Winding trails, interconnected ponds, and superb landscaping please the eye, while the sound of the water rushing over the falls relaxes the mind. It was no surprise that even when we visited on a dull, dreary day in September numerous couples were enjoying a quiet walk, while a small wedding ceremony took place in front of the falls.

Glen Falls is not an overly spectacular falls. What really shines is the park it is within,; certainly making it one of the more enjoyable ones to visit. The park's open spaces and paved walkways offer easy viewing of the multi-tiered cascade. Ellicott Creek's waters are strong and even in mid-summer the falls will roar. The water drops about a third of the way from its crest, cascades down the midsection, and then drops the rest of the way. There are several small ledges above and below the falls, but nothing of significance.

The remnants of an old mill race can be explored along the south west corner of the park, near the red mill. Explore the northern end of the park and the neighboring Amherst State Park to find the ruins of various mills past.

The village was incorporated in 1850, named "Williamsville," after its predominant citizen (who was then also serving as Postmaster). The village quickly grew over the years thanks to the water-powered manufacturing industry. Williamsville Glen shifted towards an entertainment district once electricity allowed factories and mills to break the tether to the creek. The Harry Altman Glen Park Casino complex was built at the current site of the park. In addition to a casino and dance hall, it featured a children's amusement park and small zoo. In the 1940s a theater and restaurant were added, showcasing such talent as Sammy Davis Jr. In 1968 the complex's dance club, ironically named "Inferno," burned to the ground in a massive fire still talked about to this day. Four years later, the Glen Casino Theater and Restaurant was also burned in another large fire. Numerous structures in the area were leveled. The property was sold to the town and through a joint venture with the village, was developed into a park in 1973.

The Williamsville Water Mill, located on Spring St. above the falls, was built by Jonas Williams in 1811 and changed ownership at least a half a dozen times. It is still in operation today and features a storefront to buy fresh-pressed cider. A mill race, also built in 1811 still exists today, now hidden under Main St.

Rotary Park, a small garden park above the falls, was donated by the Rotary Club in 1976.

Amherst State Park, is on Ellicott Creek to the north of Glen Park. Formerly a convent of the Franciscan Sisters, this small park offers 77 acres of nature trails along the creek and excellent birding and fishing opportunities. You can enter the park from the trail at the northern end of Glen Park, or through the primary entrance on Mill St. Map

Williamsville's mill history can be experienced through a self-guided walking tour.