Photo credit: Nikki Bittner

Fairport is one of Rochester, NY’s stunning canal towns, and it is a must-visit spot for shopping lovers, bar hoppers, water-based activity seekers, and foodie fanatics alike.

If you’re looking to plan a trip to Fairport, we are here to help!

Good Times on the Canal

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One of the biggest draws of Fairport is its access to the Erie Canal. With the Erie Canalway Trail running 14-miles from Rochester to Fairport, walkers and bikers of all abilities can enjoy a scenic route right along the canal.

If you’re looking to enjoy the canal from the water, hop aboard the Colonial Belle, a family-owned and operated tour boat that sails along the canal from mid-May through October every year. The Colonial Belle features scheduled daily cruises as well as specialty themed cruises like live music sunset cruises, narrated lock cruises, and murder mystery dinner cruises.

Additionally, The Erie Canal Boat Company offers kayak and canoe rentals for visitors to the canal. These rental opportunities include adaptive gear for accessible opportunities. For the last 15 years the Erie Canal Boat Company has been a leader in adaptive recreation on the canalway.

Support Small Shops

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Fairport is home to some incredible small shops and boutiques. If you’re looking for a wide selection of carefully sourced and high-quality items, stop by Mescolata on Main Street and explore their array of women’s clothing, accessories, and more. Also on Main Street, Mescolata Men has all the men’s wear you could want!

RV&E Bike and Skate is a Fairport shop that specializes in premium bikes, as well as biking gear and apparel. The shop also offers rentals for bicycles, cross-country skis, figure skates, hockey skates, snowshoes, and more! Hint: this is the perfect place to stop and get everything you’ll need for a relaxing bike ride along the Erie Canal.

Other Fairport shops to keep in mind include Another Chapter Bookstore, Anything Goes Consignment Shop, Main Street Mercantile, and more. You can find a full list of Fairport shops here.

Time for a Caffeine Boost

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In our opinion, you haven’t officially visited an area until you’ve checked out their coffee scene. Fairport has no shortage of coffee shops to get you caffeinated and ready for the day.

FairPour Coffee Roasters is located in the Cannery Building of Fairport and offers delicious coffee options, breakfast sandwiches, and a selection of beer and wine.

Other Fairport coffee shops to check out include Clementine, Junction361, and Alter Ego Eatery.

Grab Some Good Eats

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Fairport, NY has some of the best restaurants around.

Housed in the original Fairport National Bank building, Bonnie and Clyde in the Village of Fairport offers delicious American cuisine, a global wine list, and a curated craft cocktail menu in a historical setting.

Horizon’s Modern Kitchen and Wine Bar is another up-scale dining option in Fairport. Located inside the Woodcliff Hotel and Spa, Horizon’s offers a weekday happy hour Monday-Friday, live music on Fridays and Saturdays, and deals on wine from 11:00 am – 11:00 pm every Wednesday.

If you’re in the market for a more casual experience, check out Tin Cup Social at the Cannery. With spectacular burgers, wings, and other casual bites, Tin Cup is the perfect spot to catch up with friends, watch a game on one of the TVs, or grab a beer.

Jeremiah’s Tavern is another great spot to grab a meal in the Fairport area. With an incredible menu and an expansive tap list, Jeramiah’s is the perfect spot whether you’re looking to grab lunch with your family or host a private event.

End the Day with a Bev

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In the mood for a night cap? You’ve got options. From refreshing wines at a local vineyard to craft cocktails at a cozy speakeasy, Fairport is a great place to grab a drink.

Casa Larga Vineyards is a winery in the Fairport area that offers year-round tours and tastings, seasonal festivals like the Ice Wine & Culinary Festival and the Purple Foot Festival, and Patio Parties in the summer.

The Blind Pig is a historic speakeasy located in the DeLand House on Main in Fairport, NY. Head inside for an intimate experience with amazing cocktails.

With live music every weekend and special events happening throughout the year, Iron Smoke Distillery is a great spot for music and bourbon lovers alike. With an atmospheric vibe and great drink options, Iron Smoke is a can’t miss spot.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, pay a visit to Backwoods by Kettle Ridge. This outdoor bar and music venue is family owned and offers a selection of food options as well as cozy firepits and a fun atmosphere.

Fun at Festivals

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Fairport also plays host to several festivals and events throughout the year. From Canal Days and Fairport Music Festival over the summer, to Home for the Holidays and various Holiday Markets in the winter, Fairport loves a festival!

Discover more here.

Take a Jaunt to East Rochester

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Okay with traveling just a bit outside of the Village of Fairport? There are a ton of great spots to check out in East Rochester!

Good Smoke BBQ is a can’t-miss barbeque spot featuring daily deals on their menu, trivia every Thursday, and even some delish vegetarian and gluten free options. 

 

However you choose to spend your time in Fairport, be sure to tag #VisitROC so we can follow along!