Elderhostel is a non-profit organization that provides exceptional learning adventures across the globe to adults 55 and older.

The museum offers several Elderhostel programs. The museum coordinates and operates each program. Registration may be done on-line or via phone through Elderhostel.

The Grand Ol' Erie: Its History, Boats, and People

Title: The Grand Ol' Erie: Its History, Boats, and People
Program: #16555
Dates: June 29 - July 2, 2009
August 29 - September 1, 2009
September 23-26, 2009
Registration: Register Online or call 1.800.454.5768

Capture the excitement of the Grand Canal, the Erie, that connected the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean for almost 100 years. Learn of the experiences of the pioneers opening the way across New York State for cargo and cultural exchanges, and the cities and industries that developed as a result. History comes alive at one of our country's only excavated and restored dry-docks. Experience a site tour, towpath walk and interaction with boat builders, currently constructing a life-size canal boat. Discover the Erie Canal's powerful impact on 19th century life through primary source materials and field trips. Enjoy a luncheon cruise on today's canal and experience a lock-through as a real "Canaler." This snapshot program is conveniently available at different times during the 2009 season........ more

Archaeology on the Erie: Once Out of the Dirt, What Comes Next?

Title: Once Out of the Dirt, What Comes Next?
Program: #17966
Dates: September 13-16, 2009
Registration: Register Online or call 1.800.454.5768

Built in 1855, the dry dock at Chittenango Landing on the Erie Canal was where craftsmen built and repaired the vessels that carried settlers and manufactured products to the West and brought back goods to eastern markets. Join historians at the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum to study the workings of the restored dry docks, and serve the community by assisting in the excavation and preservation of the site’s historical artifacts. Explore the excavated three-bay dry dock, the remains of a sunken canal boat, and reconstructed woodworking and blacksmith shops, and hear from curators and archivists about their painstaking work while you study, research, date and classify excavated artifacts to preserve them for future generations.

NOTE: Some walking and standing on flat terrain with stone, dirt, grass walkways