Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Pittsford, NY

  • Published 2022/12/07

The town of Pittsford in Monroe County is one of the suburban communities surrounding the large city of Rochester.

Throughout history, Pittsford was where many political and territorial divisions were made through treaties and agreements.

Its current location was established in 1814 when Smallwood was divided into present-day Henrietta and Pittsford.

Its name was derived from Pittsford, Vermont, by a hero of the War of 1812 after his hometown, and the name has stuck ever since.

In the present, Pittsford is home to those who work in Rochester, and the residential communities in the town are full of beautiful architecture and design, with the historic Erie Canal serving as a cultural backdrop.

If you’re planning to visit, here are the 20 best things to do in Pittsford, New York:

Cruise with The Sam Patch

close up photo of people on the Sam Patch tour boat

Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock.com

If you want to make your visit to Pittsford more memorable, ride aboard The Sam Patch!

The Sam Patch is a cruise along the Erie Canal aboard a replica canal navigation boat and is a great way to learn more about the history of Pittsford.

While its availability is typically limited to several months a year, you’ll leave with an experience like no other.

 Sam Patch tour boat sailing down the river

Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock.com

This 90-minute cruise is full of historical facts and narratives about Erie Canal.

There are also birds along the canal that you can see during your cruise.

The service began operations over 30 years ago and can be found along Schoen Place.

Bring your friends or partner for a wonderful time aboard The Sam Patch.

Visit the Powers Farm Market

Farmland is one of the things that you’d see when you visit Pittsford, and one of the best farms to visit during your stay is the Powers Farm Market.

Like any other farm, the Powers Farm Market is known for its animals, such as sheep, donkeys, goats, and chickens.

The farm sells sweetcorn, pumpkins, asparagus, and other fresh produce, which are harvested directly from the farm.

Other than these, there are also freshly baked goods, jams and preserves, and other fun farm activities you can try out.

You can try their hayrides or, if you timed your visit perfectly, their seasonal events, such as the Halloween Hayride, which is perfect for family and friends.

Powers Farm Market has been in business since 1966, when the farm started selling sweetcorn, and you can find it along Marsh Road.

Take a Stroll at the Powder Mills Park

To the south of the town, you will find Powder Mills Park, a 380-acre pocket of nature that attracts those who want to be in a quiet place.

Located along Park Road, Powder Mills Park offers multiple trails across varying terrain.

Since it was acquired by Monroe County in 1930, the park has been a favorite destination because of its trees and flowers and overall calm ambiance.

One of the popular trails is the Hatchery Trail which takes you to a field of milkweed, a favorite food of monarch butterflies.

Other than taking a stroll, there are also other amenities for skiing, hiking, and trout fishing that you can find in the park.

Relax with the Spa at the Del Monte

A long day of exploring Pittsford and its surrounding areas can leave you with a sore body and the desire to just lie down and rest.

Step into the Spa at the Del Monte and enjoy a luxurious massage and pampering to remove all that stress away.

Spa at the Del Monte offers an impressive variety of massages depending on your need, whether you fancy deep massage or aromatherapy; they also have options for pregnant women.

All are welcome at the Spa at the Del Monte—they have options for manicure and pedicure for ladies and gentlemen alike.

Other than that, they also offer hair and facial treatments, waxing, and baths.

There are also seasonal services depending on the time of the year, as well as a dedicated shop for cosmetics, hair, and even jewelry.

Learn How to Kayak with Lock 32 Whitewater Park

The Erie Canal is a major man-made waterway that you would find in Monroe County, snaking through Rochester City and some of the surrounding suburbs.

Beside the Lock 32 spillway in Clover Street, you will find the Lock 32 Whitewater Park, an establishment that caters to those who are interested in water activities.

One of these activities is the park’s flatwater and whitewater kayaking lessons that draw in learners of any age and skill level.

The classes range from introductory classes to supplemental lessons for those who want to hone their skills more.

The park also boasts its controllable water levels that help make the lessons a lot easier.

Begin Your Food Journey with the Schoen Place & Pittsford Village Food Tour

Pittsford Village, the heart of Pittsford, is the gateway to a variety of food options sure to fill your stomach when you’re in town.

And what better way to start your exploration of such food options than by joining the Schoen Place & Pittsford Village Food Tour?

Offered by Flower City Food Tours, this 3-hour culinary trip takes you around Pittsford Village regardless of the weather.

There are eight food stops, including a cupcakery, cafe, bar, and beer place.

This is a group activity that you can do with your friends to explore not only the tastes of Pittsford but also the different architectural, historical, and cultural points of interest.

Book your tour and start eating out at Pittsford!

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery

Exterior of Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery

Pittsford mayor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s no better way of enjoying the Pittsford scenery than by slurping sweet desserts.

