Fairport, located on the Erie Canal in the Town of Perinton just east of Rochester, was founded in the heyday of the original canal. Today, Fairport is a “front porch friendly” village with strong historic roots and a very contemporary appeal as a family-oriented community and food and entertainment destination situated in the heart of a bucolic town complete with ample green space, trails and historic farms.
In Fairport, you can explore the area by land or water. The Erie Canal Boat Company rents canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, accessible bikes and outboard pontoon boats. The new docks on the north bank also offer an accessible kayak launch very near our new accessible public restrooms. Bike rentals are available on an hourly, daily or weekly basis from RVE Bike and Skate, located within one block of the harbor. You can also come aboard the Colonial Belle for a narrated tour of the Erie. As the largest tour boat on the canal, it is certified to carry 149 passengers. It features an enclosed lower deck and an open-air upper deck, full-service bar, restrooms and lunch or dinner options.
Fairport is rich in historic architecture. See the original homes and businesses, the Fairport Historical Museum, and the Fairport lift bridge in its 104th year of operation. The 11 “Portals to Our Past” historic interpretive signs located throughout the village will help enhance your understanding of historic Fairport.
Neighboring two miles west of Fairport is Bushnell’s Basin in the Town of Perinton. For two centuries Bushnell’s Basin has been a place of commerce along the Erie Canal. With the construction of docks in 2011, Bushnell’s Basin offers overnight docking for a nominal fee and is a full-service stop for boaters and bikers alike, offering convenience stores, power, water, restrooms, and shower facilities.
Enjoy the many inns, restaurants and pubs that are available in Bushnell’s Basin. Richardson’s Canal House offers a fine dining experience and outdoor patio you are sure to enjoy. Adjacent to the docks, sits Aurora Brewing, featuring custom craft brews that appeal to every palate along with live music. Abbott’s Frozen Custard, a Rochester favorite that is the perfect treat on a warm summer day. Steamers Basin Trading Company offers fuel, food and the Basin Trading Post features an enormous craft beer selection. For the traveler enjoying all the area offers, the Hilton Garden Inn has a fitness center, indoor pool and whirlpool and the Garden Grille and Bar. Whether you’re a boater in need of supplies, a visitor looking for a great meal or a weary traveler looking for a place to rest, Bushnell’s Basin has everything you need.
Visit FinditinFairport.com and FairportPartnership.org for more information and plan your trip today!
