This exhibit invites visitors to explore the transformative story of the Erie Canal. It begins with the traditional homeland of the Haudenosaunee and the canal’s opening in 1825, tracing how it helped turn Buffalo into a bustling port and shipping hub by the late 19th century.
It also highlights the diverse perspectives of Indigenous Peoples, Black individuals, women, and immigrant communities affected by the canal’s development, offering a richer understanding of its cultural and historical significance.
Through an interactive multimedia experience featuring short films, touchscreens, audio, historical artifacts, and dramatic lighting, visitors of all ages and abilities will discover Buffalo’s rapid transformation, the technical innovations behind the canal, and the vital contributions of individuals to the city’s development.
Sponsored by: Local 210 Laborers Union
Waterway of Change is currently on Winter Break. We look forward to re-opening at Canalside in March!
Waterway of Change is currently on Winter Break. We look forward to re-opening at Canalside in March!
Located in downtown Buffalo, Canalside is an area of the waterfront that can be accessed through entrances off Marine Drive and Main Street. It’s also accessible by the NFTA-Metro rail (Erie Canal Harbor stop). For GPS navigation, enter “Canalside Buffalo” or use “44 Prime St., Buffalo, NY 14202” as the destination address.
The Buffalo History Museum and Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation are committed to making our exhibits, public programs, and other offerings inclusive and welcoming for all visitors.
Service animals:
Service dogs specially trained to assist a person with a disability are welcome.
For visitors with limited mobility:
All exhibits, including Waterways of Change, are wheelchair and mobility device accessible.
For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing:
All exhibition films are open captioned.
For visitors with sensory sensitivities or anyone who prefers a calmer museum experience, we are offering a Sensory Hour every Sunday from 10-11am with limited crowd size, muted audio components and dimmed lighting. Additionally, we have sensory kits available at all times that include noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, and various fidget and texture toys.
If you have accessibility needs or questions about any of our visitor experiences, please reach out to guest services at eriecanal@buffalohistory.org or call (716) 873-9644 ext. 501.
Wheelchair-accessible public and family restrooms are available inside the Longshed building and Gateway building.