“East Aurora, what can I say? It’s a gem of a village nestled in the heart of western New York, where history, art, and community spirit come together to create a truly unique place to live and visit. With its friendly folks, a population of around 6,000, and a real sense of belonging, East Aurora is a hometown that’s hard not to love.
You’ve probably heard of Elbert Hubbard, the famous writer and philosopher. Well, this is his hometown, and he left his mark with the creation of the Roycroft arts and crafts community. The Roycroft Campus is a living testament to East Aurora’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship, and it’s a place where history and culture converge.
Then there’s Vidler’s 5 & 10. For over a hundred years, it’s been the heart of this village, offering a nostalgic shopping experience you won’t find anywhere else. Stepping inside is like taking a journey back in time. Surrounded by the beauty of Knox Farm State Park, with its scenic trails, perfect for hiking and picnicking, East Aurora is a nature lover’s dream.
And let’s not forget the events and festivals that grace this village throughout the year. They add a dash of vibrancy to East Aurora’s already bustling social scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for a welcoming community, East Aurora has something to offer everyone. It’s a place that truly makes you feel at home in Western New York.”
More about the place including restaurants, hotels, things to do, school, directions, etc.
Restaurants
Bar-Bill Tavern
Known for its famous chicken wings, Bar-Bill Tavern is a local favorite. They offer a wide range of wing flavors and other pub-style food.
Riley Street Station
This restaurant is housed in a historic train station and offers a diverse menu, including steaks, seafood, and creative specials.
Rick’s on Main
A fine dining restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and offers a diverse menu with seasonal changes.
Elm Street Bakery
A charming bakery and café that serves freshly baked bread, pastries, and a variety of sandwiches and salads. They also have a coffee bar.
42 North Brewing Company
This brewery and pub is not just for beer enthusiasts; they also offer a menu of pub-style food with a focus on local ingredients.
Tony Rome’s Globe Hotel
A classic Italian-American restaurant that’s been a local fixture for many years. They serve a variety of Italian dishes and have a cozy, old-world ambiance.
Aurora Brew Works
A great spot for craft beer enthusiasts, they offer a wide selection of craft beers and often have food trucks or pop-up food events.
The Grange Community Kitchen
A restaurant that focuses on seasonal and local ingredients to create a farm-to-table dining experience.
Blue Lantern Lounge
A cozy and stylish restaurant and lounge with a varied menu, including seafood, steak, and other American classics.
Pizza Del Aureo’s
A popular pizzeria offering a variety of pizza options, subs, and Italian dishes.
Shops
Vidler’s 5 & 10
A beloved local institution, Vidler’s is a variety store that has been serving the community for decades. You can find everything from toys to housewares, candy, and much more.
The Antique Man
An antique shop with a wide range of vintage and collectible items, including furniture, jewelry, and decor.
East Aurora Farmers Market
Seasonal farmers’ market where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and locally crafted products.
Fisher-Price Toy Store
Located at the Fisher-Price headquarters, this store offers a selection of Fisher-Price toys and merchandise, perfect for families with young children.
Material Rewards Quilt Shop
A shop for quilting enthusiasts, offering fabrics, patterns, and quilting supplies.
Arts Crafts & More
A store specializing in art and craft supplies, perfect for artists and crafters.
Aurora Outfitters
A shop for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a selection of gear, clothing, and accessories for activities like hiking and camping.
MuseJar
A unique shop with a focus on art and creativity, offering classes and a selection of handmade goods.
Petals to Please
A floral shop offering a variety of fresh flowers and floral arrangements for various occasions.
Penny Lane Gifts
A gift shop with a wide range of unique and handcrafted gifts, home decor, and accessories.
The Red Door Country Store
A country-themed store offering home decor, gifts, and seasonal items.
East Aurora Co-op Market
A community-owned cooperative market offering a selection of local, organic, and natural foods and products.
Things To Do
Take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of East Aurora. The main street is lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants.
The Roycroft Campus is a national historic landmark that was an important center for the Arts and Crafts movement in the early 20th century. You can take guided tours to learn about its history and admire the architecture and craftsmanship.
Enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of Knox Farm State Park, which offers hiking and walking trails, as well as opportunities for picnicking and wildlife viewing.
Catch a movie or enjoy live theater productions at the Aurora Theatre, a historic cinema with character.
East Aurora has a thriving arts scene. Explore local art galleries and studios, such as Meibohm Fine Arts, to appreciate the work of regional artists.
Visit the Fisher-Price Toy Museum, located at the Fisher-Price headquarters in East Aurora. This museum showcases the history of Fisher-Price toys, which have been a part of many childhoods.
If you’re a golfer, enjoy a round of golf at the East Aurora Country Club, a beautiful and well-maintained golf course.
Several yoga studios in the area offer classes for all levels, providing a great way to relax and rejuvenate.
If you’re in town during the right season, explore the East Aurora Farmers Market, where you can purchase fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in nearby parks and nature areas.
East Aurora hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the East Aurora Music Festival, which features live music, and the East Aurora Street Festival.
Explore other historical sites in the area, such as the Millard Fillmore House and the Elbert Hubbard Roycroft Museum.
Hotels
The Roycroft Inn
This historic inn is part of the Roycroft Campus and offers a charming and unique place to stay. The inn features well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, and is known for its Arts and Crafts architecture.
Aurora Inn
Located on the shores of Lake Cayuga in nearby Aurora, New York, this inn offers beautiful lake views, a restaurant, and elegantly decorated rooms.
Millard Fillmore House Bed & Breakfast
This bed and breakfast provides a cozy and historical experience, as it’s the former residence of U.S. President Millard Fillmore. It offers comfortable accommodations and a glimpse into local history.
Hampton Inn East Aurora
A modern and comfortable hotel option, the Hampton Inn offers well-equipped rooms, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.
Super 8 by Wyndham
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Super 8 offers affordable accommodations with basic amenities.
Red Roof Inn Buffalo – Hamburg
Located in nearby Hamburg, New York, this hotel offers a budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms.
Directions
From Buffalo, NY to East Aurora, NY:
- Start by heading southeast on I-190 S (Niagara Thruway) from Buffalo.
- Take exit 1-61 for NY-400 S toward East Aurora/US-20A.
- Merge onto NY-400 S/S Aurora St.
- Follow NY-400 S for approximately 14 miles into East Aurora.
- Once you reach East Aurora, you’ll be in the village, and you can navigate to your specific destination within the village from there.
Schools
East Aurora Union Free School District
This is the local public school district serving the East Aurora community. It includes several schools, such as East Aurora High School, East Aurora Middle School, and several elementary schools.
Park School of Buffalo
While not located in East Aurora, the Park School is a well-regarded private independent school that serves students in the Buffalo area. It may be an option for families seeking private education.
