Now more than ever we crave those getaways we've been dreaming of. Unfortunately, Covid has pretty much put a wrench in most travel plans for the year. That being said, everyone is going to ease into travel at their own pace and that's okay. For us, we've found the best way to do so! We have been staying at B&Bs when we travel to keep exposure to others low and fulfill our travel desires. We've also been doing a lot of local road trips and weekend getaways.
Our most recent, a weekend away in New York to visit Letchworth State Park and stay at BrickInn located in Mt. Morris, NY. Letchworth State Park has won the award for best attraction in New York State as well as the best state park in the country and is just a quick five minute drive from BrickInn. The park is also commonly referred to as "The Grand Canyon of the East." Its 66 miles of hiking trails and three stunning waterfalls offer a variety of options for every type of adventure. The Genesee River flows right through the middle of the park and takes the credit for forming the beautiful landscapes surrounding it. During the summer months, you can enjoy white water rafting, kayaking and you can even get a unique view of the park via hot air balloon. Winter seasons offer cross country skiing, tubing and snowmobiling.
If you're coming from the Mt. Morris area, you will enter the park at the north end. We recommend driving the entire length to the south end (about a 30 minute drive) and working your way backwards. The drive itself is beautiful, especially if the leaves are changing colors. At the south end, you'll find Lower Falls, Upper Falls and Inspiration Point. Our recommendation is to park the car and get out and walk the length of the trail if you're able. There are many flat areas and the overlooks seemed to be very accessible for wheelchairs and strollers! There are plenty of public restrooms, benches and picnics areas throughout the park as well. As you make your way back towards the North End, stop and check out the incredible views along the way! You can easily spend an hour making the drive through and back if you're short on time or you can find activities to fill your entire day or weekend. Here's a map of the area which we found most helpful.
Now that you've explored the coolest state park in the country, you need an equally epic place to spend the night or weekend! We stayed at BrickInn located five minutes from the park in Mt. Morris, NY. The owners, Chic and Dwight, have poured their heart and soul into their property and it shows. The property sits walking distance from the downtown area of Mt. Morris which offers quaint shops, thrift stores, antique shops and dining. For you beer lovers like us, there are plenty of breweries within a 15-20 minute drive. Our recommendation for a brewery is Rising Storm Brewing Company located in Avon, NY, a quick 18 minute drive from the Inn. Their beer is well crafted and they offer a small but delicious food menu. They even offered to make me something to meet my dietary preferences and there is both indoor and outdoor seating. Add it to the list!
Our stay at Brickinn was incredibly relaxing. Their modern touches among the historic building make for the ideal accommodations for all different types of travelers. Their rooms are built for comfort, charm and a touch a luxury. We highly recommend booking the Sparrow Room. It is spacious, has a king sized bed and has the most stunning bathroom with a tub to relax in after a long day. Don't forget to turn on the heated floors and towel warmer while you chose from epsom salt or lavender bath bombs! We recently wrote a blog post about why you should chose the local experience and stay at a bed and breakfast, you can find it here.
Derek and I both agree that one of our favorite things about a bed and breakfast is the home cooked breakfast. At BrickInn you are treated to a three course breakfast and we promise, it's incredible. Start with coffee, tea and/or juice then enjoy a homemade baked item, a fruit dish and a savory or sweet meal. If you're vegan, vegetarian or have dietary allergies this is the place for you because there will be a dish for you and it's just as good as the "regular" meal. I'm not kidding, we think and talk about this breakfast all of the time.
If you want to spend some time outside relaxing, the property sits on a beautiful yard. At the end of the day, spend time by the cozy fireplace in their large common room. Engage with the owners and travelers from various areas, the conversation is fantastic! If you crave more of a private setting, head back to your room and enjoy the fireplace there or put a movie on the Roku smart TV. If you need to get work done, each room offers an office area and highspeed wifi.
We really love to highlight places that stand out to us and if you live in the North East, this is an incredible weekend getaway idea. If you stop in, tell Chic and Dwight we say hello!
Safe travels,
Xoxo,
Meg & Derek