Moravia New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Moravia, New York.
1. Fillmore Glen State Park
NATURAL GORGE PARADISE
Fillmore Glen State Park offers visitors a stunning natural retreat with a gorge and multiple waterfalls to explore. Hikers can enjoy the numerous trails that wind through the park's lush forests and along the scenic gorge. The park also features swimming areas, picnic facilities, and camping opportunities, making it perfect for a full day of outdoor activities.
2. South Shore Marina on Owasco Lake
LAKESIDE BOATING ADVENTURE
South Shore Marina on Owasco Lake provides excellent access to one of the Finger Lakes' beautiful waterways. Visitors can rent boats, launch their own watercraft, or simply enjoy the scenic views of the crystal-clear lake. The marina serves as a perfect starting point for a day of fishing, water sports, or a relaxing cruise on Owasco Lake.
3. Owasco Flats Nature Preserve
PRISTINE WETLAND ECOSYSTEM
Owasco Flats Nature Preserve protects an important wetland ecosystem at the southern end of Owasco Lake. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can spot diverse wildlife while exploring the preserve's trails and observation areas. The preserve plays a crucial role in filtering water entering Owasco Lake, making it both ecologically significant and a peaceful spot for nature appreciation.
4. Jennings Department Store
HISTORIC SMALL-TOWN SHOPPING
Jennings Department Store has been a fixture of Moravia's Main Street for generations, offering an authentic small-town shopping experience. Visitors can browse through a diverse selection of merchandise while enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional department store. The friendly staff and personalized service harken back to a simpler time, making shopping here a unique cultural experience.
5. Millard Fillmore Historical Site
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY LANDMARK
The Millard Fillmore Historical Site commemorates the 13th President of the United States who once lived in the Moravia area. Visitors can learn about Fillmore's life, political career, and the historical context of his presidency through informative exhibits and preserved artifacts. The site provides an educational glimpse into mid-19th century American history and the legacy of this often-overlooked president.
6. Carpenter Falls
SPECTACULAR WATERFALL VISTA
Carpenter Falls features a magnificent 90-foot waterfall cascading into a scenic ravine, providing one of the area's most photogenic natural attractions. Visitors can access the falls via a short but somewhat challenging trail that rewards hikers with breathtaking views. The surrounding Bahar Nature Preserve offers additional hiking opportunities and peaceful spots for nature contemplation near this impressive waterfall.
7. Bahar Nature Preserve
SERENE WOODLAND RETREAT
Bahar Nature Preserve encompasses a beautiful natural area with diverse ecosystems perfect for nature lovers to explore. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through wooded trails that lead to scenic overlooks and natural features including Carpenter Falls. The preserve's protected status ensures that its pristine environment will continue to provide habitat for local wildlife and tranquil experiences for future generations.
8. Bear Swamp State Forest
WILDERNESS RECREATION AREA
Bear Swamp State Forest offers over 3,000 acres of undeveloped woodland for outdoor enthusiasts to discover. Visitors can engage in activities ranging from hiking and hunting to cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, depending on the season. The forest's diverse terrain includes hardwood forests, wetlands, and scenic vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
9. Frozen Ocean State Forest
RUGGED OUTDOOR EXPLORATION
Frozen Ocean State Forest presents a less-developed natural area where adventurous visitors can experience true Finger Lakes wilderness. The forest offers opportunities for primitive camping, hunting, and hiking through varied terrain with minimal facilities. Nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the unspoiled landscapes and the chance to observe native plants and animals in their natural habitat.
10. Long Point State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION DESTINATION
Long Point State Park extends into Cayuga Lake on a picturesque peninsula, offering excellent water access and panoramic lake views. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and boating during the warmer months while taking in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. The park's location makes it an ideal spot for fishing, wildlife observation, and peaceful relaxation by the water.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL EXPERIENCES
Shopping in Moravia offers a charming small-town experience with establishments like Jennings Department Store providing a nostalgic retail atmosphere. Visitors can browse local boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores throughout the village's walkable downtown area. The nearby MacKenzie-Childs store in Aurora offers unique, hand-decorated pottery and home furnishings for those seeking distinctive shopping experiences in the region.
12. Dining
TASTY LOCAL FLAVORS
Dining in Moravia features beloved local establishments like Lake Side Grill, 10-10 BBQ, and Colonial Lodge that showcase regional cuisine and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy everything from casual pizza at Giuseppe's Pizzeria to comfort food classics in family-friendly settings. The restaurants often feature locally-sourced ingredients from the surrounding agricultural region, providing authentic farm-to-table dining experiences.
13. Hiking
SCENIC TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking in Moravia offers diverse trail experiences through Fillmore Glen State Park's gorge paths and waterfall views that showcase the area's stunning natural beauty. Adventurous hikers can explore the trails at Bear Swamp State Forest, Frozen Ocean State Forest, and Owasco Flats Nature Preserve for varied terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Carpenter Falls trail provides a more challenging but rewarding hike to one of the region's most spectacular waterfalls.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S PARADISE WATERS
Fishing in Moravia centers around Owasco Lake, where anglers can target trout, bass, pike, and various panfish species in the crystal-clear waters. The South Shore Marina provides boat rentals and launch facilities for those looking to access the lake's prime fishing spots. Seasonal fishing is also available in the streams within Fillmore Glen State Park and the Owasco Inlet, offering diverse fishing experiences throughout the year.
15. Camping
OVERNIGHT NATURE IMMERSION
Camping in Moravia features developed campsites at Fillmore Glen State Park where visitors can enjoy amenities including showers and electrical hookups in a scenic wooded setting. More primitive camping opportunities exist within Bear Swamp State Forest and Frozen Ocean State Forest for those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience. The campgrounds provide an excellent base for exploring the region's natural attractions while creating memorable overnight experiences in the Finger Lakes wilderness.