Best attractions and places to see around Lackawanna, New York, offer a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Situated on Lake Erie, just south of Buffalo, the city provides scenic shoreline views and opportunities for outdoor activities. Its rich industrial past, particularly tied to the steel industry, is deeply embedded in its identity. Visitors can explore notable landmarks, diverse natural features, and cultural sites within the city and its immediate vicinity.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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I reviewed the USS Little Rock as part of the Buffalo Naval Park tour. It was excellent. However, if you'd like to tour the Little Rock on its own, that's certainly possible. It's an unforgettable tour. However, you have to pay to see all three boats, so don't miss the opportunity to see the other two.
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The outer harbor is becoming a great destination. There's nothing technical here. Enjoy the ride and the view. Reddy Bikeshare is available there, too. Download the app and ride from the lighthouse (closed access) to the canal at the other end. Great for sunsets.
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8.5-hectare park with concerts, children's programs, water sports, and comfortable Adirondack chairs.
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One of the most beautiful spots along the Buffalo waterfront. The attached photos show the large marble remnants of the facade of the original M&T Bank headquarters/branch. It's a wonderful place to stroll and enjoy the scenery. There's also a kayak launch and kayak rentals.
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A beautifully preserved World War II submarine that sank the Japanese cruiser Nagara on its first mission in 1944. The engine room sound reproduction gives a good impression of what it would have been like on board the ship with its diesel engines running.
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Part of the Tifft Nature Preserve, this lake and the surrounding area can feel like you're stepping into the wilderness while still in the city. It's a great little escape and there's a good chance to spot some interesting wildlife.
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Wilkeson Pointe is a small park along the Outer Harbor. The park is popular for running, walking, biking, and kayaking. There are some dirt spur trails in the area, but the majority of the paths are paved and super easy to follow. It's easy to make small loops in the park if you want to add on mileage at the end of your run.
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You can see these three decommissioned naval crafts from WW II in the Buffalo Naval Park. The USS Little Rock is a decommissioned Guided Missile Cruiser, the only surviving from World War II. The USS The Sullivans is a decommissioned Fletcher-class Destroyer, and one of the larges destroyers in World War II. The USS Croaker is a decommissioned Gato-class submarine from World War II.
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Lackawanna is situated on the scenic Lake Erie shoreline, offering beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor activities. You can also visit Lake Kirsty within the Tifft Nature Preserve, which provides a wilderness feel with chances to spot wildlife. Other natural spots include Smokes Creek and Hilbert Circle Park for green spaces.
The most prominent historical site is Our Lady of Victory Basilica, a National Shrine known for its architecture and connection to Father Nelson Baker. You can also explore the Father Baker Museum on its campus and the historic Holy Cross Cemetery. The city's industrial past is evident in its Historical Steel Industry Sites, and the distinctive Lackawanna City Hall is also notable. Nearby, the Buffalo Naval Park offers an immersive historical experience with vessels like the USS Croaker, USS Sullivans, and USS Little Rock.
Yes, several attractions are great for families. Canalside Boardwalk, Buffalo offers children's programs, water sports, and a boardwalk. Lakeside Park features a skate park and a bike park with three mountain bike tracks for various skill levels. The Tifft Nature Preserve, with its trails and wildlife, is also a good option for families.
The area around Lackawanna offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore trails like the Fuhrmann Boulevard Sidepath or the Tifft Nature Preserve loop. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as the Erie Canalway Trail: Buffalo Parks and Waterfront Loop or the Wilkeson Point – Queen City Bike Ferry loop. Lakeside Park also has mountain bike tracks. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking and cycling guides for Lackawanna.
For picturesque views, head to Wilkeson Point, a viewpoint along the Outer Harbor popular for its scenery. Lakeside Park is also known for its great views, especially at sunset. The Lake Erie shoreline itself provides numerous scenic spots, and Hilbert Circle Park offers amazing views within Lackawanna.
Canalside Boardwalk, Buffalo is a recreation of the west end of the Erie Canal. It's a vibrant spot on the Buffalo River offering a boardwalk, concerts, children's programs, and various water sports. It's a popular place for recreation and enjoying the waterfront.
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Fuhrmann Boulevard Sidepath and the Tiff Nature Preserve loop are both considered easy. Another accessible option is the Charles E. Burchfield Nature and Art Center Loop. For more choices, check out the easy hikes around Lackawanna guide.
Beyond the main attractions, Lackawanna offers unique points of interest like its local eateries and shops. Its proximity to Niagara Falls, about 20 miles north, makes this world-famous natural wonder an easily accessible day trip. The Buffalo Naval Park, featuring historical naval vessels, also provides a unique historical experience.
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The scenic views from places like Wilkeson Point and Lakeside Park are highly appreciated, especially at sunset. The opportunity to explore historical sites like Our Lady of Victory Basilica and the unique experience of the Buffalo Naval Park are also popular.
Yes, the Tifft Nature Preserve is just a short drive from downtown Buffalo, making it easily accessible from Lackawanna. This 264-acre nature refuge offers five miles of trails and boardwalks through restored habitats, perfect for observing native wildlife.
Absolutely. Lackawanna offers multiple trails ideal for biking. Lakeside Park includes a bike park with three mountain bike tracks for different skill levels, and Reddy Bikeshare is available there. The paved paths at Wilkeson Point are also popular for biking. For longer rides, consider routes like the Erie Canalway Trail. You can find more cycling routes in the cycling guide for Lackawanna.


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