Wells is a small town located in the Southern Adirondacks. It is also where I grew up and spent most of my young childhood. It's where I remember my first home, and my first school.
My sister and I used to have so much fun riding our bikes around town. We'd ride from store to store; Zack's for blue ring pops, George's for penny candy, Lakeside for slush puppies. We also loved going to the Country Kitchen for lunch.
Like many places over the last quarter-century, it seems that Wells was hit by a bit of a recession which saw many of the small local businesses close. But now, Wells seems to be making a major comeback and has a fun, thriving little downtown. Rental properties are on the rise and businesses seem to be popping up left and right.
The Over Rock Cafe
One of the first restaurants Wells has seen in a while, The Over Rock Cafe opened a few years ago. This classic American Style Diner is open Thursday through Sunday and serves breakfast and lunch. They also open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. Stop in for a burger and fries, or try one of their daily specials!
They even have a nice, warm, wood stove in the middle of the restaurant for those colder days. And, if you stop by in the warmer months, you can see the authentic, restored gypsy wagon they park out front.
Wells Edge Country Store
The building that houses this new business was a staple in my childhood. Formerly Zack's Country Store, the new owners of The Wells Edge Country Store have remodeled and seem to be making great impressions around town.
This convenience store carries all of the standard supplies, plus they have a deli that carries Boar's Head Deli Meat for their freshly made sandwiches. You can also treat yourself to some hand-scooped Italian ice. In the summertime, they also rent kayaks and tubes for a little bit of water fun!
The Revival
This former church was seemingly abandoned, but its new owners have come in and really turned it around. This property is now on the National Historical Register and has been restored to some of its former glory. The owners have turned the old church into a social venue. They have been busy hosting concerts, open mic nights, and more. This venue has filled a gap that previously exsited in Wells when people were looking for something to do.
The Well
This quaint little coffee shop was opened in Wells last year by co-owners Andrew and Diane. They offer coffee, lattes, and cappuccinos, as well as a delicious breakfast and lunch menu that can be seen handwritten on a large overhead chalkboard. They also feature a small, natural organic food market with goods sourced as locally as possible. The market is jam packed with in-season fresh produce.
They were looking to fill a gap of things missing in Wells and they really hit the mark. A large majority of the furniture seen inside the store is crafted by co-owner Andrew Lauria, from repurposed items. Some tables are made from old concrete forms, stools from tree stumps, and the bar itself is made from an old piano! This cozy shop will make you feel right at home. Come summertime, you can even grab a seat outside to enjoy your brew
Come for a stay
Ready to dive in? Wells has a great public beach during the summer. While here plan to take a scenic hike — Wells is home to five of the waterfalls included in the heart of the Adirondacks' Waterfall Challenge!
This up-and-coming town is the ideal place to plan your quiet escape! Why not make a weekend of it? There are quite a few private rentals located throughout town if you are looking for a secluded getaway.
