Spend a day exploring these carefully preserved old-fashioned country stores that offer a nostalgic trip back in time. These historic buildings house a variety of vintage toys, quirky knickknacks, and an assortment of unique candies and other sweet treats. Enjoy the slow roads to visit each of these stores, which are spread throughout our rural communities and along quaint village Main Streets.
1. The Olde Country Store and More – 1849
North Cohocton
The Olde Country Store and More—1849 is renowned for its wide range of candies and local and German consumables and products, including original Lauscha glass ornaments. It boasts the largest selection of 1000 Islands River Rat Cheese in the area. You’ll also find Green Heart of the Finger Lakes merchandise designed by the store’s proprietor. The store is open seasonally from March until the end of December.
2. Vidler’s 5 and 10 Variety Store
East Aurora
Vidler’s 5 & 10 Variety Store is a cherished retail establishment that has delighted customers since it was founded in 1930. Spread across four connected buildings and offering over 75,000 diverse items, Vidler’s offers a nostalgic trip back to mid-20th-century America. Renowned for its old-fashioned charm, unique layout, and wide variety of merchandise, this beloved five-and-dime store serves as a community hub and is a popular destination for locals and visitors. Vidler’s continues to thrive by preserving its historic roots while adapting to modern times, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable and unique shopping experience.
3. Genesee Country Village Mercantile, Confectionery, and Pub
Mumford
The Genesee Country Village & Museum offers more than just a glimpse into 19th-century life through its living history exhibits. In addition to the exhibits, visitors can enjoy a unique shopping experience at charming shops like the Flint Hill Gift Shop, Village Mercantile, D.B. Munger & Co. Confectionery, and Freight House Pub. These shops offer period-inspired clothing, toys, wares, and decor, traditional sweets, and locally crafted beverages, capturing the essence of historical craftsmanship and flavors.
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4. Wendy’s Pantry & Country Mouse Tea House
Mount Morris
Wendy’s Pantry & Country Mouse Tea House provides a unique and charming experience. Their historic building houses a specialty foods and candy store and a cozy tea and coffee shop. Visitors can choose from a wide selection of old-fashioned and popular candies, high-quality chocolates, truffles, and other confectionery items, with a focus on natural and local New York State products. The tea house offers various teas, coffees, and freshly baked goods. Additionally, Wendy’s hosts small tea parties for baby showers, meetings, and family gatherings.
Wendy’s doesn’t maintain an active digital presence, so you may wish to call ahead — (585) 658-2628 — or plan to stop by on your way home from Letchworth.
5. Marilla Country Store
Marilla
The Marilla Country Store, established in 1851, is one of the oldest continuously operating country stores in the United States. The store’s historic structure features original plank floors, vintage countertops, and a nostalgic gaslight. The on-site museum showcases antique merchandise, old store equipment, original advertising, and captivating stories from the store’s past. This landmark in Western New York offers a wide selection of fresh bulk foods, old-fashioned candies, unique gifts, and charming decor.
Special Mention
Periodically, I receive recommendations from the Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, community. Most recently, Grandpa’s Country Store in Akron, NY, has come to my attention, and I need to visit it the next time I go to Akron Falls. They don’t have a digital presence to point to (no Facebook account or website), but take a look at their Google Maps page for contact info and a few photos. It looks like it opened in June of 2024.
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What do you love most about our old-fashioned country stores?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
Olde Country Store, in North Cohocton, is a fantastic store. Have been there many times and loved it every time. So much candy to choose from and other great items!
Oh there’s a darling country store and tea parlor on Main Street in Mount Morris! Reflections from the Past
Making plans to go to Rochester on mothers day, can’t wait!
Need to visit!