Traveling the Erie Canal by boat is like stepping into a peaceful, scenic slice of American history. The journey takes you through charming towns filled with rich heritage, welcoming locals, unique shops, and canal-side parks perfect for relaxing or exploring. If you are planning a boating vacation with Erie Canal Adventures, there are plenty of must-see towns along the way that make the trip even more memorable.
To help you make the most of your time on the water, we have compiled a list of the top 10 towns to visit by canal boat. These destinations offer the best in docking access, dining, sightseeing, and small-town charm.
1. Fairport
Why go: Fairport is one of the most beloved stops on the canal. With its walkable downtown, vibrant food scene, and seasonal events, it offers something for every traveler.
What to do:
- Dock steps away from restaurants and shops
- Visit the Fairport Lift Bridge, an iconic canal structure
- Enjoy canal-side dining, live music, and farmers markets
- Rent bikes or stroll along the Erie Canal Trail
2. Pittsford
Why go: Pittsford blends historic charm with upscale boutiques and great food, making it a relaxing and scenic stop.
What to do:
- Browse local shops and bookstores
- Dine along the canal at cozy cafes and waterfront bistros
- Explore Schoen Place, a redeveloped warehouse district with shops and ice cream
- Walk the paved trails that hug the waterway
3. Lyons
Why go: Once the peppermint capital of the world, Lyons offers a unique mix of history and small-town personality.
What to do:
- Tour the H.G. Hotchkiss Peppermint Museum
- View murals that tell the town’s canal story
- Dock near the town center for easy access to restaurants and shops
- Attend local events like Peppermint Days in the summer
4. Palmyra
Why go: Palmyra is steeped in history and features well-preserved 19th-century buildings and museums.
What to do:
- Explore the Palmyra Historical Museum and the Erie Canal Depot
- Take a walking tour of four historic churches located at one intersection
- Stop for ice cream or lunch at local spots near the docks
- Visit canal-themed gift shops and antique stores
5. Seneca Falls
Why go: Known as the birthplace of women’s rights, Seneca Falls is packed with powerful history and cultural significance.
What to do:
- Tour the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and the National Women’s Hall of Fame
- Dock close to downtown and walk to museums and cafes
- Enjoy shopping for handcrafted goods and souvenirs
- Visit nearby waterfalls and scenic overlooks
6. Newark
Why go: Newark is a friendly canal town with green spaces, canal-front paths, and local flavor.
What to do:
- Dock near T. Spencer Knight Park for playgrounds and picnic spots
- Explore downtown shops and cafes
- Visit the Newark-Arcadia Historical Society Museum
- Enjoy easy access to biking or walking trails along the canal
7. Brockport
Why go: A classic canal town with college-town energy, Brockport is full of parks, eateries, and events.
What to do:
- Dock at the Welcome Center and grab maps and tips from local volunteers
- Stroll the historic downtown for shopping and restaurants
- Attend seasonal festivals and events
- Visit the Morgan-Manning House, a preserved Victorian home
8. Medina
Why go: Medina is home to one of the canal’s most impressive aqueducts and a walkable downtown with historic architecture.
What to do:
- See the impressive Medina Culvert, a road that passes under the canal
- Tour the Medina Railroad Museum, a favorite for kids and train enthusiasts
- Dine in restored 1800s buildings or grab a drink at a local brewery
- Browse antique shops and artisan markets downtown
9. Spencerport
Why go: A quiet and scenic village, Spencerport is ideal for a peaceful overnight stop with easy amenities.
What to do:
- Dock at the Canal Museum Welcome Center
- Walk along the towpath or fish from the public docks
- Visit small shops, bakeries, and cafes
- Take in the relaxed atmosphere of a classic canal town
10. Holley
Why go: Tucked along the canal, Holley is a hidden gem with beautiful architecture and family-friendly charm.
What to do:
- Visit Holley Canal Falls Park for a short hike and waterfall views
- Check out the historic downtown square and local diners
- Join community events during summer weekends
- Dock right near the park for a convenient, nature-filled stop
Planning Your Erie Canal Adventure
These towns are part of what makes boating on the Erie Canal such a rich and rewarding experience. Each stop brings its own personality, historical importance, and friendly local flavor. Whether you are planning a few days or a full week on the water, you can build a route that includes several of these highlights.
Tips for Your Trip:
- Plan ahead: Some docks require reservations, especially during busy weekends
- Pack for variety: Bring both casual clothes and walking shoes for town stops
- Stay flexible: The beauty of canal cruising is that you can linger longer if a town steals your heart
- Enjoy the journey: The calm pace of boating allows for spontaneous discoveries and detours
Book Your Canal Boat and Start Exploring
At Erie Canal Adventures, we make it easy to explore these incredible towns by boat. Our self-skippered canal boats are fully equipped, easy to operate, and ideal for families, couples, and groups. Whether you want to take in the history, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply relax in new places, the Erie Canal is ready to welcome you.