Camillus Erie Canal Park (Sims Store) - Image 1
1 / 10

Camillus Erie Canal Park Sims Store

4.8
·40 reviews·Camillus, United States

Explore a preserved section of the Erie Canal, enjoy scenic trails, and take a charming boat tour. A blend of history and outdoor recreation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for trails

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Camillus Erie Canal Park (Sims Store) - Image 1

Camillus Erie Canal Park Sims Store

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for trails

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a preserved section of the Erie Canal, enjoy scenic trails, and take a charming boat tour. A blend of history and outdoor recreation.

4.8
(40 reviews)

"A great little place! So worth taking a day to spend here, bring a picnic lunch or pack some charcoal and grill."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring lunch or use the grills for a delightful day out. Many visitors rave about the picnic potential.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll want to explore the extensive walking and biking trails.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Erie Canal Boat Tour

Erie Canal Boat Tour

Erie Canal

Experience a charming 40-minute boat ride on the original Erie Canal, a highlight for all ages.

Erie Canal History Museum

Erie Canal History Museum

Sims Store

Discover the canal's significance through informative exhibits and a glimpse into its past.

Scenic Walking & Biking Trails

Scenic Walking & Biking Trails

Park grounds

Explore miles of trails, now connected to the Onondaga Lake Loop, offering beautiful views.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Erie Canal's Past

Step back in time at the Camillus Erie Canal Park Sims Store. Learn about the canal's vital role in history through engaging exhibits and a scenic boat tour. Perfect for history buffs and families alike.

Plan Your Canal Adventure

Combine your visit with biking or walking the extensive trails connected to the Onondaga Lake Loop. Pack a picnic or use the grills for a full day of exploration. Check boat tour schedules in advance.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for trails
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Boat tours are a highlight
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The service at this location is always good but the N Syracuse location does above and beyond. Super sweet people. #pho#camillus#syracuse
@eatingclubgirl
18.2K likes • 165.5K views

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring lunch or use the grills for a delightful day out. Many visitors rave about the picnic potential. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll want to explore the extensive walking and biking trails. Reddit

The Mixing Bowl in Camillus. 103 Bennet. Best Burgers, Best Desserts, Soups, scrambles, weekly breakfast, lunch and dinner specials. Made in house and sourced locally. Wholesome cafe casual family style. Have a coffee, get a loaf of home made bread and eat from my favorite spot in Syracuse. Not sponsored, if anything you’ll probably run into me there #themixingbowl #syracuseeats #cnyeats #burgersf...
@madzxkaz
5.4K likes • 78.8K views
taking a break from the state fair content to share one of my favorite places to visit and get some peace and quiet. if you grew up on the west side of suburbia in Syracuse then you’re probably familiar with this place. you may have even contributed to some of the spray paint when you were in high school lol #syracuse #cny #hiddengems #haunted #rockcrusher
@justacusegirl
5.1K likes • 68.4K views

⏰ Check Boat Tour Times

The boat ride is a highlight, so confirm schedules before your visit. Reddit

🚲 Connect to Onondaga Lake Loop

Enjoy extended biking and walking by linking up with the nearby loop. Reddit

Congratulations Inspector Gregory Camillus 🫡👮‍♂️🌟@Gregory Camillus
@enaladgam
2.6K likes • 19.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Bring lunch or use the grills for a delightful day out. Many visitors rave about the picnic potential. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll want to explore the extensive walking and biking trails. Reddit

⏰ Check Boat Tour Times

The boat ride is a highlight, so confirm schedules before your visit. Reddit

🚲 Connect to Onondaga Lake Loop

Enjoy extended biking and walking by linking up with the nearby loop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(40 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Camillus Erie Canal Park for its historical significance and recreational opportunities. The boat tour and trails are frequently highlighted as enjoyable experiences for all ages. While the park offers a great day out, some may wish for more on-site dining options beyond picnic facilities.

"We have passed this museum on our bikes several times and finally decided to stop by and do a boat tour. It was very informative and pleasant to see. Our kids enjoyed it as well. A lot of new information you learn and get to appreciate by being here and learning about the canal."

Natalya Moroz

"What a great little place! So worth taking a day to spend here, bring a picnic lunch or pack some charcoal and grill. Lots of trails for walking and the 40 minute boat ride was darling!"

