From paddle boating and picnicking to fitness classes and sunset views, the Buffalo Waterfront offers something for everyone across Canalside and the Outer Harbor. Rent a kayak or bike, join a public event, or simply relax by the water – your adventure starts here.
Explore the Waterfront
Canalside
Located at the historic terminus of the Erie Canal, Canalside is the heart of Buffalo’s waterfront revival. It hosts hundreds of free and low-cost events year-round, including:
- Festivals and live music
- Outdoor fitness classes
- Ice skating and winter fun
- Children’s programs and history tours
Outer Harbor
The Outer Harbor offers over 200 acres of green space, scenic lakefront walking trails, and a wide range of programs and events, including:
- Outer Harbor Live concert series at Terminal B
- Independent Health Wellness Trail
- Lakeside Bike Park
- Free fitness classes, leagues, and pop-up programming
- Kayak and bike rentals
Parking and Transportation
Canalside
In addition to parking at the Naval and Military Park and Erie Basin Marina, visitors can find ample options nearby.
- Premium Parking surface lots off Commerical, Scott, and Perry Street
- Parking ramps including Harbor Center Parking Ramp and Key Bank Parking Ramp
- On-street and metered parking along Cobblestone Streets
- All lots offer accessible parking
Park and Ride
Canalside is accessible by NFTA-Metro’s Erie Canal Harbor Station.
Accessible parking is also available inside the Harborcenter parking ramp at 100 Washington St. if Canalside parking is not available.
Outer Harbor
Free and accessible parking is available at:
- Wilkeson Pointe
- Lakeside Complex
- Along Fuhrmann Blvd
- Terminal B, event days only
Waterfront Shuttle
Running Wednesday–Sunday, 12pm–10pm (including holidays)
The free Buffalo Waterfront Shuttle makes it easy to explore Canalside without needing to move your car. Just hop on and enjoy the ride!
Plan Your Visit
Know Before You Go
Here’s what to do and what to skip when visiting the Waterfront. Please follow posted signage at specific sites like the Ice at Canalside and the Lakeside Bike Park.
- Visit from sunrise to sunset
- Enjoy gardens (but don’t enter flowerbeds or pick flowers)
- Bike, rollerblade, or skateboard at safe speeds
- Launch non-motorized watercraft under 8 ft. at designated spots
- Fish at approved areas
- Use open lawns and seating
- Bring leashed dogs (except at concerts and special events); clean up after them
- Visiting after sunset
- Motorized vehicles on paths/lawns (except in parking areas)
- Smoking, drug use, or carrying weapons
- Alcohol outside designated areas or bringing your own
- Damaging plants/wildlife
- Barbecuing, tents, or performances (without permits)
- Organized sports (without permits)
- Littering, panhandling, or rummaging in trash
- Entering canals or climbing on structures
- Feeding birds
- Loud music or commercial activity (without permits)
- Blocking entrances or placing flags/poles in the ground
- Plastic tarps on lawns
- Ignoring staff instructions
