North Tonawanda

North Tonawanda sits where Tonawanda Creek meets the Erie Canal, with waterfront paths and commercial zones along the banks. The city features harbor facilities and green spaces that connect directly to the canal system.

The city developed as a major lumber port in the 1800s and had become one of the largest hardwood product centers in the United States by 1900. Later it shifted toward machinery manufacturing and amusement park industries.

The Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum preserves the history of the Allan Herschell Company, which crafted carousels and amusement rides from 1915 to 1970. Visitors can observe how skilled workers designed and built these mechanical attractions.

Gateway Harbor Park provides boat docking and access to the Erie Canal Trail system, with regular events during summer months. The best time to explore is from late spring through early fall when paths and outdoor areas are most active.

The Riviera Theatre retains its original Wurlitzer organ from 1926 and is among the few venues that still screen silent films with live organ accompaniment. This combination of film and live music is increasingly rare today.

Location: Niagara County

Elevation above the sea: 175 m

Website: https://northtonawanda.org

GPS coordinates: 43.04111,-78.86889

Latest update: December 20, 2025 14:57