Olean New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Olean, New York.
1. Rock City Park
ANCIENT ROCK FORMATIONS
Rock City Park offers visitors an incredible display of massive rock formations that were created millions of years ago. Tourists can explore the maze-like pathways between enormous boulders and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Allegheny Mountains. This natural wonder is consistently ranked as the top attraction in Olean, providing a perfect opportunity for outdoor adventure and geological discovery.
2. Cutco-Ka-Bar Visitors Center
LEGENDARY KNIFE CRAFTSMANSHIP
The Cutco-Ka-Bar Visitors Center showcases the history and craftsmanship of America's iconic knife manufacturers. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits featuring military knives that served in WWII alongside modern culinary tools produced in Olean today. The center offers an educational experience about local manufacturing heritage and provides opportunities to purchase quality cutlery directly from the source.
3. The Basilica of St Mary of the Angels
HISTORIC SPIRITUAL LANDMARK
The Basilica of St Mary of the Angels stands as an architectural masterpiece in downtown Olean with its stunning stained glass windows and ornate interior. This historic church features remarkable religious artwork and craftsmanship that attracts visitors from across the region. Tourists are welcome to admire both the spiritual significance and the artistic beauty that this basilica has maintained throughout its history.
4. Four Mile Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Four Mile Brewing offers beer enthusiasts a taste of locally crafted brews in a welcoming atmosphere just over a mile from downtown Olean. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the brewing process, and sample a rotating selection of unique beers made on-site. The brewery serves as both a production facility and social hub where locals and tourists gather to enjoy quality craft beverages in a relaxed setting.
5. Good Times of Olean
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Good Times of Olean provides a comprehensive entertainment experience featuring bowling, arcade games, and various recreational activities for all ages. Families can spend hours enjoying the diverse attractions while refueling at the on-site restaurant offering casual dining options. This popular venue serves as a go-to destination for birthday celebrations, family outings, and social gatherings throughout the year.
6. Lincoln Park
URBAN RECREATIONAL OASIS
Lincoln Park offers residents and visitors alike a well-maintained green space in the heart of Olean with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The park hosts community events throughout the year, including summer concerts and seasonal festivals that showcase local culture. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along tree-lined paths or take advantage of the recreational amenities that make this park a beloved community gathering place.
7. War Veterans Park
PATRIOTIC MEMORIAL GROUNDS
War Veterans Park honors those who served in the armed forces through thoughtful monuments and peaceful surroundings less than a kilometer from downtown Olean. The park provides a space for reflection and remembrance while offering recreational facilities for community use. Visitors can pay respects to local heroes while enjoying the natural beauty of this dedicated public space that connects Olean's present to its patriotic past.
8. Franchot Park
OUTDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX
Franchot Park serves as Olean's premier sports complex featuring baseball fields, tennis courts, and basketball facilities for public use. The park attracts athletes and spectators throughout the warmer months for organized leagues, tournaments, and casual play. Families appreciate the well-maintained grounds and amenities that provide opportunities for physical activity and community engagement in a pleasant outdoor setting.
9. Oak Hill Park
SCENIC HILLTOP RETREAT
Oak Hill Park perches on elevated terrain offering visitors spectacular views of Olean and the surrounding landscape. The park features winding paths through mature trees, creating a tranquil environment for nature appreciation and outdoor recreation. Locals and tourists alike seek out this peaceful sanctuary for its natural beauty and the refreshing escape it provides from the bustle of everyday life.
10. Forness Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATIONAL AREA
Forness Park stretches along the Allegheny River, providing water access and scenic views for Olean residents and visitors. The park includes open fields, walking paths, and picnic facilities perfect for family gatherings and outdoor activities. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the riverfront location that offers opportunities to observe local wildlife while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this natural setting.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY DESTINATIONS
Olean offers diverse shopping experiences from the CUTCO Store where visitors can purchase high-quality knives directly from the manufacturer to charming downtown boutiques. The city's retail landscape includes both national chains and local specialty shops providing unique souvenirs and everyday necessities. Shoppers can explore the various commercial districts throughout Olean to discover everything from handcrafted goods to practical items while supporting the local economy.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS GALORE
Olean's dining scene features notable establishments like Hammer Back Bar & Grill, Union Tea Cafe, and Brother's Bistro offering diverse culinary experiences. Visitors can indulge in everything from casual fare at The Point Restaurant to sweet treats at Mio Gelato E Cafe throughout the city. Food enthusiasts appreciate the range of options from quick-service restaurants like Tim Hortons to more intimate dining venues, all showcasing local flavors and hospitality.
13. Hiking
NATURAL TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking enthusiasts can explore Gargoyle Park's lovely green spaces and natural trails just minutes from downtown Olean. The surrounding Allegheny foothills offer scenic paths with varying difficulty levels suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers. Nearby trail systems connect visitors to the greater regional network including sections of the North Country National Scenic Trail, providing opportunities to experience the area's diverse ecosystems and landscapes.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S WATERY PARADISE
Fishing opportunities abound along the Allegheny River which flows through Olean, attracting anglers seeking smallmouth bass, walleye, and various other freshwater species. Local access points at Forness Park and nearby public lands provide convenient entry to prime fishing spots throughout the seasonal calendar. Both novice and experienced fishermen appreciate the relatively uncrowded waters and natural beauty that characterize the fishing experience in this Western New York destination.
15. Camping
OVERNIGHT WILDERNESS ESCAPES
The Olean area offers several camping options including facilities at nearby Allegany State Park, providing outdoor enthusiasts with tent sites, cabins, and RV hookups. Campers can enjoy starlit nights and morning birdsong while using these accommodations as a base for exploring the region's natural attractions and recreational opportunities. The surrounding Cattaraugus County wilderness creates an ideal setting for overnight adventures that connect visitors with the peaceful rhythm of nature just beyond the city limits.