buffalo usa places to visit

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Buffalo, NY

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Set on the east end of Lake Erie, Buffalo is the second most populated city in New York and a wonderful destination for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying some leisure time. The city is well known for its lovely historical buildings, including the Art Deco-style City Hall.

In recent years, Buffalo has undergone a billion-dollar revitalization and now offers some wonderful public spaces in the city center and along the waterfront. Getting around is easy on the Buffalo Metro Rail, an above-ground train that offers free service for stops in the downtown and Canalside area.

If you have time to explore areas outside downtown, the attractions in and around Delaware Park are well worth seeing. Buffalo also makes a good base for visiting nearby Niagara Falls , New York and Niagara Falls , Ontario.

To help plan your visit, see our list of the top things to do in Buffalo.

See also: Where to Stay in Buffalo

1. Darwin D. Martin House

2. canalside, 3. buffalo and erie county botanical gardens, 4. pierce-arrow museum, 5. forest lawn cemetery, 6. buffalo and erie county naval and military park, 7. albright-knox art gallery, 8. delaware park & the buffalo zoo, 9. theodore roosevelt inaugural national historic site, 10. burchfield penney art center, 11. buffalo city hall, 12. shea's performing arts center, 13. ski resorts, 14. st. joseph's cathedral, 15. sahlen field, 16. liberty building, where to stay in buffalo for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in buffalo, ny, buffalo, ny - climate chart.

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Darwin D. Martin House is one of the must-see attractions in Buffalo. Located in a lovely residential area on the edge of Delaware Park , this house is considered one of Wright's finest prairie houses and one of his greatest accomplishments from the first half of his career.

The complex, which includes six interconnected buildings, was designed and built between 1903 and 1905. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark. Some of the complex was demolished, but over the past two decades extensive restoration and reconstruction has brought the property back to life, and the efforts are still ongoing.

All visitors are required to tour the house in a group lead by a knowledgeable docent.

Address: 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, New York

Official site: http://www.darwinmartinhouse.org/

Canalside is a revitalized area of downtown Buffalo running along the canal, where locals and tourists can come to enjoy some green space, relax, and take in some occasional entertainment.

The area, the former terminus of the 1825 Erie Canada, includes a lovely park, with Adirondack chairs and benches looking out over the canal, and a walkway along the water's edge. In summer, a number of events are held here, and the schedule is posted in advance online, so you can see what's coming. Each winter, a huge outdoor skating rink is built nearby.

Along one side of this area is Harborcenter, with shops and a few restaurants, and in behind is the KeyBank Center hockey arena. If you are arriving by boat, you can dock at Canalside on a first-come, first-served basis.

Olmsted's 155-acre South Park, created in the late 1800s, is home to more than 2,000 plants and trees. Within the park is the 1894 Victorian-style, tri-domed glass conservatory building, originally opened for the 1900 Pan American Exposition, which is the centerpiece of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. The unique glass, wood, and steel design was based on the famous Crystal Palace and Kew Gardens Palm House in England.

The indoor gardens include a fully restored palm dome and an impressive fern house. Year-round highlights include the orchid house, bromeliad house, herb collection, and waterfall. Some of the plants are native to the area, but most are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

Address: 2655 South Park Avenue, Buffalo, New York

Official site: http://www.buffalogardens.com/

Fans of cars and various forms of transport will enjoy a visit to the unique and somewhat eclectic Pierce-Arrow Museum. The museum is named after the original Pierce-Arrow motorcar company that at one time had its manufacturing facility in Buffalo.

Inside you'll find a wide variety of cars, all shining beautifully under spotlights, along with motorcycles, trucks, traditional bicycles, and even a Jello wagon.

A highlight of any visit here is the Frank-Lloyd-Wright-designed gas station, dating from 1927. The station was never built by the famous architect, but the museum obtained the plans and built it from the ground up.

Official site: https://www.pierce-arrow.com/

Forest Lawn, founded in 1849, is a large and scenic cemetery, covering 250 acres. The area feels more like a park and is visually stunning, with mature trees, water features, and walking paths. In the fall, the cemetery is particularly beautiful. This is also the final resting place of many famous people. Noteworthy sites include the Blocher Memorial and the President Fillmore grave site.

Plan an afternoon stroll here in the fall, when the large hardwood trees burst into a wonderful display of orange, red, and yellow.

Address: 1411 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, New York

Along the canal in downtown Buffalo, beside the revitalized Canalside area, Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park is home to guided missile cruiser USS Little Rock (CLG-4), destroyer USS The Sullivans (DD-537), and submarine USS Croaker (SSK-246).

You can experience how mariners and submariners lived and carried out their patriotic duties. In addition to the ships, the museum also displays aircraft, a variety of models, and other artifacts.

One particularly interesting exhibit is the Maritime Simulator. In this hands-on exhibit, you'll get to feel what it's like to be at the helm of a massive ship.

Address: One Naval Park Cove, Buffalo, New York

Official site: http://buffalonavalpark.org/

In Delaware Park, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is housed in an impressive Greek Revival building and features a strong collection of modern and contemporary art. Post-war American and European art is especially notable, with such names as Gorky, Pollock, Warhol, and Johns.

Also of note are works by 19th-century Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, including Renoir, van Gogh, Degas, and Monet. Other movements represented here are Cubism, Surrealism, Constructivism, and the collection includes works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and O'Keeffe to name just a few.

Address: 1285 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, New York

Official site: http://www.albrightknox.org/

Delaware Park is an incredible asset to the city of Buffalo, with wide open green spaces, tree-lined walking and jogging paths, and tennis and golf opportunities.

One of the main highlights in the park is the Buffalo Zoo. The zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the globe, including a gorilla troop, Indian rhinoceros, polar bears, tigers, and a whole host of other animals.

The Delta Sonic Heritage Farm is a recreated 1850s farm with heritage breeds, where you can touch animals. The facility also maintains a solid collection of reptiles and amphibians.

With both indoor and outdoor displays, more than 1,000 animals can be seen in their natural habitats. If you are just passing by, you may even be able to see giraffes from the Parkside Avenue sidewalk, outside the park.

Address: 300 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, New York

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is the spot where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office on September 14, 1901. The museum features displays related to the history of this important moment in time. Inside are fascinating exhibits and interactive displays, along with the Issues Theater.

You can visit the museum only on a guided tour, and reservations in advance are recommended.

The site is at the north end of downtown and easily accessible a couple of blocks off the Buffalo Metro Rail.

Address: 641 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, New York

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/thri/index.htm

This Buffalo landmark is a top cultural spot in the city and contains the world's largest collection of the works of Charles E. Burchfield. In addition to his works, you'll also find an impressive collection of artwork from the Buffalo/Niagara region.

Artwork in various mediums is spread out across 16 galleries. One of the highlights includes the Charles Cary Rumsey Gallery showcasing 3D works of art.

The Burchfield Penney Art Center is located in Buffalo's museum district near the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Official site: https://www.burchfieldpenney.org

Although a trip to Buffalo City Hall may not be on most people's list of things to do in Buffalo, it really should be. This exceptional example of Art Deco architecture is a must-see for fans of historic buildings. Built in 1932, the building is a proud testament to the wealth and power that Buffalo had at that point in history.

One of the best things to do when visiting Buffalo City Hall is to visit the observation deck. Located on the 25th floor at the top of three flights of stairs, this perch in the sky offers incredible views out over the city, the lake, and the surrounding countryside.

While visiting the building and on your way to the elevators, be sure to check out the impressive murals on the walls. Near the building are statues of several American presidents, including a very large one devoted to William McKinley.

Shea's Performing Arts Center is considered a fine example of the great movie palaces of its era. The center was built in 1926 in the Classic style with a Neo-Spanish Baroque interior. The ornate chandeliers and a marble-lined grand lobby are some of the notable features.

Cornelius and George Rapp designed the Shea Theater. The building is listed as a National Historic Landmark, and tours of the grand facility are open to the public by appointment only. Some of the great performers that have taken to the stage here include Frank Sinatra, the Marx Brothers, and George Burns.

Address: 646 Main Street, Buffalo, New York

Official site: http://www.sheas.org/

Buffalo is surprisingly well positioned to ensure easy access to some of New York's best ski resorts . Just a short drive away in the cute town of Ellicottville is the wonderful Holiday Valley Ski Resort . Boasting an excellent assortment of green, blue, and black diamond level runs, the ski hill is an excellent family ski destination. Holiday Valley has recently installed new lift infrastructure, making the trip to the top even faster.

Just under two hours east of Buffalo is Bristol Mountain , noted for its impressive vertical, the highest point between the Adirondacks and the Rocky Mountains. A bit closer is Swain Ski Hill , only 1.5 hours away to the southeast, this old school resort is fun and funky. Near Erie is Peek n Peak, a hot spot for snowboarders with its five terrain parks.

Located in downtown Buffalo, this Gothic-Revival-style cathedral was built in the mid-1800s at the direction of Bishop John Timon, the first bishop of Buffalo. Over the years, this religious institution has played a key role in the community.

The cathedral is home to a Hook and Hastings Organ, which found residence here in 1877. If you are interested in architecture, it's worth stopping by to see the interior of this lovely building, with its spectacular stained-glass windows along both sides and the large rose, also known as a wheel window, located high above the altar.

Address: 50 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York

Sahlen Field, is home to the Buffalo Bisons minor league baseball team. Built in 1988, the baseball stadium is one of the largest in the minor league, with a maximum capacity of 19,500. A cheap and fun family outing can be easily enjoyed here. The team frequently offers incredible deals to encourage fans to come out and see the team play.

Sahlen Field is located in the heart of downtown and is easily accessible via Metro Rail; just get off at the Erie Canal Harbor stop.

Official site: http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t422

The Liberty Building in downtown Buffalo was built in 1925 and designed by Alfred Bossom. The Neoclassical office tower was the largest of its kind in Buffalo when it was built and is still a standout building today.

The building is especially noted for the two huge statues on the rooftop, both based on the Statue of Liberty. Each statue stands an impressive 36 feet high.

The Liberty Building is 23 stories tall and owned by the Main Place Liberty Group; it is located near Lafayette Square.

While the tourist attractions are spread out, if you are coming to experience the vibe of this city, the best place to stay is right downtown, where historic old buildings grace the streets and create a lovely ambience. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• For a quaint, boutique experience in the heart of downtown Buffalo, The Mansion on Delaware Avenue is just the answer. Set in a 19th-century, Second Empire style mansion, the hotel offers 24-hour butler service and top-end amenities at every turn.
• Inside the HARBORCENTER complex, home to ice rinks and restaurants, the Buffalo Marriott LECOMM HARBORCENTER offers modern rooms, on-site dining, and a fitness center.
• Newly-built, The Westin Buffalo , with an excellent downtown location attached to shops and offices, promises modern comfort, fine amenities, and luxurious surroundings.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• At the top-end of the mid-range category is the InnBuffalo off Elmwood . This boutique hotel, with large suites and beautiful historical touches preserved during restoration, is in Elmwood Village, a short drive from downtown but walking distance to local shops and restaurants.
• For a more modern experience, try the Hampton Inn & Suites in downtown Buffalo, featuring a pool and free parking, or the nearby Hyatt Regency , with large rooms, granite baths, and in-room refrigerators.
• Budget Hotels : Budget hotels are hard to come by in Buffalo's city center. Good options can be found a short distance outside of downtown. The Econo Lodge South offers decent rooms and reasonable prices and is about a 10- or 15-minute drive from downtown. A little pricier, but with a good location in downtown is the BEST WESTERN - On The Avenue , offering free breakfast and parking.

More on New York

25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Buffalo (New York)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 26, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

There’s more to New York than just New York City , and Buffalo is one of the best places to come.

In Buffalo, you’ll get a glimpse at a totally impressive culture, full of tourist attractions unlike any place else.

There’s also a monumental history in Buffalo, greatly influenced by settlers from European countries like Germany and Poland.

When you come to Buffalo, you can see just how much American culture is sourced from other regions, in order to create something that feels brand-new.

You’ll constantly find new things to do when visiting.

These are 25 things to do in Buffalo today.

Table of Contents

1. Darwin D. Martin House

Sandra Foyt / Shutterstock

Buffalo has some of the finest architecture in all of the northern United States.

At Darwin D. Martin House , you can see a building that is more than 100 years old, but hardly shows any age when it comes to engineering ingenuity.

It shows that good taste is something that never goes out of style.

The Darwin D. Martin House is the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, perhaps the most renowned architect in American history.

Upon visiting this Buffalo attraction, you’re likely to be impressed by all the elements, inside and out.

There’s the roof with a cantilever design and Wright’s own art glass.

Additionally, this Buffalo house is not a single unit.

Rather, it’s made of six total units, including a conservatory and a gardener’s cottage.

To see a place in New York that is full of artistry and history, come to the Darwin D. Martin House in Buffalo.

Address:  125 Jewett Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA

2. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Hsa htaw / Shutterstock

Some people get the idea that the only way to experience nature is to be far away from the city.

Anyone who’s spent any time in cities and their parks knows this isn’t true.

One of the greatest and more lavish displays of natural beauty in an urban environment is at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens .

These New York gardens are one of the nicest things you’ll see in Buffalo.

They have ties to New York City, as Frederick Law Olmsted, the mastermind behind Central Park, also created the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens.

Anyone who wants to see totally vibrant and colorful plants should come to these gardens.

You can also learn a lot by coming to the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens.

It’s a very good place for anyone interested in education about plants and how they relate to our lives.

It’s also a very good place for just stepping out of modern life and honoring nature and all it does for us.

Address:  2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218, USA

3. Buffalo Zoo

The Buffalo Zoo

This is a different sort of nature representation, but you’ll find it just as important as the botanical ones.

If you want to know anything about how animals live and function, the Buffalo Zoo is one of the best places to go in New York.

This zoo speaks to the huge importance of the animal kingdom.

Animals you can see at this New York zoo include gorillas, polar bears, and tigers.

It features animals from all across the country, including ones from Arctic environments.

Founded more than a century ago, the Buffalo Zoo continues to show that they care about animals.

If you’re interested in learning and having important conversations about animals, visit the Buffalo Zoo.

You can see just how much these discussions matter and how zoos can help to keep endangered species alive.

A trip to the Buffalo Zoo on a weekend excursion is truly beneficial.

Address:  300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA

4. Burchfield Penney Art Center

rchappo2002 / flickr

Make sure to pay attention to the spelling, as this isn’t a museum for art that’s only worth one cent.

Instead, the Burchfield Penney Art Center is home to some of the greatest art in Western New York.

It celebrated its tenth birthday last year, and it already seems to become a true part of Buffalo culture.

Some of the artists whose work you’ll have the privilege to see at the Burchfield Penney Art Center include Patrick Foran, Gloria Plevin, and Chuck Tingley.

If those names don’t sound familiar, have no fear.

These are contemporary artists whose work showcases just how much soul Buffalo has.

Admission to the Burchfield Penney Art Center is very affordable.

It costs $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for students, and free for children 10 and younger if they come with an adult or senior.

Make some time in a Buffalo weekend visit for the Burchfield Penney Art Center.

Address:  1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA

Planning to visit other parts of New York? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Brooklyn  & things to do in Rochester, NY !

5. Niagara Wine Trail

Steve Brown / flickr

Vineyards aren’t restricted to California . New York is also host to some spellbinding sources for wine.

At the Niagara Wine Trail , near Buffalo, you can be treated to one of the most beautiful places in the US .

This bit of heaven on earth is the kind of place that may fill your heart with love on-sight.

It’s worth mentioning that when you plan a visit, you need to be specific about what you want to see.

That’s because this New York region isn’t just a few rows of grapes growing.

It’s an immaculate, sprawling space, composed of more vineyards than you can possibly imagine.

A weekend visit to the Niagara Wine Trail can show you the versatility of wine and grapes.

You can have a taste of amazing ice wine, made of frozen grapes.

There are also events like the Harvest Festival and the Niagara USA Wine Festival.

It’s definitely one of the most fun things to do in Buffalo.

6. Erie Basin Marina

Something you’ll figure out pretty quickly about Buffalo is that it’s an excellent place for experiencing city life and nature all at once.

The Erie Basin Marina stands as one of the most memorable attractions in all of New York.

This marina isn’t just a place for boats to dock.

At the Erie Basin Marina, Buffalo visitors can enjoy a splendid park, top-notch restaurants, and even an observation tower to catch a powerful view of the area.

It’s also quite calming for you to just walk along the water and listen to it gently flow.

If you want to get out on the water, be it in a luxury yacht or a humble kayak, this is one of the best places in New York to do just that.

The Erie Basin Marina shows just how special of a place Buffalo is.

With all of these attractions, how can you possibly pass up on a visit to this marina?

Address:  329 Erie St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

7. Niagara Falls

Abdullah Zafar / Shutterstock

If you’ve only got time for one thing in Buffalo, you need to see Niagara Falls .

These falls have very rightfully earned a reputation as one of the most unique parts of not only New York but also the entire world.

The sounds and sights have to be taken in in-person so that you can know that they more than live up to the hype.

The part of the falls that are in Buffalo is incredible.

The Horseshoe Falls, featured in the middle, are some of the most incredible sights you’ll ever witness.

The entire area is completely spectacular.

To really get an idea of how incredible Niagara Falls in Buffalo is, you should take a boat excursion.

Going down the Niagara River, you can see just how awesome they.

There’s just one warning: you will get wet.

8. Hotel Henry

Can Pac Swire / flickr

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Buffalo, one of the most important travel tips is to check in at Hotel Henry .

This is one of the best parts of Buffalo.

It’s close to downtown Buffalo and makes it easy to reach various points of interest and attractions around the city.

At Hotel Henry, you can reserve some of the grandest rooms and suites you may ever lay eyes on.

The staff is highly receptive and hospitable, doing all they can to offer you the full-scale VIP treatment.

When you take a look at the architecture, you’ll realize that this is a hotel fit for royalty.

This is also a great place to stay in New York, as you’ll be near all kinds of worthwhile spots.

You can easily make it to Elmwood Village and pristine parks.

For anyone wanting to have a truly classy New York stay, they should book a room at Hotel Henry.

Address:  444 Forest Ave, Buffalo, NY 14213, USA

9. Forest Lawn Cemetery

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

You’ll find on any trip to a new city that the most important activities aren’t always the most fun activities.

While there are plenty of fun things to do in Buffalo that let you put your worries aside and just have some New York fun, there are also ones like Forest Lawn Cemetery .

This graveyard should be considered one of the most important attractions in Buffalo for all the history that is on its grounds.

At this Buffalo cemetery, you can visit the graves of some of the most important people in American culture.

These include president Millard Fillmore, musician Rick James, and civil rights legend Mary Burnett Talbert.

All of these have added to the undeniable depth of our country.

Even if these souls have departed our earthly realm, we can still remember just how important they are to our world.

You can pay your respects and reflect on the value of life at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

It’s one of the foremost places in Buffalo for showing reverence to those who have gone before us.

Address:  1411 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209, USA

10. The Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum

If there’s one way to really get a grasp of how much a culture can change in a relatively short amount of time, it’s through transportation.

The advent of travel via horses, boats, trains, planes, and cars, has had an undeniable effect on the world.

Visiting the Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum is one of the best things to do in Buffalo for understanding how important transportation evolution is.

Exhibits at this New York museum include important pieces of transportation history, including the 1909 Thomas Flyer 6-40 Flyabout and The 1919 Pierce Arrow Intercity Bus.

While many of these designs are antiquated, they are beautiful in how well they capture history.

Another one of the most beautiful and amazing sights in at the Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum is the Frank Lloyd Wright Filling Station.

Wright had the idea for a very cutting-edge filling station, which including a second story for customers to relax during fillings.

While it never came to fruition, this museum honors Wright’s vision by featuring a replica of what he had planned.

Address:  263 Michigan Ave, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA

Exploring other parts of New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Lake George  & some of the things to do in Long Island ?

11. Old Fort Niagara

MISHELLA / Shutterstock

During a trip to Buffalo, you’ll quickly learn that Niagara is associated with even more than the famed falls.

There are also places like Old Fort Niagara , which shows the endurance of those who fought in colonial times.

Originally a part of the New France territory, Old Fort Niagara is one of the most meaningful attractions in New York.

The purpose of this fort, near Buffalo, was to act as a defense for New France.

Seized by the British, it was a key matter in the Seven Years’ War.

The strong design was apparent to anyone who encountered Old Fort Niagara.

It was also very important during the Revolutionary War, as it was manned by those who didn’t want to go against the rule of the British government.

Visiting Old Fort Niagara is one of the best things to do in Buffalo.

You can get a taste of marvelous New York history through re-enactments of important events as well as tours through the area.

Address:  102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174, United States

12. Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village

One of the finest neighborhoods in all of New York, Elmwood Village is an example of what a strong community Buffalo has.

In this part of the city, you can encounter all kinds of noteworthy businesses.

It’s full of great places to dine, shop, and learn.

For eating and shopping in Buffalo, Elmwood Village gives you all kinds of options.

Go on a shopping spree and stop at Blush, Half & Half Boutique, and Her Story.

Restaurant options include Kuni’s, a sushi restaurant, Mister Goodbar, a place for wings, and Vera Pizzeria.

Elmwood Village also offers some of the top places to get educated in New York.

In addition to the Burchfield Penny Art Center, there’s also the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Spend a day in Elmwood Village to see just how many fun places are all around Buffalo.

Address: 875 Elmwood Ave ,  Buffalo, NY 14222-1433, USA

13. Canalside Buffalo

Milena Ramirez / Shutterstock

Combining entertainment and nature in a uniquely Buffalo fashion, Canalside Buffalo is full of attractions for anyone who wants to have fun.

This is an example of New York at its finest, showing an urban environment while keeping things tied to nature.

Your trip to Buffalo won’t be complete without checking out Canalside Buffalo.

True to its name, Canalside Buffalo is a waterfront area.

Bordered by Lake Erie, residents and visitors can enjoy the glorious activities, including seeing live music and bike riding.

On a beautiful spring or summer day, there’s practically no place to be but Canalside Buffalo.

The water is especially great at Canalside Buffalo.

Activities like sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are yours for the taking.

If you come in the colder months, you’ll be able to use the canals for ice-skating.

This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Buffalo.

Address:  44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

14. Buffalo Museum of Science

Buffalo Museum of Science

Some of the greatest mysteries of the world have been solved through science.

Questions like why objects fall and stay on the ground or how fire is possible have been answered thanks to people putting their minds to work.

At the Buffalo Museum of Science , you can be astonished by just how much importance science has had on our world.

This is one of the most impressive museums in all of New York.

Among the disciplines covered include biology, astronomy, and geology.

Whether you want to learn about cell functions, space travel, or mountains, you can get something out visiting the Buffalo Museum of Science.

Your kids can also get a lot out of this New York museum.

The Buffalo Museum of Science offers curious young minds a chance to grow their minds through lively exhibits and interactive displays.

It’s one of the places to visit for anyone with an inquisitive mindset.

Address:  1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14211, USA

15. Buffalo River History Tours

Buffalo River History Tours

You may find that you don’t truly appreciate a city until you understand how it got to be what it is.

Buffalo, New York has one of the greatest histories of any city in the United States, and Buffalo River History Tours show just how far the city has come.

On these tours, you can enjoy a boat ride that’s as peaceful as it is informative.

Bringing you down the Buffalo River, these tours show how a standout city in New York came to be.

You can become educated on the development of the Erie Canal during the Buffalo River City Tours.

Silo Tours offer a history of Buffalo as a grain exporter.

You can also catch glimpses of the fabulous architecture from a great vantage point.

On these fun rides, you can imagine what it’d be like to experience Buffalo as it developed into a force of New York and the rest of the country.

Buffalo River History Tours take place on the River Queen, a 48-seat boat which is perfect for these sort of relaxed excursions.

You can feel like you’re near so much Buffalo history on these tours, and realize that history is always happening alongside us.

Looking for more thrills around New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Manhattan  & some of the things to do in Albany, NY ?

16. Buffalo City Hall

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock

Even if you don’t have any political business to conduct, Buffalo City Hall is still one of the best places to see in New York.

The design of Buffalo City Hall is quite incredible.

If you want to see some of the most superb architecture in all of New York, be sure to come to Buffalo City Hall.

When you stand outside Buffalo City Hall, you’ll see the massive towers that make up the complex.

The Art Deco design of the building makes it immediately unique.

With a height of 378-feet, you can quickly see why so many people flock to this part of Buffalo.

Although Buffalo City Hall is certainly worth viewing from the ground level, you can have a lot of fun from inside.

You can take part in one of the daily tours at noon.

You also need to make sure to get to the observation tower.

This is one of the most phenomenal views you’ll ever get of a city.

Address:  65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

17. Buffalo Pedal Tours

Buffalo Pedal Tours

If you want to get around Buffalo fast but don’t want to increase your carbon footprint, you should go on a pedal tour.

Buffalo Pedal Tours let you and other riders fuel a vessel through pedaling.

With a driver at the helm making sure you get where you need to be, these pedal tours can be a highlight of your Buffalo visit.

Part of the fun of pedal tours is how they show you all around a city.

Buffalo Pedal Tours take you across the city, giving you a chance to see great dining sites, stunning buildings, and the general beauty of the city.

You can do all this without hurting the environment.

