Chittenango New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chittenango, New York.
1. The Wild Animal Park
EXOTIC WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
The Wild Animal Park offers visitors a chance to see and interact with exotic animals in a family-friendly environment. Guests can feed giraffes, observe big cats, and enjoy various animal presentations throughout the day. This popular attraction provides both entertainment and education about wildlife conservation efforts.
2. Chittenango Falls State Park
MAJESTIC NATURAL WATERFALL
Chittenango Falls State Park showcases a stunning 167-foot waterfall cascading over ancient bedrock. Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails that provide various vantage points of the falls, including a footbridge that crosses the creek for a spectacular view. The park offers picnic areas, fishing opportunities, and beautiful natural scenery throughout all seasons.
3. All Things Oz Museum
WIZARD OF OZ MEMORABILIA
All Things Oz Museum celebrates Chittenango as the birthplace of L. Frank Baum, author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The museum houses a fascinating collection of Oz memorabilia, rare books, and movie artifacts that delight fans of all ages. Visitors can explore the magical world of Oz through interactive exhibits and special events held throughout the year.
4. Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum
HISTORIC CANAL HERITAGE
Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum preserves the rich history of the Erie Canal through its restored 19th century dry dock complex. Visitors can learn about the construction and repair of canal boats that were vital to New York's commerce and transportation. The museum offers guided tours, demonstrations, and special events that bring the canal era to life.
5. YBR Casino & Sports Book
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
YBR Casino & Sports Book provides a vibrant gaming experience with slots, table games, and sports betting opportunities. Visitors can enjoy dining options, live entertainment, and a lively atmosphere all under one roof. The casino offers regular promotions and events that make it a popular entertainment destination in the area.
6. Old Erie Canal State Park
HISTORIC WATERWAY TRAIL
Old Erie Canal State Park preserves a 36-mile stretch of the original Erie Canal, offering a glimpse into America's transportation history. Visitors can walk, bike, or horseback ride along the historic towpath while enjoying scenic views and interpretive signage about the canal's importance. The park connects to Chittenango and provides opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife observation throughout the year.
7. Lions Botanical Park
SERENE FLORAL GARDENS
Lions Botanical Park offers a peaceful retreat with beautifully maintained gardens and green spaces in the heart of Chittenango. Visitors can stroll through colorful flower displays, relax in shaded sitting areas, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The park hosts community events and provides a perfect spot for nature photography and quiet contemplation.
8. Chittenango Creek
SCENIC WATERWAY ADVENTURES
Chittenango Creek flows through the village, offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. The creek provides excellent fishing spots, peaceful kayaking routes, and lovely places to relax by the water. Its continuous path through the area connects many of Chittenango's outdoor attractions and natural spaces.
9. Chittenango Creekwalk
RIVERSIDE WALKING PATH
Chittenango Creekwalk provides a picturesque paved pathway that follows alongside the beautiful Chittenango Creek. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through natural surroundings while observing local wildlife and seasonal changes in the landscape. The well-maintained trail connects to village amenities and offers interpretive signage about local ecology and history.
10. Green Lakes State Park
UNIQUE GLACIAL LAKES
Green Lakes State Park, located near Chittenango, features two stunning glacial lakes known for their distinctive blue-green color. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, hike around the lakes on scenic trails, or enjoy various recreational activities including golf, camping, and picnicking. The park's rare meromictic lakes and old-growth forests make it a natural wonder worth exploring in any season.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Chittenango offers a variety of retail experiences, including the charming Land of OZ and Ends gift shop that specializes in Wizard of Oz memorabilia and local crafts. Visitors can browse through unique boutiques along Genesee Street that feature handmade items, antiques, and specialty goods. The nearby Oneida Indian Nation Outpost offers authentic Native American crafts and products that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
12. Dining
TASTY LOCAL FLAVORS
Dining in Chittenango provides visitors with delicious options including Sorbello's Italian Restaurant, a beloved local establishment serving authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The Yellow Brick Road Café offers themed dining with Oz-inspired menu items and casual fare perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Visitors can also enjoy hearty meals at Canal Town Coffee Roasters, which serves freshly roasted coffee and homemade breakfast and lunch options in a cozy setting.
13. Hiking
SCENIC OUTDOOR TRAILS
Hiking in Chittenango offers nature enthusiasts the beautiful Neighborhood Trail, a well-maintained pathway that winds through natural areas and connects residential neighborhoods to village amenities. The Erie Canal Historic Towpath Trail provides hikers with a flat, scenic route along the historic waterway with plenty of historical markers and rest areas. For more challenging terrain, visitors can explore the trails around Chittenango Falls that offer spectacular views of the waterfall from various elevations and perspectives.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S PARADISE WATERS
Fishing in Chittenango centers around the picturesque Chittenango Creek, which is regularly stocked with trout and offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing and spin casting. Nearby Oneida Lake, easily accessible from Chittenango, is famous for its walleye, bass, and perch fishing, attracting anglers from across the region. The Old Erie Canal also provides quiet fishing spots where visitors can enjoy catching various freshwater species while surrounded by historic scenery and peaceful surroundings.
15. Camping
OVERNIGHT NATURE IMMERSION
Camping near Chittenango allows outdoor enthusiasts to experience the beautiful Central New York landscape at Green Lakes State Park, which offers well-maintained campsites with access to hiking, swimming, and other recreational activities. The nearby Verona Beach State Park provides camping opportunities along the shores of Oneida Lake with beautiful sunset views and beach access for campers. For a more rustic experience, the Madison County area surrounding Chittenango features several private campgrounds that offer both tent sites and RV hookups in scenic wooded settings.