If you are looking for a charming and historic place for a summer weekend getaway, then do we have the spot for you: Pittsford, New York! About a five hours’ drive from NYC, this little-known (yet incredibly beautiful) little village promises you a day of relaxation and discovery on the banks of the Erie Canal.
According to Village of Pittsford New York, Pittsford was “first noted into history in 1687, when the Marquis De Denonville, leading a French army on a punitive expedition against the Seneca Indians, camped in what is now the vicinity of State Street and South Street at what then was known as ‘Big Spring.'”
The village first was called Northfield, though it was changed to Boyle in 1808 to avoid confusion with another village of the same name. In 1813 the name was changed once again, this time to Smallwood, before Caleb Hopkins, a Colonel in the War of 1812, divided the town into Brighton and Pittsford.
Today, Pittsford lies about eight miles southeast of Rochester, the closest metropolitan area, and those that visit the village will immediately notice its beautiful scenery, strong sense of community, and overall charm.
As for the best happenings in Pittsford there’s tons to do.
The village offers the ultimate shopping experience, boasting everything from art and antiques and home decor to the latest designer apparel and jewelry. The best boutiques can be found in historic downtown.
Those that are more the outdoorsy type will also be thrilled to know that the village is home to and nearby several parks, including Mendon Ponds Park, Powder Mills Park (which is home to a fish hatchery), Kings Bend Park, and Isaac Gordon Nature Park which is perfect for hiking!
And if you’re interested in trying out the world’s largest Donkey Kong arcade game, it’s just about 15 minutes away at the Strong National Museum of Play, which recently underwent a 90,000-square-foot-expansion!
As for food, we suggest dining at Schoen Place, which boasts a number of restaurants overlooking the canal.
Beyond being the oldest village in New York, Town of Pittsford writes that the village is also home to many of the region’s historical firsts, “including the first doctor and first lawyer to practice in Monroe County, the first school, built in 1794, the first library, formed in 1803, and the first post office, established in 1811.”