From Vintage Roots to Future Slopes: The City Garage Legacy Lives On
The City Garage opened for business in October 1999, following a year of planning by Sean Lowes, a former ski rep who
This is what we looked like in 1999!
after 20 years of traveling decided it was time get off the road and create a ski shop with its own unique personality. Sean re-purposed an old carriage house in the heart of Ellicottville, NY and named the store after the original City Garage, Ellicottville’s former 1930’s-era GMC station. He was determined to maintain the historical value of the building; in the summer months you can find the original front garage doors swung open for direct sidewalk access into the uniquely “garage-style” merchandised retail operation.
Sean’s vision was to set The City Garage apart from the several other ski shops within a 2-block radius. Although off the beaten path of Main Street, Sean knew that if he had what people wanted, they would come. He targeted his passion – the free-ride/mogul and telemark/Nordic market. Since 1999, The City Garage has continued to cater to a subculture of real skiers who love the mountain lifestyle.
Through the years, we’ve become Ellicottville’s go-to shop for ski and outdoor equipment. Our state-of-the-art tuning machines keep your gear in top shape and the crew is constantly striving to find the newest, coolest and most fun outdoor products for you to try. We remain open all year; in the spring/summer/fall months offering footwear, clothing, equipment and accessories for hiking, camping, glamping, and paddling.
The City Garage is a three-time winner of Skiing Business Magazine’s “Best Vibe” award, a testament to our dedication in making sure you continue to have fun in in all your outdoor pursuits!
In late September 2023, on a sunny morning on the porch of 13 Elk Street, ownership of City Garage Ski Shop changed hands from Sean and Elizabeth Lowes to Trey and Mila Clauss. Sean reflects on his transition approach, “It is most important for me to maintain the legacy of The City Garage; it was never put up for sale on the open market – in my brain, the right answer was always to pass the torch to Trey who has worked so hard for us since 2001 and has, over 20 plus years, significantly contributed to the growth and direction that the shop has taken. The business never would have been successful without my sister Patra’s artistic merchandising skills and with Elizabeth managing all business aspects.”
Sean added that The City Garage has its own unique personality, built first and foremost by its employees and loyal customers. “Our customers have contributed the most to the shop’s growth! Trey and Mila have a unique understanding of the importance of moving forward to grow the business, while maintaining its essence.”
Trey expressed that he has been blessed to have been able to spend over 20 years working for Sean & Elizabeth Lowes. “During those years, I’ve grown up in an industry that I hold very close to my heart. Skiing has been one of the biggest factors in my life and now I can say that I own one of the best ski shops in the country. Closing the chapter of Lowes’ ownership and transitioning to our ownership has us looking forward to what lies ahead for City Garage and our cherished customers. We are very confident that The City Garage brand will continue to grow and retain our loyal supporters!”
Looking back on 46 years of selling skis year-round, Sean added, “I am most proud of the second half of my career and these past 24 years with the shop employees and customers. The City Garage is in excellent hands, and I am excited to see where it goes… let the band play on!”
2023 Movie Night at The Ellicottville Depot
Saturday 11/4/23 – 6pm 
Faction Skis & Red Bull Snow present
ABSTRACT
2024 Telestock - February 23, 2024
Stay tuned for details.
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