scenic and paved trail advice

My wife and I are headed East to enjoy some Erie Canal trail biking, somewhere between Rochester and Syracuse in mid-late September. First timers to area. We favor paved trails that will display some history, scenery, local cafes, charm. 15-25 mile days preferred. Where would you send us?

Start at Pittsford and go east as far as you want.

Agree with Bill in Houston, ride east on the eastern portion of the trial. Consider starting in Spencerport or in downtown Rochester, the trails around the confluence of the canal and the Genesee River near the U of R Campus are very pleasant and shaded. It you start in Pittsford you will miss this. Downtown Rochester is making an effort at redevelopment and has bike trails and historical information kiosks but it was still a work in progress in 2020. The Amtrak station in downtown Rochester is near the downtown hotels which can be a morning starting off point. If you are only doing 25 mile days and don't plan to camp it will be difficult to find lodging in the rural sections between Rochester and Syracuse, but there are B&Bs that have recently opened/reopened so make sure you check several resources for lodging. From Rome east most of the trail is paved and is in excellent condition with more historic sites and lodging options. If you want a shorter ride consider starting there. If you have an interest in architecture consider staying in Syracuse so that you can see the art deco NIMO building at night.
The Italian restaurants near the trail in Amsterdam don't look like much from the outside but they are very good, and while you are there don't miss walking over the unusual Gateway pedestrian bridge with sculptures by Dimitar Lukanov.

Thank you Bill and John. Just the type of localized info I was looking for. Keep pedaling.
Jim

Syracuse To Utica is a nice area, that's the ground zero of the beginnings of the old Erie canal. Rome, NY The Erie canal village is in some but appears to be closed. Yet there is a covered shelter to get out of a storm if needed. As far as renting a bike, consider the miles and hours you will be seated on a bike. Your better off buying a quality used bike and having it fitted to your body and fitness. Youtube has several how-to's. Best Biking!