How You Should Celebrate 200 Years of the Erie Canal with #WaterMusicNY

Looking to add to your Water Music NY itinerary?  What about a place to eat in Schenectady or a kid-friendly hangout in Amsterdam? The Capital Region boasts many exciting opportunities to spice up your summer— and your dinner.

The Albany Symphony will be kicking off the Erie Canal bicentennial celebration on July 2 in Albany at Jennings Landing/Corning Preserve followed by Schenectady and Amsterdam performances.  Each will be followed by a fireworks show the whole family is sure to enjoy!

These canal side performances include world premieres by award-winning composers and selections from Handel's Water Music as well as American favorites.

While you're in the area, make sure to check out some of these local businesses, museums, and restaurants!

Erie Canal Bucket List

Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway

The Mohawk Towpath Byway "is a series of local, county and state highways that follow the historic route of the Erie Canal between Schenectady and Waterford/Cohoes in upstate New York." Learn More.

Paddle the Canal

The NYS Canal System offers 524 miles of paddling with 125 access points with boat rentals at select locations. Take a leisurely afternoon on the canal with your family and friends and enjoy history and take in the beautiful sights. Learn More.

The Erie Canal Museum

There Erie Canal Museum Focuses on "showcasing the only remaining weighlock building in the United States, the Erie Canal Museum collects and preserves Canal material, and provides engaging educational experiences that champion an appreciation and understanding of the Erie Canal’s transforming effects on the past, present and future." Learn More.

WaterMusicNY Erie Canal Bike Tour

Our fully supported cycle tours will follow the Symphony along its entire route. Packages include accommodations, unique and exciting daily activities, gear and luggage transportation, full support, and easy cycling along the remarkably scenic Erie Canalway Bike Trail. Learn More.

The Irish American National Heritage Center

Did you know that much of the canal was built by Irish immigrants? Did you know that they were only paid $10 a month? How about the fact that barrels of whiskey were set out at checkpoints for these Irish workers as they worked? Learn this and more at the Irish American National Heritage Museum in Albany. Learn More.

While You're In Town

Albany

The Albany Institute of History and Art is "dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting and promoting interest in the history, art, and culture of Albany and the Upper Hudson Valley region." The Institute holds the largest collection of Hudson River School works as well as exhibits documents the formation of American Identity. Check out their Erie Canal Exhibit! Get Directions.

Schenectady

Downtown Schenectady boasts many trendy small businesses, shops, restaurants, and it is, of course, home to Proctors Theater. It is also only 6 miles from Mabee Farm Historic Site who will be celebrating the Erie Canal all this summer through different events and activities. Support local small businesses by doing some shopping in Downtown Schenectady! Get Directions.

Amsterdam

Plotter Kill Reserve is a 5.4-mile trail network just outside Amsterdam, NY. The trail is moderate and offers beautiful views including three waterfalls. This is a great hike for the family, and bring a bathing suit! Get Directions.

Restaurants

Albany

Within walking distance of The Palace Theater and Jennings Landing, patrons laud Angelo's 677 Prime for their appetizers and ambiance. Additionally, 677 Prime is known for a sophisticated Happy Hour and classic American dishes with a modern twist. Get Directions.

Schenectady

Tara Kitchen is a small, Moroccan restaurant on Liberty St. in Schenectady. The kitchen serves wonderfully authentic Moroccan meals with an explosion of flavors and spices and has just won the Sofi Award for the Best Sauce in the Capital Region. Get Directions.

Amsterdam

Mt Fuji Japanese Steakhouse is a long-time favorite of its NY and NJ patrons. This steakhouse offers sit-down dinner and hibachi in a modern dining experience. Get Directions.

Places To Stay

Albany

The Morgan State House Inn is a beautiful, unique inn experience. This elegant 19h century hotel looks over Washington Square Park, is a half-mile away from The Capital, and a short walk from Downtown Albany and The Palace Theater. Get Directions.

Schenectady

The English Garden Bed and Breakfast is an elegant, old school B&B filled with charm. Built in the 1760s, this Bed and Breakfast transports its patrons back to the 1800s, (while offering modern amenities, of course). Get Directions.

Amsterdam

The Lewis House Bed and Breakfast is known for its excellent service. Built in 1871, this house has been maintained beautifully, retaining its classic charm with updated amenities. It's a great place to bring the family after a night out, as it is equidistant from Amsterdam and Saratoga. Get Directions.

Schenectady

Parker Inn and Suites is a recently renovated, privately owned hotel right next door to Proctors Theater in Downtown Schenectady. The hotel combines classic style with a modern ambiance for a perfect night. Get Directions.

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