Do your part for New York by giving its air a break.

On Buffalo Pedal Tours, you’ll make your way around town, get some great exercise, and show how much you care about your planet.

Address:  93 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

18. Allentown Historic District

Allentown Historic District

Some neighborhoods are better for living in, while others are better for hanging out in.

Allentown Historic District in Buffalo is so impressive because it has so much residential and commercial value.

In this neighborhood, you can feel the best of New York culture.

One of the oldest neighborhoods in all of Buffalo, Allentown continues to stand as a piece of unmistakable history.

The brick homes have a timeless design.

Nature in the residential part also helps to give it a very comforting environment.

There are lots of activities for anyone looking for something lively to do in New York.

Allentown has some of the most exciting music venues in Buffalo.

These are places where the environment is as exciting as the band’s on stage.

Be sure to come to Allen Historic District if you want to see just wonderful this city is.

19. Larkin Square

Larkin Square

Another great Buffalo neighborhood, Larkin Square began in the early part of our current decade.

When you plan a trip to the city, you definitely need to check out Larkin Square.

It shows just how innovative this New York city is and gives hope for what the future could hold.

Once the location of the Larkin Soap Company warehouses, today, Larkin Square is one of the best places in Buffalo for activities.

It’s what to do in Buffalo if you want to look for all kinds of things to do see and experience.

You can be imbued with an amazing sense of community pride when you visit Larkin Square.

Activities at Larkin Square include watching live music, dining at food trucks, and just going for a leisurely walk.

It’s also a first-rate place for events like weddings.

Larkin Square is an example of how much Buffalo continues to grow.

Address:  745 Seneca St, Buffalo, NY 14210, USA

20. Pearl Street Grill & Brewery

One of the best travel hacks you can use is figuring out what the best places to eat are.

You’ll have all kinds of places to check out in Buffalo, but one of the best is Pearl Street Grill & Brewery .

At this New York restaurant, you can enjoy some of the best beer and most mouthwatering food in all of Buffalo.

The beer is arguably the star attraction at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery.

This entire building is made up of four floors with nine total bars.

On tap are fantastic craft beers like Trainwreck Amber Ale and Blue-eyed Blueberry Blonde.

Every beer has a distinct, complex flavor.

The menu also complements the beer quite well.

Items like steak sandwiches, onion rings, and stuffed peppers will go just right with your tasty brews.

If you’re on or near Pearl Street, be sure to check out this business, one of the best places to visit in the city.

Address:  76 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

21. Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park

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One of the best places to check out for those who want to see a great display of military history is the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park .

Those who have served in the Navy are honored with this spectacular museum.

Near Lake Erie, it’s one of the biggest points of interest in New York for anyone with an interest in combat.

The greatest attractions at Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park might be the ships.

Those who are determining what to do in Buffalo are bound to have a great time seeing these former Naval ships.

They are absolutely massive, and even though they’re no longer being used, their might is still apparent.

Aircrafts, vehicles, and less massive ships are also available for viewing.

Special events take place at Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park.

There are also camping opportunities at certain times of year that give you the opportunity to stay overnight.

A weekend stay at this naval park will be a great time for you and your family.

Address:  Military Park 1 Naval, Marina Park S, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

22. Mulberry Italian Ristorante

Mulberry Italian Ristorante

Pretty much every American city offers some kind of Italian food, but if you’re tired of tepid pizza and pasta, then you need to take a trip to New York.

Buffalo’s Mulberry Italian Ristorante will restore your faith in how terrific Italian food can be.

This is one of the biggest points of interest for any true culinarian.

On the menu at this downtown-adjacent restaurant are delicious gnocchi, lasagna, and fettuccine alfredo.

That’s only the start of this fantastic restaurant, which can make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Tuscany eatery.

This is definitely one of the top places to visit in Buffalo.

The menu is designed with total care and gives guests a show of how much great food is in this city.

If you’re coming up for a weekend, be sure to reserve a table at Mulberry Italian Ristorante.

Address:  64 Jackson Ave, Lackawanna, NY 14218, USA

23. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Today, Theodore Roosevelt is considered one of the most beloved and influential presidents.

New York honors him with the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site .

This is one of the most fun things to do for anyone who is interested in our 26th president.

Even if you don’t know much about him, you’ll find lots of things to do as you go around this historic site.

Some of the things to do at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site include checking out the different exhibits that provide a glimpse inside the life of this giant among men.

You’ll find that, even in his youth, Roosevelt showed signs of greatness.

It was following the assassination of President William McKinley that Roosevelt became commander-in-chief.

The courage that Roosevelt had shown under hardship, such as losing his mother and wife shortly after the birth of his daughter, allowed him to lead our country with total strength.

This museum also lets you learn all about Buffalo.

Tours offer an in-depth look at how the city has been part of America’s legend.

This is one of the best tourist attractions if you’re interested in learning more about one of our greatest presidents.

Address:  641 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

24. Times Beach Nature Preserve

Times Beach Nature Preserve

Another of the most fun things to do in this New York city is go birdwatching at Times Beach Nature Preserve .

All kinds of species can be sighted here.

Among the feathered attractions at Times Beach Nature Preserve include great horned owls, palm warblers, and tree swallows.

There are also remarkable insects, such as butterflies and related pollinators.

Pollinators are any species that is important for the transportation of pollen.

Bees are some of the best-known pollinators.

Without these species, plants are unable to flourish and provide us with fruits and vegetables.

Our world itself cannot sustain itself like it’s supposed to without pollinators.

Times Beach Nature Preserve has greatly contributed to New York and our entire ecosystem by giving birds and pollinators a place to live and be productive.

If you’re looking for things to do related to nature, check out Times Beach Nature Preserve.

You’ll get to experience just how magical nature can be.

Address:  Coast Guard Station S Rd, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA

25. Albright-Knox Art Gallery

Nick Stanley / flickr

Part of the great Elmwood Village neighborhood, going to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is one of the top things to do in Buffalo for anyone who wants to take in powerful creative expression.

The works at this gallery bring together art from different eras and styles to show that beauty can take many forms.

At Albright-Knox Art Gallery, you can see pieces from famed artists like Vincent van Gogh, Piet Mondrian, and Pablo Picasso.

There are also contemporary exhibits from newer artists like Oriol Vilanova.

Each piece has something unique to say about the world and how the artist perceived it.

Should you be in Buffalo for a weekend, be sure to come to Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Checking out this gallery can be fun and inspiring.

If you’re truly inspired, you may strive to one day have your own art featured here.

Address:  1285 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA

Start Planning Your Trip To Buffalo, NY

There are so many things to do in Buffalo.

Looking for what to see or what to do in Buffalo will open your eyes to incredible tourist opportunities.

There are places to visit that teach you about history, in and out of Buffalo, and which give you a great idea of the culture of the city.

Even on a weekend, you can have tons of fun in this New York city.

The best things to do in Buffalo are comparable to the best things you’ll do in any other city.

Schedule a trip to Buffalo today.

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Top 15 Things to Do in Buffalo, New York

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Buffalo is the second-largest city in New York State and the de facto capital of Western New York. Focused around its three waterfronts, the outdoors is a focus of Queen City. Buffalo’s park system was designed by the same man who gave us Central Park in NYC: Frederick Law Olmsted. It’s also one of the country’s most significant cities for 20th-century architecture, with buildings by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright , Louis Sullivan, Eliel and Eero Saarinen, and H.H. Richardson. You can’t visit Buffalo without experiencing the famous Erie Canal, art scene, tailgating, and winter activities like ice skating and hockey. And of course, it’s home to some iconic New York State foods , including Buffalo wings (here they’re just called wings!) and Beef on Weck. Here are the top things to do in Buffalo.

Walk Inside a Frank Lloyd Wright House—or Two

Because Buffalo was such a thriving industrial city in the early 20th century, many important architects of the day left their imprint on the city, including the legendary American architect Frank Lloyd Wright . After a visit to Oak Park, Illinois, where Wright lived and had designed many homes, Darwin D. Martin, an executive at Buffalo’s Larkin Company, fell in love with Wright’s vision. Martin convinced Larkin’s board of directors to let Wright design their new headquarters. Unfortunately, that building is no longer standing, but Martin also had Wright design his home and a weekend home on Lake Eerie. In all, Wright designed seven structures in Buffalo that still stand, three of which were built posthumously using his designs. The Darwin Martin House and Graycliff on Lake Eerie are both open to visitors via reserved tours. The Wright-designed filling station, which was built in 2014, is part of the Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum and a boathouse he designed was built in 2007 on the shores of Black Rock Canal to house the West Side Rowing Club. A mausoleum he designed for Buffalo’s Forest Lawn Cemetery at the behest of Martin was realized in 2004 by architect Anthony Puttnam, a Wright apprentice. The final two Wright structures are still private homes in the city—the Walter V. Davidson and William R. Heath Houses.

Walk or Bike Along the Canal

The canal is a central part of Buffalo, especially now that Canalside has been revitalized. Located at the terminus of the Erie Canal in downtown Buffalo, the waterfront hosts concerts , festivals, fitness classes, and children’s programming, and it’s a great place to walk or bike along the 3-mile scenic trail along the water. Need a break? Stop for a snack, ice cream, or beer at the outdoor restaurant Clinton’s Dish in summer or one of the many other restaurants or brewery options at Canalside.

Ogle Amazing Art

Biff Henrich

Buffalo is blessed with an impressive art scene, including two amazing museums: Burchfield Penney Art Center and Albright-Knox . Burchfield Penney celebrates the work of American artist Charles Burchfield and other artists from Western New York. Albright-Knox honors modern and contemporary art on its two campuses. Albright-Knox Northland is a new project space that opened in January 2020, while the main campus on Elmwood Avenue is closed for renovations until 2022. Past exhibitions have included works by artists like Clyfford Still , Robert Indiana, Henri Matisse, and Takashi Murakami.

Eat Buffalo’s Iconic Foods

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When a food has the name of the city it was invented in in the name, you probably need to eat if you’re in that city. Buffalo wings, which have become a staple of sports bars across the country, were invented at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo by owner Teressa Bellissimo. The spicy wings are made by deep-frying the wings without coating or breading and then slathering them in a bright orange sauce made from melted butter, hot sauce, and red pepper. And remember: in Buffalo, they’re served with blue cheese, and if you ask for ranch dressing, you’ll definitely be outed as a non-local! Try them at the place they were invented, Anchor Bar or  Bar-Bill Tavern , where you can also snag one of Buffalo’s other famous foods: Beef on Weck. Beef on Weck is a sandwich on a bun, called a Weck, which is actually short for Kummelweck, a South German word for a kaiser roll topped with caraway seeds and salt. It’s piled with roast beef slices, a bit of beef au jus on the top bun, and a side of more au jus for dipping and horseradish. Aside from Bar-Bill Tavern, you can also sample it at Schwabl’s or  Charlie the Butcher .

Explore Historic Grain Elevators in Innovative Ways

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As an integral part of the Rust Belt, Buffalo has a storied industrial past. In 1906, it was the world’s largest grain port, and now there are few landmarks more iconic than the city’s abandoned grain elevators, six massive tubes that stretch toward the sky on the Buffalo riverfront. Thankfully, the city has managed to repurpose them in some extremely creative and unique ways, and you can now see art inside them, eat and drink in them, zip-line from them, kayak between them, and even climb up them. Now called Silo City , the building has hosted art exhibits, poetry and book readings , theater, and music festivals and performances there since 2012. But whatever you do, make sure to book a tour where you can actually go up the elevators, learn about their and the city’s history, and be rewarded with epic skyline views.

Meander the City’s Six Parks

In 1868, after designing Manhattan’s Central Park and Brooklyn’s Prospect Park , landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted was invited to Buffalo with the hope that he would design something similar. Inspired by Buffalo’s radial street design and proximity to Lake Erie, Olmsted suggested creating a “ city within a park .” He designed six major parks, seven parkways, and eight landscaped circles throughout the city. Explore Cazenovia, Delaware, Front, Riverside, South, and Martin Luther King, Jr. parks across the city. Within South Park is the Buffalo and Erie Botanical Gardens , which Olmsted also designed, and it’s a must-visit on a sunny day.

Buffalo is known for its rabid sports fans, and tailgating is definitely a city pastime on game days. Whether it’s a Bills’ football game or a Sabres’ hockey game, get ready for lots of wings, subs from Wegmans, and Labatt Blue. Wear the home team’s gear, and you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Glide on Ice

Buffalo gets really cold in winter and receives some of the most snow in the country. But instead of hibernating indoors all winter, Buffalonians still go outside. What do they do? It turns out they’ve come up with some pretty novel things to do on all the ice. Sure, there’s ice skating at Canalside, but have you ever heard of ice biking ? And how about ice bumper cars ? Not to mention curling and ice hockey. All are favorite pastimes in Buffalo and worth experiencing if you’re there in winter.

Experience a 19th-Century Guild

Located just a short drive away in neighboring East Aurora, the Roycroft Campus is the best-preserved complex of buildings remaining in the country of the “guilds” that evolved as centers of craftsmanship and philosophy during the late 19th century. The campus, established in 1897, was designated as a National Historic Landmark district in 1986. Today, nine of the original 14 structures are still open, including the Inn , the Chapel, the Print Shop, the Furniture Shop, and the Copper Shop, where visitors can learn the styles and techniques of the original Roycroft artisans, an offshoot of the Arts & Crafts movement. The Campus has various shops selling Arts & Crafts style wares made there, a museum, restaurant, and several artist studios. It also offers a variety of classes, exhibitions, events, and tours.

Listen to Jazz

Onion Studio

While Buffalo might not be your first thought when it comes to music, it’s the home of the Colored Musicians Club , the only remaining African American club of its kind in the U.S. Originally formed in 1918 as a social club for Black musicians to hang out in after their gigs and moved to a permanent home in 1935, complete with rehearsal and performance spaces. Jazz giants including Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis all played there. In 1999, it was designated a historical preservation site, and in 2018 it became a National Historic Site. Currently, the Club promotes historical research and the preservation of jazz in Buffalo. Today, it continues to operate as a music venue and a jazz history museum.

See Buildings by Legendary Architects

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While many people know about Frank Lloyd Wright’s Buffalo buildings, he’s not the only famous architect to have left his mark on Queen City. Observe the early origins of skyscraper design at Louis Sullivan’s Guaranty Building, gaze at H.H. Richardson’s landmarked Romanesque  Richardson Olmsted Campus , and be amazed at the curves of Eliel and Eero Saarinen’s  Kleinhans Music Hall . The iconic red brick and white terra cotta façade of the Hotel @ Lafayette was designed by Louise Blanchard Bethune, the first professional female architect in the U.S. Check them out on your own or go on a walking or open-air bus tour.

Drink Wine or Beer on a Boat

Why set sail without some booze? Thanks to the Spirit of Buffalo sailboat tours on the Buffalo River, you don’t have to. The Wine in the Wind tour features wines from the surrounding Niagara region and worldwide, but if you’re more of a beer drinker, the Craft Brew Sail pours craft beers from Buffalo. If the kids are in tow, book the Pirate Sail, featuring face painting, a treasure hunt, music, and more.

Experience Other Cultures at West Side Bazaar

Brendan Bannon

Buffalo’s food scene is so much more than just wings, and the indoor West Side Bazaar proves it. The sprawling market features stalls from immigrants, and you’ll find cuisine from Thailand, Burma, Mexico, Japan, and Ethiopia, to name a few. And while the food vendors are the reason to visit, there are also retail vendors selling things like clothing, jewelry, skincare, crafts, and more from as far as Iraq and India. 

Shop in Elmwood Village

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This charming neighborhood north of downtown is a little bit like the Brooklyn of Buffalo, with stylish shops selling design-forward clothing, accessories, and homewares. Check out Ró , Half & Half , Anna Grace , and Renew Bath + Body to put a dent in your wallet. When you need to refuel, head to Inizio for Italian fare or Forty Thieves Kitchen & Bar for pub fare and craft cocktails.

Get On the Water

In case you haven’t gathered, the western terminus of the Erie Canal is an integral part of Buffalo, plus there’s the Buffalo River and Lake Erie, creating plenty of waterways in the city. In summer, you can rent a kayak , paddleboard , pedal boat , or water bike at Canalside to explore the water on your own. From there, take the Queen City Bike Ferry to Outer Harbor and the Lake Erie waterfront, where you can rent a kayak at Wilkeson Pointe or get out on a sailboat . At Buffalo River, there’s a historic river cruise as well as kayaks for rent.

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What kind of place is Buffalo, NY? It’s fun, historical, delicious, outdoorsy, sports-loving, diverse, and creative. It’s home to remarkable art and music and architecture. And did we mention it’s an easy, welcoming, and affordable place to visit? If this sounds unexpectedly great, that’s because that’s exactly what Buffalo is.

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Believe the hype at southern junction, jay’s named the no. 8 best pizzeria in the u.s., 716 transformers: the change makers of buffalo, joann falletta: making music in buffalo for 25 years, world capital of wings.

Pull up a chair and join us in the World Capital of Wings for some pilgrimage-worthy painted wings, or Smitty Wings, or very, very hot wings, or double-dipped wings.

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There’s never a dull moment in Buffalo. Here’s proof:

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Babel: kiese laymon, thawfest 2024, stanley whitney: how high the moon, buffalo restaurant week – spring edition.

Enjoy a relaxing moment with a photo tour of Buffalo. The City of Good Neighbors welcomes you to enjoy our marvelous architecture, revitalized waterfront and expansive natural areas. Take a look at what you’ll find in Buffalo.

Have you seen Inthebuf.tv?

Whether it’s outdoor adventure, extraordinary cuisine, world-renowned architecture, a top-notch art scene or stores with stories, Buffalo has it all. Discover the best of Buffalo in this film series.

Visit Buffalo Niagara

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Main Office: 716.852.0511

Main Fax: 716.852.0131

403 Main Street, Suite 630 Buffalo, New York 14203-1496

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The 12 best things to do in Buffalo

Uncover this upstate New York town's architectural heritage, river adventures, galleries and more with our must-do guide

In this Rust Belt comeback city, impressive sites from its Gilded Age are now coming back to life in surprising ways. Buffalo's architectural heritage is massive, with works by Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Frederick Law Olmsted and the country's first certified female architect, Louise Bethel Bethune. The Erie Canal and the grain elevators serving it were monumental, too. Now those waterfront spaces, imposing stone buildings, and graceful old parkways have become the unexpected settings for concerts, beer gardens, paddling, AcroYoga, and other creative fun that’s definitely worth scoping out.

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

Find out more about   how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

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Best things to do in Buffalo

1.  Albright-Knox Gallery

What is it?   The collectors behind the Albright-Knox Art Gallery started acquiring modern art by the likes of Jackson Pollock, Clyfford Still, and Mark Rothko before the world knew how significant they would be. Now some of the greatest modern masterworks anywhere are found in Buffalo. Why go?   European art lovers know this, but Americans don’t always realize: The Albright-Knox’s collection easily rivals the Guggenheim’s. Bonus: Right across the street is the Burchfield-Penney, which showcases art with Buffalo roots from its sleek, modern galleries.

2.  The craft brew scene

What is it?  As a 19th-century boomtown where thousands of Irish, Polish, and other immigrant laborers came to work along the Erie Canal, Buffalo historically served plenty o’ brewskis. In recent years that tradition has been revived by brewers like Community Beer Works, Big Ditch, Flying Bison, Pearl Street, and Resurgence. Why go?  Some of the best-known craft beer makers have super-fun tasting rooms or full-on restaurants where you can’t help but make buds with the friendly, down-to-earth locals.

3.  Darwin Martin House

What is it?  Early in what would become a brilliant career, architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed this 1905 home for Darwin Martin, a prominent Buffalo executive. Today it’s considered one of his early masterworks, a Prairie School synthesis of the natural and built environments. Why go?  The glassy Greatbatch Pavilion, the visitors’ center alongside the Darwin Martin House, is considered an architectural achievement in its own right, and the house itself just wrapped up a $50 million restoration.

4.  Kayak “Grain Canyon”

What is it?  Along the snaking Buffalo River, which connected to the end of the Erie Canal, Buffalo held what is still considered the world’s most impressive collection of grain elevators. Famous European Modernist architects like Le Corbusier compared them to Egypt’s pyramids. Why go?   Paddling or peddling alongside the seemingly endless 130-foot silos is a pretty singular experience, like going along a massive river canyon it’s hard to believe was man-made.

5.  Gape at Grain Elevators

What is it?  Once you’ve seen them from afar on the water, you’ll def want to get personal with some of the silos. Two unique grain elevator complexes, artsy Silo City and sporty RiverWorks, give you unique chances. Why go?  Attend a vertical tour, art show, musical performance, or poetry reading at Silo City; catch roller derby, chill with a craft beer, or zip line across the complex at RiverWorks. Snag killer Insta posts and nowhere-else-in-the-world bragging rights.

6.  Elmwood Avenue

What is it?  Buffalo is a city of walkable neighborhoods, and Elmwood Village has been chosen (by no less than the American Planning Association) one of the country’s 10 best. Elmwood is stuffed with gorgeous old Victorians along elegant parkways. And its main strip, Elmwood Avenue, holds a full, highly walkable mile of compelling shops and restaurants. Why go?  Among the many culinary highlights along the avenue are Sato for sushi and Thin Man Brewing for beer. For shopping, don’t miss Talking Leaves for books and Fern + Arrow for artisanal gifts.

7.  Architecture tours

What is it?  In addition to Frank Lloyd Wright designs, Buffalo holds major treasures from more of America’s most prominent architects, including H.H. Richardson, Louis Sullivan, and America’s first certified female architect, Louise Bethel Bethune. Themed walking and bus tours around downtown and practically every neighborhood help you see them from every angle. Why go?  Fortunately never torn down during Buffalo’s leaner years, lots of the buildings are taking on new life—Richardson’s impressive former asylum complex, for instance, is now the trendy Hotel Henry “urban resort” (which will soon include an architectural museum).

8.  International restaurants

What is it?  Buffalo has a long history of welcoming especially European immigrants, but in recent years it’s gotten even more interesting and diverse with newcomers from Asia, Africa, and beyond. The West Side Bazaar, on the colorful West Side where many fresh immigrants have settled, is a mini-food-hall showing off that diversity. Why go?   Try, say, Ethiopian or Cambodian cuisine, all while supporting small biz—the West Side Bazaar is actually an incubator helping many entrepreneurs get their start.

9.  City Hall

What is it?  You say you didn’t come to see some boring government building, but hear us out. Buffalo’s 28-story municipal hall is a 1932 Art Deco masterpiece, and one of the largest city halls of any city in the country. Why go?   Take the elevator 25 floors up and climb the last three floors for drop-dead views of the Queen City. From the observation deck you can see across Lake Erie, spot the spray of Niagara Falls, even glimpse the Toronto skyline on a clear day.

10.  Bird Island Pier

What is it?  This cool locals-only walkway goes a full mile and a half along the rushing Niagara River and out into the Great Lake it feeds from, Lake Erie. It even takes you under the massive Peace Bridge that leads across to Canada. Why go?  For many escaped slaves, this was where the Underground Railroad led to freedom. A helpful new exhibit and fresh signage explain how they crossed the dangerous Niagara River and into Canada from here.

11.  Olmsted’s Delaware Park

What is it?  Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of New York City’s Central and Prospect parks and perhaps America’s most famous landscape architect ever, was also behind Buffalo’s Delaware Park. Why go?  There are multiple great rec options here, including running, rowing, trying AcroYoga, taking in some Shakespeare, or having a beer on the Terrace on the park’s cute little lake side; or golfing or checking out the zoo on its more expansive dry side.

12.  Hertel Avenue

What is it?  Buffalo’s Little Italy neighborhood is alive with some of the city’s best places to drink, including Ristorante Lombardo for Italian, Craving for new American, Lloyd Taco for street food, and Lake Effect Ice Cream for crazy-flavor dairy. Why go?  Not only is a range of fancy-to-casual food on offer here, Hertel is also known for shopping, particularly home decor at stores like Room and Mimo Modern. Definitely peek into the street’s centerpiece, the lushly restored North Park Theater, too.

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40+ Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

The best Buffalo attractions, plus what to eat and where to stay

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Year visited: Most recently 2024

Time of year: All seasons

Buffalo, NY.

It’s a place I’ve booked a plane ticket to more than anywhere else in the world. In. The. WORLD.

That’s… probably because… it’s our closest major airport…

If Buffalo is not your closest major airport, you may not even be considering planning a trip here. Except for one major thing: Niagara Falls .

Niagara Falls is a major tourist attraction that just happens to be a 30 minute drive from Buffalo, NY. So now that you’re enticed to fly into Buffalo, allow me to fill you in on all the other fun and unique things to do in Buffalo.

In fact, this article has almost double the things to do of any things to do article I’ve written to date! There are just so many unique Buffalo tourist attractions! Plus I have insight from my friends who lived in Buffalo. So Buffalo is not to be snubbed as a fun city to visit!

And, while we’re at it, let me just say that there are other world-class attractions that aren’t too far from Buffalo! So here is your guide to all the best Buffalo attractions, and the best road trip from Buffalo !

What’s in this Article?

About buffalo, ny, best time of year to visit, things to do in buffalo, seasonal things to do in buffalo, places to eat in buffalo, day trips from buffalo, where to stay in buffalo, what to watch before visiting, ny’s best state parks are all within easy driving distance of buffalo, ny:.

