You probably wouldn’t think of Baldwinsville, New York as a conventional trip destination. Most people have never even heard of it! It’s true that we don’t have palm trees, white sandy beaches, or world-famous attractions like many popular vacation spots. Nonetheless, our small, familiar community can make any visitor feel welcome, included, and appreciative of all the fun a small town can offer.
Whether you are a history buff, a music fan, a nature lover, or just someone looking for a good time, you will definitely find something in Baldwinsville that will match your interests. Baldwinsville, located on the Seneca River, was founded in 1848. At this time, there were several mills by the river, as well as Lock 24 of the Erie Canal. History buffs can still see a part of our rich past today. One of the old gristmills has been converted into the Red Mill Inn, a beautiful place to stay during your visit. Right next to the inn is Lock 24. Cargo boats once travelled the canal, transporting products to and from the mills of Baldwinsville. You may fish or go on a relaxing dinner cruise to enjoy the river and the historical canal. Another notable site is the location of the first church in the country to have electricity, the Grace Episcopal Church. One last recommendation for history buffs is the Shacksboro Schoolhouse and Museum, which is the home of our annual Peony Festival in June. The one-room schoolhouse, built in 1879, still holds artifacts and exhibits for tourists to enjoy.
Very few know that the Baldwinsville Central School District has been named one of the best districts in the country for music education, which must be very good news for our music lovers! During the school year, the school music departments hold several concerts featuring our talented bands, orchestras, and chorus groups. The Marching Band Show in the fall is a must see. The Baldwinsville Marching Band has won several championship titles from local and national competitions, such as the Gator Bowl competition in Florida. The band was even chosen to perform in the 2014 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, a very prestigious and rare opportunity! Catch a show in B’ville for a sneak peek of the band you will see on TV next year! During the summer, there are weekly musical performances at the Anheuser-Busch outdoor amphitheater on Papermill Island, which is right next to the Red Mill Inn. Families can listen to talented bands and musicians as a great way to spend their summer evenings.
If you love the outdoors, Baldwinsville is the place for you. For year-round outdoor experiences, visit Beaver Lake Nature Center, not far from the center of town. There are trails ranging from less than a mile to the three-mile loop around the lake. You may also rent a kayak if you want to be on the water. In the winter, you can snowshoe or cross country ski on the trails. Besides Beaver Lake, Mercer Park is another great outdoor location. Located on the Seneca River, this park has benches, a gazebo, a playground, and a basketball court. Bring a picnic basket, and don’t forget food for the ducks and geese!
Even though a big city or a tropical island may be next on your vacation list, you may want to consider coming to Baldwinsville, New York. Small towns have just as much to offer as cities and the tropics! Our amazing history and community have opened their arms, ready to embrace any visitor who comes their way. Plan your trip here and experience our wonderful town!
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