Canalside
4.5
About
Canalside is at the heart of Buffalo's waterfront revitalization. Located on 21 historic waterfront acres that hosts hundreds of events and hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, Fun Happens Here.
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Downtown
How to get there
- Buffalo-Exchange Street Station • 6 min walk
Best nearby
Restaurants
361 within 3 miles
Attractions
157 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,062 reviews
Excellent
715
Very good
250
Average
65
Poor
17
Terrible
15
Chuck52310
New Haven628 contributions
Sep 2021
There are many activities available at Canalside, but we visited the Buffalo Heritage Carousel. After being in storage for 65 years, the carousel made its first appearance in Spring 2021. The carousel is a completely and beautifully refurbished 1924 Spillman Engineering 3-row carousel populated with 21 jumpers, 6 standers, 1 lion, 1 tiger, 1 giraffe, 1 deer, 1 dragon, 1 ostrich, 1 mule, 3 chariots (one chariot accommodates wheelchairs), and one rocker. Some horses have hair tails while others are carved. Don't miss this very historic carousel if you are in Buffalo!!
Written September 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
932catherinef
Hillsborough, NJ45 contributions
Dec 2019
I rented 2 igloos and had my entire family come to Canalside to ice skate, hang out together and start the Christmas holiday. I live in NJ now and my entire family is in WNY. My younger brother is in the seminary so he was not available on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to be with everyone. This was a Christmas miracle that my Mom, all of my siblings, their kids and even the great grand kids were all able to attend. We ranged from 76 to 4 months and all had a blast. I took pictures and did not ice skate but had so much fun with everyone. It wasn't a very cold night but the igloos were great for the little ones and the older ones. I would definitely do this again. This cost of the igloo was worth it for the skate rentals, hot chocolate and a drink (either alcoholic or non-alcoholic for 16 people - 8 each igloo). Its a nice rink, a nice atmosphere and the 2 hosts were very friendly and helpful. Fun was had by all.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JeffBreedlove
Atlanta, GA4,282 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
A brilliant area for a nice walk and to get to know Buffalo. We found Canalside to be both safe and fun.
We found free street parking and enjoyed a long walk along the water - in both directions - it really was an enjoyable visit
Highly recommend a visit just to take a beautiful walk
There is some history to enjoy with both the Erie Canal and the Naval Park
Many photo opportunities
Go enjoy
We found free street parking and enjoyed a long walk along the water - in both directions - it really was an enjoyable visit
Highly recommend a visit just to take a beautiful walk
There is some history to enjoy with both the Erie Canal and the Naval Park
Many photo opportunities
Go enjoy
Written October 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
John S
Buffalo, NY731 contributions
Aug 2020 • Solo
08/08/20 Our continued hiking and walking experience during the Covid-19 period continues on the the upcoming Buffalo Waterfront.
I was getting tired of seeing trees.
We parked around canalside and
walked to the lighthouse. Great view of the city and the lake. There is a few restaurants there but closed due to the pandemic.
We also walked along the Buffalo River. A veterans memorial park can be viewed on the way to the Naval Park.
Continue walking and you will begin seeing the building of the new Erie Canal long boat Shed. Continue on and you can se the start of the new carousel being built.
As time goes by this area will be more and more desirable. It will definitely be the place to be as time goes by.
As an aside we walked toward the baseball stadium that is also temporarily being utilized by
Toronto Blue Jays due to the Canadian quarantine for MLB.
I was getting tired of seeing trees.
We parked around canalside and
walked to the lighthouse. Great view of the city and the lake. There is a few restaurants there but closed due to the pandemic.
We also walked along the Buffalo River. A veterans memorial park can be viewed on the way to the Naval Park.
Continue walking and you will begin seeing the building of the new Erie Canal long boat Shed. Continue on and you can se the start of the new carousel being built.
As time goes by this area will be more and more desirable. It will definitely be the place to be as time goes by.
As an aside we walked toward the baseball stadium that is also temporarily being utilized by
Toronto Blue Jays due to the Canadian quarantine for MLB.
Written August 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
SpartaBrian
Sparta, NJ163 contributions
Aug 2020 • Friends
A growing waterside attraction not to be missed during the warmer season. Places to eat, drink beer, people watch. Etc. We went on days where the place was deserted and other days where it was fairly busy. Works are still underway so the future is bright for the waterfront of this post industrial town.
Written August 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Laurie P
Cortland, NY7,421 contributions
Aug 2020
We arrived about 1:30 for a scheduled 2:30 Buffalo River History Cruise which takes off from Canalside. This area is very cute. There is a nice walking boardwalk, and if you take it all the way will take you to Buffalo Harbor State Park.
