A historic community that rose around the Erie Canal
Lockport, the seat of Niagara County in Western New York, owes its creation to the historic waterway that cuts through its center. “We’re here because of the Erie Canal. The Flight of Five Locks is how Lockport got its start and its name,” says Ann Marie Linnabery, assistant director and education coordinator at the Niagara County Historical Society. These five locks, which were constructed to either lift or lower boats over the Niagara Escarpment, are an engineering marvel that helped to build Western New York’s importance as an industry center throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Industrial plants like the General Motors Components factory still play a large role in Lockport’s economy, although it is not as significant as it once was. These days, this city of under 21,000 is associated more with a slow-paced rural lifestyle, evidenced by a CAP Index Crime score of 5, slightly above the national average. “People look out for each other here,” says Harriet Flanagan, a broker associate with MJ Peterson Real Estate. “It’s the kind of place where, if I had a flat tire, someone would stop to help me out whether they knew me or not.”
While the Erie Canal is no longer an active shipping lane, occasional glimpses of its past glory remind residents that Lockport still plays a role in Western New York’s development. “This past summer, they brought a bridge that was built in Italy over the Atlantic. I got to watch when the second half of it came through the canal,” Linnabery recalls. The 266-foot pedestrian bridge was installed at Ralph Wilson Park in downtown Buffalo, allowing visitors to easily cross Interstate 190 and enjoy the revitalized lakefront. “It’s a good reminder that 200 years later, Lockport’s still here, and still thriving.”
Joseph A. Scapelliti Bridge runs across the river in Lockport.
Lockport has a rich history and can be seen in the architecture of the churches downtown.
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Historic homes at the center of town cost less than midcentury suburban styles
Some historic homes dating from the town’s founding in 1820 remain, although styles differ depending on where prospective buyers choose to look. “In the City of Lockport, there are lots of stone homes that were built with the material excavated from the canal,” Linnabery says. “The surrounding Town of Lockport was built up more in the mid-20th century, so that’s where you’ll find your more typical suburban houses.” Like many areas in Western New York, the distinction between the city and the town can lead to differing annual tax charges, so homeowners will want to take note of where their property line is drawn. As of 2024, the median price of homes hovered around $230,000. Bungalows and cottages on tight lots in the city center tend to cost less than the more spacious midcentury split-levels and Colonial Revivals on the outskirts of town.
A row of homes in Lockport shows traditional American home styles in spades.
This row of homes in Lockport can be seen from the sidewalk.
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Lockport City Schools are recognized for efforts toward diversity
Lockport is served by the Lockport City School District, which scores an overall B-plus from Niche. In 2024, the district received the Champions of Change award from the New York State School Boards Association, recognizing its success in improving diversity, equity and inclusion across all eight schools. Alternatives include DeSales Catholic School, a private institution that educates students from kindergarten through grade 8.
Aaron Mossell Junior High is located in Lockport, NY.
Lockport High School is a highly rated school in Buffalo, NY.
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The Erie Canal is now a central figure in Lockport's outdoor recreation
The Erie Canal may no longer be at the center of the cargo shipping industry, but it does remain an important source of outdoor recreation for Lockport residents, who can launch their kayaks or canoes at Widewaters Marina on East Market Street. The paved trail that runs alongside the waterway has proved popular for biking, walking and even cross-country skiing in the winter. Cornerstone CFCU Arena, located on Market Street, hosts youth and adult league ice hockey throughout the year.
Take a trip to Lockport and enjoy the scenic views of the water.
Lockport is part of the New York State Canal System and this boat can be seen along the river.
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Downtown Lockport is a hub of locally-owned businesses and restaurants
The nearest grocery stores and big-box retailers, such as Tops Friendly Market and Walmart Supercenter, are located in shopping centers along Transit Road. Downtown, locally owned restaurants line the canal. Among the most popular are Steamworks Coffee and Stooges, which specializes in hamburgers stuffed with everything from macaroni and cheese to peanut butter.
Steamworks Coffee is a well-regarded cafe in downtown Lockport.
A barista serves an officer some fresh coffee at Steamworks Coffee in Lockport.
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Transit Road and NY Route 31 connect Lockport to the rest of Western New York
New York Route 31 and Transit Road converge at the center of Lockport and provide the community’s only connections to area destinations like Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Driving is generally the quickest way to get around, as only the No. 44 bus line of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority services the city, connecting it south to the University at Buffalo rail station in Amherst.
A small but lively downtown district helps Lockport thrive
Although small, downtown Lockport is a lively part of town, hosting festivals and concerts along the canal year-round. “The Palace Theater just celebrated its 100th anniversary, and the interior has been totally restored,” Linnabery says. “They show everything there, from movies and stage plays to musical theater.” The town also thoroughly celebrates its history with events sponsored by the Niagara History Center, located on Church Street.
A large mural is featured in downtown Lockport.
Old City Hall is a local pub in downtown Lockport.
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