A quaint town in the heart of the Greater Niagara region, Batavia has a fascinating history. For centuries, this area was the crossroads of major trails used by Native Americans and a meeting place for Seneca leaders. You can learn more about local history at the Holland Land Office Museum, built in 1815.
Experience Batavia’s small-town friendliness as you explore the unique shops, antique centers and restaurants downtown. Year round celebrations include holiday, art, and music festivals. Every Friday in summer, you can listen to a free concert in historic Jackson Square. On Thursdays from June to October, browse the Downtown Batavia Public Market to find fresh-baked goods, local maple syrup and cheeses, berries, corn, tomatoes and other fresh produce. The Genesee Center for the Arts presents concerts and plays, as well as exhibits of internationally known artists.
Sports enthusiasts will find a lot to do in Batavia. Batavia Downs, the historic harness racing track, now also offers a casino, horse shows, concerts and competitions. Adventure Calls Outfitters lead rafting and kayak trips in the beautiful Zoar Valley. Baseball fans can cheer on the Batavia Muckdogs, June through August at Dwyer Stadium. This Minor League Baseball team is the farm club of the St. Louis Cardinals. Golf lovers can tee off at their choice of several courses, including the Batavia Country Club and Terry Hills Golf Course.
Called the Birthplace of Western New York, Batavia offers an ideal starting point for travelers who want explore all that the area has to offer. Located halfway between Buffalo and Rochester, it’s less than an hour’s drive from Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park and Lake Ontario. The Genesee Country Village & Museum, one of the largest outdoor living history museums in the U.S., is about 30 minutes away, and Darien Lake Theme Park & Resort is about 10 miles southwest of the city.