Buffalo’s Canalside is Fun for Everyone
From Saturday artisan markets and Sunday magic shows to laid-back lakeside bars, swanky restaurants and hip beach clubs, Buffalo’s waterfront is bustling with summertime fun. A recent multimillion-dollar restoration of the historical Canalside makes this one of Buffalo’s best places to be in the summer. While visiting the eastern edge of Lake Erie, set aside some time to enjoy these unforgettable activities:
Cruise Buffalo’s Waterways
Although the shoreline is filled with fun things to do, the water is the main attraction during the summer. Hit the public beaches along the lakeshore for swimming and sunbathing, or rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and water bikes from nearby vendors at Canalside and in the Old First Ward. For a leisurely tour, hop aboard the Queen City Water Ferry or the Spirit of Buffalo schooner. Public tours throughout the week include a Wine in the Wind Wednesdays evening cruise.
Adventures at Silo City
For more than a century, Buffalo was among the largest grain ports in the world. Recent efforts to restore the remaining 13 concrete silos have resulted in a unique place to eat, drink and play. The giant metal structures now host everything from theater productions and literary readings to outdoor concerts and art installations. Sign up for a 90-minute historical walking tour of Silo City and then spend the afternoon exploring the sprawling RiverWorks entertainment complex. Stick around as the sun sets each evening for a free light show that illuminates the grain silos.
Jam at a Summer Concert
On Wednesday and Thursday nights throughout June and July, the city hums with sweet tunes wafting out of RiverFest Park and along Canalside. The weekly summer concert series is free, but tickets are also available for Canalside concerts sponsored by local radio stations and promoters. For even more epic fun, you can visit Outer Harbor for the Buffalo Brewers’ Festival, UniverSoul Circus and Budding Tree Yoga Festival.
Experience Local Art and Culture
Explore the fascinating history of Buffalo by foot when you book a walking tour with Buffalo History Tours. Led by a captivating docent, you can opt for a Prohibition Pub Walk, take part in a fun-filled Scavenger Hunt, participate in a Murder Mystery event, or drink in the spirits on a Haunted Pub Crawl. The tours are held Thursday through Saturday and most last 90 minutes. While strolling the streets of Canalside, you’ll discover several art installations commissioned from the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.
Staying at any of Ellicott Hospitality’s Buffalo properties puts you close to all the exciting summer fun on the waterfront. For more ideas on how to spend your time in town or learn about our special rate packages, chat with our expert travel specialists.
