Escape To Owega

By Michael Upton Freelance Writer

Nestled in the southeastern tip of the Finger Lakes Region of New York, Owego is a smalltown bursting with creativity, culinary energy, and a mix of natural beauty and thriving commerce, making it a wonderful place to start a weekend getaway.

The Iroquois word Ahwaga means “where the valley widens,” and it is the genesis of the Owego town name. Crossing the Susquehanna River via the lantern-lined Court Street Bridge, visitors can turn right into the heart of town and park along Front St. Specialty shops line the street and round the corner to Lake St. and up to Main. A perfectly walkable downtown has everything visitors may want. Owego is sensible for out-oftown adventures, too. It is an hour drive to Watkins Glen and Seneca Lake, half an hour to the forested trails of Waverly Reservoir, and only

minutes to The Links at Hiawatha Landing golf course.

Breakfast

Carol’s Coffee and Art Bar on Front St. is the spot to find live music throughout the day, art by local artists young and old, and a full selection of espresso drinks. The bagels— plain, everything, cranberry orange, cinnamon raisin, and blueberry—are all made in house. Up on North Ave., Baking by Numbers offers crafted baked goods next door to Roasted Coffee Bar. Roasted offers several specialty coffee and tea drinks. Those looking for a more traditional breakfast may want to drive out of downtown to River Rock Diner.

What to do

Time is well spent soaking in the beauty of this small, river town, and the Riverwalk is a perfect spot to fully appreciate Owego. The landscaped, paved path along the banks of the Susquehanna River connects Draper and Ahwaga Parks, and offers scenic views perfect for wildlife photography, bird watching, or even fishing.

It is strawberry time every June in Owego. For more than 40 years, the town has hosted a Strawberry Festival with a 5k race, block party, and fireworks. A morning parade kicks off activities on Saturday of the weekend-long fest. Winter events include a Halloween Fest and a Holiday Showcase.

For those looking for a different kind of action, Tioga Downs Casino Resort is a short drive from Owego. Beyond the expected gaming options of a casino, Tioga Downs is also a harness racing venue where horses and their carriage riding drivers compete on a 5/8-mile oval.

Lunch and beer

There are a dozen eateries within walking distance of downtown. Ike and Julie Lovelass opened The Owego Kitchen in 2015 after falling in love with Owego. Created by a Johnson & Wales University graduate, the menu is simple and slightly eclectic. The big seller at lunchtime is the chicken salad. Hector-based Lucky Hare Brewing runs a popular tap room right down the street. Self-serve beers are available at the most unique combo in town: Owego Donut & Beer Co. Here, the baked goods come in creative flavors and combinations and the beer selection features a wide range of local brews.

More to do: shopping

Downtown is the perfect place to get in some shopping. Antique lovers can get lost for hours in the Early Owego Antique Center. Dozens upon dozens of dealers offer everything from vintage clothing to collectables from almost every age. The center is in the former home of the J. J. Newberry Co. department store, and still displays the business’ midcentury logo on the robin’s-egg blue building exterior. Bibliophiles will be equally enthralled by Riverow Bookshop. Stacks upon stacks and overfilled shelves mean curiosity seekers can spend hours here. This is a great spot to look for collectable books.

Where to stay

Owego is a great hopping off point for Finger Lakes adventures. Travelers can call the quaint small town homebase while having easy access to cities like Ithaca and Watkins Glen, plus the natural wonders around the “Gateway to the Finger Lakes.”

On Front St., the Owego Parkview Inn was restored in 2019, recapturing the grandeur and glory of the circa 1867 hotel. The Inn features nine rooms with historic themes and simple furnishings. The Inn also houses the Duggan House Restaurant and Pub. There are several bed and breakfast and chain hotel options, too. Campers can visit Aspen Family Campground in nearby Candor.

Dinner

Owego is home to The Cellar Restaurant, one of Tioga County’s most recognized restaurants. What started in the cozy basement confines of an historic building along the river, The Cellar moved to street level after flooding in 2006. Owners Bob and Sandy Layman serve creative flatbreads and burgers, classic entrees, and fish and steak specialties in a rustically sophisticated atmosphere. Chef Bob has honed the skill of cooking gluten free options, which rank as outstanding cuisine on their own. Al fresco dining with a river view is an in-season option.

Owego is quiet and at the same time vibrant. Those looking for all the amenities and attractions of a quality vacation with the allure of small-town America will definitely appreciate Owego.

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