The Erie Canal is celebrating two centuries of history, storytelling, and innovation this year. Its creation was a prolific venture that changed not only the state of New York but the entirety of the US. It revolutionized transportation and commerce by linking the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and therefore fueling westward expansion. With its 200th year of operation comes the commemoration of all those whose lives were affected, the communities that were both torn and constructed, and the purpose and progress still innovating Western New York to this day.

I recently toured the area, beginning in the Buffalo Niagara Region, traversing through Rochester, and ending in downtown Syracuse. In each region, I found transformative museums and exhibits, delicious restaurants, and historic hotel stays. Here are some of the highlights.

Niagara Falls State Park

Niagara Falls holds a special place in my heart. Not only is it a natural wonder of the world, but it’s also America’s oldest state park and the inspiration behind the National Park System. The falls are a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, both through the riverfront hiking trails and through interactive exhibits and attractions.

Don’t miss The Cave of the Winds, an attraction that includes an immersive exhibit and film highlighting the history of the falls, as well as the opportunity to descend 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge. Walk along the water and feel the power of Bridal Veil Falls as it rains down on the Hurricane Deck. The experience was thrilling and a highlight of my time at the park.

Other offerings include the Beyond The View Walking Tour and the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Please note that the park is almost completely ADA compliant with the exception of a few trails.

Niagara Falls State Park: 332 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Fallsview Hot Air Balloons

For a unique view of Niagara Falls, be sure to visit Fallsview Hot Air Balloons. The experience offers visitors a chance to soar 400 feet in the air inside a custom-built helium balloon, providing an incredible panorama of the Niagara Gorge and the Niagara Falls USA Tourist district. The views were spectacular, and I found the 15-minute ride to be both fun and safe.

Fallsview Hot Air Balloons: 454 Main Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14301

Explore & More – Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum

For those traveling with young children or those who are young at heart, this children’s museum in Buffalo is a treasure. Focusing on hands-on exploration, this multi-faceted museum shows our future generations that anything is possible, from tinkering in the STEM-focused Innovation Station to unleashing creativity in the Art Studio and exploring culture in the Global Gallery. My personal sanctuary was the Community Treehouse set in a whimsical New York woodland scene, complete with a cozy reading cave and a virtual floor-to-ceiling waterfall. The museum is sensory-friendly, fully accessible, and designed for all.

Explore & More: 130 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202

Commercial Slip at Canalside

Down at the Commercial Slip, you can find a slew of free events this summer commemorating the Erie Canal Bicentennial. Step aboard a replica of the Seneca Chief before it journeys east on September 24 in commemoration of the first voyage on the canal. Also be sure to check out the events calendar and catch dockside demonstrations like jump-rope making, canoe construction, and raised beadwork, along with various panel discussions surrounding the impact of the Erie Canal.

Commercial Slip: 44 Prime Street, Buffalo, New York 14202

Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park

Further along the Buffalo waterfront is the largest inland naval park in the US. Featuring a museum, four decommissioned naval vessels, and military equipment such as aircraft, tanks, and patrol boats, this attraction provides invaluable insight into our nation’s military history. Lining the property is a beautiful Veterans Memorial Garden honoring all those who have served our country.

Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park: 1 Naval, Marina Park S, Buffalo, NY 14202

Buffalo Heritage Carousel

Not to be missed on the Canalside boardwalk is the historic Buffalo Heritage Carousel. First built in North Tonawanda (a city located between Buffalo and Niagara Falls) in 1924, the restored menagerie carousel is a celebration of both nostalgia and innovation. The carousel runs entirely on renewable energy, relying on Tesla Solar Roof tiles to power the joyful operation. The intent behind this is to raise sustainability awareness for our youth and showcase Western New York’s legacy of leadership in renewable energy.

Buffalo Heritage Carousel: 1 Marine Dr, Buffalo, NY 14202

Waterway of Change exhibit

For an in-depth exploration of the Erie Canal’s history and the people whose lives were affected by it, visit Waterway of Change: Complex Legacies of The Erie Canal at The Longshed at Canalside. I was captivated to learn of the canal’s inception and see representation of the diverse perspectives and cultures involved in this process. The exhibit features varied interactive multimedia experiences (such as touchscreens, audio, and film) and is suitable for all ages and abilities, being fully accessible and offering sensory-friendly hours of operation.