Buffalo, NY is a city of about 280,000 people. It is the second largest city in New York State , behind that city which shall not be named… (we get a little sensitive about people always assuming “New York” means NYC).

Where is Buffalo?

Buffalo is just south of Canada, on the edge of Lake Erie, one of the five Great Lakes. It is in the upper north west corner of New York State (about as far away from NYC as possible).

How to Get Around Buffalo

If you are flying into Buffalo, NY, you will want to fly into the Buffalo Niagara International Airport .

The best way to visit Buffalo is to rent a car (or to drive your own car), because not all of the things to do in Buffalo are right downtown. Plus there are so many great day trips from Buffalo.

However, you can get around to the main Buffalo attractions using public transportation. The city bus system can take you to all of the main things to do in Buffalo, and you can even take a bus from NYC to Buffalo. Amtrak also runs a train that goes from NYC to Buffalo and Niagara Falls.

Why is it Called Buffalo?

You may be wondering, “Why is it called Buffalo???”

And the truth is, so is everyone else!

The city of Buffalo was named after the river that flowed through it, Buffalo Creek (now Buffalo River). Pretty straight forward. But there is much debate over how the river got the name “Buffalo” in the first place.

You can check out this article by the Buffalo History Museum if you would like to learn all the theories and pick a side in the great debate!

What is Buffalo Known For?

Snow -Um… yeah. Snow might be the #1 thing Buffalo, NY is known for… It’s the perfect place to come in the winter if you love winter sports. Otherwise, try to avoid November-April if you don’t want to accidentally get snowed in!

Architecture -Buffalo, NY is a well-known city for architecture. In fact, the first professional female architect worked in Buffalo, as did Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the most famous architects EVER. The city has a lot of unique architecture, and is one of the first cities in America to turn from the European revivalist architecture and embrace the Art Deco style.

Buffalo Wings -The famous spicy, messy, perfect for eating at a football game food was invented in (and named after) Buffalo, NY.

Teddy Roosevelt -Or rather, the assassination of William McKinley that led to the inauguration of Teddy. But we’ll just stick to the happy part that is the presidency of one of our nation’s most beloved presidents! He is one of only five presidents ever to not be inaugurated in Washington DC!

General Mills -My beloved childhood cereal. You might notice the smell of Cheerios permeating the air around downtown Buffalo. That’s because the cereal is made there, at the oldest cereal plant in the United States!

The Erie Canal -As the song goes, “From Albany, to Buffalo-o.” The Erie Canal (locally referred to as the “Big Ditch”) spans the state of NY, and brought much business to Buffalo in the late 1800’s/early 1900’s.

The Buffalo Bills -The only football team in the NFL to go to 4 Superbowls IN A ROW! And… we’re just… gonna leave it at that.

Why Visit Buffalo

Buffalo doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but there are so many great things to do in Buffalo, NY. Let me just give you a few teasers of the unique Buffalo attractions there are to explore:

Hiking to an eternal flame

Riding through the locks on the Erie Canal

Seeing one of the (if not the ) most famous waterfalls in the world

Some of the most unique and important architecture in American history

Sites of national historical significance

Kayaking between giant grain silos

Air that always smells like Cheerios (yum!)

(Good) Wings

And those are just the highlights! Not to mention the amazing day trips and road trips from Buffalo!

So yeah, Buffalo, NY is worth a visit.

Best Time of Year to Visit Buffalo

Summer/early fall is the best time to visit Buffalo for good weather!

I’m just going to come right out and say it; don’t come to Buffalo in the winter. Or early spring for that matter.

Unless you like snow… and want to see the Christmas lights at Niagara Falls. Otherwise I would say to only visit Buffalo between May and October.

Summer is one of the best times to visit Buffalo. The weather is going to (probably) be so beautiful, and even though it’s the most crowded time to come, you can’t beat visiting Niagara Falls on a hot sunny day!

Early June will be the least crowded, as the kids are still in school (or on field trips to Niagara Falls…). But you have the lowest chance of good weather in June. I would suggest August for the best summer weather, although it really just depends on the day.

Fall (September & October) is the best time to visit Buffalo. The weather should be pretty good, especially in September, a lot of the seasonal activities will still be open (plus fall activities!), and you might start to see some amazing fall foliage.

September is a little early for foliage (though it always depends on the year), but I would say in general September is the best time of year to visit Buffalo.

There are a lot of fun festivals in Buffalo, NY! If you want, you can plan your trip to Buffalo around the festivals. Some of the best ones include the Buffalo Wing Festival , Taste of Buffalo and Dyngus Day . Or come in the summer for Shakespeare in the Park .

Check out Step Out Buffalo for information on upcoming events and current things to do in Buffalo.

There are so many Buffalo attractions besides just Niagara Falls (though, let’s be honest, that is the main tourist attraction in Buffalo).

From a flame that never dies to a cruise on the Erie Canal to a visit to the world’s best grocery store, there are so many unique things to do in Buffalo.

But… let’s start with Niagara Falls.

Map of things to do in Buffalo, NY

Niagara falls state park.

A visit to Niagara Falls State Park is the #1 thing to do in Buffalo! The oldest state park to be recognized in the country (with a little help from Teddy Roosevelt) is the most visited natural attraction in NY state (it also happens to be an attraction in Canada, too!).

How to Get to Niagara Falls

The best way to get to Niagara Falls from Buffalo is to drive. It’s about a 30 minute drive from downtown Buffalo to Niagara Falls State Park ( Pro tip: If you want to skip the toll to cross Grand Island, you will only add a couple minutes to your drive).

However, if you don’t drive, you can also get to Niagara Falls using public transportation. Amtrak runs a train service from Buffalo to Niagara Falls. You can also get a bus from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, which is the cheapest way to get there.

Most guided tours of Niagara Falls will offer hotel pick up, but only to hotels in the city of Niagara Falls, NY. You can also get a shuttle from the airport to Niagara Falls.

Things to Do in Niagara Falls

There are so many things to do in Niagara Falls State Park, and the nearby area as well!

Maid of the Mist -Ride the famous boat to the foot of the falls, and just try not to get wet!

Cave of the Winds -Open year round, you can hike down right in front of the Bridal Veil Falls.

Walk to Canada -While you’re in Niagara Falls, don’t miss the chance to walk across the Rainbow Bridge to view the falls from the Canadian side.

Hiking -There are a lot of hiking trails in Niagara Falls State Park, like the Devil’s Hole, and Niagara Gorge.

Niagara Scenic Trolley -During the summer season, you can ride on a historic trolley through Niagara Falls and learn fun facts about the falls and the local area.

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour -Take a thrilling ride on the rapids of the Niagara River!

Niagara Power Vista -This is a fun, free place to visit to learn about the power generated by Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center -Just across the border from Canada, Niagara Falls was often the last stop on the Underground Railroad before reaching freedom. Learn real life stories from the Underground Railroad at this unique museum.

Old Fort Niagara

Old Fort Niagara, viewed from across the lake at Niagara on the Lake.

The historical Old Fort Niagara is not far from Niagara Falls, and is just across the water from Niagara on the Lake, Ontario.

The fort passed back and forth between the French, British and American forces throughout the 16, 17 & 1800’s. It eventually ended up in American hands, but owes much of its architecture (such as the “French Castle”) to the French.

It is technically 40 minutes from Buffalo, but I’ll include it up here instead of as a day trip from Buffalo, because it really goes well with a trip to Niagara Falls.

Tour Buffalo City Hall

Now that we’ve covered Niagara Falls, let’s get into things to do in Buffalo proper. The first thing to do when you visit Buffalo is to take a tour of the iconic City Hall building. It is one of the architectural marvels of Buffalo (and there are a lot!).

Try to visit on a sunny day (I know it’s rare, but they happen!) and see the sunburst stained glass window. Tours take place daily at noon, and the best part is, it’s free!

Take an Architecture Tour

After (or before) you’ve toured Buffalo City Hall, take an architecture tour of Buffalo. There are honestly so many different options for architecture tours of Buffalo! From guided walking tours to Segway tours, boat tours, to self-driving tours of all the best spots in Buffalo, there are so many great things to see!

City of Buffalo tours with a knowledgeable guide

Self-guided architecture tours designed by the AKG Art Museum

See the Frank Lloyd Wright Houses

The Frank Lloyd Wright Martin House in Buffalo, NY.

On the subject of architecture, Buffalo is home to multiple Frank Lloyd Wright houses! Some of them remain private residences today, but you can tour the original house and the summer home that he designed for his good friend Darwin Martin.

Martin House -The original Martin family home designed by Wright, and noted as one of his best works. It is located in the city of Buffalo, near Delaware Park and other popular Buffalo attractions.

Graycliffe Estate -Located 30 minutes outside of Buffalo, this stunning summer home designed especially for Martin’s wife sits on the cliffs overlooking Lake Erie.

Visit the Colored Musician’s Club & Jazz Museum

Among the distinctions that Buffalo claims is the only continuously running, all Black owned music venue in the entire country! The Colored Musician’s Club is not only a thriving and historical jazz club, but also a museum dedicated to the unique history of jazz and African-American music in Buffalo, NY, and its power to unite people.

The Colored Musician’s Club is currently closed for renovations, expanding their offerings while maintaining their historical building. The new construction will make this already great attraction even more worth visiting!

Even while the building is currently closed, they are still hosting many events .

Stand Where Teddy Roosevelt was Inaugurated

The library where Teddy Roosevelt was inaugurated.

In 1901, Buffalo was host to the Pan-American Exposition , a fair of the latest technology and popular culture of the western hemisphere. Many incredible buildings were constructed (most of which were temporary) for the 6-month event.

It was here that President McKinley was shot, and ultimately died, leaving then Vice President Theodore Roosevelt in charge. He was staying at a friend’s house, Ansley Wilcox, where they held the impromptu inauguration ceremony. You can visit the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site in the city of Buffalo today.

Admission can be booked ahead of time, or on-site. Tours are given every hour, on the half hour. There is a free parking lot available for guests of the site.

See the Buffalo History Museum

The only permanent building constructed for the 1901 Pan-American Exposition is now home to the Buffalo History Museum . The museum sits on the edge of the beautiful Delaware Park, just across from the AKG Art Museum.

It is free to visit on the third Friday of every month, and is “pay what you can” the rest of the time, making this one of the most affordable things to do in Buffalo.

There is a free parking lot, and you could also walk across the park to the AKG Art Museum on the other side of Delaware Park.

Front of the Buffalo History Museum, seen from AKG Art Museum.

Visit the AKG Art Museum

Formerly the Albright-Knox Gallery, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum recently reopened after extensive renovations. The beautiful glass atrium houses three floors of modern art works, while the glass tunnel connects you to the original galleries, displaying many famous paintings and sculptures by the artists who shaped history (AKA, names I remember from college art classes!).

There is a small cafe with drinks and light bites available in the museum. Parking is available at the underground parking garage on museum property. It is officially $20 for parking, but be sure to ask for a QR code to scan at the front desk, so you can park for $10.

AKG admission is pay what you want on the first Friday of every month!

If you’re an art lover, another Buffalo attraction to check out is the Burchfield Penney Art Center on the grounds of Buffalo State University. It is just across the street from the Buffalo AKG, so they can easily be visited together!

Explore Delaware Park

Delaware Park sits in between the Buffalo History Museum and the AKG Art Museum. It is the perfect place to come in the summer to enjoy the walking trails, an outdoor performance of Shakespeare in the Park , or the flamingo shaped (FLOATmingo) paddle boats !

The park was designed by Frederick Olmsted, of the nearby Richardson Olmsted Campus. And the (less nearby) Central Park. A visit to Deleware Park is one of the best things to do in Buffalo, and is close to many other popular Buffalo attractions.

Bike Around Town

Biking has become a thing in Buffalo! There are bike rental places all over the city, and so many great biking trails, the most popular being on the Outer Harbor. You can even ride the bike ferry back and forth.

Or if you want something a little more involved, sign up for one of the many themed bike tours around Buffalo.

Enjoy the Waterfront

The Buffalo Waterfront has two prominent sides: Canalside & the Outer Harbor. So many of the best things to do in Buffalo are on the waterfront. From kayaking to biking, a naval museum to a historic carousel, the waterfront is full of fun things to do!

And the best part is, it isn’t just fun in the summertime. It’s a great winter destination too!

Outer Harbor

The Outer Harbor is across the Buffalo River from Canalside, with Lake Erie on its other side. Here you will find the Buffalo lighthouse, lots of beautiful walking and biking trails, beaches, volleyball and basketball courts, and Wilkeson Point , one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Buffalo.

Canalside is one of the most popular things to do in Buffalo, no matter the season! Here you will find restaurants, ice skating/roller blading, concerts, harbor cruises, boat rentals, and the beautiful vintage carousel. They even hosts events all year round.

Buffalo Naval Park

The large naval ship that dominates your view when you’re out exploring the Buffalo waterfront is actually a museum you can visit and explore: Buffalo Naval Park .

Open seasonally, usually spring-fall, the Buffalo Naval Park is a great place to bring your whole family to explore (not one!) four decommissioned naval vessels. It is the largest inland naval park in the country!

Explore the Grain Elevators

When the city of Buffalo rebuilt itself, they truly embraced their industrial heritage. Now, there are are so many ways to explore the waterfront, and the grain elevators in Buffalo! These are truly unique things to do in Buffalo that you can’t find anywhere else!

Explore Silo City

Silo City is the name given to the large cluster of old grain elevators pictured above. In fact, it’s the world’s largest collection of historical grain elevators!

This unique landscape is home to a native plant nursery, art installations, and a brewery.

Public tours of the Silo City grounds are available from June-September every Saturday morning.

Walking tours through the grain elevators are available May-October from Explore Buffalo .

Cruises to, and walking tours of Silo City grain elevators are available from Buffalo River History Tours .

Duende at Silo City is a restaurant on the grounds that is open all year, and also hosts live music and special events.

Kayak Through Elevator Alley

If you want to kayak up and down the Buffalo River, through the grain elevators, and along Canalside, you can either rent kayaks or join a group tour from Elevator Alley Kayak .

The launch point for Elevator Alley Kayak is Mutual Riverfront Park, from which you can paddle upstream through all the giant grain elevators!

Buffalo RiverWorks

Buffalo RiverWorks is located on the little strip of land between Canalside and the Outer Harbor. This is where the General Mills factory (and mural!) is. And, of course, more grain elevators!

There are so many cool things to do at Buffalo RiverWorks (some year-round, some seasonal):

Ride the Ferris Wheel for great views over the city & harbor.

Rock climb up the side of an old grain silo.

Ride a tiki boat out on the river.

Get some food at RiverWorks Brewing Company .

And tons more!

Float on the Erie Canal

One of the most unique things to do in Buffalo is to float on the Erie Canal. And not just to float on it, but to actually go through the locks that raise and lower the water levels on the canal!

I promise, your cruise with Lockport Locks is going to be the most unique river canal cruise you’ve ever been on!

You can also walk along the canal in Lockport, and watch the boats as they’re raised and lowered on the Erie Canal.

You can cruise through the caves beneath the Erie Canal with Lockport Caves . Full disclosure: we did not do this cruise because it was shut down for safety concerns at the time. They have since reopened, so hopefully all the safety issues have been addressed, as this is a super unique and cool tour!

Fun Fact: Did you know you can rent a house boat and cruise down the Erie Canal? #newlifegoal

Eat Buffalo Wings

I think it is self evident that one of the best things to do in Buffalo, NY is to eat Buffalo wings. Or, as they call them… wings. Definitely try some (or a lot!) while you’re in Buffalo.

In fact, you can even take an entire chicken wing bike tour , or explore the Buffalo Wing Trail on your own! Or visit Buffalo during the National Buffalo Wing Festival .

Try Beef on Weck

Less well-known than the chicken wing is one of Buffalo’s other famous foods: Beef on weck. It’s basically a roast beef sandwich, dipped in au jus sauce, on a salty bun. This sandwich is literally the definition of classic western NY food.

Eat Sponge Candy

While on the subject of eating, here is one more especially unique food you should try in Buffalo: Sponge candy (I took a picture of it so you can see why it’s called sponge candy. You’re welcome).

Sponge candy is one of those things that doesn’t have an exact time and place it was invented, but it definitely is unique to the western NY/western PA area (and potentially was invented in Buffalo). Regardless, if you’re not from this general area, you’ve probably never heard of it (thus the picture, to show you how it looks like a sponge!).

Sponge candy is super popular, and you’ll find all varieties of it in the local candy shops. Here are a couple good places to get some (although my personal favorite is from Pulakos in Erie, PA):

Fowler’s Chocolates

Ko-Ed Candies

Parkside Candy

Eat at a Vintage Soda Fountain

And on the subject of candy shops, Parkside Candy is in itself a unique Buffalo attraction! It is an adorable vintage soda shoppe (the main street location), where you can order a classic ice cream sundae or root beer float to go with your sponge candy. Or real food… if you’re not as obsessed with sugar as I am.

Take a Buffalo Food tour

If you want to try a little bit of everything, take a Buffalo food tour! You can choose between a walking food tour , and a food tour via a bike ride . Either way, you’ll burn calories as you go. Which means room for… more food!

Visit Wegmans

Ok, so… Wegmans . When my friends came to visit from Indiana , I knew exactly where I wanted to take them: Wegmans!

And they were like, “Um… you’re taking us to a grocery store??”

Until they got to Wegmans. Then they understood.

Wegmans is the best grocery store! It was founded in nearby Rochester, NY , and is very prominent in the north east. Which is why I always tell people visit Wegmans when they are in the area.

Some of them (especially the bigger ones in Rochester and Buffalo) are so cool, they even have full blown restaurants, murals by local artists, and model train displays. Wegmans really is an experience. Trust me.

Shop on Elmwood Ave.

Elmwood Ave. is one of the main roads in Buffalo, NY, and it’s a great place to go shopping! There is a section along Elmwood Ave. just lined with local shops, restaurants, and of course, Panera Bread… This oddity, however, makes it very easy to find the part of Elmwood Ave. you want to visit: Just follow directions to Panera Bread , and park anywhere along the street there.

This area of local shops and restaurants is part of the Elmwood Village neighborhood, a beautiful and historic area of Buffalo, NY. The village also hosts seasonal events and a farmer’s market.

Buffalo Botanical Gardens

A lot of major cities have a botanical gardens, but some are better than others. Now, I have to be honest, I usually skip the botanical gardens when I visit a city.

But the Buffalo Botanical Gardens intrigued me. The architecture is so pretty (no surprise, when it comes to Buffalo), it’s one of my local friends’ favorite places to visit in Buffalo, and they host special events like an evening fairy light walk, which was so magical!

Visit the New Era Flagship Store

If you’re a sports fan, you probably have some gear that’s made by New Era. In fact, the Bills’ stadium was briefly called New Era Field (and locally known as “The Cap”) for a year or two.

The athlewear company was founded in Buffalo, NY in 1920, and is now the exclusive provider of sideline caps for the NFL, MLB and NBA. You can visit the New Era flagship store in downtown Buffalo and pick up a baseball cap souvenir to remember your trip to Buffalo.

Hike to the Eternal Flame

For years, when the NFL would come to town for Bills games and shoot footage of local attractions, it was either Niagara Falls or Buffalo wings. But with all the big games the Bills have been getting lately (go Bills!), they’ve started to show a little more of the Buffalo attractions.

For instance, if you watched some of the January football games, you may have seen this local attraction, the eternal flame, covered in snow (kudos to the camera guys who hiked down there in the snow to get the shot!).

The eternal flame is one of the best (and the most unique) hiking trails near Buffalo, NY. It’s not a super long trail, about a half mile each way, though it does get a little steep.

At the end of the hike is a little grotto with a beautiful waterfall. But even more impressive is the little flame burning within the waterfall! You will know you’re getting close to the falls when you can smell the natural gas that keeps the flame burning.

Follow the little flame signs to the eternal flame.

Hike through the river bed to get to the eternal flame falls.

Tips for visiting the Eternal Flame:

The popular trail is well marked. Follow the little flame signs through the woods.

Dogs are welcome (and common) on the trail.

Stairs have been recently added to help with the steep part of the hike.

When you get to the bottom of the stairs, you will be on the river bank. There are no signs here, but you will climb down into the river (to the left) and follow this all the way to the Eternal Flame Falls.

Contrary to its name, the flame does occasionally go out. If you bring a lighter, you can re-light the flame.

There is a large gravel parking lot, but there are no bathrooms at the eternal flame parking lot.

Hershell Carrousel Factory Museum

In the late 1800’s/early 1900’s there were multiple carousel factories operating around Buffalo, NY. Many skilled artisans worked at these factories, sculpting beautiful horses and other animals for the popular rides.

Today you can visit the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum in North Tonawanda (in between Buffalo & Niagara Falls). You can see examples of the carousel animals they would have sculpted, see the only working Wurlitzer Music Roll in the world, and ride on the vintage 1916 carousel!

The museum is small, so plan to spend around 30 minutes exploring the museum. But don’t forget to ride the carousel and visit the gift shop! This makes a great stop on the way back to Buffalo from Niagara Falls.

Fun Fact: The beautiful carousel animals on the 1924 Buffalo Heritage Carousel at Canalside were restored in the Herschell Carrousel Museum.

Meet a Penguin at Aquarium of Niagara

Penguins are my favorite animal!!! Unfortunately, there are no penguins to be seen at the Buffalo Zoo. But…!!! There are penguins at the Aquarium of Niagara !

And , not only can you see penguins at the aquarium, but you can actually MEET THE PENGUINS at the aquarium!!!

Penguins are pretty much the cutest stinking (no really, they are kind of stinky…) animals on the planet! So getting to meet them is one of the best things to do EVER!

You can even take home a PAINTING MADE BY A PENGUIN from the gift shop for a super unique souvenir from Buffalo. Or, if for some reason you’re not into penguins (or you’re just more into seals), there are a bunch of other animal encounters (and paintings) you can do at the aquarium.

Explore a real life “Hallmark” small town

East Aurora is a little town just outside of Buffalo, and it is a popular Hallmark filming location. So come explore this cute little town, eat wings at the original Bar-Bill Tavern , see a movie at the Aurora Theater , buy sponge candy and chicken wing shaped chocolate at Fowler’s , and shop at the world’s largest 5&10 .

There is street parking available, and also a large public lot behind Viddler’s 5&10. Parking is free in East Aurora.

Try an Escape Room

Escape rooms are fun to try in any new city, and they are a great way to support local businesses and experience something unique to the area!

A good way to find the best local escape rooms is by looking on the Facebook group Escape Room Enthusiasts . My local friends recommend trying Queen City Escape Room .

Watch a Classic Movie in a 1920’s Theater

The North Park Theater in Buffalo has been showing movies since 1920. Today they show unique, classic and indy films. Or, you could visit the vintage movie theater in Buffalo to watch a movie that was filmed in Buffalo, like the new movie Cabrini !

See a Show at Shea’s Performing Arts Center

One of the most iconic Buffalo attractions is Shea’s Performing Arts Center , and it is definitely one of the best things to do in Buffalo in the evening (or for a free afternoon movie).

The beautiful, historic downtown theater hosts touring Broadway shows, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra events, free family movies, and more! What better way to end your day of exploring Buffalo?

Bonus Things to Do in Buffalo

I just want to mention a few less unique Buffalo attractions to round out your trip to Buffalo, especially if you’re coming with kids. There are so many things to do in Buffalo, NY!!

These are things that are maybe not super unique to the area, or are just smaller, and not one of the main attractions. But just so you know for your trip planning purposes (and since my sister was insistent I include a visit to the Bills’ stadium), you can also do these things in Buffalo:

Explore & More: The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum

Buffalo Museum of Science

The Buffalo Zoo

The Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum

Attend a sports game ( football , hockey , or baseball )

Or just tour Highmark Stadium

Now I know I said not to visit Buffalo in winter… but in case you ignore my advice and do anyway, there are some fun Christmas things to do in Buffalo, NY! Plus, there are other seasonal things to do in summer and fall.

Niagara Falls Christmas Lights

Niagara Falls is lit up in colors every night (not just for Christmas). This photo of the frozen American Falls was taken in early March.

Niagara Falls is magical (and cold…) at Christmastime. Every year Niagara Falls, Canada puts on the Winter Festival of Lights , and fireworks are set off at night (though, it should be noted, there are lots of fireworks displays in the summertime too).

You’ll have to head over the border to Niagara Falls, Ontario to see the Christmas lights, and participate in all the festive things they have going on during the holiday season (like the Christmas market!). Just…hopefully your trip to the holiday lights will go better than ours did…

Stony Brook Legendary Lights

One of the best places to see Christmas lights in Buffalo, NY is in the Stony Brook neighborhood. Each year the neighborhood puts on the Stony Brook Legendary Lights (formerly Stony Brook Shines), which raises money for local children’s charities.

Drive or walk through block after block of over the top decorated houses. You may even spot Santa and Mrs. Claus roasting chestnuts over an open fire.

Explore a Hallmark Christmas Town

During the Christmas season in Buffalo, be sure to head over to East Aurora, where they’ve shot quite a few Hallmark movies! It’s the perfect little Christmas town. Plus, Viddler’s 5&10 (the world’s largest 5&10) is a great place to pick up a Christmas gift.

