Once the economic engine that turned the wheels of progress for a young nation, today's Erie Canal provides a rich recreational resource for New York State residents and visitors, alike.  Pleasure boating, fishing, hiking, cycling, and picnicking are just some of the family friendly activities you can enjoy all year round.

The Port of Palmyra Marina is your point of embarkation for a visit to the Queen of Canal Towns.  A short stroll up Market Street leads you past unique museums to an inviting range of shops and restaurants. The Marina's docking facilities feature six lighted slips with electric hookups and pumping stations. Showers and restrooms are also available nearby.

Palmyra Pirate Weekend storms the Village of Palmyra and the Port of Palmyra Marina each year in early August bringing a boatload of fun for all ages! Bed racing, 5K, kayak races, kazoo band parade, pirate puppy parade, festival food, music, and general mayhem await you!

The Erie Canal at Palmyra is enjoyed all year round - even in winter!  Join us each February - weather permitting (meaning cold enough for ice!) - for the grand old Scots' game of curling.  Equipment and instruction provided by the Friends of the Rochester Curling Club.

Canal History
In the early 1800's, visionaries such as New York State Governor Dewitt Clinton sought a way to link the growing cities of the east with the western frontier. The Erie Canal opened in 1825, costing just $7 million to build.  And within nine years of its opening, the tolls collected on the canal exceeded the cost of construction!  Dubbed "Clinton’s Ditch," in shortsighted mockery of the Governor's dream, the Erie Canal brought tremendous prosperity and growth to the towns and cities along its banks during the 19^th century. 


EXTERNAL LINKS:
New York State Canal Corporation
Erie Canal Trail Map
The Erie Canal
History of the Erie Canal  from University of Rochester History Dept.
Canal New York
Western Erie Canal Alliance
Travels in the 2nd Half (John Lessuck Blog, 2 Feb. 2016)
 

Town of Palmyra
1180 Canandaigua Road
Palmyra, New York 14522
(315) 597-5521
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