The pandemic caused a pause everywhere...businesses shut down and slowly reopened, tourism all but stopped when the U.S.- Canada border closed.  But when restrictions eased people found a way to get back...slowly, and maybe not to pre-existing levels, but it was a start.

The New 96.1 WTSS logo
Get our free mobile app

One of the best things about living in a small community like the Village of Lewiston is how the community is integrated. How people know each other, and more than that, care for each other.

Shortly after the pandemic, Lewiston, like most areas looked like a ghost town.  Shops and restaurants closed, parks were empty, construction stopped.

The only time you might see someone was at the grocery store or drug store.

Spring marked a new beginning, not just the usual advent of flowers and leaves on trees, but stores reopened, restaurants had curbside delivery, construction and projects re-started.

Here are some of the things going on in the Niagara County village today:

Lewiston Returning To Life After The Pandemic

LOOK: Here Are the 25 Best Places to Live in New York State

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in New York using data from Niche. Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather. Cities, suburbs, and towns were included. Listings and images are from realtor.com.

On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums. Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

Best Places To Watch Sunsets In WNY

More From The New 96.1 WTSS