Be sure not to miss out on the annual East Aurora Carolcade !

If you’re visiting Buffalo in the winter, the most unique Buffalo attraction is renting an ice bike at Canalside. Sure, there’s ice skating as well, but if you’re like me, and you’re prone to falling over, ice biking is the way to go! Why do more ice rinks not have this???

Visit a Sunflower Field

Visiting a sunflower field is one of the best things to do in Buffalo in the summertime! They are so pretty and picturesque.

Sunflowers of Sanborn is a popular place for taking sunflower pics. They have events, a sunflower trail, a corn maze, and so many other fun things to do!!

Take a Fall Foliage Train Ride

A foliage train ride might be one of the best ideas ever, because I personally am always distracted by the pretty leaves when I should be paying attention to driving…

The Arcade & Attica Railroad does scenic train rides near Buffalo, NY, with different themes being offered all year. So you could do the gorgeous fall foliage train ride. Or you could do the murder mystery dinner, the whiskey train ride, or, my personal favorite, the DISNEY PRINCESS TRAIN RIDE!!

As you can see, they have themes to fit all tastes!

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

This is an especially great thing to do in Buffalo if you come from somewhere that doesn’t really get fall. Because Buffalo in winter may not be the best tourist hot spot, but Buffalo in fall is idyllic!

So if you’re in Buffalo, NY in the fall, be sure to complete your fall bucket list by visiting a pumpkin patch .

A burger as big as your face from Dwyer’s Irish Pub.

Because Buffalo is so diverse and has so many immigrant families, eating is one of the best things to do in Buffalo!

You can get such a variety of food, from classic chicken wings and beef on weck, to famous Polish delicacies, to some of the best Middle-Eastern food you’ve ever had!

Here are some of the best places to eat in Buffalo, including suggestions from my local friends:

For Buffalo Wings:

Eating chicken wings is one of the iconic things you have to do on any trip to Buffalo, and you can find (good!) wings at almost any restaurant in the city. With that being said, here are a couple of suggestions to get you started:

Anchor Bar -You won’t find that many locals here, but it is the place with the story of the chicken wing on their menu, because they (claim they) invented Buffalo wings! It’s definitely one of the best Buffalo attractions.

Duff’s -Duff’s was the go-to place for my best friends, when they lived in Buffalo. There are several locations all over the city. It’s a good spot for wings, beef on weck, or any sort of pub food, really.

Bar-Bill Tavern -Josh Allen (go Bills!) tried ALL the wings when he first came to Buffalo to play for the Buffalo Bills, and this is the restaurant he settled on as the winner for the best wings in Buffalo. Not surprisingly, their popularity has since soared.

Local Recommendations:

These are the restaurants that were specifically recommended by my best friend and former Buffalonian:

Pearl Street Grill -With a perfect location right downtown, and very close to Canalside, Pearl Street Grill is the perfect place to eat out while visiting Buffalo. Especially since it comes recommended from locals!

Tappo Italian -If Italian is more your thing (OR eating in an igloo is your thing!!!), then check out another local rec right downtown: Tappo Italian. Amazing food with gorgeous, insta-worthy views? Yes, please!

JJ’s Casa di Pizza -If you’re up for a pizza (and let’s face it, I am always up for a pizza), Casa di Pizza is my local friend’s recommendation.

Jay’s Artisan Pizza -This local pizza shop in Kenmore, NY, just north of Buffalo, has been called out for its pizza on numerous occasions, not the least of which is being named the #8 best pizza in the US in 2023!!!

Dwyer’s Irish Pub -Hidden in the cute little town of North Tonawanda, between Buffalo and Niagara Falls , is one of our favorite restaurants! Dwyer’s has burgers as big as your face (seriously, they’re as big as your face)! And they’re delicious.

Anderson’s Custard -This local spot was recommended by another travel blogger, who not only loves their ice cream (err… custard), but also says it’s one of the best places in Buffalo for a beef on weck sandwich.

International Cuisine

Here are just some of the best international restaurants to try in the city of Buffalo:

Falafel Bar -A fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. From shawarma to shnitzel, there are so many varied and delicious food options available here.

Sun Cuisines -One of the most successful restaurants in Buffalo, serving Burmese and Thai food that not only tastes delicious, but is actually healthy too!

The WEDI Bazaars -A great place to stop for a variety of authentic international food options are the downtown bazaar and the west side bazaar sponsored by WEDI.

Pubs & Breweries

There are so many really cool breweries in Buffalo that really embrace its industrial history. Good atmosphere, good food, good drinks… what more do you need?

Big Ditch Brewing Company -Another restaurant you’ll find conveniently downtown is Big Ditch Brewing Company, a local brewery with a nod to the famous Erie Canal (AKA: The Big Ditch). Come for a super cool atmosphere and good drinks & food!

Duende Silo City -Silo City is without a doubt one of the coolest places in Buffalo. So if you’re out there exploring, kayaking, and working up an appetite, then look no further than the local brewery on site: Duende.

BriarBrothers Brewing Company -This Buffalo brewery is actually located inside an old grain silo! Talk about embracing your industrial history! BriarBrothers has been recognized as one of the best breweries in Buffalo, and definitely has one of the most unique atmospheres.

RiverWorks Brewing Company -Located on the peninsula between Buffalo’s Canalside and Outer Harbor, the RiverWorks Brewing Company is part of the extensive entertainment district run by Buffalo RiverWorks. They offer brewery tours and events year round, but if you’re here in the summer, you can even work up an appetite by rock climbing up the side of an old grain silo first. Talk about unique!

For Breakfast

I love breakfast. And most especially… donuts! So let me share with you my favorite breakfast and donut joints in Buffalo, NY:

Five Points Bakery -For the hipsters among you who really like bread… Five Points Bakery makes a bunch of different artisan breads every morning for some delicious toast!

Paula’s Donuts -A Buffalo staple, Paula’s Donuts has four locations (and probably will keep adding more) around the city. It is the go-to place for donuts in Buffalo.

Peace, Love & Little Donuts -Paula’s is good, but I have to admit, this little donut chain from Pittsburgh, PA is one of my top 5 donut shops in the US ! They just have so many fun, unique toppings. And the best part is, because they’re so little, you can eat a whole bunch!

Wonder Coffee -Nestled among the grain silos on the Buffalo waterfront, Wonder Coffee is an adorable coffee shop with lots of yummy pastries and a great atmosphere! It’s the perfect place to stop for a pick me up if you’re out on an early morning walk/bike ride.

Chain Restaurants to try in Buffalo

I know some people find it an anathema to eat at a chain restaurant on vacation, but A) If you don’t have said chain near you, it’s fair to check it out when you’re visiting an area famous for said chain. And B) Sometimes you just want an easy coffee or sandwich.

Tim Hortons -The famous Canadian coffee chain is very prominent in Western NY. So if you need a quick pick me up, or you want to see what all the hype is about, don’t hesitate to stop at a Tim Hortons. Or if you just need free Wi-Fi. Or that.

Wegmans -Wegmans is always a great place to eat, especially if you don’t have Wegmans where you live. Or… if it’s 2021 and no one’s working, it’s a holiday weekend, and every restaurant is closed or about to close by the time you get there. Or that.

There are SO many great day trips from Buffalo, NY! Or, you can spend a week exploring the best of western NY on this amazing road trip from Buffalo .

Downtown Niagara on the Lake

Remember that at Niagara Falls (which is technically a day trip from Buffalo), you can walk across the border into Canada? So make sure you bring your passport with you to Buffalo, NY so you can explore all the fun things to do nearby in Canada.

Here are some easy spots in Canada to day trip from Buffalo to:

Niagara on the Lake -The prettiest town in Canada. It’s super adorable with lots of fun shops, restaurants and wineries. It’s about a 45 min. to an hour drive to Niagara on the Lake from Buffalo.

Toronto -Toronto is the largest city in Canada! It’s basically the NYC of Canada. And it’s super close to Buffalo! Just an hour and a half (to 2 hours, depending on traffic…) drive will bring you to the city, where you can explore a castle, visit a ton of museums, take in views from the CN Tower, and eat SO. MUCH. FOOD.

Unionville -This small town suburb of Toronto is probably not going to be on everyone’s bucket list… unless you love Gilmore Girls (which you should!). Because this adorable small town is where they actually shot the pilot episode of Gilmore Girls, before they moved to the California studio. It is just past the main city of Toronto, an easy day trip from Buffalo.

The National Comedy Center

The National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY is one of the best day trips from Buffalo! This highly interactive museum was voted the best new attraction in the country in 2020.

You can also get a combo ticket with it to visit the Lucy-Desi Museum in Jamestown, NY , the birthplace of Lucille Ball. Jamestown is an easy hour and a half drive from Buffalo, and there are so many other great things to do there besides just the Comedy Center!

Rochester, NY

The third biggest city in New York State behind Buffalo is nearby Rochester, NY . There are so many unique things to do in Rochester, like visiting the Strong Museum of Play , eating a garbage plate, seeing a castle, and exploring George Eastman’s mansion (it seriously looks like they designed the game Clue after his house).

It’s just a one hour drive east on I-90 to day trip from Buffalo to Rochester.

Letchworth State Park

Niagara Falls might be the most well-known state park in New York, but Letchworth State Park has been voted the number one state park in the country (and it really deserves it!).

You have to make the one hour drive to Letchworth State Park (Castile entrance) and experience its magic for yourself while you’re in Buffalo, NY.

There are quite a few great places to stay in Buffalo, although most of my stays have either been on my friend’s couch or at the hotels with the free airport shuttles…

BUT, I have found the best places to stay in Buffalo, and am listing them here so you can stay somewhere cooler than just across the street from the airport!

Buffalo Marriott Harborcenter

This would be my first choice of where to stay in Buffalo. Just across from Canalside in downtown, and within walking distance of many great restaurants and activities is the Buffalo Marriott Harborcenter . It is a great location to base yourself in for exploring the city of Buffalo.

Hotel at the Lafayette

The historic Hotel at the Lafayette is a convenient downtown hotel that was designed in 1904 by the first professional female architect in America: Louise Blanchard Bethune.

The Richardson Hotel

Located on the grounds of the Richardson Olmsted Campus , one of Buffalo’s many note-worthy architectural sites, is the newly opened Richardson Hotel . History, beauty, and not to mention, a great location within walking distance of the AKG Museum and Deleware Park, this is one of the best places to stay in Buffalo.

InnBuffalo off Elmwood

In the beautiful Elmwood Village, and close to local shopping on Elmwood Ave. is the InnBuffalo . This beautiful and historic inn is locally owned, and one of the most unique places to stay in Buffalo.

Red Coach Inn

If you want to stay close to Niagara Falls, the Red Coach Inn is the famous Niagara Falls hotel, and also the location (or intended location) of Jim & Pam’s wedding on The Office .

What to Watch Before Visiting Buffalo

Buffalo (and especially Niagara Falls) has had their share of movies filmed here. Here are some of the movies to watch (and even a book to read!) to get you excited about visiting Buffalo, NY:

This new 2024 movie was shot mostly in Buffalo, and tells the true story of a sickly Italian nun who fought for the rights of Italian immigrants and orphans in the late 19th century. The cinematography of the film is absolutely beautiful!

Season 6, eps. 4&5

That episode(s) of The Office where Jim & Pam (#spoiler) get married at Niagara Falls!

Bruce Almighty

The classic Jim Carrey comedy (though not filmed in) takes place in Buffalo, with a memorable scene at nearby Niagara Falls.

The Four Falls of Buffalo

This documentary shares plenty of shots of Buffalo & Niagara Falls while focusing on the story of the Bills’ four Superbowl appearances. And if you’re anything like me, you will probably cry your way through it…

Although it takes place in Connecticut, this beautiful movie starring the late Chadwick Boseman as Thurgood Marshall was filmed in Buffalo and the surrounding areas. You can easily recognize the iconic Buffalo City Hall in the film.

It is also significant to western NY since one of the judges who eventually joined in the unanimous ruling for Marshall in Brown v. Board was from nearby Jamestown, NY .

A Quiet Place II

I’ll admit, I have never seen (nor plan to see) John Krasinski’s A Quiet Place series… But if you’re into suspenseful movies (I prefer singing princesses and animal sidekicks), these movies are highly acclaimed. And they’re filmed in western NY, with A Quite Place II especially filming in the Buffalo area.

Hallmark Christmas movies

As mentioned above, quite a few Hallmark Christmas movies have been filmed in the cute little town of East Aurora, NY. Viddler’s 5&10 keeps a list of all the Christmas movies filmed in East Aurora .

Mystic Pizza

Now this one might throw you off… but one of the boats that was seen in the Mystic harbor in Mystic Pizza is actually used by Lockport Lockes to sail on the Erie Canal! So go ahead and watch this movie too, before you come to Buffalo, NY.

I Love Lucy (and other Lucy movies)

If you’re going to head down to Jamestown for a day trip to the National Comedy Center and the Lucy-Desi Museum, be sure to watch at least a couple episodes of one of the all time best TV shows in America before you visit Lucy’s hometown.

Read-City of My Heart

Finally, I have a book recommendation for you. Before you visit Buffalo, grow to love the city with this book by local historian Mark Goldman, City of My Heart .

You can also check out his earlier book about the history of Buffalo, City on the Edge .

Any more questions?

If you have any more questions about things to do in Buffalo or the western NY area, don’t hesitate to email me or comment below.

Planning a trip to Buffalo, NY?

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20+ Best Things To Do in Buffalo, New York

If all you know about Buffalo is snow storms, chicken wings, and the Buffalo Bills, it might be time to pay another visit to the City of Good Neighbors. After a hard couple of decades, Buffalo finally seems to be enjoying an exhilarating new period of growth and redevelopment that make a visit to the city more enticing than ever.

In this ultimate guide to the best things to do in Buffalo, you’ll find everything from the city’s biggest attractions to all the local recommendations that you won’t hear about elsewhere. Whether you’re just in town for a few hours or have a few days to explore the city of Buffalo, get ready; the city of Buffalo is going to be an exciting surprise.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Things To Do in Buffalo

1. visit the buffalo akg art museum.

After a three-year closure and transformative addition, the former Albright-Knox Art Gallery has reopened as the Buffalo AKG Art Museum .

The addition of over 30,000 square feet of gallery space and the stunning new Jeffery E. Gunlach building, connected to the historic Wilmers Building via a twisting, floating bridge , are just the start of the museum’s transformation.

Groundbreaking new exhibits, larger-than-life galleries filled with natural light, and a vibrant excitement about the institution’s new chapter make both visitors and locals consider a visit to the Buffalo AKG Art Museum one of the best things to do in Buffalo.

Even those who don’t consider themselves art lovers or museum-goers will find something to love here. After all, a large part of the museum’s transformation was designed to make it more accessible than ever. Hands-on classes for kids and adults, interactive exhibits, and a new collaboration with the LEGO Foundation mean there are more ways than ever to get involved and enjoy your visit.

2. Take a Bike Tour

With an increasing number of bike lanes and trails to follow across the city, exploring Buffalo by bike is one of the best ways to get to know the city. Follow the experts at Buffalo Bike Tours on one of their specialized bike tours for the insider, local scoop on some of the coolest areas of town and the best things to do in Buffalo.

Choose from their different bike tour itineraries, all of which have plenty to offer if you’re looking for the best of the city:

• Wing Ride – Explore Buffalo’s favorite and famous destinations for the best Buffalo wings in the city, tasting the best as you ride.
• Waterfront Ride – Discover the city’s incredible revitalization along the waterfront, visiting Silo City, RiverWorks, Wilkeson Point, and Outer Harbor.
• History Ride – Explore some of the most important historic landmarks in the city while learning about Buffalo’s incredible past and exciting future.
• Foodie Ride – Taste your way across Buffalo as you visit some of the city’s best bakeries, cafes, and restaurants, where you’ll try everything from chocolate and kombucha to international favorites brought to Buffalo by the city’s diverse immigrant community.

We loved the waterfront ride we experienced during our recent stay in Buffalo, but would love to try any of the other bike tours on our next visit to the city! Highly recommended!

Plan a Trip to Buffalo

• 10 Best Hotels in Buffalo
• The Richardson Hotel: Guest Review

3. Kayak at Elevator Alley

Get out on the water and explore one of Buffalo’s most interesting areas in a totally unique way. Kayak among the city’s old grain elevators and silos, past the historic SS Columbia, and towards the vibrant Canalside and RiverWorks areas that are part of the city’s exciting waterfront redevelopment. It’s one of the best things to do in Buffalo and an unforgettable way to see the city.

Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Elevator Alley Kayak , located inside the Old Barrel Factory in the city’s Old First Ward. Elevator Alley Kayak also offers guides for groups or individuals looking for more history and guidance on their excursion.

After your excursion, make sure to pop back inside the beautifully converted Old Barrel Factory to enjoy a beer on tap from one of Buffalo’s many new breweries.

4. Visit the Burchfield Penney Art Center

At the heart of Buffalo’s museum district is the impressive Burchfield Penney Art Center , one of the city’s most impressive fine arts institutions. The center is home to the largest public collection of art by Charles E. Burchfield, an American artist and long-time Buffalo resident known for his incredible watercolor paintings developed with one-of-a-kind techniques.

The Burchfield Penney Art Center is home to an incredible permanent collection of paintings as well as an extensive archive of his drawings, journals, letters, notes, and more. While the works of Charles E. Burchfield are of particular importance to the Center, it also displays works by artists from and with ties to the entire Western New York region.

The Burchfield Penney Art Center also welcomes a number of rotating exhibits celebrating the art and artists of Western New York. On-going exhibits include Land, Sea, and Light: The John Sacret Young Collection , celebrating John Sacret Young’s collection of works by artists like Charles Burchfield and John Marin, as well as Brilliance: The Stanford Lipsey Art Glass Collection , with 50 impressive works of art glass.

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, at home or abroad. 

5. Go to a Bills Game (or Sabres Game!)

Buffalo is a die-hard sports town with a particular love for their hometown NFL team, the Buffalo Bills. Fans call themselves “The Bills Mafia,” and you’ll see signs, flags, and clothing everywhere you look celebrating the Bills, even if it isn’t a game day.

Attending a game at Highmark Stadium south of Buffalo in Orchard Park is a treat, even if you can only snag tickets in the nosebleeds.

If you’re visiting in the winter or spring, there’s nothing like attending a Buffalo Sabres hockey game at the KeyBank Center near the waterfront. With Buffalo’s proximity to Canada, you can imagine how important hockey is to this town, meaning that you’re bound to have an unforgettable time at a game, even if you’re not a hockey fan.

Not a football or hockey fan? Buffalo also has a AAA baseball team, the Buffalo Bisons, as well as a National Lacrosse League (NLL) team known as the Buffalo Bandits.

6. Eat Wings

Can you even say you’ve visited Buffalo if you haven’t sampled the city’s best Buffalo wings? It’s no surprise that Buffalo wings are a staple and local favorite across the city, with a visit to the original Anchor Bar being easily among the favorite things to do in Buffalo for wing-loving visitors.

While the originals can only be found at Buffalo’s Anchor Bar, there are plenty of other award-winning favorite wings to sample in Buffalo. Duff’s , Cole’s , and Gabriel’s Gate are all popular favorites worth trying during your stay.

If you’re looking for a local’s insight into the best wings, make sure to book a spot on Buffalo Bike Tour’s beloved Wing Ride . This fun-filled three-hour guided bike tour of the city includes stops at all of Buffalo’s best wing spots. Or, read up on Visit Buffalo Niagara’s Wing Trail for local insights into the best wing spots to add to your itinerary.

7. Attend an Event at Canalside

Located at the very end of the Erie Canal in a rapidly revitalizing area of Buffalo’s waterfront, Canalside is increasingly one of the best places to visit for events. While the summer season brings free or low-cost events like fitness classes, open-air markets, and even children’s programming, you’ll find plenty to do here even during the colder weather months.

Make sure to check out the online events calendar for Canalside before you plan your visit, but even if there isn’t an activity here that coincides with your trip, exploring Canalside is one of the best things to do in Buffalo.

8. Visit Niagara Falls

Of course, one of the most impressive attractions in the Buffalo / Niagara region is the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls! Buffalo makes a great base from which to visit Niagara Falls. The Falls are just a 20-minute drive from the city, and basing yourself in Buffalo for your visit means you’ll avoid much of the craziness and overpriced tourist traps of the area immediately surrounding the falls.

Taking in the view of the falls from the viewing platform is a must, but make sure you don’t miss the Maid of the Mist ! The Maid of the Mist is a thrilling boat ride that takes visitors to the base of Niagara Falls for an unforgettably thrilling perspective of the falls you won’t experience elsewhere. Make sure to book tickets online in advance to secure your trip, as they can sell out during busy travel days.

Try to take in the falls from both the New York side and the Canadian side of the border if your visit allows for it. You’ll get the best well-rounded perspective of the falls and have the most complete experience with this wonder of the world!

Don’t head out on your adventure without comprehensive travel insurance! Good travel insurance may cover lost or stolen gear, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, and more.  Check out the policies available from  SafetyWing or compare plans using  Visitors Coverage .

9. Spot Frank Lloyd Wright Masterpieces

If you’re a fan of architecture, your visit to Buffalo will be a particularly special one. Buffalo is home to a number of Frank Lloyd Wright’s creations. Touring these impressive destinations is one of the best things to do in Buffalo, whether you know much about the architect or not.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous creation in Buffalo is the Martin House Complex, built for the family of his dear friend and most important patron, Darwin Martin. Today the 30,000-square-foot complex is considered one of the architect’s most famous works.

Located just two blocks from Delaware Park, the Martin House Complex welcomes visitors on tours, the only way to visit the house. Make sure to book tickets in advance online before your visit so your desired time slot doesn’t sell out!

10. Sip Drinks (and Hear Poetry) at Silo City

Home to one of the largest concentrations of concrete grain elevators in the world, the Silo City complex is a testament to Buffalo’s important past as “Flour City,” named for all the grain that moved through the city’s waterways. Today, the complex is at the heart of one of the most ambitious waterfront reconstruction projects in Buffalo.

At the heart of Silo City is Duende , an impossibly cool bar and the first major development in the complex. Visiting Duende any time of the year will be a highlight, but enjoying the bar’s expansive lawn space and frequent live music and events is one of the best things to do in Buffalo in the summer.

The grain silos at Silo City also welcome artists with a number of events held within the silos, including poetry readings during Buffalo’s warm months. Check out Silo City’s website for more information on events, or plan a visit to Duende to learn more about the many ways to experience Silo City for yourself.

11. Stay at The Richardson Hotel

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Buffalo, look no further than The Richardson Hotel . Located on the historic Richardson Olmstead Campus in Buffalo’s museum district, this unique property used to be a mental health facility when it was built in the 1800s . Abandoned for decades, the building was only recently given new life and is now one of Buffalo’s best hotels.

Original design elements like soaring windows, wide hallways, and high ceilings make the hotel a true beauty, while an on-site cafe, bar, and restaurant make it a popular destination even with the locals.

Located just steps from the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, the Burchfield Penney Art Center, and the rest of the charming Elmwood Village neighborhood, it’s perfectly located to enjoy all the best things to do in Buffalo.

Read More: The Richardson Hotel – A First-Hand Review

12. Visit the Botanical Garden

Buffalo is home to the impressive Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens , yet another impressive mark on the city left by landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmstead. Explore beneath the unique Victorian tri-dome glass structures at the gardens and encounter flora and fauna from the world over.

The botanical garden is located south of the city in Lackawanna but is easily accessible from the rest of Buffalo. The gardens also host a number of events throughout the week, especially during the summer, with things like photography workshops, open-air art classes, and other kinds of fun events to draw visitors to the space.

13. Eat Your Way Through WEDI’s Downtown Bazaar

One of Buffalo’s coolest non-profits is WEDI , an organization removing systemic financial barriers to success through a variety of educational and financial assistance programs. One of WEDI’s key programs is small business assistance, and their bazaar is a great place to see budding businesses getting off the ground in Buffalo.

WEDI’s Downtown Bazaar has a number of great eateries offering delicious and authentic dishes from the incubator’s students from around the globe, with everything from Sudanese to Filipino bites available. You’ll also find students’ shops that sell a variety of products, as well as plenty of space to eat and connect over a meal.

WEDI is preparing to open its brand-new West Side Bazaar not far from the Elmwood Village area and the museum district. Be on the lookout for this exciting new expansion in Fall 2023, and make sure to add a visit to the new destination to the list of things to do in Buffalo on your itinerary.

14. Zipline Among Grain Silos at Buffalo RiverWorks

If ziplining only makes you think of jungle canopies and tropical climates, it’s time you try ziplining among Buffalo’s towering grain silos! Located along Buffalo’s redeveloped river space at Buffalo RiverWorks , ziplining stories above the ground among grain silos is the ultimate thrill.

Whether you’re interested in ziplining or not, a visit to the multi-use Buffalo RiverWorks is a must on your Buffalo itinerary. This exciting area is home to some of the most inspiring redevelopment projects in Buffalo and is home to what seems like an endless lineup of events and activities, with someone for everyone to enjoy.

In the summer, the extensive outdoor space hosts concerts and events and has tons of room to enjoy everything from backyard games and pickleball to watersports and rollerskating. In the winter, two ice rinks and the cozy RiverWorks Brewing Co. welcome just as many excited locals and visitors.

