A brief history of the Erie Canal aqueduct. Before the Erie Canal was diverted to its current course through Genesee Valley Park, it flowed right through the city using the aqueduct to cross the Genesee River.
In 1918, the canal was re-routed and the city began to use the vacated basin for public rail transportation, with passenger service ending in 1956, and freight traffic ending in 1970.
Broad Street runs atop the abandoned underground today.
Day Trips Around Rochester, New York
Ever since, there has been lively debate over what to do with the decaying infrastructure. This is one of the most comprehensive articles I’ve read on the development of “ROC the Riverway“. It looks to have a decade+ timeline, with quick wins along the way. Broad Street has been the piece I’ve been most fascinated by, with so many solutions debated. I’m excited to see it come to life!
Sneak a peek
The old subway and canal tunnel under Broad Street is still accessible to urban explorers, but not easily to the general public. Rather, you can still take a peek in from the bottom of the stairs next to Blue Cross Arena & War Memorial.
“Child’s Basin” mural was painted by Cazenovia College Art Professor Corky Goss. Looking out through a stone archway is the first Mayor of Rochester and son-in-law of Nathaniel Rochester, Jonathan Child (1795-1860).
You used to be able to walk inside
The main entrance that used to lead under the Rundel Library building has been closed down as a part of the city’s revitalization efforts along the river.
Re-live Rochester’s Rich Transportation History
There are several excellent places around Rochester where you can interact with historic machines and listen to the stories of Rochester’s beginnings:
New York Museum of Transportation
The New York Museum of Transportation is open on Sundays from 11am-5pm all year long, with special events and trolley rides during the non-winter months. Their impressive collection and engaging events are managed by dedicated volunteers who are excited to share stories of Rochester’s rich transportation history.
Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum
Volunteers at the Rochester Genesee Valley Railroad Museum actively acquire, restore and preserve New York’s largest collection of historic railroad equipment. Spend a day riding the train and checking out their Rochester-centric collection!
Sam Patch Erie Canal Packet Boat
Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours are a great way to experience the canal, the locks, and learn about its history along your narrated cruise.
Other transportation & innovation museums around Rochester
- Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park
- Herschell Carrousel Factory
- Salamanca Rail Museum
- Buffalo Transportation Piece Arrow Museum
- Edgerton Model Railroad Room
- Arcade & Attica Railroad
- Medina Railroad Museum
- Niagara Aerospace Museum
- Rochester Auto Museum
- Antique Wireless Museum
- Niagara Power Vista
- Glenn Curtiss Museum
- National Soaring Museum
- Spencerport Depot & Canal Museum
- Erie Canal Discovery Center
Learn more about the historic Erie Canal Aqueduct & the Rochester Subway:
- Rochester Subway
- City of Rochester
- The Erie Canal
- ROC History
- Located in the City of Rochester (get directions)
132 Things to Do Around Rochester
We’ve pulled together a list of fun and unique things to do around Rochester, NY, within two hours of home—perfect for quick getaways.
24 Hidden Places Around Rochester
From secret gardens to enchanting waterfalls, exploring hidden places around the Rochester area is the ultimate way to add some spice to your travel experiences.
50 New York State Parks Within a Two-Hour Drive of Rochester
Venture into one of these New York State Parks within a two-hour drive of Rochester and discover what makes them unique.
These day trips are filled with carefully chosen options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as memorable experiences and events.
Our 4 Favorite Extreme Christmas Lights Around Rochester: 2023 Edition
Enjoy our four favorite extreme Christmas lights, plus more extraordinary Rochester-area homes and holiday-themed events.
Have you been to see the Erie Canal / Aqueduct?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
