Buoys are in, water levels are up, and canalside communities are ready for the 2023 canal season. The canal system opened to boaters on Friday, May 19. Celebrate the season by heading to the canal for activities, events, and tours or make the canal your vacation getaway in 2023.
Here are some great ways to experience the canal this summer.
Get on the water
Step on board a tour boat, paddle the canals, or cruise in your own boat. Beautiful scenery, lively canal waterfronts, and distinctive New York flavor await around every bend.
Take the Canalway Challenge
Set your personal mileage goal, then walk, run, cycle or paddle to achieve it. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting off the couch, the Challenge is free and open to all. Teams and organizations are welcome, too. Sign up at https://eriecanalway.org/explore/challenge.
Head to the canal for festivals and events
Choose from large canal festivals to bike tours to arts and cultural offerings. Local festivals include Holley June Fest on June 3, Brockport’s Low Bridge, High Water Festival on June 10, Spencerport Canal Days on July 29 and 30, and the Brockport Arts Festival on August 12 and 13. Go to https://eriecanalway.org/explore/ to learn more about events all along the canalway.
Get On the Canals
Free On the Canals activities – from kayaking, biking, and boating, to birding and painting – are held all year long. Go to https://www.canals.ny.gov/onthecanals/ for information and to register for these free programs.
Experience canal heritage
Visit canal communities, historic sites, and museums for great local food and culture. Be a tourist in your own hometown, take a day trip to explore a nearby community, or venture a bit further. Go to https://eriecanalway.org/explore/Plan-Visit to see itineraries and plan a visit.
Packed with information and tips for visiting, the Erie Canalway Map & Guide is available at visitor centers and canal museums all along the canals. You can also download it at https://bit.ly/44VY7dz.
Provided information and photo
