A canal boat tour is the highlight of any visit to the Erie Canal, but it does not have to be the only thing you do. In fact, one of the best parts of planning a trip to the canal is building a full day around the experience.
Canal towns are full of charm, history, and great places to explore, and with a little planning, you can turn your boat tour into a relaxed and memorable day trip.
At Erie Canal Adventures, many of our guests tell us they wish they had planned to spend more time in the area. Here are some great ideas for what to do before and after your canal boat tour.
Start with a Walk Along the Canal
Before your tour, arrive a little early and take a stroll along the canal. The canal trail and waterfront areas are perfect for an easy walk that helps you get a feel for the place.
You will see boats passing through, people walking and biking, and the historic structures that make the canal so interesting. It is a calm and scenic way to start your visit.
This is also a great time to take a few photos before boarding.
Enjoy a Relaxed Breakfast or Lunch
Many canal towns have great local cafes, bakeries, or casual restaurants near the water.
If your tour is later in the morning or early afternoon, consider eating before you board. A relaxed meal sets the tone for the day and means you can focus fully on enjoying the tour without rushing.
If your tour is earlier in the day, plan lunch for afterward and use the boat ride as a perfect lead-in to a nice meal by the canal.
Visit a Local Museum or Historic Site
The Erie Canal has a rich history, and many towns along its route celebrate that history with small museums, interpretive centers, or preserved historic buildings.
Visiting one of these before or after your tour helps put what you see on the water into context. You will recognize names, places, and structures that were mentioned during the tour, which makes the experience even more meaningful.
Even a short visit can add a lot to your understanding of the canal and the communities that grew up around it.
Explore Shops and Local Businesses
Canal towns are often full of unique, locally owned shops. These are great places to find souvenirs, gifts, or something special you did not expect to discover.
Browsing local stores is a relaxing way to spend an hour or two, and it also supports the communities that depend on canal tourism.
Have a Picnic or Spend Time in a Park
If the weather is nice, consider bringing a picnic or picking up takeout and eating by the water. Many canal areas have parks, benches, or green spaces where you can sit and enjoy the view.
Watching boats pass and seeing people enjoy the trail is a simple pleasure that fits perfectly with the slower pace of a canal day.
Go for a Bike Ride or Longer Walk
If you enjoy being active, the canal trail is a great place for a bike ride or a longer walk.
The path is mostly flat and scenic, making it suitable for all kinds of visitors. You do not have to go far to enjoy it. Even a short ride or walk can be a great way to round out your visit.
Take Time to Relax
Not every trip needs to be packed with activities. One of the best things about spending time along the Erie Canal is how easy it is to relax.
After your tour, consider:
- Sitting by the water with a coffee or cold drink
- Watching boats go through the locks
- Simply enjoying the scenery and the slower pace
Sometimes doing less is exactly what makes a day feel special.
Build a Day That Fits Your Style
The beauty of planning around a canal boat tour is that it works for many different travel styles.
Families can combine the tour with easy walks and casual meals. Couples can make a romantic, scenic day of it. Solo travelers can explore at their own pace. Groups of friends can turn it into a relaxed outing with food, shopping, and sightseeing.
Making the Most of Your Visit
At Erie Canal Adventures, we love seeing guests turn their boat tour into a full day of discovery.
The canal is not just something you visit for an hour or two. It is a place to explore, enjoy, and come back to again and again.
With a little planning, your canal boat tour can be the centerpiece of a day filled with great food, beautiful scenery, and memorable experiences.