It’s a big year for the Erie Canal; the waterway is turning 200! Here are a few places you can celebrate in Central New York—and beyond:
Camillus Erie Canal Park
There are two ways to navigate the park: on foot (more than 14 miles of trails are open year-round) or by boat (narrated tours are available from May through October). Whichever you choose, leave some time to visit the Sims Store Museum!
Where: 5750 Devoe Road, Camillus.
More information: eriecanalcamillus.org.
Canastota Canal Town Museum
Another place where you can learn about the Erie Canal’s impact on Central New York is the Canastota Canal Town Museum. When you’re done exploring the museum’s two floors of exhibits, walk across the street to view a section of the Old Erie Canal.
Where: 122 Canal St., Canastota.
More information: canastota-canal.com.
Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum
This site was once a hub for the construction and repair of cargo vessels. Today, visitors can experience that era firsthand by touring the museum’s mule stable, blacksmith, boat shop, and reconstructed general store.
Where: 717 Lakeport Road, Chittenango.
More information: chittenangolanding.org.
Erie Canal Discovery Center
Not far from Lockport’s famed “Flight of Five” locks is the Erie Canal Discovery Center, an interactive museum that tells the story of the canal’s construction. The Niagara History Center manages the five-building Niagara Historical Society Complex, too, if you want to learn even more about local history.
Where: 24 Church St., Lockport.
More information: niagarahistory.org.
Erie Canal Museum
Initially used to weigh boats navigating the Erie Canal (for tolls), the 1850 Syracuse Weighlock Building is now home to the Erie Canal Museum. Inside, you’ll find a canal town, a full-size replica boat, and a children’s area.
Where: 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse.
More information: eriecanalmuseum.org.
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
If you want to see structures from throughout the canal’s history, Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site is the place to go. Its grounds include several locks, the Schoharie Aqueduct, and a museum/visitor center. There’s so much to explore!
Where: 129 Schoharie St., Fort Hunter.
More information: parks.ny.gov/historic-sites/27/details.aspx.
Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum
If you visit this popular Erie Canal town, the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum should be your first stop—it covers topics like the Erie Canal, local history, and transportation. Even the building itself is historic; the trolley station dates back to 1906!
Where: 16 East Ave., Spencerport.
More information: spencerportmuseum.org.
Four Must-Visit Canal Towns for Families
The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is home to 234 communities, stretching from Buffalo to Albany, according to eriecanalway.org. These four should be at the top of your list:
1. Herkimer
Found near the midpoint of Syracuse and Albany, Herkimer is known for more than its close proximity to the Erie Canal—Herkimer Diamonds can also be mined there.
Attractions: Erie Canal Cruises, Herkimer County Historical Society, Herkimer Diamond Mines.
More information: townofherkimer.org.
2. Lockport
The “Flight of Five” (a series of locks designed to help boats over the Niagara Escarpment) may be Lockport’s most famous attraction, but there is a lot more to see and do there—like museums, boat rides, and a historic theatre. It’s a great day trip destination for families!
Attractions: Erie Canal Discovery Center, Flight Of Five Tour, Historic Palace Theatre, Locks District Museum, Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride, Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruises, The Kenan Center.
More information: discoverlockport.com.
3. Palmyra
The “Queen of Canal Towns,” Palmyra has five museums, each offering a glimpse into the town’s rich history. Pirate Weekend in August is another must-see.
Attractions: Erie Canal Depot, Palmyra Historical Museum, Palmyra-Macedon Aqueduct Park, Palmyra Print Shop Museum, Phelps General Store and Residence.
More information: palmyrany.com.
4. Pittsford
In April, Travel & Leisure recognized this Rochester suburb on its list of “20 Best Places to Visit in Upstate New York.” With its quaint canal-side stores and restaurants, and countless recreation opportunities, it’s easy to see why the town is a top destination.
Attractions: Lock 32 Paddling Center & Whitewater Park, Mendon Ponds Park, Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery, Powder Mills Park, Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours, Schoen Place, Tinker Homestead and Farm Museum.
More information: townofpittsford.org.
Cruise the Erie Canal
Colonial Belle
Offers: Daily cruises; themed cruises; event cruises (mid-May through October).
Where: 400 Packetts Landing, Fairport.
More information: colonialbelle.com.
Erie Canal Cruises
Offers: Daily sightseeing cruises (mid-May-mid-October).
Where: 800 Mohawk St., Herkimer.
More information: eriecanalcruises.com.
Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruises
Offers: Daily narrated sightseeing cruises (mid-May-mid-October).
Where: 210 Market St., Lockport.
More information: lockportlocks.com.
Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours
Offers: Erie Canal lock 32 cruises, music cruises, cider and donut cruises, Bike and Barges (May-October).
Where: 12 Schoen Place, Pittsford.
More information: cornhillnav.org/sam-patch.
Fun Facts
- Construction began in Rome in 1817.
- The Erie Canal officially opened in 1825.
- The total cost to construct the waterway was $7,143,789.
- The original Erie Canal stretched 363 miles, from Buffalo to Albany.
Source: eriecanalway.org.
