Things To Do
in Ellicott
Ellicott is a small, low-key town in Chautauqua County, New York, set among farmland and within easy reach of Chautauqua Lake and the city of Jamestown. The area combines rural charm, lakeside recreation, and access to cultural attractions like the Chautauqua Institution and Lucille Ball heritage sites nearby. Visitors come for boating, fishing, quiet small-town main streets, and seasonal events that bring a lively summer atmosphere.
Expect a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and good access to outdoor activities year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. After breakfast, stroll along Main Street, admiring the charming historic buildings and unique shops that have stood the test of time. Take a moment to explore the Ellicott City Museum, where you'll learn about the rich history of the town.
Enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro, where you can sample regional specialties. Afterward, make your way to the Patapsco Valley State Park for a leisurely hike along the scenic trails, taking in the lush landscapes and perhaps spotting some local wildlife. Stop by the historic B&O Railroad Museum to delve deeper into the area's transportation history and its impact on Ellicott City.
As the sun begins to set, head to a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy a farm-to-table experience with seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the paths of the historic district, soaking in the ambiance of the charming town lit up at night. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a local pub, sharing stories with friendly locals.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, known for its classic American fare. After breakfast, gear up for an adventure at the nearby Centennial Park, where you can rent a bike and explore the scenic trails that wind around the lake. Don't forget to pack a camera, as the park offers beautiful views perfect for capturing memorable moments.
After a morning of biking, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, engage in some kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters, providing a refreshing way to connect with the outdoors. Spend some time relaxing by the water, soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene environment.
As the day winds down, return to Ellicott City and treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, offering stunning views of the water. Savor the evening with live music at a local venue, where you can enjoy the sounds of local artists. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, listening to the gentle flow of the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4.00 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-150 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3.00-4.00 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly, basic) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful lakefront scenery and easy access to outdoor recreation
- Friendly small-town atmosphere with local festivals and community events
- Short drive to cultural sites in Jamestown and the Chautauqua Institution
- Limited nightlife and dining variety compared with larger cities
- Public transportation is sparse—a car is highly recommended
- Some businesses and attractions close outside of the summer season
Places to Visit in Ellicott
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrises and sunsets over the lake give dramatic skies and reflections; piers, boats, and small marinas provide classic lakeside compositions.
Picturesque views of the lake, historic buildings, and summer crowds—good for candid street and landscape photography.
Historic architecture, manicured lawns, and seasonal performances make for elegant, cultural images—best visited during the summer season for events and color.
Statues, museum exteriors, and themed murals celebrating Lucille Ball offer colorful, quirky local portrait opportunities.
Rolling farmland and wooded hills put on vibrant color in autumn—scenic byways and small roadside overlooks are ideal for wide landscape shots.
Food in Ellicott
Ellicott Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshwater fish from Lake Erie and local lakes, often served breaded and fried at lakeside eateries and summer fish fries; a must-try at lakeside restaurants and community events.
Must-Try!
Western New York staples—Buffalo wings are ubiquitous, while beef on weck (roast beef on a kummelweck roll) occasionally appears in regional menus; find these in local pubs and diners in Jamestown and surrounding towns.
Local farms supply vegetables, dairy, and eggs used in seasonal menus—seek out small restaurants and cafés that highlight fresh-sourced salads, sandwiches, and baked goods.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering seasonal produce, baked goods, artisan foods, and occasional prepared-food vendors—great for picnic supplies and local specialties in summer and fall.
During the summer season, lakeside stands and pop-ups sell fried fish, ice cream, and casual snacks ideal for enjoying on the water or at the park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents are generally friendly and polite—greeting with a nod or brief hello is common. Be respectful of neighbors and keep noise levels down in residential and lakeside areas.
Much land is privately owned; stick to marked trails and public parks, and do not trespass on farms or private docks without permission.
At local events, be patient in lines, respect seating areas for ticketed events, and follow volunteer or staff instructions—community volunteers keep events running smoothly.
Safety
Tipping in Ellicott
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, $2–5 for valet or bell service, and rounding up for taxi or ride-share drivers. If service is poor, tipping can be reduced but is still common to leave a small amount.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in larger establishments. Cash is handy for small markets, some food stalls, and tipping. ATMs exist but may be sparse in rural pockets—plan ahead.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, pleasant weather with peak tourism around the lake and Chautauqua Institution events; expect busy weekends, festivals, and open seasonal businesses—pack sun protection and be ready for occasional thunderstorms.
Cooler temperatures and spectacular fall foliage draw leaf-peepers; ideal for hiking, photography, and quieter travel—some seasonal businesses begin to close mid- to late-fall.
Cold with regular snow; good conditions for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and winter sports but expect reduced hours for some attractions and occasional road closures—pack warm layers and check local road reports.
Variable weather with budding landscapes and fewer tourists; early spring can be muddy with lingering cold snaps, but late spring brings flowering trees and reopening of seasonal venues.
Ellicott at Night
Hiking in Ellicott
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mix of short shoreline walks and gentle trails offering lake views, birdwatching, and easy access for families and casual hikers.
Short hikes and overlooks with rewarding views of the lake and sunsets—good for quick photo stops.
Larger forests and trail networks within driving distance offer more challenging hikes, panoramic overlooks, and backcountry experiences; suitable for day trips.
Local loop trails around reservoirs and through wooded parcels provide quiet hikes, wildlife viewing, and seasonal wildflowers.
Airports
How to reach Ellicott by plane.
Small regional airport near Jamestown offering limited commercial or charter service; convenient for private flights or regional connections when available.
Major international airport about 1.5–2 hours by car, with many domestic flights and rental car options—common choice for most visitors coming from farther away.
Regional airport in Erie, Pennsylvania, roughly 1–1.5 hours away by car with some commercial flights and rental services; a useful alternative to Buffalo for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families and multi-generational households who work in local industries, agriculture, and services—community-oriented and invested in local events.
A significant retiree population attracted to the quieter pace, lakeside living, and lower cost of living.
Summer tourists, weekenders, and attendees of Chautauqua Institution and lake events swell the population seasonally and support local hospitality businesses.
Jamestown Community College students and young local families contribute to civic life and school-related activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community sports draw local crowds—high school football, baseball, and softball games are popular weekend activities in the fall and summer.
Hockey is widely followed at youth and adult levels during winter months, with local rinks and leagues.
On Chautauqua Lake and nearby waterways, recreational boating, fishing, and water sports are central to summer recreation.
In winter, snowmobiling on groomed trails is a major activity for locals and visiting enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ellicott.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are less ubiquitous than in larger cities—look for salads, grain bowls, and deli-style sandwiches, or ask restaurants to modify dishes. Farm stands and farmers' markets are excellent sources of fresh produce.
Vegan and strict gluten-free choices can be limited in small-town restaurants; plan ahead by checking menus online, calling ahead, or shopping at bigger grocery stores in Jamestown for specialty items.
Most eateries will accommodate basic allergy requests if notified; always confirm cross-contact precautions for severe allergies.