15. Explore Old Fort Niagara

Looking to experience one of the oldest parts of Buffalo’s history? Located on Lake Ontario, the colonial-era Old Fort Niagara is about a 40-minute drive from the city of Buffalo but is well worth a visit.

Explore this National Historic Landmark on guided tours or plan your visit to coincide with one of the many historical military reenactments that take place at the fort. Make sure to check the Old Fort Niagara website before planning your visit, as hours change seasonally. The fort is open daily between April and mid-October but is open on a much more limited basis during the winter months.

16. Explore Outer Harbor

Once the heart of Buffalo’s industrial area, the Outer Harbor is now one of the most interesting places to explore in the city. With a new concert venue slated to open along the water and an increasing number of things to do in this 200-acre green space, it’s an area of the city you won’t want to miss.

With so much green space and an increasingly impressive network of trails, the best way to explore Outer Harbor is by bike. From Wilkeson Point to the Lakeside Bike Park and beyond, it’s easy to navigate and with dedicated bike paths that make it perfect even for inexperienced riders.

Buffalo Bike Tours offers a historic Outer Harbor waterfront ride , which is the perfect way to get acquainted with both the natural beauty of the area and the new, exciting development and revitalization in Buffalo. We loved the experience and would recommend it as one of the best things to do in Buffalo!

17. Visit Buffalo Central Terminal

One of Buffalo’s most beloved and historic buildings, Buffalo Central Terminal is the city’s old train station, though it has so much more to offer. After it was abandoned in 1979, the building has largely fallen into disrepair, though occasional walking tours and events are a great way to get into the space and dream about its exciting new future.

While Buffalo Central Terminal is still in the process of redevelopment and likely has a few more years to go until it’s fully up and running as a mixed-use community and event space, keep an eye out for activities and events here. If you can time it right, your visit might become one of your favorite things to do in Buffalo.

18. Visit the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

After the unprecedented assassination of U.S. President William McKinley at the Buffalo Pan-American Exposition in 1901, then Vice-President Theodore Roosevelt was sworn into office in the library of a friend’s home in the city. That historic mansion is now the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site , one of the city’s most interesting museums.

History buffs will consider a visit to the mansion among the best things to do in Buffalo. The mansion is now home to a few beautifully-maintained original rooms as well as museum exhibits highlighting the McKinley assassination and the political career of Roosevelt, who went on to be one of the country’s most well-known presidents.

Visitors can get admission tickets with guided tour included online in advance of a visit. There’s a large parking lot behind the building for easy access.

19. Visit a Brewery

You might be surprised to learn that Buffalo has one of the strongest craft beer scenes in the entire country, with over 50 breweries in the area. Whether you’re a fan of beer or not, visiting at least one of the city’s breweries is one of the best things to do in Buffalo, hands down!

We tried a number of great breweries during our most recent stay in Buffalo, including t he popular Resurgence Brewing Company and Larkinville’s Hydraulic Hearth . Both were fantastic , though if you have a nice-weather evening in Buffalo, Hydraulic Hearth’s massive outdoor patio can’t be beaten.

For the most comprehensive guide to the best craft breweries in Buffalo, check out the Visit Buffalo Niagara website to learn more about Ale Trail , including extensive guides to the newest and best in beer across the region.

20. Explore Delaware Park

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, a famous landscape architect best known for designing New York City’s Central Park, Delaware Park is the green heart of Buffalo. This sprawling green space is home to gorgeous bike paths and pedestrian walkways and an endless list of summer activities and events that draw locals and visitors alike.

A favorite thing to do here is to rent paddleboats in the shape of pink flamingos, a new symbol of Buffalo that harkens back to Buffalo’s Polish American community’s historic embrace of the kitschy lawn ornaments.

End a visit to the park with lunch or dinner at The Terrace at Delaware Park . The restaurant’s expansive terrace overlooks the lake and faces the back of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, making it the perfect place to sit out in the summer and enjoy the nice weather.

Bonus: Shop at Oxford Pennant

Oxford Pennant is one of the most unique and popular shops in Buffalo, offering a variety of handmade pennants, banners, decor, and apparel. Look out for their personalized banners and pennants throughout Buffalo; this homegrown favorite has supplied shops, restaurants, stores, and everything in between – we saw many during our visit.

Located on Main Street in downtown Buffalo, their store features ready-made best-sellers for sale and is a lovely spot to browse. You can also work with the team to design custom-made banners and more.

Oxford Pennant is quite special to us personally. We had some of our engagement photos taken inside the shop several years ago, and even used some of their pennants in our photos. We still have them at home and cherish them as one of the favorite items we saved from our wedding.

Whether you’re just looking to browse or are ready to find the perfect souvenir or guide from your time in Buffalo, visiting Oxford Pennant is an absolute must. It’s one of our favorite things to do in Buffalo , even if we’re just in town for an hour or two.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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Best Things to Do in Buffalo

LAST UPDATED BY Amber Nolan November 6, 2013

The Silo City is full of cultural treasures and is currently seeing a movement to preserve a number of historical buildings from the 19th century. Many visitors are also attracted to the more modern works of architect Frank Lloyd Wright , who has several famous homes in the area.

Neighboring Lake Erie (with Lake Ontario not far away), waterways have played an important role in Buffalo's development. For a chance to see the city from the water, set sail on the Spirit of Buffalo for a scenic day cruise or evening sunset sail. Buffalo serves as the gateway to the world-famous Niagara Falls, with the state park offering sweeping views of the falls and a chance to feel the mist without the need for a passport.

Nearby, the Niagara Wine Trail is being touted as one of the up-and-coming wine regions and several wineries are open to the public for tastings and tours. Sports lovers can take in a Buffalo Bills game at Ralph Wilson Stadium, the only professional NFL football stadium in New York State.

To make your decisions easier, we've narrowed down a list of 10 of our top choices for activities and attractions in the Buffalo area. These must-sees are vetted by local experts who share their wealth of knowledge on what to do in Buffalo, New York.

Buffalo Zoological Gardens

The third oldest zoo in the United States, this 23-acre park is dedicated to the preservation of wild species from around the world and is a participant in global conservation efforts. More than 1,000 animals are housed here, among them are the potoroo, a marsupial from Australia, and the lesser galago, a small bushbaby from Africa. Other animals include grizzly, Kodiak, and polar bears (including two new cubs that made national news); red pandas; reindeer; tamarins; Indian rhinos and meerkats, as well as an array of reptiles and birds. A Children's Zoo, the interactive World of Wildlife Discovery Center, and a handful of small amusement park rides also featured at this park.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : This zoo continues to improve each year and is currently developing a new entry plaza and safari watering hole.

Amber's expert tip : Be sure to visit their website and check out some of the workshops and special events at the zoo.

Read more about Buffalo Zoological Gardens →

Eternal Flame Falls

Hidden deep in Chestnut Ridge Park, the Eternal Flame Falls are a natural phenomenon and make a memorable day hike for visitors. As one of a few hundred "eternal" flames worldwide, it is fed by a natural gas seep that breaks through the earth's surface. The park also has bicycle and hiking trails, picnic Areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a disk-golf course. In the winter, it is ideal for cross-country skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, and is even equipped with two towers and four chutes for tobogganing. The Eternal Flame hiking trail is a little challenging, but clearly marked and fun for the kids.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : This unusual attraction makes a great outdoor adventure and is especially stunning in the fall.

Amber's expert tip : Pack a picnic lunch and bring a lighter. Although the name says the flame is eternal, it goes out from time to time.

Read more about Eternal Flame Falls →

Niagara Wine Trail

The micro-climate near the Great Lakes allows for the production of fine wines including Riesling, Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and ice wines. As a bonus, Western New York also has a wide selection of fine cheese, so you can pair your selections from local wineries. There are currently 19 wineries within a short drive from Buffalo, and plenty of B&Bs and restaurants for an overnight getaway. The Niagara Wine Trail has been steadily growing each year, and now includes many award-winning wineries, an "urban" winery located on the Erie Canal, a "haunted" winery, and even a cidery (featuring hard apple ciders).

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : Wine aficionados have been buzzing about Western New York as an up-and-coming wine region.

Amber's expert tip : The Freedom Run Winery is also a stop on a number of bus tours of the area.

Read more about Niagara Wine Trail →

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

This oasis will surprise and makes a perfect reprieve on a cold day in the city. As visitors enter, they are greeted by the 67-foot Palm Dome that is full of palms and tropical fruit trees. Wander through different ecosystems including the Florida Everglades and the cloud forests of Panama. The desert house showcases species from the American and African deserts, including a giant cacti and agave plant, while the centerpiece of the Fem House and Ancient Rainforest is a 30-foot waterfall surrounded by banana trees. Don't miss the medicinal plant house to get a better understanding on how they are used in traditional, herbal and modern medicines.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : As park of the original Fredrick Law Olmsted-designed South Park, the calming gardens will leave you feeling renewed.

Amber's expert tip : During the summer months, the children's garden is open to little ones and "night lights" is a special event not to be missed!

Read more about Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens →

Albright-Knox Art Gallery

Founded officially in 1862, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is among the world's leading collections of international sculptures and paintings, including works from the 20s and 30s that showcase Cubism, Surrealism, and Constructivism. This museum houses a formidable lineup of artists, including Picasso, Renoir, Monet, Matisse, and Van Gogh. The gallery's collection is especially rich in post-war American and European art, but in recent years it has been significantly increasing its number of modern art pieces as well. A restaurant and gift shop are also on-site, drawing classes are held for children, and public tours are available Thursday through Sunday. Be aware that they are closed on Monday.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : The museum is home to some seriously impressive works and is well worth a visit.

Amber's expert tip : Admission is free the first Friday of each month.

Read more about Albright-Knox Art Gallery →

Buffalo Bills (Ralph Wilson Stadium)

Buffalo is proud to be home to the NFL's Bills, the team that went to the Superbowl four times in a row (and lost). The Bills are housed at Ralph Wilson Stadium, and win or lose their die-hard fans are going to celebrate. If you're in town during football season, home games are a must-see and even last-minute tickets are usually quite reasonable. The Gameday Experience (staged in the field house by the stadium), consists of several hours of entertainment, interactive games and youth competitions prior to the big game. Training camp is located at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, New York.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : To get a true taste of Buffalo's resilient spirit, bundle up and head to the stadium.

Amber's expert tip : Tailgating is legendary at the Bills stadium so arrive at the parking lot early, bring beer, and don't ever say that you are a Patriots' fan.

Read more about Buffalo Bills (Ralph Wilson Stadium) →

Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House

Built in 1904, this house showcases the talents of one of America's premiere architects. Frank Lloyd Wright designed the home, which has a 100-foot covered arbor, a glass roof conservatory, and a classic horizontal streamlined design. In 2013 the home saw a $50 million restoration effort so it is even more stunning, and features long banded windows, pitched roofs, and distinctly over-hanging eaves. The Martin House is over 10,000-square feet and features Wright's "Prairie House" concept and is referred to as his "opus." Reservations are strongly required. The all-inclusive day tour includes a trolley ride to six of Wright's visionary designs around the Buffalo area, but is only available on select dates throughout the year.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : This masterpiece of 20th century architecture is considered one of Wright's signature works.

Amber's expert tip : After visiting, be sure to check out Frank Lloyd Wright's Graycliff. The home is located 20 minutes south of the city on eight acres of woodlands and cliffs.

Read more about Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House →

Old Fort Niagara

The fort, which sits on the head of the Niagara River, shares a tri-cultural history. First held by La Salle and his French troops in 1678, the fort eventually was a stronghold for both the British and Americans. The oldest structure on the grounds dates back to 1726, and visitors can explore almost every inch of it - like the bunkers and the French castle. Special events are planned during the summer months and include cannon and musket firing demonstrations, reenactments, and guided tours. Watch artisans at work and learn about life on the Niagara Frontier during the 18th and early 19th centuries.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : This little-known gem is well-preserved, has an incredible history, and beautiful views of the lake.

Amber's expert tip : Wear comfortable shoes; there are a number of steps.

Read more about Old Fort Niagara →

Spirit of Buffalo

Inspired by the schooners and sunset voyages in Key West, Florida, the Spirit of Buffalo is a relaxing and fun-filled adventure on Lake Erie. Operated by the Hilliman family who have a lifetime of sailing experience, every inch of the vessel has a personal touch - right down to the teak and mahogany woodwork. Several types of cruises are available on the tall sailing ship, including the "Wind and Wine" cruise with tastings from the local Niagara Wine Trail, as well as a chance to see some stunning sunsets. Kids will love the pirate cruise, with swashbuckling stories, face painting, a treasure hunt, and music - hosted by professional pirates.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : The Spirit of Buffalo offers a laid-back adventure on the water and a unique vantage point to view the skyline.

Amber's expert tip : Be sure to spend some time around Buffalo's Canalside (where the ship is docked). You may find free yoga, outdoor concerts, and other events.

Read more about Spirit of Buffalo →

Niagara Falls State Park

Considered one of the "Wonders of the World," this state park is America's oldest, and each year tourists make the short drive from Buffalo to watch more than 750,000 gallons rush over the edge each second. The park includes the entire expanse of land that borders the American side of Niagara Falls, where in 2012 onlookers gathered to watch daredevil Nik Wallenda walk across the falls to Canada on a tightrope. The park is highlighted by Three Sisters Island, Prospect Point, Goat Island, and Luna Island at Bridal Falls and features a visitor's center, the Niagara Falls Discovery Center, and an observation tower. It is open year round for hiking, biking, fishing, and cross-country skiing.

Recommended for Best Attractions & Activities because : Niagara Falls is legendary, and is a must-see for visitors to the Buffalo area.

Amber's expert tip : Don't miss the "Cave of the Winds" tour and prepare to be "mystified" by the falls.

Read more about Niagara Falls State Park →

Originally from upstate New York, this restless traveler has a knack for befriending interesting characters. You can usually find her just about anywhere that has a hammock. Amber's favorite...   More About Amber

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27 Unique & Fun Things to do in Buffalo (New York)

By: Author Travel Around

Posted on Last updated: February 18, 2023

Buffalo is a City full-sight attraction, and the reason is not hard to get. It’s the second-largest City in the state of New York.

In Buffalo, you’ll encounter a totally impactful culture, picturesque attractions, and history that sound quite unbelievable.

Interestingly, Buffalo is a gem among the western cities of New York. As a result, it owes its outstanding history to the activities of European settlers.

Home to cultural landmarks from the Albright-Knox Art gallery to the Buffalo Museum of science, among others.

Therefore, when you come to Buffalo, you will experience American culture from another perspective.

You’ll be amazed at all the fun things to do while visiting the city.

Most importantly, Buffalo is rich in service industries such as education, tourism, health care, and others.

To make your stay in the city worthwhile, here is a list of things to do in Buffalo.

Things to do in Buffalo, New York

1. niagara falls.

Tduane Parker / Flickr

One of the famed attractions in Buffalo is Niagara Falls .

The combinations of three tributaries form these three-sided waterfalls before going to the Atlantic Ocean and flowing between the borders of New York and Canada.

It was formed as a result of glacier formation and the carved formation of the Great Lakes.

Niagara Falls is number one among the attractions you visit in Buffalo.

Therefore if you only have time for one thing to do in Buffalo, I suggest it be Niagara Falls because you will surely enjoy the time spent.

Starting from the scenic view of nature to the boat ride on the high-rated water flow, you will experience nothing but spectacular.

Not only will you gaze at the beauty of the mighty waters of Niagara, but you will also tour by cruising on a boat with the Mist boat tour.

Also, learn about the economic importance of this nature-given resource.

First of all, is that it serves as a valuable source of hydroelectric power. Second is the tourism programs available to gaze at the Falls and catch fun while at it.

And lastly is the Casino and luxury hotel, and other restaurants around the Falls. Balancing industrial, recreational, and commercial uses.

2. Peace Bridge

Cinnamn112 / Flickr

Are you in Buffalo and planning to visit Canada by road? I will suggest you go through Peace Bridge .

Meanwhile, it’s not only for travelers; tourists can take their time to visit Peace Bridge to experience something spectacular.

Peace Bridge is a wonderful international bridge connecting Canada and the United States from Buffalo, New York, and Fort Erie, Ontario. 

It was constructed between 1925 and 1927, and it runs about 20 kilometers upriver of Niagara Falls.

This bridge was named to commemorate 100 years of peace between the United States and Canada.

You will be Thrilled by the architectural design of the bridge, and also, the classic steel truss, together with other concrete materials, gives the bridge firmness.

It also looks fantastic at night with its superb decorative lighting.

As a tourist, you will enjoy your ride, coupled with the scenic views while on the bridge. 

Also, for travelers, know that there is a toll to enter both Canada and the United States, so you have to be with your passport and other relevant documents!

Address: 1 Peace Bridge, Buffalo, NY 14213, United States

3. KeyBank Center

The KeyBank Center

KeyBank Center is a multipurpose arena located in the heart of Downtown Buffalo.

It’s a comfortable arena for all and sundry, from sports enthusiasts and lovers of Concerts to passionate Wrestling fans.

Being the largest indoor arena found all through Western New York; it can safely and comfortably occupy 19,070 visitors with comfortable seats available for all.

It’s home to the Buffalo Sabres (NHL), Buffalo Bandits (NLL), 1st and 2nd Round of March Madness, Concerts, Comedy, and much more. 

You will be treated to your maximum satisfaction when you are at KeyBank Center.

Also, you will be thrilled by the technological advancement in KeyBank that visiting every event organized there will not be boring to you.

As for the safety and security of guests and visitors, KeyBank is up to the task because everyone goes through security checkpoints, and illegal materials are not allowed within the arena.

The leading shop is the Sabres Store, and refreshment is not lacking throughout the store.

Lastly, the arena is in great shape with many facilities such as Restrooms, Parking lots, elevators for the disabled, and many more.

Address: 1 Seymour H Knox III Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

4. Delaware Park

Delaware Park

One of the best places to catch fun and enjoy nature in Buffalo is none other but Delaware Park.

This Park is a historic park located in the North Buffalo neighborhood, and i t’s the centerpiece of activities in Buffalo.

The 376-acre park is divided into two areas: a meadow, a water park, Hoyt lake, and other historical and memorial landmarks.

With all these areas accessible to visitors, you can be sure to have a lot of picturesque moments while in Delaware Park.

This park is definitely the jewel of Buffalo because there is something for everyone in this stunning park.

As there are activities such as Picnicking, Running, Skateboarding, Bicycling, Walking, and Sports.

Also, you can sit on a bench in the shade and watch Buffalonians do their park thing.

Furthermore, Hoyt lake is beautifully surrounded by mature trees, and you can ride a boat and fish while enjoying the cool breeze.

Also, the meadow park is adorned with beautiful greenery where families can have a Picnic.

Lastly, awesome facilities are present both for children and adults.

It is open all day of the week from 7 am to 10 pm.

Address: 84 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States

5. Canalside

Brendan Holder / Flickr

One of the excellent places to have family fun and unique dates while in Buffalo remains Canalside .

Canalside is a waterfront area situated on the Buffalo River.

It’s a historical place where locals and visitors can enjoy nature coupled with entertainment.

Located at the western terminus of Lake Erie, Canalside offers tourists the opportunity to experience New York at its grandeur.

Some activities include water bike riding, boardwalk, kayaking, and sailing during the summer. 

And also, during the winter, ice skating allows for a fun-filled experience for visitors.

There are sand pits for kids, and also restaurants, food, and ice cream shacks are available.

Additionally, Canalside hosts numerous concerts, live music, and other festivals.

Lastly, your trip to Buffalo will be incomplete without a visit to Canalside.

Address: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

6. Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park

Ironmike9 / Flickr

While in Buffalo, you need to pay a visit to Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park .

Being the largest inland Naval & Military Park in the country, this historic Museum is situated on the bank of the Buffalo River.

If you want to know how the Americans fought World War II and the weapons used, visit this Museum to see for yourself.

The Major attraction in the park is the Warships used by the Navy during wars.

This park is home to several decommissioned US Naval vessels, including the submarine USS Croaker, the Cleveland-class cruiser USS Little Rock and the Fletcher-class destroyer USS The Sullivans. 

All these warships are open to the public for tours. 

Along with the ships, a variety of smaller vessels, vehicles, and aircraft are also on display at the park. 

Furthermore, there are smaller exhibits in the museum, and the history is well narrated for visitors.

Lastly, visit hours may vary by season, but the park is closed from December to March.

Address: 1 Naval, Marina Park S, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

7. Buffalo Zoo

Buffalo Zoo

You might have been to a Zoo before, but Buffalo Zoo is one of the best in the States.

Founded in 1875, Buffalo Zoo is the third oldest zoo in the country.

Located on 23.5 acres near Delaware Park, the zoo welcomes many visitors as the second-largest tourist attraction in Western New York.

This zoo plays a vital role in preserving rarely-seen animals, and  it’s home to a diverse collection of wild and exotic animals.

And not only that, there are more than 320 species of plants.

Animals that can be found at this New York zoo include Polar bears, Gorillas, Tigers, Zebra, Rhinoceros, and more.

Suppose you’re passionate about the lives of animals and want to contribute to the unending care provided for the animals. In that case, your contributions can go a long way in keeping endangered species alive. 

Lastly, it is open all year round.

Address: 300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States

8. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Can Pac Swire / Flickr

For History enthusiasts, tours to Theodore Roosevelt’s Inaugural National Historic Site are a great stop while in Buffalo.

Ansley Wilcox House was preserved as a historical marker for the Theodore Roosevelt memorial and a museum showing the use of the building.

Although the structure was originally a Barracks’ officers’ quarters, it became Theodore Roosevelt’s Inaugural site.

Theodore Roosevelt is considered one of the best-known and most influential presidents of the United States.

This Inaugural site offers an excellent opportunity to anyone passionate about the history of the 26th President.

It was after the assassination of President William McKinley that he became the president being the vice president at that time.

Furthermore, the presentations not only describe the inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt but also give plenty of historical context about his life.

Additionally, the Tour guide does an excellent job of leading visitors through the house and explaining Roosevelt’s situation.

  Address: 641 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

9. Buffalo Museum of Science

Buffalo Museum of Science

The Science of life, also called natural science, is very important and plays a good role as the world advances, answering  the most curious questions about life and the world itself.

Therefore Buffalo Museum of Science becomes necessary to showcase a collection of more than 700,000 specimens pertaining to the Greater Niagara Region and form.

The 700,000 specimen is, by far, the complete record of life in all of its forms in this area in anthropology, botany, entomology, mycology, paleontology, and zoology.

Furthermore, exhibitions in this Museum are made into eight highly interactive and immersive science studio exhibit spaces. 

These studios and accompanying workshop spaces capitalize on the collection pieces as a foundation of history and information.

Lastly, the Museum offers exhibitions for kids ages two to seven to awaken their curious minds through monthly gallery displays.

Address: 1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14211, United States.

10. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

One of the best places in Buffalo for family-friendly fun in the beauty of the natural world is the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens .

The botanical garden is a historic site, tourist destination, and educational center full of exotic horticulture treasures from all over the world. 

While at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, you’ll be thrilled by the amazing architecture and the indoor and outdoor scenic garden.

Families and friends can gather together and find peace and harmony and also enjoy the simple power of the natural world.

Furthermore, the Botanical Gardens boast various picturesque flower exhibits, special events, educational programming, workshops, and so much more! 

It’s a home to different varieties of plants, and as a mission of every botanical garden, the plants are well maintained.

No matter where you come from, you will find sections of plants native to your home.

Lastly, everyone is welcome and finds reasons to smile in a well-adorned environment. There is definitely no limitation to all you can do here.

Address: 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218, United States

11. Anchor Bar

Pete Piszczek / Flickr

Anchor Bar is home to the famed Buffalo chicken wings and draft beers.

It’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists in Buffalo, and if you want a nice treat of tasty grilled chicken wings.

By way of history, on a Friday night in 1964, a group of friends arrived at the bar with ravenous appetites.

Dominic asked his mother, Teressa, to prepare something for his friends to eat. Meanwhile, Teressa prepared deep-fried wings and flavored them with a secret sauce.

Since then, Anchor Bar has spread across the city and New York at large.

The menu is designed in such a way that Buffalo wings come at amazing prices, and not only that, various tasty delicacies and excellent beers are what visitors enjoy here at Anchor Bar.

Address: 1047 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14209, United States

Are you traveling to other cities in New York? Why not check out the list of our top attractions in Syracuse , Old Forge , Queens , and Lake Placid ?

12. Darwin D. Martin House

Je245 / Flickr

If you want to see some historic and artistry architecture in Buffalo, one of the best places to visit has to be Darwin D. Martin House. 

At Darwin D. Martin House, you’ll have the opportunity to see buildings constructed more than 100 years ago but show no signs of age because of their solid design and well-laid blocks.

The buildings were built for the businessman Darwin D. Martin and his family and were designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. 

When you visit this great attraction, you’ll be thrilled by all the scenic views, inside and out.

Tour to the picturesque spaces in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House comes in two options.

First is the basic tour, which lasts 75 minutes. Also, the second is the premium which lasts for 2 hours.

Additionally, this house is not a single unit.

Instead, it’s six total units, including a conservatory, a pergola, and a gardener’s cottage.

