Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour

Experience the Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour — a lively, authentic journey into Buffalo’s past and present. This 90-minute tour, offered by Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tours, celebrates the bicentennial of the Erie Canal with a mix of scenic views, historical insights, and engaging storytelling. For travelers eager to see Buffalo from a fresh perspective, this tour offers a fun blend of education and entertainment that feels more like a city discovery than a stiff history lesson.

What we love about this experience is its unique mode of transportation — a bright, vintage British double-decker bus that instantly adds charm and character. It’s a visual treat, and it makes the whole experience feel special. The insightful guides bring Buffalo’s story to life, with lively commentary and personal touches that keep everyone engaged. Plus, the tour’s scenic waterfront views of Lake Erie and the Canadian shoreline are hard to beat, offering a refreshing look at a city with a fascinating maritime history.

One possible consideration is the duration — at just about an hour and a half, this isn’t a deep dive into Buffalo’s entire history, but rather a lively overview. Also, since it’s a small group experience (max 44 travelers), it’s best suited for those who enjoy more personal interaction and a relaxed pace.

In short, this tour will suit visitors who appreciate authentic local stories, enjoy beautiful waterfront scenery, and want a fun, engaging way to learn about Buffalo’s past without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Transport: Riding on a British double-decker bus makes this tour memorable and visually appealing.
• Rich Scenic Views: Expect beautiful vistas of Lake Erie and the Canadian shoreline.
• Engaging Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Joel, add humor and personality to the storytelling.
• Historical Highlights: From the Erie Canal terminus to Buffalo’s waterfront and grain elevators — each stop offers context and charm.
• Flexible and Practical: It’s a 90-minute tour with free cancellation and mobile tickets, fitting well into most travel plans.
• Accessible for Most: Service animals are allowed, and it’s suitable for most travelers.

A Full Breakdown of the Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour

Introduction to Buffalo’s Erie Canal Heritage

Our journey begins with a quick walk at the Erie Basin Marina, where the Erie Canal met Lake Erie. From this vantage point, you’ll see where the canal’s terminus is and get a sense of Buffalo’s maritime roots. The panoramic views across the water towards Canada also provide a stunning backdrop for photographs. This initial stop sets the stage for understanding why Buffalo was once a bustling hub of commerce and immigration.

The Waterfront and Naval Park

Next, we stroll along the Commercial Slip, right beside the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. This area is a lively reminder of the city’s maritime significance. It’s here that your guide will share stories of the immigrants who traveled thousands of miles to start anew in America — an aspect that resonates strongly with most travelers. The Naval Park adds a layer of military history and patriotism to the story.

Exploring Buffalo’s Grain Silo and Canal District

One of the tour’s highlights is exploring an abandoned grain silo along the Buffalo River. This massive structure, once a vital part of Buffalo’s shipping and grain industry, now stands as a striking relic of industrial bygone days. The tour driver and guide will share stories of its role in Buffalo’s economic history, providing an authentic glimpse of the city’s working past.

The trip also touches on the colorful Canal District, known historically for its lively saloons and entertainment venues. Although this area has transformed, the stories of its lively past add flavor and character to your understanding of Buffalo’s social life during the canal’s heyday.

Interior Visit to the Grain Elevator

A key part of this tour is an interior exploration of a 26-silo grain elevator along Buffalo’s waterfront. This massive structure embodies the city’s industrial age and provides a tangible connection to Buffalo’s role as a grain shipping hub. Standing inside, you can imagine the bustling activity that once filled these silos, making it a memorable stop for those interested in industrial history.

The Scenic Water Views

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy beautiful vistas of Lake Erie and, on clear days, views of the Canadian shoreline across the water. These natural sights are complemented by stories about Buffalo’s waterfront development and its importance to the city’s growth. The combination of scenic beauty and historical context makes this tour both visually and intellectually satisfying.

The Engaging Guide and Entertainment

Reviews highlight the entertaining and personable guides like Joel, who keep the atmosphere lively with humor and storytelling. The tour also includes a sing-along that adds a layer of fun, making this experience more than just a sightseeing ride — it feels like a shared local celebration. Small group sizes foster personal interaction, allowing visitors to ask questions and connect with their guide.

Price and Value

At $35 per person, the tour offers a solid value, considering the length, scenic stops, and engaging storytelling. It’s an affordable way to get an overview of Buffalo’s waterfront and canal history without the expense of larger, busier tours. The fact that it includes a mobile ticket and free cancellation makes it flexible and easy to plan around.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Starting at 3:30 pm from 3 Marine Dr, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making access straightforward. Service animals are welcome, and the small group size ensures a more intimate experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, offering an enjoyable outing even for those with limited mobility, provided they can handle the walking portions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sightseeing experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Buffalo’s waterfront through engaging stories and scenic views. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed, fun activity that offers both education and entertainment. If you enjoy vintage transportation and lively guides, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Buffalo visit.

The Sum Up

The Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour offers a lively, accessible way to explore Buffalo’s waterfront and canal history. For just over an hour and a half, you get spectacular views, insightful stories, and a uniquely charming mode of transport — the vintage double-decker bus. It’s a great pick for those who want a personal, engaging experience without the complexity or expense of larger tours.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic waterfront vistas, and authentic local charm makes this a valuable addition to any Buffalo itinerary. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenic lover, or just in search of a fun way to get to know the city, this tour ticks many boxes.

If you want a relaxed, engaging introduction to Buffalo’s past that feels more like a shared local story than a formal history lesson, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable and enjoyable activity without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 3 Marine Dr, Buffalo, NY 14202, and returns to the same location at the end of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the information suggests most travelers can participate, it’s best to consider walking involved at stops like the marina and grain silo exploration. Contact the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation, up to 24 hours before the start time, for a full refund.

What makes this tour special compared to other Buffalo sightseeing options?
Its vintage double-decker bus, scenic waterfront views, and lively storytelling set it apart, offering a mix of fun transport and authentic local stories.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for families, especially with older children interested in history or scenic views.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, with engaging guides and a relaxed pace, families who enjoy storytelling and scenic vistas will find it suitable. Just check if your children are comfortable with the walking involved at stops.

In summary, the Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour provides an engaging and authentic way to explore Buffalo’s waterfront and canal history. With lively guides, stunning views, and a charming vintage bus, it’s a memorable outing that fits well into most itineraries. Consider it if you want a relaxed, informative, and visually appealing overview of Buffalo’s maritime and industrial past.