Fall in Love With Randolph
Fall in Love With Randolph
Explore New York’s Amish Trail and Businesses Along the Way
After months spent inside or close to home, there’s nothing quite like a day trip to bring some much-needed fun and relaxation to the end of the week! Why not take a drive to Randolph - just 35 minutes south of Ellicottville - and enjoy a unique tour through the southern part of Cattaraugus County?
Randolph’s relationship with the nearby Conewango Amish community is apparent everywhere you look. From the buggies that travel up and down Main Street to the horse tie-outs at the Cattaraugus County Bank, Randolph has a unique blend of old world charm and modern life. Autumn is one of the best times of year for visitors to spend a beautiful afternoon exploring New York’s Amish Trail, which begins in Randolph and continues through Cattaraugus County.
According to Samantha Hayes, tourism assistant with the Cattaraugus County Department of Economic Planning, Development, and Tourism, fall is one of the most popular times of year for visitors to explore the nearby Amish community. “This is a great thing to do hand-in-hand with the W.I.L.M.A. Fall Crawl craft show,” she said. “If you’re already planning to be out, why not take a drive and explore the Amish community?”
Visitors can enjoy the foliage and explore Amish shops, bake stands and produce stands along the way; whether you’re looking for a gorgeous handmade quilt, sturdy furniture, or a homemade pie, you’re sure to find it along the Amish Trail. Randolph’s Welcome Center at 72 Main Street has free Amish Trail maps available for you to start your self-guided tour; Saturdays are the best day to plan your trip, as all Amish businesses are closed on Sundays.
Hayes said, “It’s important for visitors to remember to practice safe social distancing and wear masks. Most Amish shops are very small, so you don’t have to worry about shopping among crowds.” While the nearby Leon Historical Society normally gives guided tours, Hayes said that these tours are on hold until further notice due to COVID-19. For more information about the Amish Trail, including a listing of business and maps, visit www.amishtrail.com.
A Slice of Heaven Alpaca Farm at 11144 Pope Road, Randolph, is located right in the heart of the Conewango Valley Amish community and is a fun stop for the whole family! Meet the herd, including the newest members, Matteo and Colt, who were born over the summer. The gift shop is open with limited hours; visitors are welcome to stop by from 4:00-6:00pm Monday through Friday, and from 9:00am-5:00pm on Saturdays. Learn more at www.simplynaturalalpacagiftshop.com.
Downtown Randolph has plenty of opportunities for fun, too! Randolph Retail Company, located at 127 Main Street, carries a range of unique gifts, home décor, and beautiful ladies clothing. There, you will find a variety of seasonal gifts and holiday décor, as well as American-made clothing. Explore scarves, jewelry, and items crafted by local artists. The store is open for safe, in-person shopping from 10:00am-3:00pm Thursday through Saturday. Learn more by following Randolph Retail Company on Facebook.
Enjoy the bounty of fall just down the road at Randolph Peaches and Cream, located at 19 Main Street. While most visit Peaches and Cream for fresh produce and ice cream earlier in the year, fall is the time to find the perfect pumpkin or choose from a wide selection of delicious local apples! Peaches and Cream is open daily from 10:00am-8:00pm.
Not just a fun, brief getaway, day trips are also a great opportunity to shop small and support local businesses, said Hayes. “The effects of the pandemic are felt everywhere, and especially in small businesses in our community. It’s so important to support them now more than ever!”
For the latest news and updates about Randolph, visit www.enjoyrandolph.com or follow Enjoy Randolph on Facebook.