Canalside
Get Canalside
Canalside is the heart of the Buffalo Waterfront, a year-round destination on the edge of Lake Erie where locals and visitors come to eat, explore, and just be outside. With free public access, a packed events calendar, and something different for every season, there's always a reason to come down.
Canalside Map
Things to Do
Food & Drink
From waterfront dining with lake views to quick bites between events, the Waterfront has options for every appetite.
Fitness at Canalside
Explore free classes, open running paths, and programming for every fitness level run throughout the season.
Kayaking
Get out on the water and see Canalside and the Outer Harbor from a different angle. Bring your own kayak or rent one right on-site. No experience needed.
Biking
Miles of paved trails connect Canalside to the Outer Harbor and beyond. Bike rentals are available seasonally.
Tours
Get to know the history, art, and architecture of the Buffalo Waterfront with a guided tour. Walking, boat, and self-guided options available for every kind of explorer.
The Lawn & Boardwalk
Sprawling lawns and boardwalk make Canalside the perfect spot to spread out, throw a frisbee, or just take in the waterfront.
Waterfront Views
There's no better vantage point for Lake Erie than right here. Whether you're on the boardwalk or the beach, the views don't disappoint.
See What’s Coming Up
You'll always find events to make your weekends exciting at Canalside. From exhibits, fitness classes, and more, there’s never a dull moment.
Featured Events
Canalside
4th of July Weekend: The World's Largest Rubber Duck Returns to Canalside
July 3 through July 5, 2026
Explore by Category
Not sure where to start? Canalside has something for everyone, including fitness classes, family fun, and everything in between. Browse by category to find what's calling your name.
Art at Canalside
Public art is part of what makes Canalside worth exploring. Check out three rotating seasonal installations, including the iconic Canalside staple Shark Girl, year-round.
Getting to Canalside
In addition to parking at the Naval & Military Park and Erie Basin Marina, visitors can find ample options nearby.
- Surface lots and ramps off Washington Street and Michigan Avenue
- Additional parking in the Cobblestone District (Perry Street, KeyBank Center, Harborcenter)
- All lots offer accessible parking
- On-street and metered parking available
Canalside is accessible by the NFTA-Metro Erie Canal Harbor Station.
Accessible parking is also available inside the Harborcenter parking ramp at 100 Washington Street if Canalside parking is not available.
Shuttles are available from nearby parking lots.
Located in downtown Buffalo, Canalside is an area of the waterfront that can be accessed through entrances off Marine Drive and Main Street. It’s also accessible by the NFTA-Metro rail (Erie Canal Harbor stop). For GPS navigation, enter “Canalside Buffalo” or use “44 Prime Street, Buffalo, NY 14202” as the destination address.
For only $1, catch the Queen City Bike Ferry between the Commercial Slip at Canalside and the Bike Ferry Landing on the Outer Harbor, a five- to 10-minute scenic ride across the water. The ferry runs seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check the current schedule for departure times.