For the past years, lots of efforts have been put in place to restore the complex to its 1907 condition, making it a functional public historic house museum.

Address: 125 Jewett Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States 

13. Sahlen Field

Jeffrey Hayes / Flickr

Another home for all baseball enthusiasts! Sahlen Field is a baseball park and the jewel of downtown Buffalo.

It was opened on April 14, 1988, prior to the 1988 baseball season.

The first ‘classic retro’ ballpark ever built and the highest-capacity Triple-A ballpark in the United States.

Moreso, Home to the Buffalo Bisons can seat up to 16,600 spectators.

Sahlen Field is indeed one of the most significant ballparks in baseball history and is conveniently located in downtown Buffalo, just minutes from the Peace Bridge.

You’ll surely have access to many great experiences before and after the game.

Furthermore, the ticket to have access to the Buffalo Bison’s ball game is affordable, and once inside the stadium, you can choose whatever seat is comfortable for you.

Also, Following the game, you can watch a spectacular fireworks show.

And lastly, food and beer options are the best and most affordable.

Bring your family to enjoy the Buffalo Bison’s ball game whenever you are in Buffalo.

Address: 1 James D Griffin Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

14. Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum

Warren LeMay / Flickr

Do you want to know about Buffalo as an influential city of industry and producer of outstanding vehicles?

Then don’t miss a trip to Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum .

The museum is located in the building used as a Mack Truck showroom and repair shop. 

Meanwhile, it’s considered by car enthusiasts as one of the most unique in the world.

Exhibits at this museum include important pieces of transportation history, including several Pierce bicycles, a Pierce motorcycle and Pierce-Arrow cars, and other significant cars.

Additionally, items and artifacts are on display, highlighting the history of transportation in western New York.

Address: 263 Michigan Ave, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

15. Old Fort Niagara

Old Fort Niagara

Another historical landmark for history buffs is Fort Niagara.

Fort Niagara is a fortification at the mouth of the Niagara River. 

Originally built by France during the colonial wars in North America.

And the purpose of this fort was to act as a defense for New France.

For more than 300 years, this Fort served military post during wars. It was captured by the British during the French & Indian War in 1759 and later by the United States.

However, it remained an active military post until the 20th century.

While you are in Buffalo, visiting Fort Niagara is one of the memorable things to do.

Address: 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174, United States

16. Elmwood Village

MCC_Indianapolis / Flickr

If you want a place full of engaging activities among a community of awesome people, Elmwood Village is one of the best places to be.

Elmwood Village is located in the central part of Buffalo.

It’s a neighborhood in Buffalo that has become a popular site for mixed-use commercial and residential sites. 

So, in Elmwood Village, you’ll encounter different kinds of outstanding businesses.

It features over 300 local shops, restaurants, coffee houses, art galleries, and bars.

From dining to shopping in Buffalo, Elmwood Village offers you diverse kinds of options.

Shopping options in the Village include Half & Half Boutique, the Blush, and Her Story.

Restaurant options include Mister Goodbar, Kuni’s, a place for wings, Vera Pizzeria, and a sushi restaurant.

Elmwood Village is not limited to shops and restaurants but offers some of the top places to get educated in New York.

In addition to the Burchfield Penney Art Center, there’s also the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Lastly, when you are in Elmwood Village, you’ll experience a great community that believes in unity.

Address: 875 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222-1433, United States

17. Erie Basin Marina

Mark stempien / Flickr

A really nice place to visit while in Buffalo this weekend is Erie Basin Marina .

This municipal inland harbor is located in downtown Buffalo.

Constructed in 1974 and was designed to look like the American buffalo when viewed from overhead.

Meanwhile, Erie Basin Marina is a great place if you want to be in the city and on the beach at the same time! 

The Erie Basin Marina stands out among the most exciting attractions in New York.

This marina offers more than just docking for boats; It’s primarily for residential usage.

At the Erie Basin Marina, you’ll enjoy a park, top-notch restaurants, and the public lookout tower to catch a scenic view of the area.

Not only that, but you’ll also find the marina suitable for walking along the water, enjoying the calming breeze from its flow, and watching the Sunset.

Additionally, riding on the water is another fun and engaging activity, and it can be in a luxury yacht or a simple kayak.

Address: 329 Erie St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

18. Niagara Wine Trail

The Niagara Wine Trail

Niagara Wine Trail is a world-class wine country located in Western New York. 

It’s close to Niagara Falls and a short trip from Buffalo.

Niagara Wine Trail has many wineries that offer a good selection of wines. 

This Wine Trail is adorned with a unique microclimate suitable for the production of the types of fruit that are used to create its fine wines. 

When you plan a visit, get ready for all you will see and experience.

This Is because this New York Trail contains more than just a few rows of grapes growing.

It’s a perfectly clean space composed of more vineyards than you could possibly imagine.

A tour of the Niagara Wine Trail will show you the uniqueness of wine and grapes.

Furthermore, there’re also events like wine pairing dinner, the Harvest Festival, and the Niagara USA Wine Festival.

19. Buffalo River History Tours

Buffalo River History Tours

One of the exciting things to do in Buffalo is Buffalo River History Tours . 

As a tourist to a new city, you may need to learn about the history of Buffalo.

And this exciting tour happens live cruising in a boat on the Buffalo River.

On these tours, for 90 minutes, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise and a narrated detailed account of the days of the Erie Canal straight through to the present.

Also, you will learn the history of Buffalo as the largest grain port.

While riding down the Buffalo River, you’ll have interesting scenic views of the city.

Additionally, the 48-seat River Queen boat from Buffalo River History Tours provides the perfect setting for breathtaking excursions.

20. Buffalo City Hall

Duncan Leung / Flickr

Buffalo City Hall is the seat of municipal government in Buffalo.

Although the City Hall is the seat of political dealings, it also freely welcomes tourists for the perfect Buffalo experience.

The 32-story Art Deco building was completed in 1931.

 While on the observation deck on the 28th floor, you’ll have a 360 view of the surrounding areas.

The Art Deco design of the building makes it unique.

Although Buffalo City Hall is worth viewing from the ground level, there is lots of fun from inside.

Lastly, in Buffalo City Hall, you’ll have a wonderful and unique buffalo experience that doesn’t cost a cent.

Address: 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

21. Buffalo Pedal Tours

Buffalo Pedal Tours

If you want to tour around Buffalo and catch all the fun available, you should consider the Buffalo pedal tour.

Buffalo Pedal Tours lets you and other riders enjoy the boat ride through pedaling.

Part of the fun-filled activities of the pedal tours is riding around the city.

With a driver in charge of making sure you get a blast experience, pedal tours can be breathtaking.

You can bring along your favorite canned beverage for more fun. Also, you can choose your favorite playlist.

When you hop on Buffalo Pedal Tours across the city, it offers you an opportunity to see great dining sites, stunning buildings, and the general beauty of the city.

On Buffalo Pedal Tours, you’ll get around the city and have some great experiences.

Address: 93 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

22. Allentown Historic District

The Allentown Historic District

Allentown Historic District is a neighborhood in Buffalo; this neighborhood is good both for residential and fun making. 

And as a result, it’s impressive for its residential and commercial value.

In this neighborhood, you’ll come in contact with the best of Buffalo culture.

Being one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buffalo, Allentown has made its mark in the history of New York.

The collection of brick houses has classic designs.

There are lots of activities for anyone looking for something lively to do in New York.

Furthermore, Allentown has one of the most exciting music venues in Buffalo.

23. Burchfield Penney Art Center

The Burchfield Penney Art Center

Burchfield Penney Art Center is an art and educational institution Center and part of Buffalo state college.

Located adjacent to the main campus in Buffalo, this Art Center is a place to visit for all lovers of art.

The center features a museum, an activity space for the arts, and a library.

Although formerly dedicated to the art and vision of American painter Charles E. Burchfield, it now contains artworks of various noble artists in the United States.

Some of these artists include Gloria Plevin, Chuck Tingley, and Patrick Foran. 

Even if those names seem unfamiliar, there’s no cause for worry.

As the works of these contemporary artists showcase every aspect of Buffalo and the region’s rich cultural activity.

Interestingly, admission to the Burchfield Penney Art Center is very affordable.

It is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for students, and free for children.

Address: 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, United States

24. Pearl Street Grill & Brewery

Bruce Gage / Flickr

One of the best restaurants in Buffalo, where you’ll be treated to mouthwatering delicacies, is Pearl Street Grill & Brewery .

At this restaurant, you’ll enjoy some of the best beer and most delicious food in Buffalo.

This entire building consists of four floors with nine full bars.

On top are fantastic craft beers like Blue-eyed Blueberry Blonde and  Trainwreck Amber Ale.

Every beer has a distinct and complex taste.

The menu also suits the beer really well.

Furthermore, delicacies like onion rings, stuffed peppers, and steak sandwiches are the best options with your tasty brews.

Lastly, visiting this restaurant will make your trip to Buffalo fun-filled.

Address: 76 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

25. Forest Lawn Cemetery 

The Forest Lawn Cemetery

Forest Lawn Cemetery is a historic Cemetery in Buffalo, New York.

When you are on a trip to Buffalo, you’ll discover that the essential activities aren’t always the most fun activities.

Buffalo is full of fun things to do that keep you excited, and not only that, there are also places like Forest Lawn Cemetery.

At this Buffalo cemetery, you can visit the graves of some of the most influential people in American culture.

These include president Millard Fillmore and his first lady, civil rights legend Mary Burnett Talbert, congresswoman Shirley Anita Chisholm, and musician Rick James.

All of these have added an unforgettable impact on the history of this great country.

Although these souls have departed the physical realm, we can still remember their impact on our country and honor them.

You can pay your respects and reflect on the life well lived at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Lastly, It’s one of the places in Buffalo for showing reverence for lives gone ahead.

Address: 1411 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209, United States

26. Shea’s Performing Arts Center

Shea’s Performing Arts Center

For lovers of music, Shea’s Performing Arts Center is a cool place to visit in Buffalo.

It’s a theater for musicals and special events.

Although it was opened in 1926 mainly to show Silent movies, today, it remains one of the few theaters in operation in the building for which it was designed.

The architecture of this theater stands out among its peers in New York, and the theater is adorned with great decoration and comfortable seats.

This lovely old theater offers you an excellent opportunity to experience Buffalo at its grandiose. 

While at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, you’ll enjoy quality music and movies with an ambiance atmosphere.

The sound system of the theater is impeccable, and its clarity is spot on.

Besides, the Arts Center is large enough for its stage facilities to accommodate larger touring productions.

Aside from being a successful performance center, it hosts special events such as 43 North finals and Nutcrackers.

It will be worth the time!

Address: 650 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

27. Tifft Nature Preserve

Anthony Morganti / Flickr

To experience want a nature park looks like, you must visit Tifft Nature Preserve .

This nature Preserve consists of 264 acres of restored habitat where different kinds of species can be sighted.

It’s a special stopover for waterfowl and migratory raptor species.

In 1998, this Preserve was identified as an important Bird Area by Audubon.

Tifft Nature Preserve features attractions such as Birdwatching, snowshoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing.

During the Birdwatching activity, you’ll be thrilled to see beautiful bird species like tree swallows, horned owls, waterfowl, and raptors.

Also, there are educational displays to equip visitors with the history of the preserve and other informative programs.

The restrooms look great, and there are other facilities like event space.

Address: 1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

Start Your Trip to Buffalo

Buffalo, New York, is a place full of activities.

A trip to Buffalo is all you need to experience the culture and history of New York City.

There are tons of fun things to do and see all day of the week, in and out of Buffalo. 

Even on the weekend, this city welcomes tourists and offers them opportunities comparable to other big cities in the United States.

Therefore, plan your trip to Buffalo today.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

12 Best Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

Located at the eastern end of Lake Erie, Buffalo is a fantastic place to live or vacation with lots of tourist attractions for visitors to check out. New York’s second-largest city Buffalo boasts a wealth of wonderful museums and pretty outdoor spaces with the world renowned Niagara Falls also not far away.

The city suffered greatly from deindustrialization, but in recent years its downtown and waterfront areas have been revitalized. As such, visitors can now find brilliant performing arts centers and art galleries alongside amazing architectural marvels and interesting historic sites.

Aside from delving into the city’s rich heritage and enjoying its thriving cultural scene, other things to do in Buffalo include watching one of its professional sports teams play or explore its pulsating nightlife. Much more than just Buffalo wings and cold winter weather, rejuvenated Buffalo is definitely well worth visiting if you have the chance.

12. Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens

Set just fifteen minutes drive south of the center are the beautiful Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens. Located within South Park, its lovely landscaped grounds and gardens are a treat to stroll around.

Established in the late 1800s, its huge collection of exotic plants occupies a striking Victorian-style glass and steel tri-domed conservatory. Based on both Crystal Palace and Kew Gardens Palm House in the UK, it houses everything from orchids and bromeliads to water features, a rainforest section, and collections of cacti and carnivorous plants.

Its outdoor gardens are just as delightful to explore as picturesque paths take you past an arboretum, butterfly garden, and children’s area with temporary exhibits and events also regularly taking place.

11. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site

A fascinating place to visit, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site can be found just five minutes drive north of the city center. Now a museum, it protects the elegant Ansley Wilcox House, which is where the renowned statesman was unexpectedly sworn in as 26th President of the United States on September 14, 1901.

Inside the gorgeous Greek Revival-style building, guests can find interesting exhibits on the life and legacy of the former President. There are also informative displays about the shocking events that led to his inauguration. These tell the story of his predecessor William McKinley’s assassination at the Pan-American Exposition and how Roosevelt rushed to Buffalo to hurriedly be named President.

While on tours of the infamous inauguration site, you can not only visit the library where he took the oath but see artifacts from the Exposition and some of the President’s personal possessions.

10. KeyBank Center

If you’re after exciting sports events and entertainment, then make sure to visit the KeyBank Center in downtown. Located alongside the Buffalo River, it is the home of the Buffalo Sabres who play in the National Hockey League with countless other sports, concerts, and events taking place each year.

Built in 1996, it is the largest indoor arena in the area with its multi-purpose design meaning it can just as easily put on fast and frenetic ice hockey matches as adrenaline-packed American football, basketball, and lacrosse games. Thanks to its layout, every seat is guaranteed a fantastic view while its steep stands make for an awesome atmosphere.

In addition to sporting events and wrestling competitions, the state-of-the-art center also regularly hosts concerts by big name artists such as Kanye West, Rihanna, and Justin Bieber.

9. Forest Lawn

The colossal cemetery of Forest Lawn lies just a ten minute drive north of the center. Although it is home to thousands of mausoleums, monuments, and sculptures, it looks more like a park than a graveyard as paths and ponds are dotted about its scenic confines.

Founded in 1849, it now covers a huge area with the rural cemetery’s delightful design and layout being modeled on the famous Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. As such, its rows of weathered graves and majestic monuments can be found amid lush lawns and beneath leafy trees, with the cemetery’s rolling hills and valleys only adding to its appealing aesthetic.

Now the final resting place of numerous influential figures from both the city and the States’ past, Forest Lawn perfectly mixes art with nature with stunning scenery and striking sculptures wherever you look.

8. Shea’s Performing Arts Center

Another popular thing to do when in Buffalo is to catch a scintillating show at Shea’s Performing Arts Center. Located right in the heart of town, its campus now has three fabulous theaters for you to check out that put on brilliant Broadway productions, plays, and more by a whole host of local and internationally renowned theater companies.

The crown jewel of both the campus and the city’s Theater District is undoubtedly Shea’s Buffalo Theater which first opened in 1926 and showed silent movies. Wonderfully well-preserved, it boasts a grand marble-clad lobby with an enormous and elegant balcony, ornate chandeliers, and a richly decorated ceiling overlooking its lavish stage and seating areas.

While watching a show here makes for a memorable experience, both Shea’s Smith and the 710 Theatre put on awesome spectacles with unforgettable stand-up comedy nights, dance shows, and theater performances.

7. Pierce-Arrow Museum

Just a short stroll southeast of the center you can find the splendid Pierce-Arrow Museum. Home to classic cars, artifacts and exhibits, it offers a fascinating look at the important role Buffalo played in the early days of the automotive industry.

Founded in 1997, the museum now occupies several buildings downtown with countless shiny cars, vintage bicycles, and amazing old motorcycles scattered about its showroom. While most are from the Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Company, many other makes and models are displayed alongside interesting exhibits on the history and evolution of the automobile industry.

The highlight is certainly its full scale replica of a 1927 filling station designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright himself.

6. Albright-Knox Art Gallery

Home to an astounding array of impressive artworks, the excellent Albright-Knox Art Gallery can be found just ten minutes drive north of the center. Popular with locals and tourists alike, its endless art-filled galleries lie at the western end of Delaware Park amid lush grounds and gardens.

One of the oldest public arts institutions in the country, it was established in 1862 with its huge collection now occupying a massive and majestic Greek Revival-style building. In total, it displays over 6,500 works with everything from abstract expressionism and pop art to cubist, surrealist, and post-impressionist styles on show.

Aside from seeing masterpieces by big names such as Picasso, Monet and van Gogh among others, visitors can also stroll about the dozens of stupendous sculptures that dot its lawns outside.

5. Buffalo Zoo

At the other end of Delaware Park you can find the magnificent Buffalo Zoo, which has long been one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Opened in 1875, it contains all kinds of incredible animals with everything from rhinos and tigers to sloths, sea lions, and spectacled bears on show.

A firm favorite with families, its spacious enclosures and educational exhibits contain over a thousand mammals and birds, reptiles, and amphibians. You’ll learn all about the animals’ natural habitats and behavior in the wild through informative displays and zookeeper demonstrations.

Besides scenic sections, such as Rainforest Falls and Otter Creek, the nation’s third-oldest zoo also offers amazing animal encounters where you can meet, feed and photograph your favorite furry friend.

4. Buffalo City Hall

Exhibiting exquisite Art Deco-style architecture, the breathtaking Buffalo City Hall rises dramatically above downtown far below. The city’s standout symbol and sight, it is a treat to tour around with beautiful features to be found both inside and out.

One of the largest and tallest municipal buildings in the States, it was erected in 1931 and towers to a staggering 396 feet in height. Its enormous exterior’s geometric design and decorative statues and friezes make for a striking sight, while its interior also boasts refined council chambers and a gorgeous stained-glass window ceiling.

In addition to visiting the mayor’s office and seeing some of the fine features that coat its thirty-two floors, guests can venture out onto its observation deck that offers divine views of the city with Niagara Falls to be spotted far off in the distance.

3. Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park

Lying on the shores of Lake Erie, the brilliant Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park can be found just a short stroll from the center. Besides decommissioned US Naval vessels, the museum has interesting artifacts and exhibits for you to explore on the history of the American Navy.

First opened to the public in 1979, it now contains a captivating collection of vessels, vehicles, and aircraft with uniforms and equipment, medals, and military memorabilia on show. While its displays are very well done, the highlight is of course exploring its former Naval vessels that include the USS Little Rock, the USS The Sullivans and the USS Croaker.

On top of wandering about the inside of the cruiser, destroyer and submarine, guests can visit its moving Monuments Garden with an awesome Maritime Simulator experience also on offer.

2. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

To the east of Delaware Park is yet another of Buffalo’s must-see tourist attractions: the marvelous Martin House. Designed by the world-famous Frank Lloyd Wright, the complex showcases some stunning Prairie School architecture and is regularly ranked among his most important and impressive works.

Built between 1902 and 1905, Martin House is undoubtedly the complex’s standout sight due to its unusually large size, open plan layout and its intricate details and design. Named after businessman Darwin Martin who commissioned the whole project, it is connected to various other buildings on the property, such as a conservatory, carriage house, and gardener’s cottage.

Now a National Historic Landmark, the complex is lovely to tour around with arresting architecture, fabulous furnishing, and gorgeous gardens wherever you go.

1. Niagara Falls

One of the Earth’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, Niagara Falls lies just half an hour’s drive to the north of Buffalo. Straddling the border between Canada and the US, it makes for one of the most spectacular sights imaginable. Phenomenal views, photos and boat trips can all be enjoyed at the wonderful waterfall.

Impressively stretching over 3,200 feet in length, the famous fall is actually made up of three different ones, the largest of which is Horseshoe Falls. Next to it you can see both American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls with the humongous waterfall reaching up to 165 feet in height at its highest point.

Due to its staggering size and scale, Niagara Falls is not to be missed when in town. Its endless wall of water makes for some fantastic photos with unforgettable boat trips to be had at the foot of the falls.

Map of Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Buffalo’s Best Hidden Gems

As someone from Toronto , Buffalo , New York was always someplace I had heard about but never visited. We drove through it several times but never made a point to explore the city itself. Visitors often overlook Buffalo in favour of bigger cities like New York City and Chicago . But for us Canadians close to the border, Buffalo has one big draw: cross-border shopping . Last weekend, we set out on a missing to bring home a big Trader Joe’s haul! They have an amazing selection that just can’t be brought home in airplane luggage. But rather than just make a quick day trip, we opted for an entire weekend getaway.

What we found throughout the weekend truly surprised us. As well as everyone else we shared our trip with. We discovered that behind the outlet malls and great department stores is a city rich in history, culture, and charm! From the architectural masterpieces of  Frank Lloyd Wright  to the vintage shopping scene and the foodie paradise,  Buffalo is a city that will truly   amaze you . In this guide, we’ll show you how to discover an alternative side to the town and where to find all of Buffalo’s Hidden Gems!

Map of Buffalo’s Hidden Gems

Stay in a Gorgeous Historical Mansion

When we were first planning our trip, we knew we wanted to stay somewhere that made the weekend away worth it. And when I saw the pictures from  InnBuffalo , I fell immediately in love. Staying at this lavish bed and breakfast was perhaps the biggest highlight of the weekend. The InnBuffalo Bed and Breakfast is a historic and charming boutique hotel located in the historic neighbourhood of Elmwood . The house, or rather the mansion , was built in 1898! So you are sleeping inside a piece of Buffalo history. The beautifully restored mansion, now a bed and breakfast, features exquisite architecture, elegant décor, and modern amenities. Everything to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for guests.

Joe, the amiable owner, welcomed us home like we had been lifelong friends. The hospitality here is unrivalled from anywhere I’ve ever travelled. We’ve already started planning our next visit with no plans other than to relax on Joe’s peaceful front porch and read a good book! It’s just that wonderful of a place to stay. The true definition of home away from home.

InnBuffalo Suites

The old home has 13 different guest rooms. Each styled with its own unique decor and furnishings. We stayed in the Art Nouveau East suite on the third floor. It was super spacious, with one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in. The heated marble floors in the bathroom were such a nice touch. Very important in these old buildings that tend to get chilly, especially during the frigid Buffalo winters. Next time, we will be sure to book one of the rooms with a fireplace and bathtub to complete the warm and snuggly experience. Each room came with it’s own little coffee maker, but I loved going downstairs to enjoy my coffee in their antique breakfast room.

Guests at the InnBuffalo can enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast each morning. The breakfast featured freshly baked pastries that you could hear being made in the back kitchen when you came downstairs. The smell of baking scones greeting you good morning. In addition to this, there was fresh fruit, homemade granola, and yogurt. Along with, of course, coffee, tea and fruit juice. Sitting in their sumptuously decorated dining room and enjoying this delicious breakfast was the perfect way to start the day! But it did make it hard to want to leave. Remember to book direct to save 15% !

Discover Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House

While researching the trip to Buffalo, I was amazed that in 2019, one of Frank Lloyd Wright ‘s housing masterpieces had just finished its multi-million dollar restoration. And it was finally open to the public! I jumped at the opportunity to explore another of his homes and booked the tickets immediately.

History of the Darwin Martin House

If you’re a fan of architecture, then you must visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House . The Darwin Martin House was originally designed by Wright in 1904 for businessman Darwin Martin and his family. The Darwin Martin House comprises several interconnected structures. The main house stretches out, not up, in comparison to the other surrounding Victoria-style nhouses. Reaching like limbs across the property. Its long, outdoor covered walkway connects the main house to the conservatory, a carriage house and a gardener’s cottage.

The main house features an open-plan living and dining area, a library with hidden bookshelves, and several bedrooms and bathrooms. You are given free rein to explore each room on the guided tour, with no velvet ropes separating you from the home. Just don’t sit on any of the old furniture.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Design Style

The house features Wright’s signature Prairie School architectural style. These designs are characterized by horizontal lines, low-pitched roofs, and integration of the home with the surrounding landscape. Wright utilized over 400 different types of art glass throughout the house, creating a stunning interplay of light and colour. The house also features intricate woodwork, including over 300 pieces of furniture designed by Wright.

The Decline and Potential Destruction of the House

Sadly, after the Wall Street Crash of 1929, the Martin family lost most of their family fortune. When Martin died in 1936, during the Great Depression, his wife wanted to sell the house to recoup her own growing personal expenses. But she found that trying to sell such an expensive house was impossible. Instead of continuing to search for find buyers, Mrs. Martin just walked out the front door. Literally leaving the house unlocked and open to squatters and the elements. It quickly deteriorated with no one there to take care of it. Entire parts of the house were destroyed and eventually totally torn down to make room for other potential properties. It wouldn’t be long before nothing was left except the memories…

After his death in 1959, Frank Lloyd Wright’s houses became architectural treasures. And those that weren’t already owned were hidden gems. But the Darwin House was in rough shape, and no one thought it could be saved. But in 1992, the Martin House Restoration Corporation was formed and began a massive undertaking to restore the house to its former glory.