Waterway of Change: 2 Marine Dr, Buffalo, NY 14202

Silo City

I was in awe of Silo City, which is maybe the coolest place in Buffalo. The massive post-industrial site not only features the world’s largest collection of historic grain elevators but also serves to represent ecological, cultural, and artistic progress. Silo City’s native plant nursery, ongoing art installations, and various tours provide the community with a unique opportunity to engage in a myriad of offerings to connect and inspire the soul. When visiting, be sure to catch a live musical performance and get an expertly crafted cocktail at Duende, the impressive bar and event space near the site entrance.

Silo City: 85 Silo City Row, Buffalo, NY 14203

Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises

For the chance to experience the Erie Canal locks firsthand, jump aboard this historic two-hour river cruise that takes you through locks 34 and 35, lifting and lowering you 50 feet to journey along part of the epic 363-mile waterway. This cruise is unique in that Lockport is the only location where you can see 19th-century locks still in use alongside today’s modern lock system.

Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises: 210 Market St, Lockport, NY 14094

Erie Canal Discovery Center

Open year-round, this multi-media interactive museum is housed in a historical building built in 1850. The discovery center offers visitors a chance to learn about the early days of the Erie Canal and the construction of the Flight of Five locks in Lockport. Take the 45-minute walking tour to see the locks up close and receive a guided account of Lockport’s history.

Erie Canal Discovery Center: 24 Church Street, Lockport, NY 14094

Cornelia

Inside the Knox Building at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum is an impressive restaurant that caters to both fast-casual and full-service dining. Sit in the atrium where you can enjoy a marvelous curved ceiling designed in a myriad of triangles, some showcasing the azure of the sky, others allowing in prisms of light that decorate the floor in a geometric design. Order from a menu of globally inspired eats with fresh ingredients in common — from the Spanish octopus ceviche to the Korean cold noodle salad — along with a seasonal kombucha on draft. You can also get a “picnic style” meal from Cornelia, complete with a basket and blanket, to enjoy outside the museum.

Cornelia: 1285 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222

The Remington Tavern & Seafood Exchange

Situated alongside the Erie Canal in North Tonawanda, you’ll find the revered Remington Tavern. Located in a historical landmark building established in 1895, the restaurant features a black vaulted ceiling, exposed red brick walls, and dark metal fixtures that are offset by large and colorful bouquets that decorate an impressive horseshoe bar. Take advantage of the fresh seafood selection by ordering from the raw bar, and don’t miss out on the specials. For dessert, order one of everything — the selection is divine.

The Remington Tavern & Seafood Exchange: 184 Sweeney St, North Tonawanda, NY 14120

Remedy House

For a great cup of coffee and a quick breakfast in Buffalo, look no further than Remedy House in the hip Five Points neighborhood. The corner cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating, an incredible array of beverages, and a diverse food menu. Not to be missed is the infamous Egg On A Roll and the seasonal lavender vanilla latte.

Remedy House: 429 Rhode Island St, Buffalo, NY 14213

Ballyhoo

Close to the Buffalo River, you’ll find the popular Ballyhoo bar and restaurant. Open for lunch, dinner, and beyond, the restaurant specializes in housemade sausages and classic cocktails. I’m still dreaming of the TJ Dawg I ordered, which features chorizo sausage and bacon on a roll and comes with housemade pickles and chips seasoned perfectly.

Ballyhoo: 211 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14204

Southern Junction Barbecue

For a taste of Texas in New York, head to Southern Junction. The restaurant smokes its meat daily and serves an array of tantalizing sides. I’d recommend getting there early (it’s first come, first served) and having your friend order drinks from the bar while you’re waiting in line. Order the Texish barbecue platter, and make sure to get the cardamom cornbread as one of your sides.

Southern Junction Barbecue: 365 Connecticut St, Buffalo, NY 14213

Nightcap Sail with the Spirit of Buffalo

To catch the sunset on Lake Erie, book a Nightcap Sail on the family-owned and -operated Spirit of Buffalo. The 73-foot coastal sailing vessel affords you a unique opportunity to gaze upon the Buffalo skyline and watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand and the wind in your hair.

