This guide is crafted to help Erie Canal travelers discover the best sight-seeing destinations whether heading east or west from Macedon, NY. Depending on your chosen direction, you can enjoy unique stops along the Erie Canal from historic villages to scenic parks. We offer flexible itineraries for travelers on 3-, 4-, or 7-night charters, each allowing you to experience the canal’s charm at your own pace. Explore sample itineraries here for more inspiration on planning your journey.
Top Sight-Seeing Spots on the Erie Canal’s Westward Route from Macedon, NY
Exploring the Erie Canal westward from Macedon, NY, offers a chance to visit charming towns, historic locations, and scenic spots. Whether you’re on a short canal adventure or planning a more extended journey, here are the top sight-seeing spots from westbound towns along Erie Canal Adventures’ westward itinerary.
Fairport
Kick off your journey in the picturesque village of Fairport, often dubbed the “Crown Jewel of the Erie Canal.” This stop is famous for its canal-side charm, vibrant community, and bustling canal-front area. Don’t miss the Fairport Lift Bridge, an engineering marvel with a unique design that’s one of the few remaining of its kind. Fairport also has an array of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore, especially in the summer months, when the canal-side is filled with outdoor dining options.
Bushnell’s Basin
A quick hop west from Fairport brings you to Bushnell’s Basin. This small, historic area has a cozy, intimate feel and is known for its historical significance in the construction of the Erie Canal. Take a stroll around the village and enjoy a meal at Richardson’s Canal House, a historic restaurant that dates back to the 1810s. The area offers some lovely spots for a scenic walk along the canal path, ideal for a quiet escape into nature.
Pittsford
Continuing to Pittsford, you’ll find an upscale yet historic canal town with something for everyone. Pittsford’s Schoen Place is a must-stop, lined with renovated warehouses now home to shops, art galleries, and dining options. Take a walk along the canal path, rent a bike, or grab ice cream at Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery, a local favorite. Schoen Place is also known for seasonal festivals, making it a lively and picturesque stop any time of year.
Rochester Downtown
Rochester is the largest city along this westbound journey and offers a vibrant urban experience. Head downtown to the High Falls district, where a 96-foot waterfall sits in the heart of the city—a truly impressive sight. The Genesee Brew House, one of the oldest breweries in the country, offers views of the falls from its outdoor deck and a chance to taste classic Rochester brews. For history buffs, the Susan B. Anthony House provides insights into the legacy of the famous suffragette.
Spencerport
Spencerport is known for its friendly community and classic small-town feel. Here, the Spencerport Depot & Canal Museum offers a glimpse into canal history and local lore. The town is especially welcoming to boaters, with plenty of docking spaces, picnic areas, and canal-side parks. The town’s Main Street offers charming boutiques and cafes, making it a pleasant place to stretch your legs and explore.
Brockport
Further west lies Brockport, home to the State University of New York (SUNY) at Brockport and a lively arts and culture scene. The Brockport Welcome Center offers friendly assistance to boaters, and you’ll find the village has preserved much of its historic architecture. Wander through the Victorian-style Main Street and explore quaint bookstores, coffee shops, and art galleries. Brockport also boasts a scenic walking and biking path, perfect for taking in canal views.
Holley
Holley is a small but beautiful village that boasts some unique landmarks, including the Holley Canal Falls. This hidden gem is a perfect spot for photos, with a small park and scenic picnic area around the falls. Holley also offers public docking spaces, making it easy to hop off your boat and explore. Holley Canal Park is another peaceful spot for a stroll, offering shaded areas and canal views.
Medina
Medina is a standout stop on the Erie Canal, with a beautifully preserved downtown and a range of attractions. Start with the Medina Railroad Museum, one of the largest in the state, showcasing historic train memorabilia and offering seasonal train excursions. Medina also has striking architecture, including buildings made of Medina sandstone, a locally quarried stone used in famous landmarks across the country. Downtown Medina is packed with shops, antique stores, and eateries, making it an inviting stop.
Lockport
Lockport marks the western end of this itinerary and is famed for its historic canal locks. The Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises offer an up-close look at the impressive double locks, where you can learn about the canal’s history and see the locks in action. The Erie Canal Discovery Center provides more context and history on the lock system. Lockport is also home to the Flight of Five, a restored set of five locks dating back to the early 19th century, offering a fascinating glimpse into the canal’s original design.