Holly Maynard

"Great piece of Erie Canal history. Great biking and walking trails. Now connected to Onondaga lake loop."

cindy christopher

What People Like

Informative boat tour
Great walking trails
Erie Canal history

What People Dislike

Limited dining options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's located in Camillus, NY, and is easily found using GPS. Many visitors arrive by bike, especially those utilizing the connected Onondaga Lake Loop. Reddit

Information on public transportation options can be limited. It's recommended to check local Syracuse transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving. Reddit

Absolutely! The park is part of a great trail system and is now connected to the Onondaga Lake Loop, making it a fantastic destination for cyclists. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free. However, there may be fees associated with specific activities like the boat tours. It's best to check their official website or inquire upon arrival. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the park's official website or call ahead to confirm the current hours for the Sims Store museum and any associated exhibits. Reddit

The cost for the boat tour can vary. Visitors have mentioned it as a highlight and a worthwhile experience for the price. Confirm current pricing when you plan your visit. Reddit

The walking and biking trails within Camillus Erie Canal Park are typically free to access, offering a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can take an informative boat tour on the original Erie Canal, explore the Sims Store museum, walk or bike the scenic trails, and enjoy picnic areas with grills. Reddit+2

Yes, the boat tour is described as 'darling' and enjoyable for kids, making it a great family activity. Reddit+1

While there are no formal restaurants, the park offers excellent picnic areas with grills, making it ideal for packing your own food. Reddit

The park features walking and biking trails that are well-maintained and offer scenic views. They are also connected to the larger Onondaga Lake Loop. Reddit

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed, the main areas and some trails are generally navigable. The boat tour may have specific boarding requirements. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots along the canal, the historic Sims Store, and the scenic trails. The boat tour also offers unique photographic opportunities. TikTok

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos during the boat tour to capture the experience and the canal's beauty. Reddit

Generally, photography is permitted throughout the park for personal use. Always be respectful of other visitors and any posted signage. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Camillus Erie Canal Park is a fantastic destination for families. The 40-minute boat tour is a definite highlight, described as 'darling' and enjoyable for all ages, offering a fun and educational experience. Reddit+1 The park also features walking and biking trails that are perfect for kids to explore, especially when connected to the Onondaga Lake Loop. Reddit Don't forget to pack a picnic; there are grill facilities available, making it easy to spend a full day of fun without breaking the bank. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Hikers

For cycling and hiking enthusiasts, Camillus Erie Canal Park is a must-visit. The park boasts well-maintained trails that are perfect for both walking and biking. Reddit The real gem is its connection to the Onondaga Lake Loop, which significantly expands your route options and allows for longer, more scenic rides. Reddit You can easily spend hours exploring the diverse terrain and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Remember to bring your gear and enjoy the extensive network of paths. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find Camillus Erie Canal Park incredibly rewarding. The Sims Store museum offers a deep dive into the history and significance of the Erie Canal, a pivotal waterway in American development. Reddit The boat tour provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to experience a section of the original canal. Reddit It's a great opportunity to learn about engineering feats and the economic impact of this historic route. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Erie Canal

Camillus Erie Canal Park is a living testament to the Erie Canal's profound impact on American history and commerce. The park preserves a section of the original canal, allowing visitors to connect with this engineering marvel. The Sims Store serves as a museum, offering insights into the canal's construction, operation, and the lives of those who depended on it. Through exhibits and artifacts, you can learn about the challenges and triumphs associated with this vital waterway. Reddit+1

The 40-minute boat tour is a highlight, providing an immersive experience of what travel on the canal was like. Gliding along the water, you can almost imagine the packet boats and barges that once plied these waters. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the scale and importance of the Erie Canal firsthand. Reddit

Beyond the historical exhibits, the park's natural beauty is also a draw. The walking and biking trails are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape. Their connection to the Onondaga Lake Loop expands the possibilities for outdoor recreation, making it a destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Reddit

Outdoor Recreation at the Park

Camillus Erie Canal Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities beyond its historical significance. The extensive network of trails is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous bike ride. These paths wind through scenic landscapes, providing opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings. Reddit

A major draw for cyclists is the park's integration with the Onondaga Lake Loop. This connection allows for longer, more diverse cycling routes, catering to both casual riders and seasoned cyclists. Whether you're looking for a short ride or a full day of pedaling, the park and its connected trails offer ample opportunities. Reddit

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the park provides picnic areas equipped with grills. This makes it an ideal spot for a family outing or a gathering with friends. Visitors often recommend packing a lunch to fully enjoy a day spent exploring the park's amenities and natural beauty. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2