The top local attractions on CTEC and CTHV

Our bike tours are about so much more than cycling. They’re an opportunity to explore the state from a new perspective, experiencing scenic views, charming towns and all the attractions they have to offer. This year is jam packed with local events along the trail. Check out some of our top picks:

Cycle the Erie Canal

1. Lockport will be a highlight on the first day, with Trail Keepers, one of PTNY’s most dedicated Adopt-a-Trail groups welcoming riders to the greater Lockport area. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the stunning Erie Canalway trail garden islands that they create and maintain in the area, packed with bicycle art and poetry. Once in the City of Lockport, the certified Trail Town will have no shortage of yummy things to eat and drink, as well as on-site bike parking, bike repair, and an army of volunteers to show you a good time in the Lock City!
2. Into all things vintage? We’ve got the stops for you!
   • Syracuse Classic Bike is holding a vintage bike show at the Burnett Park camp in Syracuse They'll have old Schwinns like Stingrays, Pea Pickers, Cruisers, and other classic bikes on display for riders to appreciate.
   • Check out the 46th Annual Old Engine and Tractor Show at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site hosted by the Tri-County Old Time Power Association.
3. If you haven't already heard, our favorite Erie Canal Museum Educators, Derrick Pratt and Steph Adams are joining us this year! For all eight days of the ride, you’ll have two knowledgeable historians on-hand illuminating the history of the Erie Canal and the unique towns it passes through. Each day you can ride with an expert, getting beautiful views and little-to-well-known tidbits about each of the stops along your way.
   • And On Wednesday July 10 at 6pm, the Erie Canal Museum will be hosting Jack Kelly, author of Heaven's Ditch: God, Gold and Murder Along the Erie Canal as part of the Deeper Dive Lecture series. You can watch his talk streamed live at the Museum or you can receive a recording by registering here: https://eriecanalmuseum.org/store/product/lecture/
4. Towns along the trail are coming together to celebrate riders as they pass through with music, food, and fun!
   • Rome is throwing a massive block party at the end of the day's ride conveniently located right on the route across from Fort Stanwix. There will be music, vendors, food trucks, and a beer truck.
   • Our new overnight location, Fort Plain, is pulling out all the stops! As you roll into town you'll be greeted by the Village's welcome station with info and music, the VFW grilling food, and two more bands in the park. Not to mention, the bakery is staying open late and the Erie Station Pub is opening early. To top it off, there's a carnival with rides and attractions right on the trail! It's going to be an overnight to remember!

Cycle the Hudson Valley

1. Ayesha McGowan, the first African-American female pro road cyclist, is hosting a special ride and talk during our bike tour this summer! Through various initiatives that focus on representation, Ayesha has inspired countless people to ride more, ride together, and to challenge themselves and their views of how they define the word “cyclist."
2. What was once an abandoned 27 acre farm, Bradley Farm in New Paltz is now home to animals, vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, and a growing community. Visit the farm on weekends for casual food events, where they serve delicious seasonal offerings.
3. Celebrate healthy recreation and sustainable forms of transportation at NYC Summer Streets. The annual celebration shuts down Park Avenue to vehicular traffic during the first three Saturdays of August from 7am-1pm. Don't miss out on this rare sight!
4. The Hudson Valley is steeped in history and stunning views. Here are some of our favorite stops along the trail:
   • Olana Historic Site: The Olana State Historic Site in Greenport, New York was home to Frederic Edwin Church, one of the major figures in the Hudson River School of landscape painting. Step back in time with a visit to the sprawling estate.
   • Hopewell Depot Museum: The historic museum and park highlights the communities of Hopewell Junction, the town of East Fishkill, and Dutchess County. Explore the area’s rich history through interpretive panels throughout the museum, depot, tower, and train caboose
   • Walkway Over the Hudson: Originally opened in 1889, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is the World's Longest Elevated Pedestrian Bridge, spanning the Hudson River between Poughkeepsie and Highland.

Register today for Cycle the Erie Canal and Cycle the Hudson Valley!