Go to the Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery, a proud dairy shop on North Main Street, and relish their wide variety of milk, ice creams, and pastries.

This establishment has stood the test of time since it began its dairy operations in 1888.

Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery is committed to processing milk in the old way; try out their chocolate milk, skim milk, and buttermilk to see the rich difference.

Their ice cream offerings include tried and tested chocolate and mint chocolate flavors, and their bakery sells cakes, bagels, cookies, cupcakes, and other pastries.

Lodge at the King’s Bend Park

Walk along West Jefferson Road, and you will reach King’s Bend Park, which is located on the banks of the Erie Canal.

The name of the park comes from the large bend on the Erie Canal from before, which was appropriately named the King’s Bend.

The park features two heated lodging houses which can house large groups of friends or families and is a great place to rent during the wintertime.

Some of the amenities included in the lodging houses are a gas fireplace, ceiling fans, sink, stove, and refrigerator.

Outside, there are patios, open lawn spaces, outdoor picnic tables, and grills.

The two lodging houses also border a fish pond, and beside it stands a playground with swings, a rock wall, slides, and monkey bars, perfect for children.

Experience Some Alcohol Buzz at Copper Leaf Brewing

Are you craving some buzz during your stay in Pittsford?

Head to Copper Leaf Brewing, a cafe along State Street known for its brewed alcoholic beverages served every afternoon and evening.

Copper Leaf Brewing offers handcrafted ales and lagers, along with barrel-aged and wild ales.

While most of their alcohol is in taps, you can also buy beer in cans for you to drink on the go.

One of its specialties is the American Pale Ale which it advertises as pairing well with seafood.

Apart from alcoholic beverages, Copper Leaf Brewing also hosts beer tasting events.

Spend Time in the Great Embankment Park

The course of the Erie Canal means there are a lot of establishments and public spaces along its banks, and one of these is the Great Embankment Park.

This wide park, located along Marsh Road, has four multipurpose fields that are usually used for soccer.

By the banks, there are also benches and small picnic tables, which are great for those who want to pass some time or hang out with friends.

The Great Embankment Park is also often used as the starting point for those who want to bike or walk, or you can also watch some of the games held on the premises.

The park also has a sizable parking lot and electric outlets in case you need them.

Have a Scrumptious Meal at The Cheesecake Factory

If you travel through Monroe Avenue, you will see the fancy building that houses The Cheesecake Factory.

Inside, you’ll find the glamorous architecture even more impressive.

True to its name, The Cheesecake Factory has a variety of cheesecake options that fit any kind of mood you’re in.

But cheesecakes aren’t its only products; it’s also a restaurant with a sizable menu with competing options that are all delicious.

Their menu includes various steak options, seafood, specialties (like chicken and shrimp), pasta, sandwiches, Glamburgers (hamburgers made of Angus beef), salads, pizza, and snacks.

Since its humble beginnings in 1972, The Cheesecake Factory has become a popular food destination.

Have a Scenic Meal at Aladdin’s Natural Eatery

As the historic lifeblood of Pittsford, the Erie Canal has seen various shops and establishments spring from its banks.

Overlooking the scenic canal is Aladdin’s Natural Eatery, a restaurant that opened its doors in 1980.

This restaurant prides itself in its all-natural and in-house foods, from its pasta and sugar to its coffee blend and sauces and dressings.

Its main highlight is its pasta, where customers can choose from aglio olio, marinara, tortellini, and couscous, among others.

You can pair your pasta with one of Aladdin’s special dishes, such as mixed grill meat, or their salad options which come in both vegan or fish and meat options.

If you want to get up close and personal with the Erie Canal while eating, you can grab one of Aladdin’s pita rolls or pockets to eat on the go.

Stretch Out at Breathe Yoga

Yoga is one of the most relaxing activities you can enjoy to relieve your stress and stretch your body.

With Breathe Yoga, you can get a place for guided yoga sessions and great food all in one!

Located along South Main Street, Breathe Yoga offers public yoga classes for everyone, regardless of their skills in yoga.

If you want some bonding time with friends, you can also book a private yoga class.

Other than its yoga programs that would help you begin your yoga journey, Breathe Yoga also sells a variety of smoothies, juice, cashew milk, and tea to quench your thirst.

Head to the kitchen and bakery to try out Breathe Yoga’s meals, sides, bars, snacks, and desserts.

Rent a Bike with Towpath Bike

Thanks to its canal routes and friendly public spaces, one of the best ways to go around Pittsford is by renting a bike and spending the day exploring the town.

Get your rentals at Towpath Bike, which has earned a reputation for its professional bike services since it opened in the 1970s.

Bike renting rates begin at three hours, and you can have the bike for a maximum of three days.

When you rent a bike, Towpath Bike also throws in a complete set of a helmet, locks, bike racks, and a bag.