The Great Restoration

The restoration of the Darwin Martin House was a significant undertaking. The project took over 20 years to complete and cost millions upon millions of dollars. During this time, the project team conducted extensive research to understand every tiny detail from the original designs. Aiming to preserve and restore this iconic architectural masterpiece to its original condition. The restoration process involved enlisting all different types of artists. From stained art glass makers, to masons, carpenters and woodworkers.

The result of their efforts is a beautifully restored masterpiece that showcases the talent and vision of Frank Lloyd Wright. Perhaps the greatest American architect. Visitors can now experience the house for themselves. With the guided tours, you can explore the fantastic interiors and learn all about the little details that make Frank Lloyd Wright such an illustrious architect.

Explore Buffalo’s Vintage Shopping Scene

Now, it’s time for some shopping! But not the kind you usually think of. Let’s head out to explore Buffalo’s thriving vintage and antique shopping scene. Perfect for those who love unique finds. You can find everything from retro clothing to bygone furniture in Buffalo’s vintage shops. Hertel Avenue in North Park , is a haven for vintage enthusiasts with numerous boutiques and shops. The Antique Lamp Co. is a magical little shop overflowing with vintage lamps and retro-inspired decorations. Queen City Vintage has some of Buffalo’s best vintage sports apparel if you love a good retro tee. And for a rummage around a labyrinth of unique and one-of-a-kind antiques, check out Queen City Antiques!

If you’re a serious antique furniture and art lover, head to the secretive  COOCOOU  antique warehouse. This place is located in the North part of Buffalo in what I would otherwise have thought to be an abandoned warehouse. But walking inside, you suddenly find a treasure trove of high-end vintage designer furniture. All stacked on top of each other, vying for space and attention. I saw a Herman Miller chair, tons of authentic mid-century pieces and some drool-worthy art. Even if you can’t afford anything (like me), it’s worth exploring, almost like going to a museum!

See a Movie at the Old North Park Theatre

Also, in the North Park neighbourhood is where we find the old  North Park Theatre . A historic movie theatre that was built here way back in 1920! It was initially constructed to screen silent movies. But after years of neglect, it has since been restored and renovated to its former glory! Today, the theatre shows a mix of classic and contemporary films and often hosts special events like local film festivals and more.

North Park’s iconic Art Deco marquee was installed in 1941 and is still, to this day, one of the highlights of driving through this neighbourhood. Along with the marquee, the interiors have also been lovingly cared for. The beautiful and ornate Art Deco designs, featuring intricate plasterwork, vibrant stained glass, and other decorative elements, all make you feel like you’ve gone back in time to when going to the movies was an elegant affair. North Park Theatre is a must-visit destination for movie lovers and anyone interested in the history of cinema. Check out the showtimes to see what’s playing when you’re in town!

Indulge in Buffalo’s Foodie Paradise

Buffalo is a city that takes its food seriously! And you’ll find plenty of delicious options. But if you’re visiting Buffalo for the first time, you should make a point to order the most famous food to come out of the city. And that is, you might have guessed it, Buffalo Wings . Yes, this staple menu item found in pubs and bistros all over the world was first invented right here in Buffalo. Where it got its name. They were first served at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, which is still open today! The story goes that the bar’s owner, Teressa Bellissimo, created the dish for her son. He and his friends came to the bar looking for a snack. So she took some chicken wings destined for soup, deep-fried them, and coated them in a hot sauce. The wings were an instant hit, and the rest is history. 

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Another popular spot for Buffalo wings is  Duff’s . Duffs has been serving up Buffalo Wings since 1969 and is known for its spicy wing sauce! But my favourite spot for wings is  Allen Burger Venture  or  ABV  to locals. This hip joint might claim to specialize in gourmet burgers and craft beer. But I come here for the wings. Ask to get them “crispy” and to be served with a lemon wedge on the side! That’s the way the Buffalonians eat them. You’ll never eat a Buffalo wing plain again!

Share a Sundae inside Parkside Candy

If you have a sweet tooth, there is no better or more beautiful place to go than  Parkside Candy !  Parkside Candy and ice cream parlour were established back in 1927. From the minute it came onto the scene, it was a beloved local institution. As soon as you walk inside, you’ll immediately be overwhelmed by the charming old-fashioned decor emanating from every corner of the shop. It almost looks like nothing in here has changed a bit since 1927. The store’s decor blends art deco, art nouveau, and classical design together. Elegantly curved stucco ornaments and gold gilding swirl around the walls. Pink roses cover the wallpaper, and then there is the bold black and white tiled floor to create a bit of juxtaposition with the otherwise delicate designs.

The walls are lined with shelves and display cases filled with an impressive variety of candies, chocolates, and other sweets. All are arranged in colourful and eye-catching displays. We bought their sponge toffee, and let me tell you, this is another reason we need to come back ASAP! One of the highlights of Parkside Candy is its vintage ice cream parlour. This is a great spot to sit and relax on a hot summer’s day and enjoy a cool sundae with a cherry on top! Tucked away in their romantic alcoves that surround the store. Just the most darling thing I can imagine.

Relax in the Natural Oasis of the Buffalo Botanical Garden

Buffalo gets its fair share of bad weather, but the city has so many indoor places to come and escape the storms! One of the most amazing is the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens . No matter what time of year, even in the dead of winter, you can come into this glass cathedral to feel the warmth of the summer while strolling through its collection of tropical plants from around the world.

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The garden covers over 11 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits. Its most impressive place to admire is the Palm Dome, a stunning glass-enclosed conservatory. Marvel at the towering palm trees, vibrant orchids, and exotic ferns that seem to emerge from every little nook and cranny. My favourite time of year to visit is the Spring when their tulips bloom in every colour of the rainbow. During the summer, you must check out their fantastical Japanese Garden and Rose Garden, which boasts over 2,500 roses! One can only imagine the perfume-like smell coming from these roses that waft throughout the perfectly manicured gardens.  Absolute heaven.

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Dive into Buffalo’s Street Art Scene

It might surprise you that Buffalo is an up-and-coming destination for street art enthusiasts. The city’s vibrant art scene boasts a range of styles, from abstract murals to thought-provoking political statements. With so much real estate up for grabs, many street artists have been reclaiming parts of the downtown as their living canvas. While Buffalo might not be one of the most walkable cities, we could easily drive from one spot to the next. Hopping out of the car to look at some of the most memorable pieces. 

One of the best murals to see is “ Wildflowers for Buffalo ” by artist Louise Jones , also known as Ouizi . The massive mural spans the side of a building and depicts a vibrant array of wildflowers. Aiming to highlight the beauty of nature in an urban environment. The piece has become a beloved landmark in the city and is a must-see for anyone visiting Buffalo. For more info on where on to find street art in Buffalo, check out this site !

Discover the Downtown Architecture

One of the most surprising things about our trip to Buffalo was driving through the downtown and being in total awe of the architecture. The architecture in downtown Buffalo is a mix of various styles and eras. But wherever you look, you’ll find hidden images of Buffalo’s embedded everywhere you go. It’s like a built in scavenger hunt are you explore.

The most prominent architectural style is Art Deco. Art Deco is characterized by geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and bold, decorative elements. The most impressive of these art deco buildings is  Buffalo City Hall,  which is one of the largest and most impressive Art Deco buildings in the world. Simply wandering along Main Street, you come upon building after building with the most amazing display of architectural decor. 

Be One of the First to see the New AKG Art Museum

If you prefer the indoor approach to art, come June 2023, you NEED to make your way over to the Buffalo AKG Art Museum . In 2019, the museum underwent a major renovation project that cost over $160 million and took over five years to complete. The renovation added a new wing to the museum and updated much of the museum’s original 1905 building.

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But one of the most significant changes was reconfiguring the museum’s outdoor space, which was transformed into a public park with walking paths, a reflecting pool, and a new public sculpture garden. Sculpture gardens are one of the most interesting art forms to me as you can enjoy beautiful natural environments while surrounded by stunning works of art. There is just something about viewing art outside that brings the experiences to another level.

Inside the museum, you can see their vast modern and contemporary art collection. Same art but featured inside a brand new building. This includes works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock.

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Feel Like a Kid Again Riding the Buffalo Heritage Carousel

If you want whimsical fun, head to the riverside  Buffalo Heritage Carousel . The Buffalo Heritage Carousel is a stunning piece of historical art that brings a smile to everyone who walks through the doors. The old carousel features 48 hand-carved wooden animals located along the Buffalo Waterfront’s Canalside. Each one is meticulously hand-painted and unique, allowing every rider to choose an animal that speaks to them. 

The carousel also features a beautiful, hand-painted mural that depicts iconic Buffalo landmarks and symbols, including the Buffalo City Hall and the grain elevators. When the carousel was recently restored, it was also given a special update to make it more accessible for anyone in a wheelchair or mobility aid. Love seeing these additions to ensure everyone can ride the carousel.

Wurlitzer Band Organ

As the carousel spins round and round, you get to listen to the amazing nostalgic sounds of the rare  Wurlitzer  band organ that plays nearby. The Rudolph Wurlitzer Company initially manufactured the band organ in the early 1900s. Wurlitzer’s were originally designed to replicate the sound of a live band. The drums and cymbals are mechanically operated by the organ’s paper rolls. The music was so surprising when it first started. It sounded so realistic, and I was amazed at how rich the effect was on a machine over 100 years old.

One of the most wonderful things about the Carousel is that it costs only a dollar to ride! That is almost unheard of in this economy but a wonderful surprise to those looking for inexpensive entertainment for their kids. It’s only open on the weekends , so remember that when planning your trip!

Tour a Haunted Asylum

The  Richardson Olmsted Campus   is a sprawling 90-acre complex of Gothic-style buildings once home to a state-of-the-art psychiatric hospital. Today, the campus has been transformed into, of all things, a modern boutique hotel. It invites visitors to sleep inside what were once hospital wards of criminally insane patients. While the hotel has done all it can to separate itself from any notion of being “haunted,” it only takes visiting the campus to see why it is viewed by many as one of the most haunted places in Buffalo.

A multimillion-dollar renovation transformed a portion of the main building into the  Hotel Henry.  But, this hotel closed shortly after opening, citing the pandemic as the primary reason. But one only has to wonder if the ghosts were the ones who wanted them out. The building was recently repurchased and renamed The  Richardson Hotel.  It still welcomes visitors to stay the night, but you might find yourself sharing the room with some unwanted visitors…

Are There Really Ghosts that Haunt the Halls?

If you opt to take a guided tour, you can go inside a few of the still-untouched buildings. You only have to see some pictures from the interior buildings to understand why it is no surprise that people find it sends chills down their spine. But the architecture is also, eerily, some of the most beautiful in Buffalo. One of the main building’s most captivating but strange facets is the two enormous towers that rise high above the rest of the complex. Towers are mainly built to house bells or lookouts, but these are totally empty and merely ornamental. With nothing but platforms and ladders inside to help maintain the roof. Which feels very bizarre all in itself.

Those not brave enough to spend the night can take a self-guided tour of the old campus grounds. While the tour mostly focuses on the beauty and architectural history of the campus, it only takes a keen observer to start to notice the creepy nature of the abandoned buildings falling about at the seams.

History of Asylums

Asylums were originally set up as safe spaces for the mentally ill to seek wellness. But over time, these places became overpopulated. The building was originally meant for 600 patients, but over 3000 were housed inside. Rumours of doctors experimenting with extreme treatments on these helpless patients still remain. Creating this mythology of pain and suffering permeating throughout the walls.

Tours are available from May through October and run about an hour and thirty minutes long. They sell out quickly, so buy your tickets as soon as possible. Again, they won’t touch on ghost sightings, but you can fill in the blanks where you want.

Grab a Flight at a Local Brewery

Buffalo has a thriving brewery scene. The city’s rich history of brewing dates back to the 19th century. Back then, German immigrants came into the city in droves, bringing their brewing traditions. Today, Buffalo’s brewery scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Various breweries all over town offer everything from unique flavours to a joyful atmosphere. The perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring.

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One of the must-visit breweries in Buffalo is  Resurgence Brewing Company . In a historic warehouse on the West Side of Buffalo, Resurgence offers a range of beers brewed right on-site! Everything from strong IPAs, stouts, and sour ales. The brewery has a lively and welcoming atmosphere, live music, and delicious local cuisine. You can also try out  Thin Man Brewery . This brewery in Elmwood is more bohemian with a fun, inclusive, and forward-thinking approach to craft beer.

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Buffalo is a city full of surprises and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. From catching a movie at the North Park Theatre to exploring the street art scene or marvelling at the beauty of the Frank Lloyd Wright Darwin Martin House, there’s something for everyone in Buffalo.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring these hidden gems for yourself! You never know what kind of adventure you might stumble upon in this dynamic city. And if you have any other favourite hidden gems in Buffalo, be sure to share them with us in the comments below.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

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Best Things to Do in Buffalo New York: The Ultimate Guide

Posted on Published: January 30, 2024  - Last updated: January 31, 2024

Categories Blog , City Guides , New York , Travel Guides , United States

There are so many fun things to do in Buffalo NY that I know you’ll love. Even though Buffalo is known to us Canadians as a place to hop across the border to go shopping at outlet malls or attending hockey games, there are so many things to see in Buffalo outside of that. In fact, I’m not even going to mention a single outlet mall or hockey arena in this entire travel blog post.

Buffalo has been undergoing a massive revitalization for several years now, with new businesses and community spaces opening at a quick pace. There’s such a buzz in the city as it continues to change by the moment.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

We stayed in brand new, unique hotels and there are so many unique restaurants popping up all over the place. Here’s a quick overview of some of the best things to do in Buffalo:

• Unique ways to go cycling
• Amazing architecture and history
• Art galleries and street art viewing
• Visiting restaurants and craft breweries
• Fantastic events and live music

Needless to say, Buffalo surprised us. We were wowed and enchanted by the city. While it’s very exciting for the locals, Buffalo’s rebirth provides new reasons for tourists to travel there. With so many attractions and activities in Buffalo, it’s a worthy destination to add to your bucket list.

In this Buffalo travel guide, we’re going to show you the most unique things to do in Buffalo, and exactly what to do in Buffalo for a memorable city break.

Table of Contents

Fun Things to Do in Buffalo: Cycling (Three Ways!)

Did you know that there’s more than one way to go cycling in the city of Buffalo? You can probably guess the first way – on a standard bicycle. One of the most fun things to do in Buffalo NY is going water biking! Haven’t heard of water biking? Let us show you what it’s all about.

Water Bikes of Buffalo

We rented water bikes from Water Bikes of Buffalo , and it’s one of the most fun things to do in Buffalo, NY. It’s essentially a bicycle on top of a floating platform that enables you to glide across the water. Justin and I pedaled down the canal on our water bikes, admiring the scenery as we embraced the slight waves caused by passing boats.

It’s not only an original activity to try, but the scenery is truly one of a kind. Drift past old grain elevators, a giant naval ship, and even out towards a lighthouse along the shores of Lake Erie. This is one of the most unique things to do in Buffalo as I haven’t seen it anywhere else before.

Water bikes are rented out by the hour during the summer months. Although we didn’t try it, there are even tandem water bikes – just in case you’re interested in trying to make your partner do all the legwork (just kidding!).

Cycling in Buffalo

With a revitalized waterfront and lengthy paved paths, going for a bike ride is an excellent way to savour stunning views of Lake Erie. You can rent bikes by the hour to explore urban trails, nature preserves, and marinas. Buffalo’s Outer Harbor connects with other local trail systems, and there’s even a bike ferry to help you get around town.

Justin and I discovered Wilkeson Pointe, a hill topped with wind sculptures that has sweeping views of Lake Erie and the Buffalo skyline. We continued our journey towards Buffalo Harbor State Park, a green space where you can watch the boats sail by.

I can also suggest going on a bike tour around this area to travel around with an experienced guide. On this Buffalo waterfront bike tour , you’ll get to see all of the best spots and learn about the history of the city, too. Riding bikes is one of the most fun things to do in Buffalo, whether you take self-guided tours or a guided one.

Ice Biking in Buffalo

Have you ever tried ice biking in the winter months? It’s a bicycle outfitted to be maneuvered across ice. We all know that Buffalo receives some snowy and icy weather, so we may as well make the most of the wintery conditions. It’s also one of the most unique things to do in Buffalo and anywhere for that matter. I haven’t seen this ice activity anywhere else.

Check out Ice Bikes of Buffalo for more details about one of the most unique things to do in Buffalo. This is operated by the same company who runs Water Bikes of Buffalo, except this is their winter operation. Who said you can’t bike in the winter? It just shows that there are plenty of things to do in Buffalo all year long.

Attractions in Buffalo NY: The Architecture

Buffalo is a city famous for its architecture. The buildings designed here were a new form of American architecture and influenced new designs throughout the world. There are buildings here produced by famous architects, such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, and H.H. Richardson.

Although you can wander around and explore the buildings on your own, it’s best to join a tour so you can learn from an expert. One of the best attractions in Buffalo is its architecture, so it’s not to be missed. It’s one of the best things to do in downtown Buffalo and beyond.

Explore Buffalo Architecture Tour

Taking a walking tour is the best way to familiarize yourself with the architecture in downtown Buffalo. Explore Buffalo operates their architecture tours several times a week. While you used to be able to simply show up, you now need to make reservations in advance through their website.

Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and answered any questions that we had. We mostly wandered around outdoors, although we did venture inside a few of the buildings to see various interior architectural styles. If you’re a history buff, you’ll adore this tour.

Along the way, we examined and admired several prominent buildings, including the Guaranty Building, the Old Post Office, the Ellicott Square Building, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Notably, Hotel Lafayette was designed by Louise Blanchard Bethune, the first known female architect in the United States.

The tour lasts approximately two hours and costs $16 per person. It was not only a great way to see the brilliant architectural gems around Buffalo, but it really helped us to familiarize ourselves with the city. It’s one of the best activities in Buffalo that’s in this Buffalo travel guide.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House Complex

For fans of architecture, one excellent reason to travel to Buffalo is to witness Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterful project, the Darwin D. Martin House . This home was built in the early 1900s, and it’s considered to be one of his greatest works. This is one of the best places to visit in Buffalo for those who love history, too.

Every detail of this large Prairie home was carefully planned, including every piece of furniture. There are six connected buildings in total, including a long pergola that leads to a conservatory. The house contains nearly 400 examples of Frank Lloyd Wright’s originally designed art glass, including the “Tree of Life” window.

Even though it’s full of so much American history, the home surprisingly sat abandoned and empty for many years. Sadly, it became damaged and some buildings were completely destroyed. Thankfully, it’s been restored to its earlier glory. In 1986, the Martin House Complex was declared a National Historic Landmark.

We’ve never visited a home quite like this one. In fact, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Buffalo. Justin and I really enjoyed exploring this site and learning all about its history. Whether you’re a fan of architecture or just a little bit curious, it’s well worth spending an hour or two walking around the Martin House Complex. If you’re looking for Buffalo trip ideas, definitely add this one to your list.

What to Do in Buffalo: Experience the Craft Beer Scene

The microbrewery scene is alive and well in Buffalo. Many of these breweries have unique elements and stories. You simply must sample as many varieties of beer as you can while you’re visiting. Drinking beer is one of the best things to do in Buffalo. Here are the best breweries in Buffalo to visit while you’re there, and here are a few memorable favorites of ours.

Resurgence Brewing Company

Resurgence Brewing Company features a taproom and a large beer garden on site. They offer many rotating styles of beer, as well as a few favorites that are always available. You’ll always find their signature Resurgence IPA at the brewery. Also on tap, the Sponge Candy Stout and Loganberry Wit are original classics at the brewery.

Resurgence’s name is quite fitting. After the brewery opened, the neighborhood continues to experience a resurgence in life. It’s even a metaphor for Buffalo as a whole as it undergoes many positive changes.

Riverworks Brewing Company

Riverworks Brewing Company is the first brewery in the world to operate inside a grain silo. Although branded on the exterior as a Labatt Blue silo, Riverworks brews the beer inside the silo and serves it up at the base of it (the Silo Bar). We sampled the Wheeler Wheat (a traditional German Hefeweizen brewed with wheat and barley), and it was super refreshing.

Riverworks also finds a second interesting way to utilize the old grain silos. There is a rock climbing all on the outside of one set of silos, with one going as high as 50 feet. Justin and I tried climbing the silos – before we drank the beer, of course! It was quite windy that afternoon, on the verge of raining. It made the climb a little scarier and certainly more challenging!

Big Ditch Brewing Company

Big Ditch Brewing Company is one of my favorite breweries in Buffalo. The name “Big Ditch” refers to the Erie Canal, back when the locals were skeptical that it would ever be constructed. However, this “Big Ditch” brought business and prosperity to Buffalo for decades.

I sampled a flight of five beers, including some seasonal ales mixed in with the classics: the Berliner Weisse, Blonde Peach, Cinnamon Apple, FC (Fantastically Crushable), and Fresh Baked. My vote for the best beer goes to the Blonde Peach by far, where they use loads of real peaches in the brewing process.

Best Things to Do in Buffalo: Music and Events

While you’ll likely be busy all day when you travel to Buffalo, save some energy for the evening. Buffalo has a happening nightlife scene, with several places to hang out and meet new people. If you’re looking for what to do in Buffalo, be sure to head out in the evening for a night on the town.

The people of Buffalo are quite friendly and take pride in their community, so you’ll likely make some new friends while you’re there. And visiting all of these places are really fun things to do in Buffalo at night (and some of them in the day, too). Here are a few nightlife hot spots around town.

Larkin Square

While Larkin Square is open all day long, there are plenty of nighttime activities to check out. It’s the heart of Larkinville with loads of free community events. Food Truck Tuesdays runs every week from 5pm – 8pm. There are also lunchtime food trucks on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

During the summer months, there’s a live concert series every Wednesday night. At least two bands perform live, playing their original tunes. Pop over to Hydraulic Hearth if you’re looking for brick oven pizzas or tantalizing specialty cocktails.

Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum

The Colored Musicians Club and Jazz Museum is the only remaining and longest continually operating African American Musicians Club in the United States. Checking out a live performance is one of the best and most unique things to do in Buffalo, NY.

Back in early 1900s, the musicians union in Buffalo refused to allow African Americans to join. A separate union was formed, and a social club developed one year later. Members of the social club spent time there after work, using it as a practice space for band rehearsals. Eventually, the Colored Musicians Club found a permanent home, and this provided members with a sense of community.

Many jazz legends passed through the Colored Musicians Club, like Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald. It is one of the top places to visit in Buffalo without question.

Today, the club promotes the preservation of jazz in Buffalo, as well as detailing the history of jazz through its museum. Right now, the Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum is undergoing a massive renovation, so it’s closed at the moment. It’s going to be incredible when it reopens, stay tuned!

Fun Things to do in Buffalo: View Amazing Art

While I’m not one to typically spend my limited time in a city wandering through museums, I highly recommend that you check out these two art museums in Buffalo. They both display modern art in two completely different and intriguing ways. And they’re right across the street from one another, so you can easily spend an afternoon exploring both of them.

If public art and street art is more your jam, Buffalo has plenty of that too. There are so many fun things to do in Buffalo if you’re an art lover. Here are our top recommendations.

Burchfield Penney Art Center

The Burchfield Penney Art Center is a beautiful museum showcasing the works of artists hailing from Western New York. This includes the largest collection of art by famed artist, Charles E. Burchfield. Highlights include works in the Charles E. Burchfield Rotunda, and a recreation of his personal studio.

In addition to the permanent collection, there are rotating special exhibitions. There’s truly always something new and interesting to discover at Burchfield Penney, so you can visit multiple times and it will feel like a new experience.

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Across the street, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum (formerly the Albright-Knox Art Gallery) features an extraordinary collection of contemporary and modern art. You’ll find works spanning decades at the museum, covering movements like Impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, and contemporary art of the 21st century.

Admire works by favorite artists like Andy Warhol, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock. Surrounding the museum, there are outdoor sculptures that anyone can view on their own.  Whether you venture inside the museum or not, you can walk around the property and explore almost 20 unique sculptures .

Street Art in Buffalo

One of the best things to do in Buffalo is explore the local street art scene. There are bright and colorful murals painted all over town. Many of them depict themes and imagery that put Buffalo on the map, and some art honors important figures to the city. Check out the murals in the city center or within many of Buffalo’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Here’s our guide to the best murals in Buffalo if you are really interested in street art and want to hunt it all down. There’s a map guiding you to all of the most beautiful murals in that blog post. Discovering street art is one of my favorite things to do in downtown Buffalo and beyond. You’re bound to stumble upon a few if you’re walking around.

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Getting Around Buffalo

We drove to Buffalo and I highly recommend having a car. Renting a car when you’re in Buffalo gives you the freedom to visit all of the best places whenever you like. I suggest comparing car rental prices to find the most affordable rates for your visit.

Where to Stay in Buffalo, New York

We’ve visited Buffalo on a few occasions, so we’ve had the opportunity to personally experience a few hotels. We’ll also post a map with hotel and vacation rental bookings so you can compare every property available. The first few listed here are our personal recommendations.

