Owego New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Owego, New York.
1. Early Owego Antique Center
TREASURE HUNTING PARADISE
Early Owego Antique Center is a vast multi-dealer antique mall located in historic Owego with over 90 dealers spread across two floors and 21,000 square feet. Visitors can explore countless antiques and collectibles, making it a perfect destination for those seeking unique treasures and historical items. The center has become one of the top attractions in the area, drawing both casual browsers and serious collectors alike.
2. Owego Riverwalk
SCENIC RIVERSIDE STROLL
Owego Riverwalk is a beautiful pedestrian promenade that runs along the banks of the Susquehanna River, connecting Draper Park and Ahwaga Park. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll behind the historic storefronts of Front Street while taking in picturesque views and potentially spotting local river wildlife. This paved path offers a perfect introduction to Owego's natural beauty and charm, making it an ideal first stop for newcomers to the area.
3. Tioga County Historical Society
PRESERVING LOCAL HERITAGE
Tioga County Historical Society serves as the guardian of Owego's rich historical legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's fascinating past. The museum houses extensive collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Tioga County from its earliest days to the present. History enthusiasts can explore changing exhibits and permanent displays that highlight significant events, notable figures, and everyday life in this charming upstate New York community.
4. Tioga Gardens
BOTANICAL BEAUTY SPOT
Tioga Gardens offers visitors a serene escape into natural beauty with its meticulously maintained flora and diverse plant collections. The gardens feature seasonal displays, landscaped areas, and a variety of botanical specimens that create a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Visitors can wander through the colorful grounds, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and gain inspiration for their own gardening endeavors.
5. Glen Park Vineyards
FAMILY-RUN WINE DESTINATION
Glen Park Vineyards is a family-operated New York State Farm Winery established in 2014, serving as a southern gateway to the renowned Finger Lakes wine region. The vineyard produces a selection of handcrafted wines that showcase the unique terroir of the area, offering tastings in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Visitors can sample local vintages while enjoying the picturesque surroundings that make this winery a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts exploring Owego.
6. Evergreen Cemetery
HISTORIC FINAL RESTING PLACE
Evergreen Cemetery serves as both a historical landmark and a peaceful sanctuary within Owego, containing the final resting places of many notable local figures. The cemetery features beautiful old gravestones, mature trees, and well-maintained grounds that invite quiet contemplation and historical exploration. Visitors interested in genealogy, local history, or simply seeking a tranquil walking spot will find Evergreen Cemetery to be a meaningful place to spend time.
7. Ti-Ahwaga Community Players
LOCAL THEATRICAL TALENT
Ti-Ahwaga Community Players brings the magic of live theater to Owego with its captivating performances throughout the year. The community theater group stages a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary works, showcasing local talent in an intimate setting. Theater-goers can enjoy high-quality entertainment at reasonable prices, typically around $20 per show, making cultural experiences accessible to residents and visitors alike.
8. Black Cat Gallery
ARTISTIC EXPRESSION SHOWCASE
Black Cat Gallery enriches Owego's cultural landscape by exhibiting works from talented local and regional artists. The gallery showcases a diverse range of artistic media, styles, and expressions that reflect the creative spirit of the community. Visitors can browse the changing exhibitions, meet artists during special events, and perhaps find a unique piece of art to take home as a memento of their time in this charming upstate New York village.
9. Tioga County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL GREEK REVIVAL
Tioga County Courthouse stands as a magnificent example of Greek Revival architecture, built in 1873 and continuing to serve as an active courthouse today. The historic structure features impressive architectural details, grand interiors, and represents an important landmark in Owego's civic history. Visitors can take guided tours to admire the courthouse's grandeur and learn about significant events that have taken place within its stately walls over more than a century of service to the community.
10. Hiawatha Island
SACRED RIVER RETREAT
Hiawatha Island sits majestically in the Susquehanna River, offering a glimpse into the region's Native American heritage as a sacred site. The island provides a natural sanctuary with its undisturbed environment, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in both cultural history and ecology. Visitors can appreciate the island's significance while enjoying views of this unique landscape that has remained largely unchanged through centuries of the area's development.
11. Shopping
BROWSE UNIQUE BOUTIQUES
Shopping in Owego offers a delightful experience with establishments like Riverrow Bookshop and the Historic Owego Marketplace featuring unique finds and local treasures. The town's Front Street area is lined with charming boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops that invite visitors to discover one-of-a-kind items. Shoppers can spend hours exploring Gallery 41 with its artisan crafts, the numerous antique shops beyond the Early Owego Antique Center, and other distinctive retail establishments that contribute to Owego's reputation as a shopping destination.
12. Dining
SAVOR LOCAL FLAVORS
Dining in Owego presents visitors with tempting options like PJ Clarke's, a famous NYC steakhouse that has established a location in this charming upstate town. The local foodie scene features diverse restaurants serving everything from casual comfort food to more upscale dining experiences. Visitors can enjoy famous burgers and steaks at PJ Clarke's, explore other local eateries along Front Street, and experience the flavors that make Owego's culinary offerings a highlight for travelers.
13. Hiking
EXPLORE NATURAL TRAILS
Hiking around Owego offers outdoor enthusiasts access to beautiful natural areas like the forested trails surrounding the Waverly Reservoir just 25 minutes from town. The Waverly Glen area features both easy paths suitable for casual walkers and more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic beauty, observe local wildlife, and discover hidden gems like the Waverly Glen Waterfall while exploring the diverse network of trails in and around this picturesque Finger Lakes region town.
14. Fishing
CAST IN SUSQUEHANNA WATERS
Fishing in Owego centers around the majestic Susquehanna River that flows through the heart of this historic village, offering anglers opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater species. The river's diverse habitats support populations of smallmouth bass, walleye, catfish, and other game fish that provide exciting challenges for both novice and experienced fishermen. Visitors can cast their lines from accessible spots along the Owego Riverwalk, nearby Hickories Park, or explore other local fishing areas while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds this charming upstate New York destination.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
Camping near Owego offers outdoor enthusiasts several options including Hickories Park, a beautiful riverside recreation area with camping facilities along the Susquehanna River. The region surrounding Owego features additional campgrounds that provide varying levels of amenities, from rustic sites for tent camping to more developed areas with RV hookups. Nature lovers can enjoy starry nights, morning birdsong, and easy access to hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities while using these camping areas as a base for exploring all that Tioga County and the southern Finger Lakes region has to offer.