Spirit of Buffalo: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202

Lake Effect Ice Cream

Overlooking the historical flight of five locks in Lockport is an artisan ice cream shop that specializes in unique flavors such as whisky brown sugar, black sesame, and lavender milk tea. Lake Effect also makes assorted cakes and ice cream sandwiches. Can’t choose one flavor? Do what my group did and order the nine-scoop sample platter.

Lake Effect Ice Cream: 79 Canal Street, Lockport, NY 14094

The Richardson Hotel

The Richardson Hotel is located on the Olmsted Campus, a 40-acre park designed by the men who brought us both Central Park and Prospect Park in New York City. The hotel is a National Historic Landmark that offers a taste of 19th-century Buffalo, as well as modern-day comforts including elegant and affordable rooms, a continental breakfast, and a 24-hour fitness center. The Richardson also has a ballroom and wine vault, an incredibly stylish lounge, and a soon-to-reopen restaurant. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay here and intend on returning to further explore the hotel museum and experience the community events offered on the grounds.

The Richardson Hotel: 444 Forest Ave, Buffalo, NY 14213

The Strong National Museum of Play

The nostalgia I experienced while visiting this museum, which specializes in collections devoted to the history of play, was profound. I was able to revisit touching moments from my childhood when playing Ms. Pac-Man in the World Video Game Hall of Fame, seeing an original Clue board game from the late 1940s, sitting on the steps of a Sesame Street set, and experiencing pure wonder in the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden (a separate ticketed attraction). For anyone who wants to invite a little magic in or get back in touch with their inner child, I can’t recommend this museum enough.

The Strong National Museum of Play: 1 Manhattan Square Dr, Rochester, NY 14607

George Eastman Museum

This beautiful museum ties together history, photography, and film. Housed in the former home of photography legend and innovator George Eastman, the sprawling property includes the historic mansion where he lived and experimented, three gorgeous gardens, the world’s oldest photography museum, and one of the oldest film archives. Rotating exhibits, music recitals, and nitrate film screenings make up just a few of the museum’s offerings. I was fascinated to see the collection of cameras and their evolution through time, including the first-ever camera to take pictures of the moon in 1966.

George Eastman Museum: 900 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607

Sam Patch Erie Canal Boat Tour

Starting in the charming village of Pittsford, this canal cruise allows you to experience the Erie Canal on a packet-boat-style cruise (packet boats were used to transport both passengers and cargo in the canal’s heyday). This cruise was a peaceful journey through Lock 32, complete with narration of the canal’s history, impressive views of nature, and a surprise song at the end commemorating what it must have felt like to sail these waters long ago.

Sam Patch Erie Canal Boat Tour: 12 Schoen Pl, Pittsford, NY 14534

Kayak with Erie Canal Boat Company

For an immersive experience on the Erie Canal, jump in a kayak with the Erie Canal Boat Company. Offering both kayak and bicycle rentals, the company has paved the way for accessible paddling and cycling, using adaptive kayaks and bicycles to connect everyone with the canal’s beauty. Owner Peter Abele’s leadership and commitment to inclusive recreational sports are making a big impact on accessibility standards throughout New York.

Erie Canal Boat Company: 7 Liftbridge Ln W, Fairport, NY 14450

Redd Wood

For a luxurious dinner in Rochester, Redd Wood is an open-hearth-cooking-inspired restaurant opened by Michelin-starred chef Richard Reddington. The French-heavy wine list is impressive, and the array of seasonal dishes is mouthwatering. Start your night with a glass of Arnaud Lambert Crémant de Loire (a sparkling wine from the Loire Valley), and make sure someone at the table orders the steak frites. Reserve a table well in advance, as this restaurant books out quickly and for good reason.

Redd Wood: 1690 Monroe Ave, Rochester, NY 14618

Horizons Modern Kitchen & Wine Bar

Horizons is the restaurant at the Woodcliff Hotel in Fairport, and it’s worth visiting whether or not you’re staying there. The views are spectacular, and the food is exceptional, with a fine-dining slant — think baked burrata and seared scallops on the dinner menu. I stopped in for breakfast and enjoyed a perfectly made omelette served with well-seasoned home fries and sausages. Add in my cup of tea and the fresh fruit bowl I enjoyed alongside the view of the mountains, and it made for a peaceful and thoroughly nourishing morning.