It was a fantastic day. There were a few people walking, a few sitting on the Adirondack chairs. There are places to buy food and get a beer. There is an ice cream place. A man is drawing caricatures. There is a carousel frame up, and it should open eventually. When we got off the boat about 4PM it was much busier. Perhaps people were getting out of work.
We went back the next night and had dinner outside for sunset at Liberty Hound.
Highly recommend for a nice walking or relaxing area.
It was a fantastic day. There were a few people walking, a few sitting on the Adirondack chairs. There are places to buy food and get a beer. There is an ice cream place. A man is drawing caricatures. There is a carousel frame up, and it should open eventually. When we got off the boat about 4PM it was much busier. Perhaps people were getting out of work.
We went back the next night and had dinner outside for sunset at Liberty Hound.
Highly recommend for a nice walking or relaxing area.
Written August 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alacrout
Los Angeles, CA152 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
When I visit Canalside today, I remember what it was like when I was a kid and I have a hard time believing it’s the same place.
But it is! And it’s so much cooler now.
The ships and other military stuff (tank, plane, etc) were always there. If they weren’t so big, you might not even know there was a tourist attraction, with all the dirt and gravel and chain link fences under a highway overpass… But now, they’re surrounded by flowers and trees and green grass and nice landscaping!
Plus there’s shops and museums and restaurants. There’s a merry-go-round and a pit of sand for kids to play in. There’s a skating rink. Events are hosted here all summer long.
It’s morphed from “oh yeah, the dirty area with ships next to the arena” to one of my favorite parts of Buffalo.
It’s small. It’s charming. It’s a perfect little encapsulation of some Buffalo culture.
But it is! And it’s so much cooler now.
The ships and other military stuff (tank, plane, etc) were always there. If they weren’t so big, you might not even know there was a tourist attraction, with all the dirt and gravel and chain link fences under a highway overpass… But now, they’re surrounded by flowers and trees and green grass and nice landscaping!
Plus there’s shops and museums and restaurants. There’s a merry-go-round and a pit of sand for kids to play in. There’s a skating rink. Events are hosted here all summer long.
It’s morphed from “oh yeah, the dirty area with ships next to the arena” to one of my favorite parts of Buffalo.
It’s small. It’s charming. It’s a perfect little encapsulation of some Buffalo culture.
Written February 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
billsfan1_2000
Lancaster, NY5 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
It’s 2:47 pm on a clear and cold March afternoon. Skating closed and area deserted. What??? Does the rink website have open closed info? No. The Commercial Slip is filled with debris and the remenants of someone’s wood dock. Fences everywhere but no visible progress on any of the construction in months. It’s a mess stay away.
Written March 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Heidi P
Novi, MI35 contributions
Aug 2022
We ended up visiting this waterfront because I had seen so many positive reviews on Trip Advisor! It was a beautiful place and we were very glad we stopped by. Parking was a bit of a challenge. There are two small lots near Perry and Pear streets where we ended up parking, but we definitely had to drive around for awhile. There is a restaurant and a snack bar. We ate at the snack bar and it was great! They had tables in the shade. We sat on a bench and enjoyed the waterfront. Highly recommend!
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mary W
Fort Worth, TX95 contributions
Dec 2019
I came during the holiday season with 9 family members. The ice was not the best but still fun. We have some beginners as well as little hockey players. Some family members were from Texas. We all had a great time skating.
Here are the negatives. Such a small area to purchase tickets and get on ice skates. And 2 benches???? Are you kidding me? We all had to take turns to get on ice skates. The process took well over half an hour. Then we had to repeat the process when we finished and it took even longer. The rental skates were fine. There was a snack stand open outside. The rest rooms behind the area were just portable. Don’t try and maneuver that trick with skates on! I am only 5 feet tall and I had a problem fitting in stall. There were the igloos for rent to warm up. I understand the need for business but please have add a larger area to get on skates and warm up, especially while the zamboni is cleaning the ice. The ramps on to the ice were slippery and water was pooling at bottom before you got onto the ice. I did see a person take a nasty fall down the ramp. Come on Buffalo! Such a fun place but please make it user friendly.
