Canalside is a waterfront district in downtown Buffalo, built on the site where the Erie Canal ended in 1825. The area was once a transport and industrial centre, and it is now a public space for walking, boating and events. Walk the promenade, see the grain elevators and the ships at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, then ride the restored carousel or take a boat out on the water. In winter, the canal becomes an ice rink.
From canal terminus to waterfront
The Erie Canal ended at this spot in 1825. The canal basins made Buffalo a major transport and industrial centre, and the area was once home to the Seneca people. Business along the canal grew so much that as many as 6,000 immigrants arrived in a single day.
Over the following decades the canal lost its role, and the waterfront fell into disuse. Redevelopment of the canal district began in 2005. More than $300 million has since gone into the site, and it now hosts more than 1,000 events a year, many of them free or low-cost. The name Erie Canal Harbor is still used for the area.
Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park
The park sits on the waterfront and is the largest inland naval park in the United States. Its ships include a cruiser, a destroyer and a submarine, and you can walk through them on a self-guided tour.
The ship tours close at 4 pm. Buy tickets before then, and allow enough time to see the decks, the galley and the living quarters without rushing.
Explore & More Children's Museum
The children's museum covers 43,000 square feet over four floors and is built around child-led play. Its seven play zones focus on Buffalo's sports teams, architecture, history and industry. Exhibits include a multi-story waterfall and a rooftop garden.
The museum opened its current space in July 2019. Before that it had about 25 years of history, including a smaller location in East Aurora.
Summer on the water and at the carousel
In summer you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, water bikes, pedal boats or a sailboat. The Spirit of Buffalo runs boat tours, including a 90-minute ride and a pirate cruise.
The Buffalo Heritage Carousel is nearly 100 years old and has been fully restored. It is housed in a solar-powered roundhouse and was built in 1924 by Spillman Engineering in North Tonawanda. Thursday concerts are free and usually feature national acts. Free outdoor movies, yoga classes and food trucks are also part of the summer schedule.
The grain elevators are lit every night until 11 pm, which makes them a good photo stop after dark. The Shark Girl statue is another popular spot for pictures.
Winter at the canal rink
In winter, a 35,000 square foot rink is laid out on the canal. You can skate, play pond hockey, try curling or ride ice bikes. Ice bike rentals run from mid-November to mid-March, and ice bumper cars are also available. Skate rentals are offered at no cost.
The rink suits families with children, and the area around it has warm spots and places to eat nearby.
Getting there and parking
Canalside is at 44 Prime Street, at the intersection of Pearl Street and Marine Drive. Free and paid parking lots are available, along with free and paid street parking. Paid parking accepts debit cards and mobile payments. The Buffalo Metro is another way to reach the area.
The entrance, parking lot, restrooms and seating are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Is Canalside free to visit?
Walking the waterfront is free, and many of the more than 1,000 yearly events are free or low-cost. Ship tours, boat rides and some rentals are paid, and buying ship tickets in advance is recommended.
How long do you need at Canalside?
Plan 2 to 4 hours for the naval park ships and a walk along the water. The area also works for a full day with a boat ride, a meal and an event.
Is there parking at Canalside?
Yes. Free and paid parking lots and street parking are available nearby. Paid parking accepts debit cards and mobile payments.
Is Canalside wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, parking lot, restrooms and seating are wheelchair accessible.
