The Perfect Day in Youngstown

Enjoy nature and history with this Youngstown day-trip itinerary.

Where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario lies a historic town brimming with character, history and natural beauty. Here’s what to do in Youngstown, NY — even if you only have one day.


Morning: Salute the Sun at Sanger Farms

Start a laid-back morning with a trip to Sanger Farms & Bakery. Explore the beautiful grounds, either by foot or by hayride, and stop by the farm shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, pressed apple cider, tart cherry juice, maple syrup, and warm, homemade baked goods. There are also seasonal U-pick opportunities for apples, peaches, and cherries!

Breakfast: Coffee, pastries and bagels make for the perfect morning meal at Hill of Beans Coffee Stop on Youngstown’s charming Main Street. For something a little heartier, head next door to the Youngstown Village Diner and enjoy breakfast classics like corned beef hash, eggs benedict and banana walnut pancakes.


Afternoon: Adventurous Energy

Head a few miles down the coast to the oldest continuously occupied military site in North America, Old Fort Niagara, where the region’s 300-year colonial history comes to life. Wander 18th-century buildings where Native American, French, British and American soldiers lived and worked; check out the musket and artillery firing demonstrations offered during the summer months; or go on a guided tour and see artisans at work.

If you prefer a more adrenaline-inducing afternoon, head over to Skydive The Falls and jump from 13,500 feet, the highest altitude skydiving experience in Western New York. Owned and operated by professional skydivers, Skydive The Falls specializes in first-time tandem skydiving and offers stellar views of the Falls before and during your jump.

Lunch: After you’ve worked up an appetite, pop into a true local favorite: Youngstown Marketside. Locals and visitors flock to the market for variety of New York-style pizzas and hearty sandwiches. Pro tip: make sure to get your sandwich made with the house focaccia bread!


Evening: Serene Scenery at Stella Niagara

The Falls may get all the glory, but Niagara County’s natural wonders don’t end there. With 29-acres and over a quarter-mile of shoreline, the Stella Niagara Preserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the threatened bald eagle. Take an evening stroll along the many trails and pathways, or stop and sit along the water to watch the gorgeous sunset.

Speaking of water, anglers will be impressed with Stella Niagara, too. Because of the property’s gentle slope down to the river, it is one of the few natural landing sites on the Lower Niagara, perfect for launching a canoe or kayak. The off-shore area, known locally as the ‘Stella Drift,’ creates ideal conditions for fishing.

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