Meridian New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Meridian, New York.
1. Strigo Vineyards
LOCAL WINERY EXPERIENCE
Strigo Vineyards welcomes visitors to sample a variety of locally produced wines in a tranquil country setting. Guests can explore the charming tasting room, stroll the picturesque grounds, and enjoy special events throughout the year. The vineyard offers an authentic Finger Lakes wine experience just minutes from downtown Meridian.
2. Skydive Central New York
THRILLING SKYDIVING ADVENTURE
Skydive Central New York offers an adrenaline-charged skydiving experience for thrill-seekers visiting Meridian. Certified instructors guide both first-timers and seasoned jumpers through tandem and solo jumps above the beautiful Finger Lakes region. The facility provides breathtaking aerial views and a memorable adventure for daring visitors.
3. Beaver Lake Nature Center
SCENIC NATURE RETREAT
Beaver Lake Nature Center, just a short drive from Meridian, boasts over 600 acres of forests, wetlands, and a glacial lake. Visitors can enjoy educational exhibits, wildlife observation, and more than nine miles of trails winding through diverse natural habitats. The center is a peaceful haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
4. Dirt Museum & Hall of Fame
RACING HISTORY CELEBRATED
The Dirt Museum & Hall of Fame in nearby Weedsport honors the legacy of dirt track racing in Central New York. Exhibits feature legendary cars, memorabilia, and interactive displays celebrating the sport's vibrant history. It's a must-visit for racing fans and those curious about local motorsports culture.
5. Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Co.
CRAFT BREWERY DESTINATION
Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Co. offers small-batch, hand-crafted beers in a relaxed and friendly pub atmosphere. Guests can sample a rotating selection of unique brews and seasonal favorites, often accompanied by live music and local food trucks. The brewery's welcoming environment draws both beer aficionados and casual visitors alike.
6. Erie Canalway Trail
HISTORIC BIKING PATH
The Erie Canalway Trail passes through the Weedsport area near Meridian, offering miles of scenic walking and biking paths along the historic Erie Canal. Cyclists and walkers enjoy glimpses of canal locks, wildlife, and peaceful water views. The trail provides a unique perspective on upstate New York's rich transportation legacy.
7. Cato-Meridian Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Cato-Meridian Historical Museum preserves and exhibits artifacts reflecting the area's agricultural, commercial, and educational heritage. Housed in a historic building, the museum highlights local stories through photographs, documents, and rotating displays. It's an engaging stop for those interested in Meridian and Cato's past.
8. Fair Haven Beach State Park
BEACHFRONT OUTDOOR ESCAPE
Fair Haven Beach State Park, about 20 minutes from Meridian, features sandy beaches, picnic areas, and scenic bluffs along Lake Ontario. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or rent kayaks and paddleboards for water adventures. The park's trails and playgrounds make it a favorite for families and nature lovers.
9. Sterling Renaissance Festival
IMMERSIVE HISTORICAL FESTIVAL
The Sterling Renaissance Festival transforms the nearby village of Sterling into a lively 16th-century English shire each summer. Guests enjoy costumed performers, artisan markets, themed entertainment, and hearty fare in an authentic open-air setting. The festival is a vibrant celebration popular with all ages.
10. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE WATCHING PARADISE
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge lies a short drive from Meridian and is renowned for its birdwatching and wetland habitats. Visitors can traverse scenic driving loops or walking trails to spot eagles, herons, and migratory birds. The refuge provides educational exhibits and countless photographic opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
11. Shopping
LOCAL SHOPS AND FINDS
Shopping in Meridian includes unique local boutiques, craft shops, and antique stores such as The Olde Country Store and Cato Hardware and Gifts in neighboring Cato. Shoppers can find handmade goods, regional specialties, and vintage treasures just minutes from the heart of Meridian. These independently owned shops offer personal service and a true small-town shopping experience.
12. Dining
REGIONAL FLAVORFUL EATERIES
Dining in Meridian and its surroundings features a variety of local favorites, such as AJ's Family Diner for classic American comfort food and Bonnie Castle Restaurant in nearby Wolcott for lakeside meals. Farm-to-table flavors and welcoming hospitality are hallmarks at these establishments. Visitors can savor everything from hearty breakfasts to fresh lake-caught fish while exploring the Finger Lakes region.
13. Hiking
SCENIC TRAILS TO EXPLORE
Hiking around Meridian is best enjoyed at Beaver Lake Nature Center, the Erie Canalway Trail, and Fair Haven Beach State Park. These locations provide well-maintained trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes amid woodlands, wetlands, and lakeshores. Nature lovers will appreciate the serenity, wildlife sightings, and scenic vistas along each route.
14. Fishing
POPULAR ANGLER SPOTS
Fishing opportunities abound near Meridian, with Cross Lake, Otter Lake, and Lake Ontario all within easy reach. Anglers can cast for bass, pike, perch, and trout, with public access points and boat launches available at these popular spots. The region's lakes and streams offer peaceful settings for both seasoned and beginner fishers.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURE
Camping enthusiasts can choose from local options such as Fair Haven Beach State Park's campgrounds, Cross Lake Campground, and the family-friendly Hejamada Campground & RV Park nearby. Campers enjoy lakeside settings, modern facilities, and easy access to nature trails and water recreation. Each campground offers a welcoming base for exploring the Meridian area's outdoor attractions.