9 Day American Cruise Lines River Cruise from Buffalo to Oswego 2028

Day 1 Buffalo, NY

Begin your journey with a complimentary hotel stay in Buffalo, where historic architecture meets modern revival. Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House, an Arts and Crafts masterpiece, or stroll the redeveloped Canalside district, where former grain silos now house breweries and art installations.

Day 2 Day of Cruising

Spend the day getting acquainted with life on the water. Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck as Lake Erie stretches out around you. On board, take part in enrichment programs led by our expert guides, or simply relax with a cocktail in hand as the ship glides toward your next destination.

Day 3 Day of Cruising the Welland Canal

Transit the Welland Canal, one of North America’s greatest engineering achievements. As your ship is raised and lowered nearly 100 feet between Lakes Ontario and Erie, watch the lock gates close and feel the vessel slowly climb, step by step. Guides on board share the canal’s history, from early construction to modern freight traffic.

Day 4 Rochester, NY

Dock in Rochester, birthplace of Kodak and the modern camera. Tour the George Eastman Museum, where landscaped gardens surround the grand mansion of the photography pioneer, or hear the roar of High Falls, a 96-foot cascade that once powered the city’s flour mills. Rochester’s legacy of invention and artistry is evident on every street.

Day 5 Clayton, NY

Cruise into the scenic Thousand Islands, where castles and Gilded Age mansions crown wooded isles. In Clayton, explore the Antique Boat Museum, where varnished mahogany shines under museum lights, or tour Boldt Castle, a romantic stone estate built on Heart Island. Every view here seems to sparkle with water, pine, and history.

Day 6 Day of Cruising

Sail west across Lake Ontario. Spend the day enjoying onboard amenities, attend a lecture on canal engineering, sample regional wines, or watch lighthouses and fishing boats drift past.

Day 7 Ogdensburg, NY

Enjoy this scenic and peaceful gateway to the St. Lawrence River and the heart of the Thousand Islands region. As one of the northernmost ports in New York State, Ogdensburg sits directly on the U.S.-Canada border, offering stunning views of the river and easy access to the natural beauty of upstate New York. Explore a variety of cultural and historic attractions that highlight the area’s rich heritage. The Frederic Remington Art Museum, dedicated to the iconic American Western artist, is a must-see, featuring a remarkable collection of his sculptures, paintings, and personal artifacts. Outdoor enthusiasts can stroll along the riverfront, visit local parks, or take short excursions to the nearby Thousand Islands for sightseeing and boating.

Day 8 Oswego, NY

Get a unique glimpse into the maritime heritage and small-town charm found along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. Known as the “Port City,” Oswego has played an important role in Great Lakes commerce for centuries and is home to one of the oldest freshwater ports in the United States. Explore historic sites that reflect the area's military and shipping past, or stroll along a scenic waterfront featuring local shops and cafés. Museums in the area showcase the region’s nautical legacy, including shipwrecks, lighthouse history, and commercial shipping. Oswego also holds a unique place in American history as a haven for refugees during World War II. With its rich history, walkable waterfront, and warm community spirit, Oswego offers both cultural depth and a relaxing atmosphere along the journey.

Day 9 Oswego, NY

Disembark in this picturesque city, offering a relaxed and memorable end to your Great Lakes journey, with easy access to local transportation and nearby regional airports. Many guests choose to extend their stay, enjoying a final stroll along the waterfront or exploring Oswego’s cultural and historical offerings.