Elmwood Village Inn: Bike Friendly Lodging in Buffalo

Buffalo’s Elmwood Village Inn is the first accommodation listed in Parks & Trails New York’s best-selling Cycling the Erie Canal guidebook.

While its prominent placement is due mostly to the Inn’s location in Buffalo, there may be other factors at work because the Inn is becoming a go-to lodging destination for Erie Canalway Trail cyclists.

Having purchased the business in January 2018, new owners Michael and Robin Hollatz bring years of experience in Buffalo’s restaurant and hospitality sector. Their experience pays off for cyclists preparing for extended rides with a full breakfast offered each morning.

Much of the Inn’s appeal lies in its location, Elmwood Village. Beyond its proximity to the ECT – less than two miles west of the trail, and about three miles north of the official start at the Buffalo waterfront – the north-side neighborhood was voted top ten walking neighborhood in 2015.

There are cafes, art galleries, and shops close at hand. Top destinations for guests include the Albright Knox and Birchfield Penny art galleries, and the Richardson Olmsted Complex, a former psychiatric center that has been converted into the Hotel Henry. Delaware Park and the Buffalo History Museum are other big attractions.

Inn owner Micheal Hollatz describes Elmwood Village as a “destination in itself,” and a relaxing beginning or end point for a trail vacation.

Bike Friendly Amenities

Elmwood Village Inn offers secure bike storage, extended parking, and an established relationship with Campus Wheelworks, a bike shop located a few blocks away. As long-time Buffalonians, the Inn’s owners have a great knowledge of where to go and how to get there in Buffalo.

Besides on-premises amenities, Buffalo is becoming a “bike city,” with bike lanes being installed throughout the city, bike share now available, and events such as Slow Roll Buffalo raising excitement and awareness.

The owners report multiple groups of long-distance cyclists coming through in 2018, including groups from Canada and California. Other cycling patrons were visiting family along the trail. Some were doing the full trail; others doing segments.

Have a two-wheeled trip to Buffalo in your future? Check out Elmwood Village Inn!