Waterloo New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waterloo, New York.
1. del Lago Resort & Casino
CASINO AND ENTERTAINMENT
del Lago Resort & Casino in Waterloo features a vibrant casino floor, world-class entertainment, and several dining options under one roof. Guests can enjoy slots, table games, and live performances in a modern, energetic atmosphere. The resort also offers luxurious accommodations and spa services for a complete getaway experience.
2. Waterloo Premium Outlets
TOP SHOPPING DESTINATION
Waterloo Premium Outlets is an expansive outdoor shopping center featuring over 100 designer and name-brand stores. Shoppers can enjoy big savings on popular brands, as well as a selection of on-site dining for a full day of retail therapy. The mall's convenient location off the New York State Thruway makes it a favorite stop for both travelers and locals.
3. Muranda Cheese Company
ARTISAN CHEESE EXPERIENCE
The Muranda Cheese Company offers visitors a chance to taste award-winning artisanal cheeses produced on a historic family farm. The beautifully restored barn serves as a welcoming tasting room, where guests learn about the cheesemaking process and sample over 17 varieties. The farm's picturesque setting and friendly staff make it a standout stop for food lovers.
4. National Memorial Day Museum
HISTORIC MEMORIAL MUSEUM
The National Memorial Day Museum commemorates the origins of Memorial Day, which began in Waterloo. Exhibits detail the holiday's history and the community's role in honoring military service through artifacts, documents, and personal stories. This museum is a must-visit for history buffs interested in patriotic traditions.
5. Peter Whitmer Farm
RELIGIOUS HERITAGE SITE
The Peter Whitmer Farm stands as a significant site in the early history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visitors can tour the reconstructed farmhouse and visitor center, learning about the events that took place here in the 1820s. The site offers a tranquil rural setting for reflection and historical exploration.
6. Waterloo Library & Historical Society
CULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Waterloo Library & Historical Society preserves the town's local heritage through a robust collection of artifacts, books, and historic documents. The society hosts educational programs and rotating exhibits that highlight key events and figures from Waterloo's history. It's an enriching stop for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of the community.
7. Terwilliger Museum
LOCAL HISTORY ON DISPLAY
The Terwilliger Museum houses a diverse range of historical displays, from antique furnishings to memorabilia depicting Waterloo's past. Each exhibit tells the story of the town's development and the people who shaped it over the centuries. Friendly volunteers guide guests through the museum's unique collections in a charming historic building.
8. Hunt House
EARLY AMERICAN HOME
The historic Hunt House, located in Waterloo, features period architecture and furnishings that offer a glimpse into early American domestic life. Tours explore the home's origins and its importance within the local community. Its preservation provides visitors a tangible link to Waterloo's rich heritage.
9. McClintock House
ABOLITIONIST LANDMARK
The McClintock House is a landmark of the women's rights and abolitionist movements, now preserved as a museum. Visitors can discover exhibits about the pivotal 1848 Seneca Falls Convention and the role the McClintocks played in advancing social justice. The site includes interpretive displays that highlight the pioneering work done here.
10. Big D's Auctions & Antique Mall
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES
Big D's Auctions & Antique Mall is a treasure trove for fans of vintage finds, with a wide selection of antiques, collectibles, and unique treasures. Shoppers can browse through a constantly changing inventory in a spacious and welcoming setting. Regular auctions add excitement for both serious collectors and casual browsers.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY HOTSPOTS
Shopping in Waterloo offers something for every taste, with highlights like the Waterloo Premium Outlets, featuring over 100 stores, and Big D's Auctions & Antique Mall for rare finds. Visitors can explore a mix of national brands and charming local shops for clothing, accessories, and specialty foods. The town's shopping scene is rounded out by small boutiques and the Muranda Cheese Company's on-site store.
12. Dining
LOCAL FLAVORS DISCOVERED
Dining in Waterloo boasts an array of flavors, from upscale options at del Lago Resort & Casino to local favorites like Connie's Diner and the Tiki Bar North. Visitors can savor farm-to-table fare, Finger Lakes wines, and classic American cuisine across an approachable dining scene. Quaint cafes and nearby wineries round out the culinary adventure in this welcoming town.
13. Hiking
NATURE TRAILS EXPLORED
Hiking in Waterloo is easily accessible, with nearby Finger Lakes trails providing picturesque walks and scenic views. Popular nearby hiking options include the Seneca Lake State Park and Cayuga-Seneca Canal Trail, both just a short drive from town. Nature enthusiasts will find tranquil paths and opportunities to spot local wildlife in every season.
14. Fishing
ANGLING ON FINGER LAKES
Fishing around Waterloo is celebrated for its proximity to both Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, renowned for bass, trout, and other species. Anglers of all skill levels enjoy public access points, boat launches, and quiet shoreline spots. The region hosts seasonal fishing tournaments and offers beautiful lakefront scenery throughout the year.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR STAYS ENJOYED
Camping in Waterloo is highlighted by the Waterloo/Finger Lakes KOA Holiday, a full-service campground offering RV sites, cabins, and tent spaces. Campers can enjoy amenities like a pool, game room, and easy access to the area's top attractions. The campground's convenient location makes it a perfect base for exploring the scenic Finger Lakes region.