Invite your friends not only for a bike ride around Pittsford but also to Towpath Bike’s special events like their winter bike season or their bike maintenance lessons.

Sweat It Out at Thornell Farm Park

If you’re itching to do something more active and sporty, bring your friends along to Thornell Farm Park.

This 27-acre area by Pittsford Mendon Road attracts athletes and exercisers thanks to its amenities and facilities.

With active recreational interests in mind, Thornell Farm Park was designed with three multipurpose grass fields and a variety of sports fields for softball, tennis, and basketball.

A trail surrounds the perimeter of the park and offers joggers an even place to run around and be physically active.

For those bringing kids along, there’s also a playground for them.

Swing by Monroe Golf Club

Take part in various family-friendly events while living the exclusive club lifestyle!

Since its establishment in 1923, Monroe Golf Club has earned a reputation as one of Rochester and Western New York’s top private clubs.

Many people consider the club’s prize-winning Donald Ross-designed golf layout among the most traditional and well-preserved designs of Mr. Ross’s original concepts.

Regardless of age and ability level, golfers can participate in the first-rate golf adventure their professional golf team provides.

The extensive menu selections at Monroe Golf Club will tickle your palate, plus there are also two outdoor terraces for eating.

Delight in Scrumptious Meals at Richardson’s Canal House

Constructed as a tavern in 1818, Richardson’s Canal House operated as a public house for more than a century.

Richardson’s Canal House, located in Pittsford, New York, is a casual food establishment that serves excellent meals on the picturesque banks of the Erie Canal.

The cuisine and service will play the main stage with you, whether you’re enjoying a summery lunch on the balcony grill or a cozy winter meal in front of a roaring fire.

Richardson’s Canal House still presents the same high-quality food and exemplary service as in the past, but with a more contemporary flare.

Dinner will be available from Tuesday through Saturday, 5 to 9 p.m.

Gain Knowledge at Pittsford Community Library

The Pittsford Community Library is a hub for social interaction and cultural enlightenment and a cutting-edge data and information resource.

It seeks to provide the neighborhood with access to a wide range of resources, comprising collections, technologies, programs, and skilled, enthusiastic staff in a charming, canal-side location.

A two-floor lighted well, vibrant murals, a literature garden, lounging places, study rooms, a Starbucks, and an open meeting room are all included in the 32,000-square-foot building.

The library offers workshops and events for kids, adults, and elders in addition to a wide range of books.

It also provides technological services, such as wireless connections, accessible computers, and PCs with assistive technology.

Relax at the Seven Story Brewing

In 2018, Seven Story Brewing was established to provide outstanding beer in a fantastic setting.

They make their beers in-house and in collaboration with several of the greatest local craft breweries.

When possible, they use materials from New York state and partner with companies that share their principles.

The brewmaster, Phill Macarthur, who also carefully finds premium ingredients, develops all the beer formulas.

Whether you’re sitting by the fire on a chilly winter night or outside watching boats float by on a warm summer day, Seven Story Brewing feels its spot on the Erie Canal provides one of the greatest spots to drink a beer in the area.

Explore the Mythical Escapes

One of Rochester’s most complex and engaging escape room experiences is Mythical Escapes!

As you rush to complete your goal before time runs out, be ready to have your investigation, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities put to the test!

They select their game ideas to be distinctively intriguing, from waking up under special hibernation chambers to being stuck in a deserted meat packing facility.

At Mythical Escapes, they’re always looking for ways to improve the player experience, whether through technological interactions with the room’s parts or creative prop manipulation.

Host a memorable party for your guests to remember!

Organize a birthday party where the attendees will be fist-pushing and high-fiving each other as they rush to complete their tasks while locating clues and solving mysteries.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Visit the Memorial Art Gallery

exterior of Memorial Art Gallery, Rochester

Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock.com

At just about 8 miles from Pittsford Village, the Memorial Art Gallery in the neighboring city of Rochester is one of the best places to visit.

The gallery is located along University Avenue and boasts artifacts from over 5,000 years, long enough to span a sizable portion of human history.

The fountain court inside Memorial Art Gallery

DanielPenfield, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

With over 12,000 objects in its permanent collection, the Memorial Art Gallery always has something new to offer to its guests.

There are also other exhibitions, concerts, and tours available depending on the time of the year, so it’s best to keep your eyes peeled if you’re interested in any of these.

With Memorial Art Gallery, you can enjoy a much richer stay in Monroe County.

Exterior of the Memorial Art Gallery

DanielPenfield, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Final Thoughts

Pittsford, New York, is a place that’s far enough to be quiet but still close enough to be a great destination.

Thanks to the thriving community that has grown on the banks of the Erie Canal, it’s a cross between nature and the vibrant city of Rochester.

The inviting town of Pittsford waits for you to come and visit!

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