Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises Lockport NY
Experience the engineering marvel of the Lockport Locks and cruise the historic Erie Canal on a narrated boat tour. A journey through history and scen...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises Lockport NY
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the engineering marvel of the Lockport Locks and cruise the historic Erie Canal on a narrated boat tour. A journey through history and scenic beauty.
"It was so neat how to see how the locks work in getting the boats up to the level of the water on the other side of them."
🎟️ Book Ahead!
Secure your spot on the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises by booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It can get warm on the water, so wear light clothing. Hats and sunscreen are recommended for sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lockport Locks Experience
Lockport, NY
Witness the impressive engineering of the Erie Canal locks as boats ascend and descend. A truly unique and historic sight!
Erie Canal Cruise
Lockport Locks
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the historic Erie Canal, narrated with local history and wit. Relax and take in the views.
Captain's Narration
Onboard the cruise boat
Engaging commentary from the captain shares fascinating history and local anecdotes, making the journey informative and fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Erie Canal Adventure
Embrace the History & Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Erie Canal
🎟️ Book Ahead!
Secure your spot on the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises by booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It can get warm on the water, so wear light clothing. Hats and sunscreen are recommended for sunny days.
Must-sees on the Erie Canal?
Albany and Erie Canal
📸 Capture the Locks
Don't miss the chance to photograph the locks in action! The bow of the boat offers great views.
💰 Worth the Price
While there's a fee, most visitors find the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises to be a worthwhile and memorable experience.
Just finished a weeklong tour of the Erie Canalway trail; 457 miles from Albany, NY to Ontario, Canada.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead!
Secure your spot on the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises by booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It can get warm on the water, so wear light clothing. Hats and sunscreen are recommended for sunny days.
📸 Capture the Locks
Don't miss the chance to photograph the locks in action! The bow of the boat offers great views.
💰 Worth the Price
While there's a fee, most visitors find the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises to be a worthwhile and memorable experience.
🚻 Onsite Amenities
Restrooms and a gift shop are available onsite, adding to the convenience of your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises for their impressive historical significance and the engaging boat tour experience. The narrated cruises offer a fascinating look at the engineering of the locks and the beauty of the Erie Canal, with friendly and informative crews making the trip memorable. While the fee is noted, most agree it's a worthwhile investment for a unique and enjoyable outing.
"Highly Recommended! The locks are way cool. Riding a boat to go through the locks is even better. There’s a tremendous amount of history around the locks along with interesting activities, parks and towns all throughout the state of New York.
The boat was nice with a lower and upper deck. I was able to get on the bow and enjoyed watching the locks open & close. The scenery was beautiful as we transferred between locks & before we turned around to go back. The crew was helpful and friendly. The captain narrated for portions of the trip and used his own sardonic wit to make it more interesting. Thanks for a great cruise on the Erie Canal!"
Steve Roberts
"My husband and I took the boat cruise through the locks and along the Erie Canal. It was a very warm day but a beautiful boat ride. The Captain and crew were very polite and friendly and gave a lot of history about the locks and the Erie Canal and how they both came about. It was so neat how to see how the locks work in getting the boats up to the level of the water on the other side of them. After climbing back through the locks , we traveled up the Erie Canal to the marina. There is a fee for the cruise, but it’s worth it!"
Karen J
"Last of it kind and full of history. A great easy tour on the water with mix of amenities as bathrooms and available beverages while on the boat. Round trip about 45 to an hour. The boat operator's were fun and ingaging.
Parking, open bathrooms onsite and gift shop.
Additionally they have updated the building and have Indoor and large patio event space to rent. Weddings, corporate or private party's with boat services available.
Was worth the visit."
John Gambino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises are located in Lockport, NY. Driving is the most common way to reach the location, with parking available onsite. For those using public transport, check local bus routes as options might be limited.
Yes, there is parking available onsite for visitors attending the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises.
The Erie Canalway Trail runs near Lockport, making it a potential destination for cyclists. However, direct access and parking for bikes at the cruise departure point should be confirmed.
Most visitors drive to Lockport. If coming from further afield, consider routes that pass through scenic parts of upstate New York.
Lockport and the surrounding areas offer various hotels and B&Bs for those wishing to extend their stay and explore more of the Erie Canal region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a fee for the cruise, and while prices can vary, reviews suggest it's considered worth the cost for the experience. It's best to check their official website for current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability for your desired cruise time.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises website for the most up-to-date schedule and cruise times.
Information on discounts for groups, seniors, or children is typically available on the cruise operator's website. It's worth checking for any special offers.
The round trip for the Erie Canal boat ride is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, offering a concise yet comprehensive experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll witness the fascinating operation of the Lockport Locks, learn about the history of the Erie Canal, and enjoy scenic views along the waterway. The captain often provides engaging narration.
Yes, the cruise is generally suitable for all ages. It's a relaxing way to experience local history and engineering marvels.
Yes, the boats are equipped with amenities like bathrooms and offer beverages for purchase during the cruise.
Many visitors enjoy standing on the bow of the boat to get a clear view of the locks opening and closing. Both upper and lower decks offer good vantage points.
Yes, Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises offers event spaces and boat services for private parties, corporate events, and weddings.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are of the boats navigating through the locks. The surrounding historic architecture and canal scenery also make for great photos.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the locks and the canal. Consider the angle of the sun when planning your visit for optimal lighting.
Absolutely! The cruise offers unique perspectives of the locks and the Erie Canal. Standing on the bow or upper deck can provide excellent photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you're keen on capturing details, a zoom lens can be helpful for shots from the boat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Consider booking a morning cruise to avoid the midday heat. Ensure children have access to restrooms onboard, which are available. The engaging narration can also help keep older children interested in the historical aspects of the tour. It's a memorable way to introduce them to a significant piece of American history.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Look for potential discounts on their official website, especially if traveling in a group. Consider packing your own snacks and drinks if allowed, though beverages are available for purchase onboard. Combine your cruise with a visit to nearby free attractions or parks along the Erie Canalway Trail to maximize your budget.
🏛️ History Buffs
Deepen your experience: Pay close attention to the captain's narration, as it's often filled with fascinating historical facts and stories. Research the history of the Erie Canal and the Lockport Locks before your visit to fully appreciate the context. Consider exploring other historical sites in the Lockport area to create a comprehensive historical tour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Lockport Locks
Originally built in the early 1900s, the Lockport Locks have been modernized over time but retain their historical significance. They are one of the few remaining examples of this type of lock system still in operation. The Erie Canal itself is a vital artery that connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, and the Lockport section is a key part of its journey through New York State. Understanding the history of the canal and its impact on American commerce and westward expansion adds a deeper layer of appreciation to the cruise.
Visitors often rave about the captain's narration, which provides context and interesting anecdotes about the locks and the canal's history. This blend of visual spectacle and historical storytelling makes the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises a highly recommended activity for anyone interested in history, engineering, or simply enjoying a unique boat ride.
Experiencing the Erie Canal Cruise
The narration provided by the captain is a highlight for many, adding a layer of historical context and local flavor to the trip. Reviewers frequently mention the captains' wit and engaging storytelling, making the cruise both informative and entertaining. The round trip typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, providing a perfect amount of time to soak in the experience without feeling rushed.
Beyond the cruise itself, the area around the Lockport Locks offers additional amenities. There's a gift shop for souvenirs and a small park area. For those planning larger gatherings, the venue also offers indoor and patio event spaces, making it a versatile location for celebrations.
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