US Brig Niagara
Sail aboard a meticulously restored War of 1812 flagship, a living museum and teaching vessel on Lake Erie.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best weather for sailing
US Brig Niagara
Best Time
Best weather for sailing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sail aboard a meticulously restored War of 1812 flagship, a living museum and teaching vessel on Lake Erie.
"This is a piece of American history. A functional, sailing museum."
Book Sails Early! ⛵
Sailing trips on the US Brig Niagara sell out fast. Book your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Be Ready to Help! 💪
As a teaching vessel, you'll be encouraged to help with tasks. Embrace the hands-on history!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sail on Lake Erie
Lake Erie
Experience the thrill of sailing on a historic tall ship, a truly immersive journey into maritime history.
Explore the Decks
Onboard the US Brig Niagara
Walk the decks of this meticulously restored War of 1812 flagship and feel the history beneath your feet.
Learn from the Crew
Onboard the US Brig Niagara
Engage with the dedicated crew and volunteers who share their passion and knowledge of the ship's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Sail in Advance
Embrace the Hands-On Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Sails Early! ⛵
Sailing trips on the US Brig Niagara sell out fast. Book your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Be Ready to Help! 💪
As a teaching vessel, you'll be encouraged to help with tasks. Embrace the hands-on history!
Seasickness Prep 🤢
If you're prone to seasickness, bring medication. The crew is helpful if you feel unwell.
Historical Icon ⚓
This ship is a vital piece of American history, a functional museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Sails Early! ⛵
Sailing trips on the US Brig Niagara sell out fast. Book your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Be Ready to Help! 💪
As a teaching vessel, you'll be encouraged to help with tasks. Embrace the hands-on history!
Seasickness Prep 🤢
If you're prone to seasickness, bring medication. The crew is helpful if you feel unwell.
Historical Icon ⚓
This ship is a vital piece of American history, a functional museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the US Brig Niagara as a 'wonderful way to spend an afternoon' and a 'functional, sailing museum.' The hands-on experience and knowledgeable crew are frequently highlighted as major positives, making history come alive. While some find the event ticketing structure for tall ship festivals a bit pricey, the opportunity to be aboard such a significant historical vessel is widely considered worth it.
"This was a WONDERFUL way to spend an afternoon. My husband and I stumbled on this as a day trip. I wish we lived closer so we could visit more often. We had a perfect, sunny, mild day for our trip. The US Brig Niagara is a teaching vessel and the crew is small for it's size and partially volunteer so the visitors are "students" for the day and help out with tasks on the trip. They make it fun, but you can see just how much work there was to do on board and how crowded it got when there was a full crew. Every member of the crew was knowledgeable and willing to take a minute to talk to the "day students".
I was (of course) the one who got seasick for a while and they were very helpful and got me feeling better and having a good time without a fuss.
The trip was about 4 hours and while there was plenty to do and see, there was time to just sit and enjoy the trip too. I would say it was just about the perfect amount of time. We highly recommend this to anyone who likes history, sailing, and hands-on activities."
Katherine Kaleta
"Its the Brig Niagara, nuf said! This is a piece of American history. A funtional, sailing museum. There are few things more beautiful than tall ships, and the Brig Niagara was flag ship. Comadore Perry is a fantastic historical figure who sailed the Niagara literally everywhere (Excluding space). The Brig was an important part of American navel forces as it is a fast and light ship in comparison to ships used by the Brittish, which were massive, slow moving and took forever to build. Erie is not Erie without the mighty Brig Niagara. I dare say we may not even have had America without this fantastic vessel."
Michael D
"Cool site"
Jenn Gray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The US Brig Niagara is primarily docked in Erie, Pennsylvania, often at Presque Isle State Park or within the bay. Check their official schedule for current docking locations and departure points for sails.
Erie is accessible by car via I-90. The nearest major airports are Erie International Airport (ERI) and Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), which is about a 2-hour drive away.