Horizons Modern Kitchen & Wine Bar: 199 Woodcliff Dr, Fairport, NY 14450

Genesee Brew House

Founded in 1878, Genesee Brewing Company is the oldest brewery in New York State. Its restaurant and taproom give locals and visitors alike the opportunity to taste Genesee’s legacy beers, learn the history behind the brewery, and enjoy sweeping views from the rooftop that highlight Rochester’s skyline and nearby High Falls. Stop by for a tour and signature beer flight, and treat yourself to the pear and prosciutto flatbread for lunch.

Genesee Brew House: 25 Cataract St, Rochester, NY 14605

Roux

Located on bustling Park Avenue, this French bistro and absinthe bar was perhaps my favorite dinner in Rochester. The vibe inside was hip and cozy, and I love that the establishment is women-owned and run. The seasonal menu is dotted with classic French dishes such as escargot and slow ratatouille, while Mediterranean flavors find their way onto the summer squash and duck leg confit. The cocktail list is intriguing, thanks in large part to the creative uses of absinthe. Be sure to leave room for the decadent flourless chocolate cake for dessert.

Roux: 688 Park Ave, Rochester, NY 14607

Riki’s Family Restaurant

A staple in the village of Fairport, Riki’s has been a family restaurant since 1986. The building dates back to 1932 when it was originally established as The Fairport Hotel and Restaurant to benefit the Erie Canal Trolley line. Riki’s has a classic diner feel to it. My egg breakfast was heavenly, and I loved the small-town feel.

Riki’s Family Restaurant: 25 N Main St #21, Fairport, NY 14450

The Woodcliff Hotel & Spa

This accommodation in Fairport is a wellness oasis disguised as a hotel. With rooms ranging from deluxe king to executive suites, the hotel’s elegant furnishings and proximity to nature make for a serene stay, ideal for resetting while exploring the city of Rochester. Among the hotel’s top amenities are the award-winning spa, the indoor-outdoor pool overlooking the mountains, the 70 miles of nearby hiking trails, and the patio for sunbathing and soaking up nature’s healing properties. It also has a USGA-rated nine-hole golf course and fitness center. Horizons Restaurant and wine bar can be found on the first floor, where you can enjoy breakfast through dinner while gazing upon the distant mountains.

The Woodcliff Hotel & Spa: 199 Woodcliff Dr, Fairport NY, 14450

Downtown Syracuse Walking Tour

Experience the history and splendor of Syracuse’s downtown area through a well-curated walking tour by the Downtown Committee of Syracuse. Start at the iconic Clinton Square, which was once part of the original canal system; gaze upon the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument; and admire the 19th- and early 20th-century architecture on display. Be sure to stop at the Syracuse Area Landmark Theatre, built in 1927. With its sweeping staircase and opulent design, you’ll step back in time and feel the city’s grandeur of the 1920s.

Downtown Committee of Syracuse: 115 W Fayette St, Syracuse, NY 13202

Erie Canal Museum

This highly informative and well-curated museum sits on Erie Boulevard in a historical building that dates back to 1850. The ongoing exhibits include The Erie Canal Made New York, which details in chronological order the inception of the canal to its modern-day barge system, and the Weigh Chamber, featuring a full-size replica line boat in the original space where boats were weighed and managed during the canal’s operating season. Make sure to check out the second floor’s education gallery to see an exhibit depicting what life was like in a canal town.

Erie Canal Museum: 318 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY 13202

Onondaga Historical Association

Originally formed by community leaders in 1862, this nonprofit organization focuses on the collection and preservation of materials related to Onondaga County. You can learn about the area’s impactful history at the museum located downtown and take part in its public tours, such as Footsteps In Freedom or a Historic Ghostwalk.

