Located in downtown Buffalo, Canalside sits at the confluence of the Buffalo River and Lake Erie. The canals at the heart of the waterfront destination draw visitors year-round, with ice skating and ice bikes in winter and water bikes and pedal boats in warmer weather.
But there’s more to do at Canalside than enjoy its seasonal canal activities. Whether you’re planning a family outing, catching up with friends or looking for a date idea, you’ll find plenty of other reasons to visit throughout the year.
Enjoy the Space
Canalside’s public spaces are free to enjoy all year long. The boardwalk is a wide, flat place to stroll or bike along the water, while the Dart lawn provides an open green space perfect for a picnic or simply taking in the surroundings. Families with young children can also stop at the small sandy beach, and art fans can look for Shark Girl, the distinctive sculpture that has become an iconic Canalside landmark.
Attend Canalside Events
Canalside’s lineup of events changes with the seasons. Summer brings outdoor movie nights, while fall festivals feature seasonal food, local vendors, pumpkins and family-friendly activities. As winter approaches, the ice skating season kicks off with themed skate nights and other special programming. Canalside also hosts events that aren’t tied to a particular season, including charity walks, cornhole leagues and watch parties for big games, such as Buffalo Sabres playoff matchups.
Check the event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Find Activities at Canalside
There are plenty of ways to fill an afternoon at Canalside, whether you’re visiting with kids, meeting friends or looking for something different to do downtown. Some activities are seasonal, so check operating schedules and availability before you go.
- Ride the Buffalo Heritage Carousel, a restored, more than 100-year-old carousel powered by solar energy.
- Spend a few hours at Explore & More, the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits give younger visitors plenty to do.
- Tour retired naval vessels at Buffalo Naval & Military Park.
- For a different view of the waterfront, book a sunset or party cruise, rent a bike to explore the area or get out on the water in a kayak.
The nearby KeyBank Center hosts Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits games, concerts and comedy shows as well!
Try Restaurants Near Canalside
There are several restaurants near Canalside to work into your plans, whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a waterfront meal or a more upscale dinner. In the summer, Resurgence at Canalside and Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream have spots right on the boardwalk; both are convenient stops for a drink or a sweet treat while you’re out by the water.
For a meal by the water, Liberty Hound is known for its seafood and waterfront setting. Just steps from Canalside, Southern Tier Brewery serves craft beer alongside casual restaurant fare. Pizza Plant is another local favorite, especially for its signature Pods, stuffed pizzas and craft beer selection. If you’re planning a special night out, Panorama on Seven offers a more upscale dining experience with views of the Buffalo skyline.