Palmyra (New York) Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Palmyra (New York), including places to visit, where to stay, and what to do.


Introduction to Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra is a small town located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, known for its scenic beauty and apple orchards. It is also home to several historical sites that played a significant role in the early development of the United States. The town is named after the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria and was founded in 1789.

List of Places to Visit in Palmyra (New York)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Palmyra is steeped in history and has several culturally significant attractions that are worth exploring.

1. The Hill Cumorah

The Hill Cumorah is a site of religious significance and is known to be the location where Joseph Smith discovered the golden plates, which led to the establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The site is marked by a monument and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

2. The Palmyra Historical Museum

The Palmyra Historical Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Palmyra’s rich and varied past, including exhibits on local Native American history, agricultural heritage, and the town’s role in the Underground Railroad.

Natural Attractions of Palmyra (New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Palmyra has a wealth of natural attractions that are perfect for the outdoorsy traveler.

1. The Erie Canal

The Erie Canal is a popular attraction of Palmyra and is one of the most significant engineering feats in American history. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat tours along the canal or explore its impressive lock system on foot or bike.

2. The Ganargua Creek Meadow Preserve

The Ganargua Creek Meadow Preserve is a beautiful natural area comprising over 300 acres of wetlands, meadows, and forests. Visitors can hike or bike the trails, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy the stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra has terrific hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the countryside.

1. The Erie Canalway Trail

The Erie Canalway Trail is a 360-mile route that follows the Erie Canal’s path, including a section that runs through Palmyra. The trail is primarily used for hiking and biking and offers scenic views of the canal and the surrounding countryside.

2. The Auburn Trail

The Auburn Trail is a 10.6-mile long hiking and biking route that passes through Palmyra. The trail is suitable for all levels of ability and offers picturesque views of the region’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Palmyra (New York): Activities and Tours

Palmyra offers a wide variety of activities and tours that cater to travelers of all tastes.

1. Wine Tasting Tours

Palmyra is located in the Finger Lakes Region, known for its excellent wineries. Visitors can take wine tasting tours and enjoy a variety of locally-produced wines.

2. Apple Picking in Finger Lakes Apple Country

Palmyra is in Finger Lakes Apple Country, known for its apple orchards. Visitors can pick their apples and enjoy all sorts of apple-themed treats and snacks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra is a small town, making it the perfect destination for a week-long getaway. Below are some suggested activities for a week-long itinerary in Palmyra.

Day Activity
1 Visit the Palmyra Historical Museum
2 Explore the Hill Cumorah
3 Wine Tasting Tour
4 Apple Picking in Finger Lakes Apple Country
5 Hiking/Biking Route along the Erie Canalway Trail
6 Ganargua Creek Meadow Preserve
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra has several excellent restaurants and bars that serve both local and international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

The following dishes are a must-try when in Palmyra:

  • Apple cider donuts
  • New York-style pizza
  • Chicken French

Local Beverages

The Finger Lakes region is known for its excellent wineries and hard cider. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of locally-produced wines and hard ciders at several restaurants and bars throughout Palmyra.

Where to Stay in Palmyra (New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Palmyra has several excellent accommodations that cater to travelers of all budgets.

1. Palmyra Inn

The Palmyra Inn is a comfortable and affordable hotel located in the heart of Palmyra. The hotel has several amenities, including a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and a restaurant.

2. Western motel

The Western motel is another affordable lodging option with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and cable TV.

What to Buy in Palmyra (New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Palmyra has several unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring back home as a reminder of their trip.

1. Apple Butter

Apple butter is a thick, smooth spread made from fresh apples and is a popular local product in Palmyra.

2. Maple syrup

Maple syrup is another popular local product in Palmyra and makes for an excellent souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with several traditions and customs that visitors should be aware of.

Best Time to Visit Palmyra (New York)

The best time to visit Palmyra is from May to October when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Palmyra (New York)

Do:

  • Try apple-themed treats and snacks
  • Visit the local wineries and apple orchards
  • Respect cultural sites and historical sites

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural sites and wildlife
  • Ignore local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions when traveling, such as locking their vehicles and securing their valuables.

Health in Palmyra (New York)

Visitors to Palmyra should take standard health precautions and ensure that they have proper medical insurance.

Getting to Palmyra (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Palmyra is easily accessible by several modes of transportation.

Airports Near Palmyra (New York)

The closest airports to Palmyra are:

  • Greater Rochester International Airport
  • Syracuse Hancock International Airport

Bus Stations Near Palmyra (New York)

The nearest bus stations to Palmyra are:

  • Rochester Transit Center
  • Syracuse Regional Transportation Center

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Palmyra by car or taxi.

How to Get Around in Palmyra (New York)

Palmyra is a small town, making it easy to get around on foot or bike. Visitors can also use taxis or rental cars to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Palmyra (New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Palmyra is located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, and visitors can explore other nearby destinations and attractions, including:

  • Seneca Lake
  • Watkins Glen State Park
  • Letchworth State Park

Conclusion

Palmyra is a small town with a rich cultural heritage and several natural attractions that are perfect for the outdoorsy traveler. Visitors can enjoy excellent food and drink, explore the town’s history, and take in the region’s natural beauty.

Four corners, four steeples Four corners, four steeples The Grandin Print Shop, where the Book of Mormon was first printed The Grandin Print Shop, where the Book of Mormon was first printed The Smith Log Cabin on the Joseph Smith Farm The Smith Log Cabin on the Joseph Smith Farm Remnants of the old Canal aqueduct over Ganargua Creek Remnants of the old Canal aqueduct over Ganargua Creek The Aldrich Change Bridge in Aqueduct Park The Aldrich Change Bridge in Aqueduct Park