Palmyra New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Palmyra, New York.
1. Smith Family Farm
JOSEPH SMITH HERITAGE FARM
The Smith Family Farm offers an authentic look into the early life of Joseph Smith Jr., founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visitors walk through preserved farm buildings and the iconic Sacred Grove, where pivotal events in Latter-day Saint history are said to have occurred. This rural property is a must-see for those interested in American religious history and peaceful, reflective landscapes.
2. Hill Cumorah Visitors Center
RELIGIOUS HISTORY LANDMARK
The Hill Cumorah Visitors Center welcomes guests to explore the location associated with Joseph Smith's vision and the origins of the Book of Mormon. Exhibits and multimedia presentations detail the spiritual events that took place here in the 1820s. The hilltop setting provides panoramic views and a tranquil space for reflection.
3. Phelps General Store
HISTORIC 19TH CENTURY STORE
The Phelps General Store, dating back to 1826, preserves the charm of an old-time mercantile that once served Erie Canal travelers and townsfolk alike. The store still displays original inventory, fixtures, and period furnishings, offering a palpable sense of 19th-century commerce. Its layered history includes uses as a boarding house, tavern, and bakery.
4. Book of Mormon Historic Publication Site (Grandin Building)
LANDMARK PRINT SHOP
The Book of Mormon Historic Publication Site, known as the Grandin Building, is the exact location where the first copies of the Book of Mormon were printed and bound in the 1820s. Guided tours walk visitors through restored press rooms and bindery operations, vividly recounting the site's literary and religious significance. The interactive exhibits transport guests back to the era of early American publishing.
5. Erie Canal Aqueduct Park
CANAL ERA ENGINEERING
Erie Canal Aqueduct Park celebrates Palmyra's vital role in the historic Erie Canal system. Interpreted walking paths trace the outlines of the old aqueduct, with plaques detailing the canal's transformative influence on trade and migration. It's an ideal setting for a scenic stroll or picnic while learning about New York's transportation legacy.
6. Alling Coverlet Museum
AMERICAN TEXTILE COLLECTION
The Alling Coverlet Museum showcases the nation's largest collection of American handwoven coverlets, spanning over a century of textile artistry. Visitors learn about the evolution of loom weaving and the regional history of decorative arts. The museum also features period rooms and historic weaving demonstrations.
7. Sacred Grove
TRANQUIL SPIRITUAL WOODS
The Sacred Grove is a peaceful forested area revered as the site of Joseph Smith's First Vision, an event foundational to Latter-day Saint history. Walking trails wind through old-growth woods, offering a contemplative atmosphere for visitors. Interpretive signs and benches invite quiet reflection amid nature.
8. Alvin Smith Gravesite
FAMILY HERITAGE MEMORIAL
The Alvin Smith Gravesite marks the resting place of Joseph Smith Jr.'s eldest brother, located in the Palmyra cemetery. A simple, dignified gravestone honors Alvin's memory and the significance of the Smith family in the community. The site is a poignant stop for those tracing early Latter-day Saint history.
9. Palmyra-Macedon Aqueduct Park
SCENIC PARK WITH HISTORY
Palmyra-Macedon Aqueduct Park features preserved stonework from the original Erie Canal aqueduct, set alongside well-kept green spaces. The park is a popular spot for families, dog walkers, and history buffs who appreciate its fusion of natural beauty and transportation heritage. Interpretive signage details the canal's impact on the area.
10. Maple Avenue Wetland Nature Trail
WILDLIFE AND WETLAND WALK
The Maple Avenue Wetland Nature Trail offers a peaceful, half-mile loop through wetlands habitats just north of Palmyra's main roadways. Ideal for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, the trail provides chances to see waterfowl, songbirds, and native plants. Informational signs teach visitors about the importance of wetland ecosystems.
11. Shopping
SMALL TOWN BOUTIQUES
Shopping in Palmyra offers a charming mix of local boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores. Popular destinations include The Purple Painted Lady for unique gifts, The Dog Eared Book for book lovers, and Strings 'n Things for crafts and antiques. These shops, situated throughout Palmyra's historic downtown, are ideal for finding one-of-a-kind treasures and supporting local artisans.
12. Dining
LOCAL EATS AND CAFÉS
Dining in Palmyra features a collection of family-run diners, classic American eateries, and cozy cafés. Notable options include Akropolis Restaurant for Greek-American favorites, Yellow Mills Diner for classic comfort food, and Muddy Waters Café for healthy, fresh fare. No matter your taste, Palmyra's dining scene delivers welcoming service and homemade meals.
13. Hiking
TRAILS AND SCENIC PATHS
Hiking in Palmyra is best experienced on the Maple Avenue Wetland Nature Trail and the paths at Swift's Landing Park. These trails offer immersive experiences through woodlands, wetlands, and along the Erie Canal, accommodating both casual walkers and avid hikers. The easy-to-access trails are well-marked and provide a refreshing way to experience Palmyra's natural beauty.
14. Fishing
FISHING ON THE ERIE CANAL
Fishing in Palmyra takes place mainly along the historic Erie Canal, where anglers can catch bass, carp, perch, and more. Popular fishing spots include Aqueduct Park and Swift's Landing Park, offering riverbank access and serene surroundings. These locations provide both novice and experienced fishers with picturesque settings and a chance to enjoy New York's outdoors.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR CAMPING EXPERIENCES
Camping near Palmyra is available at Swift's Landing Park, which offers rustic sites with convenient access to the Erie Canal and hiking trails. The park is popular for family getaways, tent camping, and overnight stays under the stars. Campers enjoy amenities like picnic tables, fishing areas, and options for both relaxation and adventure in a scenic upstate setting.