Onondaga Historical Association: 321 Montgomery St, Syracuse, NY 13202

Armory Square

The hub of Syracuse’s downtown scene circles around Armory Square. Visit Noble Cellar for dinner, catch a show at the historic Landmark Theatre, and enjoy a nightcap at Al’s Wine and Whisky Lounge. To embrace the shopping scene, visit Wildflowers Armory and its vibrant underground “anti-mall” McCarthy Mercantile (definitely stop in the perfumery, From Smoke). Parthenon Books is great for finding new and used reads, The Sound Garden for vinyl, and Vagabond Clothing for inspired boutique fashion.

Armory Square: Armory Square, Syracuse, NY 13202

Green Lakes State Park

Just outside of Syracuse in Fayetteville, you’ll find a state park featuring two turquoise blue glacial lakes surrounded by forest. Lush green trails surround the lakes, and a beach allows visitors an opportunity to swim in the glistening blue waters. Bird conservation and hunting areas can be found here, and the park offers both kayak and rowboat rentals. Additionally, an All Terrain Wheelchair is available for use, making this a premier accessible nature destination.

Green Lakes State Park: 7900 Green Lakes Rd, Fayetteville, NY 13066

Old Erie Canal State Historic Park

This historic park provides a peaceful opportunity to visit a 36-mile stretch of the Old Erie Canal. Trails surrounded by woodland and wetlands offer visitors the opportunity to picnic, bike, hike, fish, canoe, and ride horses to enjoy the park’s beauty.

Old Erie Canal State Historic Park: East Syracuse, NY 13057

Salt City Market

Set in a gorgeous industrial space with high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and exposed piping, this market offers not only a medley of cultural cuisines but also community programming and advancement, not to mention a local and organic grocery store and event space. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, pulsing with convivial energy. For lunch, I chose to enjoy nourishing veggie tacos from Ellerae’s Taco, a women-owned vendor serving delicious Bay Area-inspired Mexican street food.

Salt City Market: 484 S. Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13202

Inka’s Peruvian Restaurant

This relatively new Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant promises an unforgettable and unique dining experience. The aesthetic is exciting and elegant — greenery and flowers decorate the ceilings and walls, and they’re even incorporated into the impressive wooden bar. Sit at a high-backed velvet banquette with friends and order the classic pisco sour, ceviche trio, hongos saltados (stir-fried mushrooms), yuca frita (yucca fries), and pescado entero (whole fried fish) for an unforgettable dinner.

Inka’s Peruvian Restaurant: 201 S. Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13202

The Sweet Praxis

For a delicious breakfast in downtown Syracuse, stop by The Sweet Praxis. The women-owned bakery and cafe serves beautiful scratch-baked pastries, a range of breakfast sandwiches, and fun and innovative beverages. I recommend trying the GF Biscuit Sandwich, honey lavender cake donut, and matcha latte. Everything was delicious, and I could have spent the entire morning in the minimalist yet dreamy cafe. Take note that The Sweet Praxis is able to accommodate both gluten-free and vegan diets.

The Sweet Praxis: 203 East Water Street, Syracuse, NY 13202

XO Taco

Lush green accent walls and punk rock art set the scene for this incredibly cool Western New York taco restaurant. Handmade tortillas and fresh salsa complement the taco- and burrito-heavy menu, and a medley of cocktails, alcoholic or not, elevate the traditional Mexican food experience. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available. Order the chips and guacamole for the table, and try as many tacos as you can manage.

XO Taco: 713 E Fayette St, Syracuse, NY 13210

Best Western Syracuse Downtown

For a comfortable stay that’s close to downtown Syracuse’s action, book yourself a room at this historic hotel in Armory Square. Originally built in 1927, the hotel brings modern comforts like complimentary breakfast, a 24-hour exercise facility, and spacious rooms with city views. This is an accessible hotel that’s located in the heart of the city’s dining and entertainment district. I loved how easy it was to access incredible restaurants, shopping, and nightlife from here.

Best Western Syracuse Downtown: 416 S Clinton St, Syracuse, NY 13202

Traveling around Western New York on an Erie Canal-inspired adventure is easy, fun, and highly accessible via multiple modes of transportation. My recommendation is to fly into Buffalo Niagara International Airport, rent a car, and journey at your own pace, eventually flying home from Syracuse Hancock International Airport. While traversing Western New York is easiest by car, once you’re in the major cities, you can rely on rideshares and public transportation to get around. These cities are also fairly walkable and bike-friendly.