This article includes a description of the New York shoreline of Lake Erie from the City of Buffalo to the Pennsylvania state line.
This stretch of Lake Erie is a well known destination for family vacations, weekend getaways, day trips, and other excursions.
The region includes a mix of urban settings and quiet lakefront neighborhoods. Along Lake Erie visitors will find numerous unique experiences and things to do.
Along the Niagara River, the New York State Canal system connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, the Hudson River, and other destinations. The canal system is part of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
At the northeastern end of Lake Erie, the City of Buffalo has a wealth of landmarks, public areas, and other interesting places to visit.
Buffalo’s waterfront area includes parks and public access points with views of Canada, Lake Erie, the Niagara River, Buffalo River, and other features. Harbor cruises and other tours are available seasonally.
Along the Outer Harbor, Buffalo Main Lighthouse is one of the city’s most familiar landmarks. The lighthouse is the oldest un-altered structure in the city still standing on its original site.
The Buffalo North Breakwater South Side Lighthouse is known locally as the “bottle light” due to its resemblance to an old glass milk bottle.
Outer Harbor Park includes 200 acres of green space. The park hosts a variety of local festivals and other events. Wilkeson Pointe has areas for relaxing, fishing, kayaking, and biking. Times Beach Nature Preserve is a popular birdwatching area.
The Buffalo Skyway runs south out of the city, becoming highway 5. The route includes a number of landmarks and other places of interest.
At the southern end of the city is Buffalo Harbor State Park and the small boat harbor. A few miles south is Woodlawn Beach State Park and Solé at Woodlawn Beach.
At Hamburg, explorers will find a park and beach with views of Lake Erie. Located along highway 5/ Lakeshore Drive, Lake Erie Seaway Trail Center provides tourist information for the area.
Near the town of Derby is Sturgeon Point. Nearby are attractions including Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, Sturgeon Point Nature Trail, and Erie County Wendt Beach Park.
Near Angola, Buffalo Municipal Bathing Beach and Bennet Beach are popular destinations. Evangola State Park contains beaches, campsites, and other assets.
At Irving, Sunset Bay State Marine Park and other attractions are found along Cattaraugus Creek. At Silver Creek, George S. Borello Memorial Park offers relaxing views of Lake Erie.
At Dunkirk, Point Gratiot Park, Dunkirk Lighthouse, and Wright Park Beach are popular areas. The Dunkirk Harbor Pier includes harbor views, and areas for relaxing, fishing, birdwatching, and public entertainment. On the west side of Dunkirk Harbor, a fishing platform provides anglers with additional access for fishing.
Near Brockton, Lake Erie State Park is known for its high bluffs with lakeside views, camping, and birding areas.
At Barcelona, Bournes Creek Falls offers peaceful scenes. Historic Barcelona Lighthouse is a popular stop for lighthouse enthusiasts.
Anglers will find a marina, fishing pier, and other amenities. Chautauqua Creek is considered one of the top Lake Erie steelhead destinations in western New York.
Near the community of Ripley, walking trails and beachfront access can be found at Ripley Beach.