Historic Sights

• The Canalside district is home to the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, the largest park of its kind in the country. Tour the three historic ships docked in the water next to the museum -- a World War II missile cruiser, submarine and a destroyer. Check out the imposing old grain elevators that line the Buffalo River. Stop by the ruins of East Canal, a set of crumbling stone walls from Buffalo's days as a major industrial port in the 1800s.

Boat Rides

• Several tour boats from Canalside travel up and down the Buffalo River and Lake Erie. The Spirit of Buffalo, a traditional 73-foot schooner with gigantic red sails, offers daily day and evening cruises out during the summer season. The ship has themed cruises as well, including wine-tasting cruises and pirate-themed cruises for kids on the weekends. Buffalo Harbor Cruises offers a traditional passenger boat, the Miss Buffalo II, which has comfortable indoor seating and two decks. The ride explores historic Buffalo, with a narrator pointing out sights along the way. Both day and evening tours at sunset are available daily throughout the season.

Recreational

• Canalside offers plenty of recreational activities to engage in along the waterfront and on the water. Jog the path along the riverfront or rent bicycles from a nearby bike shop. Rent a kayak to explore the Buffalo River or try the quirky water bikes that require cycling in the water. There's also a small man-made beach with beach chairs and water play areas for kids.

Special Events

• Canalside is home to public events throughout the year. If you're visiting in the summer, the Buffalo Saturday Artisan Market is held on the first and third Saturdays of each month, featuring artists of all disciplines selling their handmade work, from paintings to hand-blown glass. There are also regular free concert series in the summer, such as Thursdays at Canalside and Buffalo Place Rocks Canalside, with both local and major national acts performing weekly. During the Christmas season, there is a holiday fest that includes activities inside a heated tent, local choirs singing carols and visits from Santa Claus.