Summer activities abound in North Tonawanda

Press Release

There are many exciting things happening in North Tonawanda and WNY all summer long, and it’s time to celebrate and join in on the fun!

Bicentennial of the Erie Canal

To kick off the summer fun, the bicentennial of the Erie Canal is this year, and we are all combining efforts to showcase the rich history of the canal. There are numerous events on the Gateway Harbor website so that you can stay informed (https://www.tonawandasgatewayharbor.net/canal-bicentennial).

An event to spotlight is the “Tales from the Canal,” which is 6-9 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Tonawandas Gateway Pavillion. There will be storytelling and live music.

Self-guided walking tour of Downtown North Tonawanda

The walking tour in North Tonawanda is live! If you haven’t seen it yet, there is now a self-guided mobile audio tour where you can discover the charming downtown and local history of North Tonawanda. Just download the free app (Travel Storys), approach a destination, and follow along to the 10-plus stops along the route.

This walking tour was spearheaded by Lumber City Development Corp. Its website has more details on the walking tour and instructions: https://www.lumbercitydc.com/walking-tour.

Free Wi-Fi at Gateway Harbor in North Tonawanda

Next time you are at Gateway Harbor, check out the newest addition of free Wi-Fi. Connection information is posted on display cases around the harbor.

The Wi-Fi "range" goes along Gateway Harbor from the harbor master's office/visitors center and ends at Dockside Bar and Grill.

This project was funded in partnership with the Canal Corp. Canalway Grant Program.

The public Wi-Fi has assisted the City of North Tonawanda in implementation of the "Gateway Harbor Recreational Hub Pilot Program," which NT was awarded by the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor in 2020.

Not only is this a great amenity for any visitors, but it is extremely useful for overnight boaters – and something that they have requested for years.

Slow Spokes

Slow Spokes is a group of friends and family dedicated to promoting the joy of group cycling and bicycle safety across Buffalo, North Tonawanda and Western New York. Whether you're an experienced rider or just starting out, Slow Spokes is all about connecting cyclists through fun, safe and social rides.

Every ride begins at 6 p.m. on Thursdays at Fattey Beer Co., Wurlitzer at 908 Niagara Falls Blvd., Suite 105, North Tonawanda. Stay connected on Facebook to follow the route: https://www.facebook.com/ntbikeride.

5th annual Pride Fest on Oliver Street

Join the Oliver Street Merchants Association from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, for their free event as we celebrate equality for all at Heritage Park on Oliver Street in North Tonawanda. In honor of Pride Month, the Oliver Street Merchants Association is hosting a family-friendly event filled with information booths and over 50 vendors, hourly performances and more! The pride flag-raising will begin at 10:45 a.m.

Stay connected

The Visitor Center of the Tonawanda’s, located at the harbor master office, 99 Sweeney St., North Tonawanda, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. from May-October. Stop here to pick up a brochure/information on local or countywide events.

The Chamber of Commerce of Tonawandas is located at 254 Sweeney St., North Tonawanda, and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays year-round. Check out its online 2025 visitors guide to view all the great events: https://the-tonawandas.com/.