October 2, 2018
Outbound: Graycliff tours include Sundays in the Country
A lot of people believe that in order to view the best of the changing leaves, one must travel to places like Vermont. While Vermont trees are most certainly approaching their utmost vibrancy, we must remember that there are places in WNY that are stunning in their own ways, including the lands surrounding the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Graycliff Estate. Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Graycliff, particularly for this reason.
The Graycliff Conservancy invites leaf peepers to come view impressive architecture and the changing of the season. There really is no better fall foliage vantage point than from atop a 65 foot cliff overlooking Lake Erie. This is a prime chance to walk the colorful grounds of the architectural landmark, which includes spectacular views of the gardens, the ponds, and the forested setting.
“Using a free smart phone app, guests can stroll the grounds while following a narrated, self-guided tour which brings to life stories about the Martin family and Ellen Biddle Shipman’s landscape design.” – The Conservancy
To that end, the Conservancy has established a “Sundays in the Country” series. Sunday is the perfect day to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Plus, visitors will be able to see all of the impeccable work that has gone into the restoration of this FLW stunner – the interior restoration is almost complete! Word is that the house’s iconic red roof will soon be freshly repainted, which is a reason in itself to visit the grounds.
Graycliff is located at 6472 Old Lakeshore Rd., Derby, NY, 14047.
Sunday in the Country will be offered October 7th, and 14th, starting at 9am. Reservations are required for this great experience.
Catch the coach at Graycliff and begin your day with a relaxing country drive to beautiful East Aurora, where you’ll enjoy a tour of the Roycroft Campus including the grounds, Power House, Print Shop, and Chapel, and gain a better understanding of the Arts & Crafts movement.
After your tour, you’ll take a scenic ride stopping in the Village of Hamburg, where you’ll savor a fantastic brunch with Carte Blanche Hamburg, crafted from fresh, local ingredients produced right here in Western New York!
Finally, enjoy fall colors and views of Eighteen Mile Creek as you make your way to Graycliff, overlooking Lake Erie. Recently having completed a more than twenty-year restoration, you’ll experience a Frank Lloyd Wright home unlike any other, designed as a seasonal retreat for the Darwin D. Martin family.
Tour includes transportation, a one-hour tour of the Roycroft Campus, brunch at Carte Blanche, and a basic tour of Graycliff for $80. Tour is 6 hours and 30 minutes.
