7 Old-Fashioned Country Stores Around Rochester

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 knick-knacks, and an assortment of unique candies and other sweet treats. Enjoy the slow roads as you visit these stores, spread throughout our rural communities and along quaint village Main Streets.

1. The Olde Country Store and More – 1849

The Olde Country Store and More – 1849
North Cohocton, NY

The Olde Country Store is renowned for its wide range of candies and local and German goods, 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

Vidler’s 5 and 10 Variety Store
East Aurora, NY

Vidler’s 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

Genesee Country Village Mercantile, Confectionery, and Pub
Mumford, NY

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.

4. Wendy’s Pantry & Country Mouse Tea House

Wendy’s Pantry & Country Mouse Tea House
Mount Morris, NY

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 Country Store
Marilla, NY

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.

6. Grandpa’s Country Store

Grandpa’s Country Store
Akron, NY

Discover Grandpa’s Country Store offers a variety of unique gift and novelty items, from handcrafted treasures to quirky finds. The selection combines charm and nostalgia, making it ideal for presents or keepsakes. The store is a rebranding honoring the founder, who operated shops in Erie and Niagara Counties since the early 90s, including Clarence County Store and Gordie Harper’s Bazaar.

7. Kelly’s Country Store

Kelly’s Country Store
Grand Island, NY

Kelly’s Country Store in Grand Island has been serving Western New York since 1962, specializing in handcrafted candies, chocolates, and gifts. Established by Walter and Grace Kelly, the business began as a small festival stand selling penny candies and has since become a community mainstay. Now run by the fourth generation, this family-owned store offers distinctive gifts and sweets.

What do you love most about our old-fashioned country stores?

I’d love to hear from you—please reach out and share your thoughts and experiences.