The opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 transformed Buffalo from a small trading town into a major commercial and industrial hub at the eastern edge of Lake Erie. In the next 20 years steel production became the economic force driving the city's rapid growth. Burgeoning commerce stimulated the development of a major cultural center and Buffalo became the second largest city in New York State.

After a post-WW2 decline revitalization efforts have restored the city and waterfront. There are two main areas to the Buffalo waterfront: Canalside and Outer Harbor. Canalside, along the downtown district, features a boardwalk, event lawns, restaurants, public art, a historic carousel, the Naval & Military Park, and marina dockage, as well as water activities like kayaking and paddle boarding. Outer Harbor includes acres of green space with scenic trails for walking and biking, outdoor activity rentals (bicycles and water sports), public art installations, event venues, and beautiful views of the city and Lake Erie. Both waterfront areas are open daily dawn to dusk. For those who want to be further away from it all there is the Sun Life Marina at Buffalo Harbor and the adjacent Tifft Nature Preserve.