The 2025 Erie Canal Bicentennial presents a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the canal that transformed America and to commemorate its influence on New York and the nation. This will be a year full of incredible celebrations, thought-provoking presentations, musical performances, and momentous journeys.
Learn more: Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor
The Sam Patch is a replica 1800s packet boat that serves as a floating history museum and leisurely 90-minute cruise for visitors and locals alike. Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours are a great way to immerse yourself in the canal’s commercial history, engineering innovations, and influence on today’s recreational use.
Take a 90-minute cruise
Offered 2-3 times daily May-October
Even if you’ve grown up here with the canal in your backyard, a ride on the Sam Patch is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon. Daily cruises depart from Schoen Place in Pittsford.
Locking through Lock E-32
You can visit any of the locks along the canal and watch boats lock through, but there’s nothing like experiencing it in a boat!
Check out Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours’ special events
Past themes have included sunset yoga, live music, wine tastings, and a Fourth of July fireworks cruise.
More information about Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours
Cost: Varies by excursion
Located at Schoen Place in Pittsford, 21 minutes / 13 miles from Rochester (get directions)
More Information: sampatch.org
Walking around The Village of Pittsford
Pioneer settlers were farming the land here before the development of the Erie Canal. Pittsford Farms Dairy, established in 1814 as a farm, livery, and stagecoach operation, is an example,
Many of the villages along the canal, especially those that include the word “port”—Fairport, Spencerport, Brockport—developed to meet the needs of the new canal and the settlers who traded there. Pittsford thrived once the canal and railroad routed through the area, establishing Monroe County’s oldest village in 1827.
As you explore the village, wait for your Sam Patch excursion to begin, or walk to a restaurant afterward and take a look at the buildings and historic markers. They tell the story of this extraordinary place.
Explore More
With its scenic canal views, unique shops, cozy cafés, and rich history, Pittsford offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
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.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes, Genesee River, Erie Canal, and Finger Lakes on one of these Rochester-area boat tours.
Rochester’s railfans can appreciate the remarkable structures preserved by dedicated preservationists who recognize their value.
Paved, Boardwalk, and Gravel Pathways for Easy Strolls
These paved pathways and boardwalks are ideal for folks using strollers, walkers, wheelchairs, or managing other mobility challenges.
Rochester’s Fun Facts: Oldest, Original, Only, & More!
For years, I’ve been collecting fun facts about Rochester from books, websites, historical markers, and casual conversations.
What do you love most about a ride on the Sam Patch?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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Thank you!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
I’m still trying to figure out what the excursion cost, I’ll never understand this kind of advertisement. Put the damn price and schedules up front and all the amenities you offer rather than having to dance around on a website looking and looking and I still haven’t found it it’s such a turn off
Hello Frank! Are you looking on Sam Patch’s website to buy tickets? https://www.sampatch.org/