Heritage & Harvest: A Day Trip Through Orleans County

Begin your journey in Medina, a village where vintage vibes and vibrant culture blend seamlessly. Stroll the historic downtown lined with locally owned boutiques, cozy cafés, and architectural gems.

Just steps away, the Medina Canal Basin offers easy access to the Erie Canalway Trail. Rent bikes, take a walk, or simply enjoy the view from one of the picnic benches. If you’re lucky, you might catch a boat locking through—or an event like the Flotsam River Circus floating in for a show.

For train lovers and history buffs, the Medina Railroad Museum is a must-see. Home to one of the largest collections of New York Central Railroad artifacts, the museum also offers seasonal vintage train excursions along the Erie Canal, giving visitors a truly unique view of the countryside. Bonus: It’s housed in a massive 1905 freight depot.

Midday in Albion: Cobblestone and Courthouse Stories
Next stop: Albion, a treasure trove of architecture and Erie Canal lore. Explore the charming Historic Courthouse Square, where towering buildings hint at Albion’s days as a booming canal town. Look for the Pullman Memorial Universalist Church, a stunning structure funded by George Pullman—yes, that Pullman—the inventor of the railroad sleeping car. It's a fascinating stop that bridges Albion's industrial roots and spiritual history.

From here, drive just a few minutes to the Cobblestone Museum, where you can explore the only cobblestone museum campus in the U.S. This unique form of masonry, distinctive for its smooth, rounded stones set in lime mortar, was popular between 1830 and 1860. Albion is one of the few places where you can see so many well-preserved examples in one place. Step inside the old schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and church, and imagine life before modern roads and railways.

Afternoon in Holley: Waterfalls and Farm Finds
End your day in Holley, a quiet canal village with a beautiful surprise: Holley Canal Falls, a manmade waterfall that cascades through the heart of the village. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic, photos, or just some peaceful reflection time.

Craving a taste of the season? Stop at a local roadside stand or farm store to grab just-picked fruits and veggies. From sweet corn to heirloom tomatoes, Orleans County is bursting with farm-fresh flavor in every season. In late summer and fall, u-pick farms and cider stands dot the roadsides like treasure stops on your journey.

Wrap It All Up with a Sunset Over the Canal
Wherever your Orleans County adventure takes you, be sure to wind down by the water. The Erie Canal at golden hour? It’s pure magic.