National Canal Museum

Description:

The National Canal Museum is dedicated to telling the story of America’s historic towpath canals with a specific focus on the Lehigh and Delaware Canals that carried anthracite coal from the mines in Northeastern PA to markets in the Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia, and beyond. The museum interprets the history and culture of canals, as well as the science and technology behind their building, through a variety of exhibits and hands-on activities. Children and adults can harness a mule, steer a canal boat, and engage in activities that help them learn how canals were built and what life was life for those who worked on them.

Not to be missed are the 45-minute rides during the summer and fall on the Josiah White II, the only mule-drawn canal boat in Pennsylvania. The leisurely cruises are narrated by a costumed interpreter, who tells the story of the building of the Lehigh Canal and its role in the Industrial Revolution.

The museum is situated in beautiful Hugh Moore Park, a 520-acre City of Easton park nestled between the Lehigh Canal and Lehigh River. In addition to the museum and canal boat ride, the site includes our Welcome Center (where bikes, canoes, and paddleboats can be rented) and a Locktender’s House dating to the 1920s. Hugh Moore Park also contains a newly installed dog park, playground, and a bike skills course. The D&L Trail, which follows the towpath of the canal through the park, offers biking and walking opportunities.