Parking availability can vary depending on the event and docking location. It's best to check the US Brig Niagara's official website or contact them directly for specific parking information for your visit.
Yes, the US Brig Niagara often offers deck tours when it's docked. These tours allow you to explore the ship without participating in a full sail. Check the schedule for availability.
Erie offers several attractions, including Presque Isle State Park, the Erie Maritime Museum, and Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for sailing trips vary depending on the duration and type of voyage. Prices can range from around $6 for deck tours to significantly more for multi-day sails. It's essential to check the official website for current pricing.
Tickets for sailing trips and tours can be purchased through the official US Brig Niagara website (www.sailfnl.org/sail) or by contacting them directly. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or during special events. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire directly about any potential discounts.
Refund policies can vary. It's crucial to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the US Brig Niagara directly for information on their refund and cancellation policies.
Due to the historic nature of the ship, accessibility can be challenging. It's recommended to contact the US Brig Niagara directly to discuss specific accessibility needs and options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sailing trips are often hands-on, with visitors acting as 'students' helping with tasks. You'll learn about sailing, history, and the ship's operations from the crew.
Trip durations vary, but many day sails are around 4 hours long, offering a good balance of activity and relaxation.
Dress comfortably and in layers, as weather on the water can change. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential. Avoid open-toed shoes or high heels.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged. Capture the stunning views and historical details of this magnificent tall ship.
Information on food and drink availability varies. Some longer sails might include provisions, while others may require you to bring your own. Check the specific details for your chosen trip.
🎫 ⚓ History & Significance
The US Brig Niagara was a key vessel in the War of 1812, serving as Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's flagship during the Battle of Lake Erie. It's a vital piece of American naval history.
The current US Brig Niagara is a faithful reconstruction, built in 1988, based on the original ship's plans. It serves as a living museum and educational vessel.
Commodore Perry was a U.S. naval commander famous for his victory at the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, where he sailed aboard the Brig Niagara.
The Brig Niagara played a crucial role in securing American control of Lake Erie, which was vital for the war effort and contributed significantly to the eventual American victory.
The Erie Maritime Museum, located in Erie, PA, often has exhibits dedicated to the US Brig Niagara and its history. The crew onboard the ship are also excellent sources of historical information.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
⚓ History Buffs
Consider booking a longer sail if possible to truly immerse yourself in the maritime lifestyle of the era. The crew are excellent resources for historical details and stories about the ship's voyages and battles.
⛵ Sailing Enthusiasts
Check the schedule for different types of sails, from short excursions to multi-day adventures, and book early as these popular trips fill up fast.
👨👩👧 Families
Opt for a deck tour if a full sail seems too long for younger children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for climbing around the ship.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the US Brig Niagara
Today, the US Brig Niagara operates as a teaching vessel, meticulously maintained and sailed by a dedicated crew and volunteers. This commitment ensures that the ship remains not only a historical artifact but a living, breathing piece of maritime heritage. Visitors have the unique opportunity to step back in time, experiencing life aboard a 19th-century warship. The ship's preservation is a community effort, highlighting the enduring pride in this iconic vessel.
Experiencing the US Brig Niagara offers a profound connection to the past. Whether you're taking a short deck tour or embarking on a multi-day sail, the opportunity to be on board this historic ship is unforgettable. It's a chance to understand the challenges and triumphs of naval warfare and the skill of those who sailed these magnificent tall ships.
Sailing Experiences and Visitor Participation
This hands-on approach is a core part of the Niagara's educational mission. Visitors might help with tasks like hoisting sails, steering the ship, or learning about navigation. The crew, often a mix of professionals and dedicated volunteers, are passionate about sharing their knowledge and making the experience engaging and educational for everyone. This collaborative environment fosters a unique sense of community among those onboard.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to remember that sailing trips are highly popular and tend to sell out quickly, especially during the peak summer season. Booking well in advance through the official website is strongly recommended to secure your spot on this historic vessel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit