to the Tuscarora Nation for saving the lives of residents during the War of 1812. The beautiful bronze statues are meant to depict two Tuscarora men helping a Lewiston woman and her baby escape the British attack.

Lewiston is also home to the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant, where you can pay a visit to the Niagara Power Visitors Center.

Lewiston is full of history and interesting attractions, with the Robert Moses Power Plant being just one of them. The land on which the power plant has been built has a long history dating back to the very early 1800s, when the idea of building a power plant first emerged. From the Visitors Center, you'll have a unique view of the power plant and get to indulge yourself in the history of these hydroelectric power plants.

Another great thing about this town? They even manage to turn historic structures into mouthwatering restaurants.

Right along the Lower Niagara River, The Silo is a restaurant that's been part of the area's history for more than 100 years. The silo was first built along the Niagara River to house coal for steamships; today, it functions as one of our favorite waterfront restaurants in New York State.

From the waterfront history to the Underground Railroad, there's so much you'll love learning about when it comes to Lewiston's roots.

Pictured above, near The Silo, is the Historic Harbormaster Station along the Lower Niagara River. All along this stretch of the river, you can find trails to walk along and stops that will teach you about the area's long history. If you're interested in learning even more about Historic Lewiston, visit the official Lewiston website.

Have you ever taken a day trip to Lewiston, one of the most historic towns in New York? Let us know in the comments.

If you plan on an overnight getaway to Lewiston and need accommodations, take a look at the Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa on Hotels.com, and book your stay!