When you think of a vacation in New York, you probably envision tall buildings, bright lights, and bustling crowds. But there is more to the state of New York than just the Big Apple!

In Southwestern New York State you will find the Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County, where beautiful scenery displays forested, rolling hills and clean, sparkling lakes, rivers and streams. The quaint villages are filled will friendly people, and have events and activities for all interests.

If you’re looking to relax and enjoy nature, visit Allegany State Park. Swim in the lakes, play on the beaches, and hike the trails to the Bear Caves. There’s a paved trail around Red House Lake for a scenic bike ride. For the history buffs, you can visit the Stone Tower or the park’s two museums. Looking for a little more adventure? Climb the huge rocks at the Thunder Rocks area. Plan to visit for the day or come for an extended stay in the camping area.

Not the outdoors type? Then come to Ellicottville for unique shops, great restaurants, and live entertainment. Relax while dining at an outdoor café in the middle of downtown, where you can soak in the atmosphere and meet new friends. Stroll the streets learning more about the village and its historic heritage. If you visit during the first week of July, you can experience the Ellicottville Rodeo for a fun and exciting time!

For a different adventure, visit Griffis Sculpture Park with its outdoor gallery of over 200 sculptures on a 400-acre “canvas.” Or visit Gooseneck Hill Waterfowl Sanctuary to see over 300 geese, ducks and swans – some of which are on the endangered list. Then venture down to Rock City Park, the site of the world’s largest outcropping of conglomerate rock. You will find rocks as tall as eight story buildings that you can walk over, around, under and through.

At Sprague’s Maple Farms you can watch as they boil syrup with a modern system, or visit the old-fashioned sugar shanty to see how it was done in the olden days. When you’re done touring, take some time to eat at the restaurant for some of the best pancakes and syrup you’ll ever have, and turkey raised on their farm.

There is plenty more to do on your vacation to New York, including motor sports, boating, mountain biking, golfing, and horseback riding. Don’t forget to take a chance at the new Seneca Allegany Casino located in Salamanca!

You will also find a variety of festivals in Cattaraugus County. Gowanda has Harley Happening at the Hollywood; Randolph has an Arts and Crafts Festival and Shop Hop; Ellicottville has a Summer Festival of the Arts, Taste of Ellicottville and Children First Festival; and Olean has Rally in the Valley and Taste of Olean/Art in the Park Festivals.

No matter what you choose for your relaxation, you will find something you’ll love at Enchanted Mountains! We have a wide variety of accommodations to please the most discriminating tastes! For more information on a vacation in New York or to receive a FREE Visitor’s Guide, please call 1-800-331-0543 or visit our website www.EnchantedMountains.com