Erie Canal Discovery Center — Attraction in City of Lockport

My boyfriend and I were driving through Lockport on the way to Rolling Hills Asylum and decided to stop here on a whim because we enjoy history and museums. Little did we know this was a whole experience packed into an unassuming visitors center.

I wish I’d have caught our guide’s name because he was so knowledgeable and passionate about his town and its history. He started with the history of the replica mural, then led us on to an interactive video that was above and beyond what I’ve seen from a lot of museums and trust me, I’ve visited many museums over the years. After the video there are more exhibits and some other interactive materials - again, so much effort and passion for a big part of US history. I felt engaged and eager to learn more despite forgetting most of what I’d learned about the Erie Canal in school.

My main reason for leaving this review is to state my appreciation for small museums and the passionate people that pour so much into them, as well as to say...

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The Erie Canal Discovery Center is an absolute gem for anyone fascinated by the rich history of locks, canals, and Lockport. Stepping into this center is like stepping back in time, with its immersive exhibits and captivating displays. From the engineering marvels of the locks to the bustling history of Lockport, every corner is filled with fascinating stories waiting to be discovered.

The center's dedication to preserving and sharing this important part of our heritage is truly commendable. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, the Erie Canal Discovery Center won't disappoint. It's a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to delve into the captivating history of our locks, canals, and the vibrant city...

This center was incredibly well done! The 18m video is the most clever I've ever experienced....but I'm not going to spoil it for you. Very modern displays with informative sections on how the canal was built, how it works, how it changed New York, and of course biographical pieces on the people who designed, built and later worked on the canal. Kiss loved the Canal Kids Corner, where they got to dress in period clothing and listen to the stories of real "canal kids". We spent about 44 minutes in the museum and reas EVERYTHING, a few minutes in the giftshop and about 45 minutes at the lock. It takes about 30 minutes for a boat to pass through, and was very fun to watch the lock in action and talk with the guy who operates it.

$6/adult, $5/senior kids under...