This westbound route captures the best of Erie Canal’s charm, from historic villages to bustling downtowns. Each town offers unique stops, delicious eateries, and plenty of canal-side relaxation, giving you an immersive journey along one of America’s most iconic waterways. Safe travels and enjoy the sights!
Top Sight-Seeing Spots on the Erie Canal’s Eastward Route from Macedon, NY
Heading eastward from Macedon along the Erie Canal opens up a journey rich with history, natural beauty, and charming villages. From the spiritual history of Palmyra to the scenic lakeside views of Geneva, each town has its own unique attractions. Here’s a list of top sight-seeing spots on this eastbound route.
Palmyra
Known as the “Queen of Canal Towns,” Palmyra boasts a mix of historical and spiritual significance. History buffs will enjoy the Palmyra Historical Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits related to the Erie Canal era. Palmyra is also significant to the Latter-day Saints, as it’s home to the Sacred Grove and the Hill Cumorah. Take time to stroll through Palmyra’s Main Street, where antique shops, galleries, and unique storefronts make it a charming place to explore.
Newark
Further east, Newark is a boater-friendly town with a welcoming community. Here, the Newark Canal Park provides easy docking and a beautiful picnic spot, perfect for relaxing and watching the canal traffic. The nearby Hoffman Clock Museum, located inside the Newark Public Library, offers a quirky collection of clocks from around the world. Newark’s vibrant farmers’ market (seasonal) is also a great place to pick up fresh local produce and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town.
Lyons
Lyons is another canal town steeped in history. Once the “Peppermint Capital of the World,” Lyons celebrates its peppermint heritage with the H.G. Hotchkiss Peppermint Museum, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building. The town has several scenic canal-side parks, like Lyons Community Park, ideal for a picnic or a leisurely walk. Lyons’ historic district is also a joy to explore, with preserved architecture and local art galleries offering a glimpse into the area’s past and present.
Montezuma
Montezuma is a paradise for nature lovers. Located near the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, this town offers abundant bird-watching opportunities, especially during migration seasons. The refuge is a vast wetland area that provides habitat for various bird species, from bald eagles to herons. Bring your binoculars and take the Wildlife Drive or one of the many walking trails to experience the natural beauty of this region.
Cayuga-Seneca Canal
As you continue east, you’ll encounter the Cayuga-Seneca Canal, a unique branch of the Erie Canal that connects to the Finger Lakes. This canal route provides access to both Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake, offering boaters the chance to explore Finger Lakes wineries and waterside towns. The canal itself is lined with scenic parks and marinas, perfect for an afternoon stop. Wine lovers may enjoy planning side excursions to wineries along the Cayuga and Seneca Lake wine trails.
Seneca Falls
Known as the birthplace of women’s rights, Seneca Falls is a must-visit for its rich history and vibrant community. Visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park to learn about the 1848 Women’s Rights Convention and the figures who championed equality. The town also has canal-side docking and offers unique shops and eateries. For a touch of whimsy, check out the It’s A Wonderful Life Museum, celebrating the town’s claim as the inspiration for the classic holiday movie.
Geneva
Geneva, located at the northern tip of Seneca Lake, combines historic charm with breathtaking lake views. The Rose Hill Mansion, a preserved Greek Revival mansion, offers tours that showcase life in the 19th century. The town is also known for its vibrant food and drink scene, with wineries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, Geneva’s Seneca Lake State Park provides swimming, boating, and hiking options, along with stunning sunset views over the lake.
Weedsport
Weedsport offers small-town charm with a welcoming atmosphere. The town’s Erie Canal House is a restored 19th-century building that provides a cozy spot for travelers. Weedsport is also home to the Old Brutus Historical Museum, which highlights the area’s history with exhibits on early settler life and canal construction. Stop by the local cafes and restaurants for a laid-back experience before continuing on your journey.
Baldwinsville
Baldwinsville, nestled along the Seneca River, is a picturesque final stop on this eastward journey. The village has a scenic riverfront area with excellent dining options, parks, and charming shops. Lock 24 in Baldwinsville is a popular gathering spot, allowing visitors to observe the canal lock system in action. Mercer Park, located nearby, offers picnic spots and walking trails along the river, making it a perfect place to relax before ending your canal adventure.
This eastbound route offers a blend of historic stops, scenic landscapes, and community highlights. Each town provides its own unique experience, from historic museums and canal parks to breathtaking nature spots. With so much to see, you’re sure to enjoy the rich heritage and natural beauty of the Erie Canal!