Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour

Exploring Buffalo’s Erie Canal with the Double Decker Bus Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Buffalo’s history beyond just reading about it, this Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour might be worth considering. It’s a 90-minute journey that celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal — a pivotal project that transformed the city and the nation. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of historical insights, beautiful waterfront views, and the chance to ride an authentic British double-decker bus that adds a nostalgic touch.

Two things we really like about this experience are its informative storytelling—the guide clearly knows their stuff—and the stunning vistas of Lake Erie and the Canadian shoreline. The tour also offers a unique peek inside a massive grain elevator, which is not something you often get to see. That said, a potential consideration is the relatively short duration—which is perfect if you’re after a quick overview, but maybe not enough if you want a deep dive into Buffalo’s history.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, scenic waterfronts, and small-group experiences where you can interact more personally with the guide. If you’re into lively storytelling, charming transport, and local stories, this tour will likely hit the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic double-decker bus makes the experience fun and nostalgic.
• Rich commentary on the Erie Canal’s impact, immigration, and Buffalo’s waterfront.
• Beautiful views of Lake Erie and the Canadian shoreline.
• Includes a brief walk at key waterfront spots for added context.
• Inside exploration of a large grain elevator adds a unique touch.
• Small group size enhances interaction and personalized attention.

A Closer Look at the Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour

If you’re someone who appreciates stories told with a bit of humor and local charm, this tour delivers. We loved the way the guide (Joel, as mentioned in reviews) kept the energy high and made history feel alive through storytelling and sing-alongs. It’s clear that the guide’s personality helps create a memorable, lively atmosphere—something not always guaranteed with city tours.

Starting at Erie Basin Marina, the tour kicks off with a quick stop to admire where the Erie Canal begins and where Buffalo River meets Lake Erie. The views here are straightforward but scenic, offering a glimpse of the Canadian shoreline and an understanding of Buffalo’s waterfront layout. This spot sets the tone for the tour, connecting you physically and historically to the canal.

Next, you’ll hop off briefly at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. Although it’s a short walk from the bus, it’s a nice way to break up the journey with some fresh air and a quick look at Buffalo’s maritime history. The proximity to the Commercial Slip and canal terminus enhances the experience, tying together the story of the canal with the city’s naval history.

The most striking part of the tour for many is the visit to the abandoned grain silo along Buffalo River. This stop lasts around 30 minutes, giving you a chance to walk around and take photos. The silo’s massive structure is a reminder of Buffalo’s past as a bustling grain port, and the interior exploration is a highlight noted by visitors. One reviewer even mentioned that the guide pointed out other notable locations along the way, making the journey more enriching.

The Interior Exploration of the Grain Silo

While the tour doesn’t specify exactly what this interior exploration involves, it’s enough to be a memorable highlight. Seeing the silo’s size and imagining its role in Buffalo’s economic history adds a tangible layer of understanding to the city’s development. It’s a chance to connect the past with the present, making history feel more real and accessible.

The Double-Decker Experience and Scenic Views

Riding aboard a British double-decker bus adds a sense of adventure and nostalgia. These buses are a classic sight and lend a fun, relaxed vibe to the tour. The open-air upper deck offers excellent viewpoints—perfect for snapping photos of Lake Erie, the waterfront, and the Canadian shoreline in the distance.

The views of Lake Erie are particularly striking, especially if the weather is clear. You’ll get a sense of how Buffalo’s geography shaped its history and economy. It’s a scenic highlight that makes the $35 price tag feel justified, especially considering the insider insights and the stop at the grain elevator.

What’s Included and How It Feels

The tour includes a mobile ticket, making it easy to join without fuss. You’ll meet at 3 Marine Drive in Buffalo in the afternoon, with the tour starting at 3:30 pm. The group size max of 44 keeps things intimate enough for good interaction but still lively.

From the reviews, travelers found the guides engaging and knowledgeable. One reviewer called the guide hysterical and praised the sing-alongs, which adds a cheerful, personal touch to the experience. The driver, Tim, also gets credit for smooth handling and good humor.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $35, this tour is quite reasonable for what it offers—a lively, scenic, and educational experience packed into 90 minutes. When you consider the scenic views, the inside look at a historic grain elevator, and the storytelling element, it feels like good value. Plus, the tour’s free cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

If you’re a history buff, someone wanting a quick but thoughtful overview of Buffalo’s waterfront and the Erie Canal, or just in the mood for a fun, informal outing, this tour fits the bill.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy engaging guides, scenic rides, and local stories. It’s perfect if you’re on a short visit and want to maximize your time with a mix of history, views, and entertainment. The small-group setting means you’re not lost in the crowd, which adds to the personal feel.

Travelers interested in Buffalo’s maritime history or the Erie Canal’s influence will find this tour particularly valuable. It’s also a good choice if you enjoy interactive, lively outings that don’t take up the whole day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the lively storytelling and scenic views are generally engaging for older children and teenagers. However, it’s worth considering their interest in history and storytelling.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, including walking stops and the bus ride, making it a nicely paced overview without being too long.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 3 Marine Drive in Buffalo and ends back at the same spot, giving you a convenient meeting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What do I see during the tour?
You’ll see the Erie Canal terminus, Buffalo waterfront, Lake Erie, and the Canadian shoreline. The highlight is the interior of a large grain elevator along Buffalo’s waterfront.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide leads the tour, providing commentary, stories, and even sing-alongs, which enhance the experience.

Is the bus accessible?
While the info mentions service animals are allowed, it doesn’t specify accessibility details. It’s best to check with the provider if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for the views, and dress appropriately for the weather since parts of the tour are outdoors.

Is the tour good for a first-time visitor?
Absolutely. It offers a compact overview of Buffalo’s waterfront and the Erie Canal, perfect for those unfamiliar with the city’s history.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Erie County Buffalo City Sightseeing Tour offers a fun, friendly way to get a feel for Buffalo’s waterfront and history. The combination of scenic views, engaging storytelling, and a historic bus ride makes it a memorable short outing. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy lively guides, small groups, and a laid-back pace.

If you’re in Buffalo and want a snapshot of the city’s past and present, this tour provides good value and a warm, personal touch. Just keep in mind it’s a quick jaunt—not a deep dive—and plan accordingly if you want an in-depth exploration.

For the right traveler, it’s a relaxed, informative, and visually appealing way to connect with Buffalo’s history—plus, you’ll have some fun along the way.