Here are the negatives. Such a small area to purchase tickets and get on ice skates. And 2 benches???? Are you kidding me? We all had to take turns to get on ice skates. The process took well over half an hour. Then we had to repeat the process when we finished and it took even longer. The rental skates were fine. There was a snack stand open outside. The rest rooms behind the area were just portable. Don’t try and maneuver that trick with skates on! I am only 5 feet tall and I had a problem fitting in stall. There were the igloos for rent to warm up. I understand the need for business but please have add a larger area to get on skates and warm up, especially while the zamboni is cleaning the ice. The ramps on to the ice were slippery and water was pooling at bottom before you got onto the ice. I did see a person take a nasty fall down the ramp. Come on Buffalo! Such a fun place but please make it user friendly.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
What items are Not allowed?
Katie H
Buffalo, NY14 contributions
Very few Restrictions at Canalside. Not a high security venue unless there is a Concert or Big Special event.
sparegular2013
Derby, NY23 contributions
What is the vibe and seating at Canalside concerts
Carsyndaddy
Buffalo, NY8 contributions
It also depends on how close you want to be... there is plenty of room to relax in the back and just enjoy the music... no matter where you are...
Tegkct
14 contributions
We are visiting the falls Canada side but flying into Buffalo. Thought about stopping in Canalside on our way from the airport. Is there ample parking around there?
Chewiesmom2
Buffalo, NY190 contributions
Yes- there is a lot of parking- you need to know your license plate number to park in some of the lots for when you buy your parking ticket. It is not expensive to park.
Is there anywhere for kayakers to dock their kayaks? I paddeled from Gallagher beach to canal and it would have been nice to dock and enjoy canal side on land also. This is a big deal for us kayakers.
Thank you.
Leanne S
Buffalo, NY11 contributions
We kayak and don't know of any place right at canal side. there is a kayak rental site but I doubt you'd be able to leave your kayaks there. We launch at Wilkison point on the outer harbor and paddle into the Buffalo River near the naval park.
bcbeall
Fairfax County, VA
Thanks! We are looking for a casual dinner restaurant at Canalside area that has good views at night of the illuminated grain silos. Heard it was a beautiful thing to see while dining.
CanalsideBuffalo
Buffalo, NY
Hello and thank you for your inquiry! We would suggest the Liberty Hound, a table on their outdoor patio will provide a great view of the Illumination. If you're looking to dine indoors, Panorama on Seven inside the Harborcenter Marriott will also offer excellent views!
bcbeall
Fairfax County, VA
Thank you! We plan to visit Canalside for a casual dinner (coming from Virginia) and wish to dine where there is a good view of the illuminated grain silos (grain elevator building with changing lights). Can you recommend any restaurants with good sightlines for the lights?
Many Thanks,
Jamakin15
Clarence, NY61 contributions
The LIBERTY HOUND is a very nice, casual and not expensive choice to dine where there is a patio and a great view of all that is happening at Canalside, Buffalo New York. The food is good (especially the Cioppino!) and staff friendly. On the contrary, William K's has a nice view...but unwelcoming staff and mediocre food...and it's very expensive! Enjoy Canalside and our NEW Buffalo!
Clayton H
Appleton, WI59 contributions
Is this where the official Buffalo 4th of July celebration is held? Are there fireworks here? What date?
Patty P
Lancaster, NY18 contributions
There are fireworks at Canalside on the 4th, but there is really no official site. Large places of gathering is Cheektowaga Town Park, LaSalle Park, Lancaster Village, etc. etc. I have not been there for fireworks but since it is on the water and because it brings in such crowds. I would think they are spectacular. Keep watching on their Website, they keep it very up to date. I hope that this helps.
Can you bring food, drinks & chairs to the Thursday free concerts?
Lori T
Clarence Center, NY451 contributions
My thought is no since individuals typically stand for concerts which would block your view. Also, I did not see anyone who brought their own food as I have see when attending Shakespeare in the Park where many attendees bring both chairs and their own food. I would call Canalside just to double check. Have a wonderful day!
Canalside (Buffalo) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Canalside
- We recommend booking Canalside tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 2 Canalside tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Canalside:
- (0.09 mi) Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER
- (0.15 mi) Courtyard Buffalo Downtown/Canalside
- (0.67 mi) Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo Downtown
- (0.61 mi) Hotel at the Lafayette a Trademark Collection Hotel
- (0.95 mi) Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown
- Restaurants near Canalside:
- (0.06 mi) Liberty Hound
- (0.09 mi) Panorama on Seven
- (0.10 mi) Tim Hortons
- (0.13 mi) 716 Food & Sport
- (0.09 mi) The Healthy Scratch
- Attractions near Canalside:
- (0.05 mi) Buffalo River History Tours
- (0.06 mi) Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tours
- (0.05 mi) Buffalo Bike Tours
- (0.05 mi) Spirit of Buffalo - Buffalo Sailing Adventures
- (0.07 mi) Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park