Freedom Park

Located on the southern tip of Unity Island in the city of Buffalo, Freedom Park is a unique historical site in the USA. This elongated green space is nestled between the majestic Niagara River and the Black Rock Canal, offering visitors breathtaking views of the international border with Canada and the famous Peace Bridge.

Formerly known as Broderick Park, it received its current name in 2023 to honor the courageous individuals who sought refuge from slavery here. The park is recognized as an official site of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, as it was from here that ferries transported escapees to the Canadian province of Ontario. Today, it is not just a memorial site but also a modern space for relaxation that has undergone an extensive renovation.

In addition to its historical value, Freedom Park offers excellent conditions for walking, with well-maintained paths, information boards, and memorial plaques. This place is ideal for those who want to combine nature appreciation with a touch of important American history in the open air.

To plan your visit to Freedom Park, you can use the official contact details. Although the park does not have a dedicated telephone information line, its activities are actively promoted by a community organization dedicated to preserving the heritage of this site.

At Freedom Park, visitors will find a harmonious blend of peaceful relaxation and educational leisure. One of the main reasons to visit is the panoramic view of the Niagara River and the Canadian shore. You can walk along the landscaped paths, which are very popular with local runners and cyclists, or simply sit on a bench and watch the river traffic and passing boats.

Particular attention should be paid to the historical markers. Be sure to visit the memorial plaque dedicated to the heroes of the "Underground Railroad" and feel the atmosphere of a place where human destinies were once decided. The park also features a modern amphitheater, which periodically hosts cultural events and community celebrations organized by the "Friends of Freedom Park" group.

For photography enthusiasts, the park offers excellent angles of the Peace Bridge and the industrial landscapes of the Black Rock Canal. Families with children often choose this spot for outdoor picnics. It is also convenient to walk from here to the Bird Island Pier to continue your stroll along the water and fully experience the scale and power of the border river.

Getting to this historic site in Buffalo is quite simple. Freedom Park is located at 1170 Niagara St, right at the foot of West Ferry Street on Unity Island. If you are traveling by car, the most convenient way is to drive from the city center via Niagara Street or the I-190 highway. There is parking available for visitors on the park grounds.

For those who prefer public transport, NFTA bus routes are available, running through the city center to Niagara Street. A taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft from downtown Buffalo will take about 10–15 minutes and cost approximately $10–15. If you are arriving from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), the drive will take around 20–25 minutes.

During the warmer months, a bicycle ride or a walk along the scenic Niagara River Greenway path is an excellent option. This allows you to enjoy the river views even before arriving at the park itself. In winter, be mindful of the strong winds off the Niagara River and dress warmly.

The history of Freedom Park is inextricably linked to the struggle for human rights. In the 19th century, this location served as one of the most important termini of the Underground Railroad—a secret network of routes used by enslaved people to reach Canada from the Southern states. It was from here that the Black Rock ferry departed, serving as the final step toward a long-awaited life of freedom for many.

Interestingly, until November 2023, the park was named after Michael Broderick, one of the founders of the West Side Rowing Club. However, to honor African American freedom seekers, city authorities—with the support of the Broderick family—officially renamed the area. This decision highlighted the location's significance as a site within the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

The importance of this site grew after 1850 with the passage of the harsh Fugitive Slave Act. Ironically, it was signed by President Millard Fillmore, a Buffalo native, which only increased the flow of people seeking to cross the Niagara River. Today, the park preserves the memory of those dramatic events, serving as both a recreational area and an important historical memorial.

For a standard visit to Freedom Park, 1–2 hours is sufficient for most tourists. This is enough time to take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, study the memorial plaques, and take commemorative photos against the backdrop of the Niagara River and the Peace Bridge.

If you plan to have a small picnic or simply want to spend more time watching passing vessels in a peaceful setting, you might want to set aside half a day for your visit. The park is conducive to slow-paced relaxation, making it a popular spot for those seeking quiet away from busy city streets.

Freedom Park is hospitably open to visitors at any time of the day or night. Thanks to its 24-hour operation, you can enjoy an early sunrise over the Niagara River or the evening lights of the Peace Bridge.

Operating hours: daily and around the clock (24 hours a day, Monday through Sunday). This makes the park exceptionally convenient for spontaneous walks any day of the week.

A visit to Freedom Park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in the area. Discovering the Niagara region will allow you to dive deeper into its architectural heritage and modern culture, offering entertainment for every taste—from historical monuments to active outdoor recreation in local parks.