EXPLORE NEW YORK WITH BIKE RENTALS FROM BUFFALO BIKE TOURS
Erie Canal bike rentals are a great way to explore the rich history of New York State. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the historic Erie Canal, renting a bike from Buffalo Bike Tours is the perfect way to start. Located at Mile Marker Zero of the canal, our shop is an ideal launch point for an unforgettable cycling adventure through history.
Updated with current info for 2026. Part of our ongoing series of blog articles of Tours of Buffalo.
DISCOVER THE ERIE CANAL’S HISTORY AND BEAUTY ON TWO WHEELS
The Erie Canal is one of America’s most historic waterways, stretching over 363 miles from Buffalo to Albany. The canal was instrumental in shaping the nation’s transportation and commerce, providing a vital link between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes.
Today, it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic views, charming towns, and fascinating historical sites. One of the best ways to experience the Erie Canal is by bike, and Buffalo Bike Tours is the perfect starting point for your adventure.
BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY ON THE EMPIRE STATE TRAIL IN BUFFALO
Buffalo Bike Tours is located at Canalside in Buffalo, NY, right on the Commercial Slip, which is mile marker 0 of the Erie Canal – the historic terminus. We’re also the starting point for the Empire State Trail, a 750-mile bike path that extends from Buffalo to Albany.
Our shop is based in a shipping container and is the start of the Empire State Trail, which runs from Buffalo to New York City. We offer a wide range of bikes for rent, including e-bikes and road bikes.
Our bikes can be equipped with back racks for carrying panniers, and our e-bikes are a great option for older or novice cyclists. We carry Rad Power Bikes, including the RadRunner 2 model, which gets up to about 60 miles per charge. We provide lights, locks, chargers, and water bottle holders, as well as recommendations on sights to see along the way and travel tips.
BUFFALO: A GREAT STARTING POINT FOR YOUR ERIE CANAL ADVENTURE
Starting your Erie Canal and renting bikes from Buffalo Bike Tours has many advantages. Buffalo is a vibrant city with a rich history, lively cultural scene, and excellent food. Canalside, where Buffalo Bike Tours is located, is a popular gathering place with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
From there, you can easily explore the Buffalo waterfront, which is home to several historic sites, including the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park and the Buffalo Lighthouse. You can also take one of our themed tours, such as the History Ride, the Chicken Wing Ride, or the Foodie Ride.
LOCKPORT: A GATEWAY TO THE ERIE CANAL’S PAST
As you begin your journey, you’ll head east to the City of Lockport, located about 25 miles east of Buffalo. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises, which offers boat tours through the original Erie Canal locks.
You can also explore the Erie Canal Discovery Center, which has interactive exhibits on the canal’s history and construction. Lockport also has several restaurants, shops, and accommodations, making it a great place to spend the night.
ROCHESTER: A CITY OF INNOVATION AND CULTURE
Next, you’ll hit Rochester, located about 90 miles east of Lockport. It’s a great place to stop on your Erie Canal journey. The city has a rich industrial history, and it was home to several innovative companies, including Kodak and Xerox.
Today, Rochester is a thriving cultural hub with many museums, art galleries, and music venues. The city also has several parks, including Highland Park, which is home to the Lilac Festival, a popular annual event. Rochester is a great place to stay overnight, with plenty of accommodations and restaurants to choose from.
ALBANY: THE END OF THE JOURNEY
Albany is the endpoint of the Erie Canal, located about 145 miles east of Rochester. The city has a rich political history and is home to many historic sites, including the New York State Capitol, the Empire State Plaza, and the Albany. Stay and explore the state capitol building and the New York State Museum.
START YOUR ADVENTURE WITH ERIE CANAL BIKE RENTALS FROM BUFFALO BIKE TOURS
Renting an e-bike from Buffalo Bike Tours is the perfect way to start your journey along the Erie Canal. Our bikes are high-quality and well-maintained, and our staff can provide recommendations on sights to see along the way and travel tips to ensure that your trip is as enjoyable as possible.
We’re located at the historic terminus of the canal, making us the perfect starting point for your adventure. Plus, by starting in Buffalo, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this vibrant city and take advantage of all the amenities it has to offer. If you’re looking to extend your stay in Buffalo, there are plenty of options for things to do. We offer several bike tours that explore the city, including our History Ride, Chicken Wing Ride, Waterfront Ride, and Foodie Ride.
So why wait? Book your Erie Canal bike rental with Buffalo Bike Tours today and start your journey through history.