Guided Tour at Waterway of Change Exhibit

We offer guided tours of the Waterway of Change exhibit on Saturdays at 1pm. These tours last 40-45 minutes and is limited to 20 guests. If you have accessibility needs or questions about the tour experience, please reach out to Megan DeJoe at [email protected] or call (716) 873-9644 ext. 503.

About the Exhibit

Discover Waterway of Change: Complex Legacies of the Erie Canal – a dynamic experience at Canalside presented by the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation in partnership with The Buffalo History Museum. 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. 

Ticketing Information: The Waterway of Change exhibit is operated by The Buffalo History Museum and is generously sponsored by the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation.