Tucked along the historic Erie Canal between Fairport and Pittsford, Bushnell’s Basin is the kind of place where you can slow down and enjoy a relaxed pace. This charming hamlet offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, regional food, and serene surroundings. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Bushnell’s Basin makes an ideal day-trip destination. Here are a few ways to enjoy a full day in this scenic canal-side community.
Breakfast
Begin your day at Bruegger’s Bagels. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., they serve fresh-baked bagels, signature breakfast sandwiches, and a variety of coffees to kickstart your morning.
Morning
After breakfast, find a spot to park the car for the day and walk 1.5 miles west along the Erie Canalway Trail to Great Embankment Park. This 12-acre gem features well-maintained walking and biking trails, a wildflower field, and areas for fishing and kayaking. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or some light recreation.
For those seeking a more extensive hike, the Crescent Trail offers approximately 35 miles of scenic paths that begin in Bushnell’s Basin and weave through meadows, woods, and hills. A flat segment along the south bank of the Erie Canal and the Marsh Road bridge links to the Erie Canal Heritage Trail. There is also a continuous 11-mile segment of the orange-blazed main trail between the hamlets of Bushnell’s Basin and Egypt.
For additional outdoor recreation opportunities, head to Kreag Road Park at 555 Kreag Road. This 9-acre park features a playground, picnic shelter, tennis and basketball courts, and docks to access the Erie Canal.
Lunch
Return to the heart of Bushnell’s Basin for lunch at Tom Wahl’s, a local favorite since 1955. They serve classic American fare, including their famous Wahlburger®, fries, and handcrafted root beer. Fun fact: The Wahlberg family, which includes Donnie and Mark, licensed the “Wahlburger” name from Tom Wahl’s to use for their restaurant chain, Wahlburgers. Alternatively, Fruit & Salad Co. offers a variety of fresh soups, salads, and sandwiches, catering to the dietary preferences of health-conscious diners. Dine in or take it to go to enjoy a canal-side picnic.
Afternoon
Experience the canal from a new perspective by kayaking. Both Great Embankment Park and Bushnell’s Basin offer public kayak launch sites. Bring your kayak to enjoy a peaceful paddle along the canal.
After your paddle, treat yourself to a sweet delight at Abbott’s Frozen Custard. A Rochester tradition since 1902, their creamy custard is a must-try. Enjoy your treat in the grassy area with benches overlooking the canal.
Dinner
Conclude your day with a memorable dinner at Richardson’s Canal House, housed in a historic 1818 building. This restaurant offers a fine dining experience, featuring a menu that includes dry-aged steaks, house-made pastas, and fresh seafood. The canal-side setting provides a charming backdrop for your meal. Alternatively, Branca is a neighborhood Italian eatery that honors Italy’s storied culinary history by offering flavorful yet straightforward, complex dishes. Their warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to reflect and savor your day.
Evening
For craft beer lovers, Aurora Brewing Co. is a must-stop. Located in a beautifully restored farmhouse, it offers a cozy indoor vibe and spacious outdoor seating right along the canal. Choose from a rotating selection of draft beers, ciders, wines, cocktails, and zero-proof options—something for everyone. There’s often live music and other fun canal-side entertainment, and while they don’t serve food, you’re welcome to bring your own.
Explore More
With a wonderfully walkable Main Street and a picture-perfect setting along the Erie Canal, Fairport is the quintessential canal village.
Nestled along the historic Erie Canal, the Great Embankment offers scenic views, walking and biking trails, wildflowers, and a kayak launch.
With its scenic canal views, unique shops, cozy cafés, and rich history, Pittsford offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
Erie Canal Bicentennial Celebrations: 200 Years of History, Innovation & Community
Discover how Rochester and canal towns across New York are honoring 200 years of the Erie Canal—and how you can experience it in 2025.
Explore the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
Enjoy each canal town along the 115-mile stretch between the Cayuga-Seneca Canal and the Niagara River, with Rochester at the heart.
What are your favorite things to do in Bushnell’s Basin?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Help Support My Work
People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.
I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.
If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.
Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.
Thank you!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
