Fairport is a picturesque town that you may not know about. upstate New York It is often referred to as the “crown Jewel of the Erie Canal.” It’s about 350 miles from Manhattan, not Westchester or Hudson Valley. Those who love and know it, like myself, were not surprised when it was incorporated into the city. ranked the fourth hottest neighborhood Redfin reports that the United States is a great place to live. Fairport is so beautiful that I bought my first home (and perhaps forever) in the village.
I’ve called many neighborhoods home over the years—Lenox Hill on NYC’s Upper East Side, Back Bay and Fenway in Boston, and Doral in Florida. With each move, I discovered what was most important to me. Walkability and community were not negotiables, which led me to discover a suburban area I grew-up only 20 minutes from.
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Of course, there are many things I miss about a big metropolis. It’s impossible to imagine a city without the access it offers to culture, entertainment and cuisine. My happiest memories in these cities are also the most simple: walking my dog, meeting up with friends for coffee, or exploring flea market. Why couldn’t these same experiences be replicated in my new city zip code? I had a vision of pushing a baby stroller along to the library and picnicking in the gazebo. I also imagined paddling a canoe down the canal. Now, those dreams are a reality—everything Fairport has to offer is just steps from my front door.
Summer begins with a bang Fairport Canal DaysOne of the most popular festivals in New York State. Weekend celebrations include local artists, food trucks and live performances. A rubber duck race for charity is also held along the Erie Canal. The crowded calendar of events in a village with a population of 5,000 is impressive. Fairport Music Festival Oktoberfest.
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Main Street is lined with cafes, restaurants and pubs that are lively and fun. Fairport is a great destination for singles and young families. Are you looking for something sweet? Three ice-cream shops are just a few steps apart (Moonlight Creamery never misses). Thirsty? Visit any of the many wine bars, distilleries and breweries like Iron SmokeThe award-winning bourbon is one of the most popular products. Are you planning a romantic evening? Make a reservation for a romantic date night Bonnie & ClydeThe upscale cocktail bar and restaurant opened in an old 1928 bank earlier this year.
Fairport’s lifestyle includes a lot of eating and drinking, but it also encourages you to stay active. You can ride your bike on the scenic towpath or skate at the skatepark. Or, you can trek through the forests. Fairport, like many other millennials, has recently opened indoor pickleball courts. But for now, you’ll find me walking everywhere—past the tour boats, trains, and historic village hall that makes me feel like I’m in an episode of Gilmore Girls.
I love to shop small. There is also a weekly farmer’s market. Lombardi’s Gourmet Foods The following are some examples of how to get started: Red Bird Market These are perfect for stocking specialty items. Another Chapter Bookstore My never-ending list of books is due to my love for reading. I enjoy browsing quirky antiques at shops like Main Street Mercantile The following are some examples of how to get started: Diane Prince Furniture & Gifts. Need an assortment colorful yarn? You can find it in a store. What are you looking for? handmade soaps? You can also find a store for it.
Fairport’s charm is different in every season. Summer brings a flurry of activity to the canalway, while the lift bridge is featured prominently. Ripley’s Believe It or Not This is a fantastic vantage. The scarecrows are a great way to decorate the streets in the fall. The trees, the gazebo and other areas are lit up with festive lights during the holiday season.
Above all else, it’s the people that made me choose to live here. There’s a competition between residents to see who says hello the fastest. Even Jimmy FallonA frequent visitor to Fairport during St. Patrick’s Day has stated “I love this place and the people.” It’s a lot of fun.” I could not agree more.