The Curtiss Hotel

Located right in downtown Buffalo, the Curtiss Hotel is within a historic landmark – the Harlow C. Curtiss building. It’s a very luxurious experience in the heart of Buffalo with high tech rooms – even the toilet comes with a remote control! It’s home to Buffalo’s only year round urban hot springs.

With free Wi-Fi and a rooftop lounge with epic views of the city, you might not even want to leave the hotel. If you’re looking for a swanky, ultra modern hotel at an affordable price (considering all the amenities!), the Curtiss Hotel is where you need to be.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

InnBuffalo off Elmwood

InnBuffalo Off Elmwood is a delightful place to stay in Buffalo, situated in Elmwood Village. It’s a very unique accommodation with an intriguing history. The building is a Victorian home, also known as the Hewitt mansion, converted into a nine room hotel.

Justin and I spent the night in the H.H. Hewitt Master Suite. The room features a king sized bed, comfortable bedding, and luxurious linens. While much of the furnishings are antiques, there are modern amenities like a flatscreen TV with satellite channels, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a Keurig coffee maker in the room. There’s also a complimentary breakfast.

The Richardson Hotel

We stayed at The Richardson Hotel back when it was called Hotel Henry, though I’m so pleased to see it reopen as we thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. It’s a National Historic Landmark set on a campus and 40 acre park designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted.

With its preserved architecture and modern amenities, you’ll stay at one of the most original hotels in the region. This historic site and accommodation describes themselves as a “timeless hotel experience”, and I truly adored staying at this elegant hotel that reminds me a bit of Hogwarts!

More Great Places to Stay

Want to browse more hotels and vacation rentals in Buffalo, New York? Here’s a great map where you can compare prices and locations of various accommodations in Buffalo to find the best rates.

Buffalo Restaurants and Cafes

Buffalo is a haven for vegans and vegetarians. I’ve written a complete vegan restaurant guide to Buffalo if you’d like more details about all of the top plant-based eats in Buffalo. Here’s a brief listing of suggested restaurants and cafes.

Strong Hearts

Strong Hearts is an excellent vegan restaurant in Buffalo to bring your friends, whether they follow a vegan diet or not. This is their second location; the first is a long standing vegan restaurant in Syracuse. The eclectic menu is full of creative, delicious eats, and there’s something for every taste: several kinds of vegan Buffalo wings, mac n cheese, a huge menu of burgers and sandwiches, and more.

Sunshine Vegan Eats

Sunshine Vegan Eats  is another amazing vegan restaurant in Buffalo, NY. Chef Nikki creates incredible plant-based culinary delights that won’t have you missing the meat. Try these vegan twists on American classics, like chicken wings, burgers, chicken and waffles, and more. You can dine in or order for take out or delivery through their website.

Amy’s Place

Amy’s Place  is a vegetarian restaurant in Buffalo with many vegan options. It’s a longstanding veggie spot in Buffalo since 1981. While they have limited hours (Wednesday to Saturday, 5-10pm), make time in your schedule to go to Amy’s Place if you can as it’s such an institution for great food in Buffalo.

Parkside Candy

Yes, Parkside Candy is a candy and chocolate shop, but you’ll be able to find a few vegan chocolates there. The dark chocolate peanut butter cups, dark chocolate peanut clusters, and dark chocolate nonpariels are all dairy-free and super tasty.

Well, what are you waiting for? This city has changed so much over the years, and it’s ready for you. There are so many amazing things to do in Buffalo NY. Choose a completely original hotel, explore the great outdoors, wander through museums, discover great architecture, taste yummy food and craft beer, and so much more.

Justin and I have visited Buffalo on quite a few occasions now since it’s so close to home, just across the border. Even still, there are so many things to see in Buffalo that we’ll return again and again I’m sure!

More Things to Do in Western New York

There are so many fun things to do in Western New York. We visit all the time as we live only a short distance away in the Toronto area. These spots make a really excellent day trip from Toronto, day trip from Buffalo or road trip from elsewhere in the USA and Canada.

• Best Things to Do in East Aurora, NY
• Things to Do in Williamsville, NY
• Fun Things to Do in Buffalo, NY
• Vegan Guide to Buffalo, NY
• Where to Find Street Art in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, NY
• InnBuffalo Off Elmwood: Our Full Review
• Best Breweries in Buffalo
• Eternal Flame Falls in Orchard Park
• Griffis Sculpture Park: One of the Largest Sculpture Parks in the USA

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Thursday 26th of July 2018

I'm a foodie and I'm a Explorer , i eat a lot, explore many things and here whole frame looks gorgeous....each and every food items are just yummy thanks for sharing it will so helpful to me..!

Saturday 7th of July 2018

Wow! Thanks for completely removing my childhood memories of Buffalo. I left there in 1965 and headed to Arizona. When I was young, I remember Buffalo and Niagara Falls as smelling of countless chemical companies. After reading your review I'm going back for at least an extended visit. Thanks so much. This made my day.

Brian, that's amazing! It's safe to say that a LOT has changed since the 60s. You might not even recognize parts of the city anymore. There's so much to see and do, and I'm glad that I've helped to remove the negative stigma for you surrounding the city. Let me know what you think!

Tuesday 3rd of July 2018

I think you may have missed some gems while you were there. Try to visit restaurants and bars on elmwood, sheas theater, pearl street grill or the chocolate bar downtown. Things like devils hole, the roycroft, Ebenezers alehouse, taffys, vidlers, and the galleria are also great axillary locations to the city. And don't forget things like niagara stadium (or whoever owns it now) , Dunn tire park, and ralph wilson stadium which are some of the heart locations to us buffalonians.

Oh, for sure! We were there for 2 nights and I know there's a lot more to be explored :) We still need to come back down for a few more days! Dying to walk around Elmwood more.

Aaron Mason

Friday 13th of April 2018

Thanks for the great article on my city!

-Uber/Lyft are now available around Buffalo/WNY

-The metro rail is free aboveground downtown. It runs along Main Street from the Theatre District to KeyBank Center/Canalside

Come visit us!

Thanks, Aaron! That's cool that you have Uber now! We will be back :)

Monday 5th of March 2018

For best take out pizza, go to imperial. The best you can get

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5 places in the us where you can see wild bison, share this article.

In 2016, bison officially became the national mammal of the United States. While people often confuse these critters with buffalo, some important characteristics distinguish the two. Bison are native to North America and have roamed the continent since prehistoric times. In contrast, “true buffalo” are native to Asia and Africa. Most Americans are at least vaguely aware of the bison’s place in American history, but this animal’s tale stretches back way before European colonizers arrived in North America.

Bison served both symbolic and practical purposes for North American Indigenous communities like the Blackfoot, Lakota, Navajo, and Paiute. Parts of the animal were used for everything from food and clothing to tools and shelter. According to the InterTribal Buffalo Council , an organization of Indigenous tribes advocating for the restoration and preservation of the American bison, the animal is a representation of Indigenous peoples’ spirit, “remind[ing] them of how they once lived free and in harmony with nature.”

Despite a history of European colonizers devastating the American bison population, the species still survives today. Conservation efforts have restored wild bison numbers from about 300 to 31,000 . Witness the glory of this animal’s return at these five spots throughout the U.S. where you can see wild bison.

Yellowstone National Park - Idaho, Montana, Wyoming

As of summer 2022, there were 5,900 bison within Yellowstone National Park . Look for them in places like the Hayden and Lamar valleys. Give the animals plenty of space to avoid hurting them and yourself.

National Bison Range - Montana

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes manage this wildlife conservation area . Visitors can see the local bison population on a tour through the range’s 18,766 acres.

Book Cliffs - Utah

This mountain range between Utah and Colorado is home to a herd of about 400 bison. Some hikers have reported seeing wild horses in the area, too.

Custer State Park - South Dakota

At Custer State Park, guests can usually spot bison roaming along Wildlife Loop Road. The nearby Bison Center offers fascinating displays to teach visitors about the park’s bison herd.

Catalina Island - California

There’s a pretty unique story behind Catalina Island’s bison herd. In 1924, a movie studio reportedly brought bison to the island for filming. Afterward, they left the animals on the island. Today, you can see the bison on a guided expedition .

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Visit Buffalo, USA

Buffalo is New York State's second largest city and is principally known for its early 20th-century architecture.

The city's most significant buildings are the 1928 City Hall, the Guaranty Building and the massive grain elevators that line the shore of Lake Erie.

Delaware Park, the city's smartest suburb, features the Albright-Knox Art Gallery as well as several buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, who also designed two historic homes outside the city: Graycliff with sweeping views over Lake Erie, and the Darwin D. Martin House.

Just west of the town the Lake Erie shoreline is lined with numerous beaches whilst nearby Orchard Park offers the Pedalling History Bicycle Museum, which displays over four hundred antique bicycles.

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Map of buffalo, places & hotels on the map, places near buffalo.

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Happier, more connected neighborhoods start right in the front yard

A front lawn can be a canvas for kitsch, elegance and everything in between.

By CONRAD KICKERT

Associate professor of architecture

and KELLY GREGG

Assistant professor of urban planning

Republished from The Conversation

Published April 17, 2024

A salve for America’s loneliness epidemic could exist right in front of its homes.

Front yards are a staple of many American neighborhoods. Lush plantings, porches or trinkets can capture the attention of passersby and spark conversation. Other lawns say “stay away,” whether it’s through imposing fences or foreboding signs.

But to what extent do yards serve as a window into the people who tend them – and how they feel about their home, neighborhood and city?

In our study  of nearly 1,000 front yards in Buffalo’s Elmwood Village neighborhood, we found that the livelier and more open the front yard, the more content and connected the resident.

Cultivating a sense of place

Our study of front yards is part of a larger investigation into the ways in which American neighborhoods can cultivate a stronger “sense of place,” which refers to the feeling of attachment and belonging one feels to their home, neighborhood and city.

For decades, psychological, geographical and design research has linked sense of place to happier neighborhood residents and stronger ties among neighbors.

We decided to focus on Buffalo’s Elmwood Village for this particular study. There was the convenience factor, of course — we’re both professors at the University at Buffalo. But in 2007, the Elmwood Village had also been honored by the American Planning Association as one of “ 10 Great Neighborhoods in America .”

We wanted to know what set the Elmwood Village apart.

Located north of downtown Buffalo, this leafy neighborhood is famed for its parkways designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who also helped plan New York’s Central Park and Boston’s Emerald Necklace.

Elmwood Avenue is the neighborhood’s commercial heart and is surrounded by a dense blend of single-family and multifamily homes.  In earlier research  we had already shown that the Elmwood Village’s residents have a strong sense of place. They especially appreciated the parkways and the area’s large, historic homes that had been built along tree-lined streets.

But we wanted to know whether residents could also reinforce their own sense of place from their homes, particularly the parts that are visible to all passersby.

In the precious few feet in front of the home, residents can put their values and interests on display, whether it’s garden gnomes, Little Free Libraries, elaborate gardens, sports allegiances and political loyalties.

While hanging out or working from their yards, residents can easily chat with neighbors; in fact, one study found that more than three out of four new neighborhood contacts are made from the front yard.

They’re like bridges to the rest of the neighborhood, where each resident can decide how much they want to express themselves to their neighbors and passersby. At the same time, front yards can also be used to cordon off the home, blocking views or discouraging access with fences, hedges and warnings.

Life in Elmwood’s front yards

In the fall of 2022, we assigned a team of 17 undergraduate environmental design students at UB to observe how residents shaped 984 front yards along 25 blocks in the Elmwood Village.

A pilot study demonstrated the elements they could reliably measure: flags, expressive signs, flower pots, landscaping, toys and games, seats, porches, fences and hedges, and welcoming or unwelcoming signs. We ended up not being able to reliably track lawn care or home maintenance, since each researcher had different opinions on the measures. (Unfortunately, in this particular neighborhood, garden gnomes and Little Free Libraries were too rare to include.)

We then compared data from the students’ fieldwork to responses from surveys we had administered asking residents about their attachment to their homes, neighbors and neighborhood; whether they felt their neighborhood had a strong identity; and if they felt they could connect to nature.

The results proved remarkably consistent. Whether they proudly displayed Buffalo Bills flags or simply had a couple of flowerpots on their front porch, residents who expressed themselves with items in front of their house reported feeling a greater sense of place.

Those with obstructions in place, such as fences and hedges, correlated to a lower sense of place. Interestingly, unwelcoming signs such as “No Trespassing” or “Smile, You’re on Camera” did not.

Even objects as simple as toys or plastic playground gear left out on the front yard seemed to foster a sense of place. To us, this says a couple of things: Homeowners trust that their property won’t get stolen, and parents don’t seem all too concerned about letting their kids play outside with neighborhood friends.

This connects to our strongest result: Elements that facilitate socializing — a garden chair, a porch, a bench — strongly boosted residents’ sense of place in every dimension and scale, whether it was their view of their home, their street or their neighborhood.

In 2007, Buffalo’s Elmwood Village was honored by the American Planning Association as one of "10 Great Neighborhoods in America." Photo: Andre Carrotflower / Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0

Building better neighborhoods

Our study finally validates urbanists’ decades-old contention that lively front yards make better neighborhoods.

And it turns out that places with tiny front yards — or even none at all — can also play along.

One study of Rotterdam, Netherlands, found that the port city’s residents, even with little-to-no space in front of their densely built, urban homes, nonetheless embellished their sidewalks with seats, planters and knickknacks to express themselves. These small gestures strengthened community ties and made residents happier.

In our view, the results of our study should serve as a gentle reminder to architects, planners and developers that when they design homes and neighborhoods, they ought to create spaces for sharing values and conversations in front of homes — to prioritize porches over parking, and canvases for self-expression over saving space or money. While American designers and builders are under enormous pressure to produce more housing, they shouldn’t forget that only residents can turn them into homes.

People have an amazing ability to mold their surroundings to suit their needs — just look at what the citizens of Rotterdam were able to do.

Residents of the Elmwood Village already know this, though. They’re busy organizing their next Porchfest, the annual front-yard arts and music festival that burnishes the neighborhood’s reputation as one of America’s best places to live.

Do you have questions or comments for the Office of the Provost? Let us know your thoughts and we’ll be happy to get back to you.

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2024 NFL Draft Buffalo Bills Top-30 visit tracker

W ith the 2024 NFL Draft fast approaching, it’s time to keep a close eye on headlines to find out those players who are meeting with the Buffalo Bills , and in what capacity.

The Buffalo Rumblings tracker should serve as your one key stop in staying up to date with all the pre-draft visit news coming out of One Bills Drive. As we publish content related to individual draft prospect visits listed below, links directly to those articles will be shared as is relevant.

The Bills , under the direction of general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott, have well-utilized the pre-draft visit process to the benefit of roster construction since their first NFL Draft together in 2018.

Beane and company are bold and daring when it comes to the draft , now considered by many to be “impatient” — instead choosing to move up and/or down the board in any given round as it best benefits them at any moment.

A fair share of the players who meet face-to-face with the Bills in the weeks ahead of draft weekend — whether via the NFL Scouting Combine , pro days, private workouts, virtual (Zoom) meetings, or as part of Buffalo’s 30 pre-draft visits allowed to One Bills Drive) — find themselves selected by One Bills Drive near the end of April.

College football tape can provide an adequate assessment of a player’s potential, but meetings with players in-person help to define the traits that don’t jump out during even the most in-depth film session. These meetings, (formal and informal, within the constructs of larger events, and most significantly via official visits to NFL team headquarters) are an important step in determining if a prospect will be the right fit for the team, personnel-wise and beyond.

Note: This should not be viewed as an exhaustive list. The names and information below are simply what has been reported/leaked to the media.

Buffalo Bills’ 2024 NFL Top-30 Pre-Draft Official Visits

Wide receiver.

• Ryan Flournoy, WR (Southeast Missouri State) ( per Jeremy Fowler ) — Day 3 (Rds. 6/7) draft projection | B.J. Monacelli’s analysis
• Troy Franklin, WR (Oregon) (PLUS: combine, private workout) ( per Ryan Talbot ) — Day 2 (Rds. 2/3) draft projection | B.J. Monacelli’s analysis
• Devontez “Tez” Walker, WR (UNC) ( per Ryan Talbot ) — Day 2/Day 3 (Rds. 3/4) draft projection) | B.J. Monacelli’s analysis
• Xavier Worthy, WR (Texas) ( per Billy M and Built In Buffalo ) — Day 1/Day 2 (Rds. 1/2) draft projection | B.J. Monacelli’s analysis
• Jalen McMillan, WR (Washington) ( per Peter DiBiasi ) ( also private workout per Mike Garafolo )
• Keon Coleman, WR (Florida State) ( per Ryan Talbot ) — late Round 1/Day 2 draft projection

Running Back

• Trey Benson, RB (FSU) ( per Built in Buffalo ) — Day 2 (Rds. 2/3) draft projection
• Audric Estime, RB (Notre Dame) ( per Ryan Talbot ) — late Day 2, early Day 3 draft projection

Offensive Line

• Jordan Morgan, OT (Arizona) ( per NFL Draft Diamonds ) — Day 1/Day2 (Rds. 1/2) draft projection

Defensive Tackle

• Kristian Boyd, DT (Northern Iowa) ( per Ryan Fowler ) — Day 3 (Rd. 6) draft projection
• Ruke Orhorhoro, DT (Clemson) ( per Ryan Talbot ) — Day 2 draft projection
• Maason Smith, DT (LSU) ( per Air Raid|Buffalo ) — Day 2 (Rd. 3)-Day 3 (Rd. 4) draft projection

Defensive End / Edge Rusher

• Marshawn Kneeland, DE (Western Michigan) ( per Ryan Fowler ) Round 2-3 draft projection
• Laiatu Latu, EDGE (UCLA) ( per Ryan Talbot ) Round 1 draft projection | B.J. Monacelli’s analysis
• Marlon “MJ” Devonshire Jr., CB (Pittsburgh) ( per Ryan Talbot and Justin M ) — Day 3 draft projection
• Qwan’Tez Stiggers, CB (Toronto Argonauts) ( per Aaron Wilson ) — Day 3 draft projection

Defensive Back

• Andru Phillips, DB (Kentucky) ( per Ryan Fowler ) — Day 3 draft projection
• Cooper DeJean, DB (Iowa) (per DeJean, Billy M , and Jordan Schultz ) — Round 1 draft projection | article | Maxwell Owens’ Draft Scouting Spotlight article | B.J. Monacelli’s analysis

Buffalo Bills 2024 NFL Draft Prospect Private Workouts

• Troy Franklin, WR (Oregon) ( per Sportskeeda ) — Day 2 (Rds. 2/3) draft projection
• Jalen McMillan, WR (Washington) ( per Mike Garafolo )
• Kristian Boyd, DT (Northern Iowa) ( per Walter Football )

Defensive Ends / Edge Rusher

• Marshawn Kneeland, DE (Western Michigan) ( per Walter Football )
• Kitan Oladapo, S ( Oregon State ) ( per Oregon Live ) — Day 3 (Rd.4-5) draft projection
• Marlon “MJ” Devonshire Jr., CB (Pittsburgh) ( per Walter Football )

Buffalo Bills 2024 NFL Draft Prospect Zoom Interviews

• Javon Solomon, OLB (Troy) ( per Walter Football )
• Edefuan Ulofoshio, LB (Washington) ( per Justin M and The Draft Network)

Buffalo Bills 2024 NFL Draft Prospect Pro Day Visits

Walter Football served as source for all Pro Day visits unless otherwise noted .

• Devontez “Tez” Walker, WR (North Carolina)
• Stefan Cobbs, WR/PR (Boise State) ( per Ryan Talbot )
• Marlon “MJ” Devonshire Jr., CB (Pittsburgh)
• Adisa Isaac, EDGE (Penn State) ( per Sportskeeda )
• Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton (Illinois) ( per Jordan Schultz ) | article

Buffalo Bills 2024 NFL Draft Prospects who attended April 12 local Pro Day

• Paul Woods, WR (Hampton) ( per Paul Woods Sr. )
• Daymond Williams, DT, Buffalo ( per The Gridiron Crew )

Buffalo Bills 2024 NFL Scouting Combine Prospect Meetings

Walter Football served as source for all combine visits .

• Brian Thomas Jr., WR ( LSU )
• Adonai “AD” Mitchell, WR (Texas) — Maxwell Owens’ NFL Draft Scouting Spotlight article
• Xavier Legette, WR (South Carolina)
• Keon Coleman, WR ( Florida State )
• Jalen McMillan, WR (Washington)
• Roman Wilson, WR (Michigan)
• Xavier Worthy, WR (Texas)
• Johnny Wilson, WR (Florida State) (informal meeting) ( per Muki Hawkins )
• Braelon Allen, RB (Wisconsin)
• Audric Estime, RB ( Notre Dame )
• Frank Gore Jr., RB (Southern Miss)
• Graham Barton, OG (Duke) — Maxwell Owens’ Draft Scouting Spotlight article
• Patrick Paul, OT (Houston)

Quarterback

• Bo Nix, QB (Oregon)
• Braden Fiske, DT (Florida State)
• Byron Murphy II, DT (Texas)
• Javon Solomon OLB (Troy)
• Jalyx Hunt, OLB (Houston Baptist)
• Curtis Jacobs, ILB (Penn State)
• Payton Wilson, LB (N.C. State)
• Javon Bullard, CB (Georgia)
• Kamari Lassiter, CB (Georgia)
• Marlon “MJ” Devonshire Jr., CB (Pittsburgh) (informal meeting) ( per Mark Gaughan )
• Calen Bullock, S (USC)
• Cooper DeJean, S (Iowa)
• Kamren Kinchens, S (Miami)

Other 2024 NFL Draft prospect news related to the Buffalo Bills

• Wide receiver Ladd McConkey told Kay Adams during an appearance on Up & Adams that he’s conducted several meetings with the Buffalo Bills throughout the draft process.
• The Bills have reportedly shown “consistent interest” in linebacker Joe Andreessen (University at Buffalo) ( per Justin M )

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in may 2024.

With its pleasantly warm weather and thinned crowds, May is the perfect time to take a trip before the expensive summer season. Considering sights, weather, traveler sentiment and annual events (among other factors), U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in May. Whether you're looking for an outdoor adventure in a national park, a quick Memorial Day getaway or a leisurely beach vacation , you can't go wrong with these destinations. Vote for your favorite locales below to help determine next year's list.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Laguna beach, st. vincent & the grenadines, victoria & vancouver island, yellowstone national park.

When May comes around in Bryce Canyon National Park, the snow is nearly gone, which means the park's main road and popular trails are likely to be open. Highs are typically in the 60s during the day, too – ideal conditions for hiking and biking this Utah park's paths. Visitor numbers start to ramp up this month, but it's still early enough in the season that you're unlikely to have to jostle for a view at the popular Bryce Point, which overlooks Bryce Amphitheater, a landscape of otherworldly rock spires (called hoodoos).

This Portuguese island chain in the Atlantic Ocean offers a little bit of everything for active travelers, from geoparks and waterfall hikes to paragliding. Though the weather here is always a bit unpredictable, the chances of wind and rain are lower in May. The water temperature also begins to warm up for must-do activities like snorkeling or swimming with dolphins, and with fewer swells than the winter months, beginner surfers will feel more comfortable trying to hang ten. As an added bonus, the biggest festival in the Azores – the Feasts of Santo Cristo dos Milagres – typically occurs in May.

Travelers looking for a vacation filled with unique and heart-pumping activities should set their sights on Cappadocia. This mountainous region in central Turkey is home to a UNESCO-listed national park, centuries-old underground cities, ancient cave dwellings, magnificent rock formations and more. Plus, thanks to average temperatures in the 60s and 70s in May, activities like soaring high above the Göreme Valley on a hot air balloon tour and driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle past fairy chimneys couldn't be more pleasant.

As one of the warmest and driest times of year in Palawan, May welcomes travelers with open arms. Take advantage of the minimal rainfall by experiencing all of the outdoor activities and attractions that this Philippine island has to offer –spoiler alert, there are a lot. Spend time relaxing on Palawan's white sand beaches, island-hopping or even swimming with gentle whale sharks. Water sports are popular in this destination as well, from diving Tubbataha Reef to kayaking El Nido's Big Lagoon.  

Visiting Granada, Spain, in May is a no-brainer. Average temperatures in the mid-70s, blooming flower displays (at Generalife Gardens) and a full roster of events make this Andalusian city a must-visit in the spring. Día de la Cruz and Feria del Corpus Christi, two of the city's most popular celebrations, are both held in May, and travelers won't want to miss seeing Granada come alive with music, flamenco dancers and more. Save time during your trip for a guided tour of the Alhambra and strolling through the Albaicín neighborhood.

May falls within this Peruvian city's winter season, though you probably wouldn't notice thanks to its consistently mild temperatures (highs hover in the 60s). This month rarely sees rain showers, and you'll encounter fewer tourists at archaeological wonders like La Catedral – which sits in the restaurant- and coffee shop-filled Plaza de Armas – and Machu Picchu – a bucket list destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 50 miles northwest of Cusco. If you're up for a challenge, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This difficult trek through the area's towering mountains takes about four days to complete.

With 33 beaches, this eastern Caribbean island is a sun worshipper's dream, and May temperatures in the upper 70s and 80s are perfect for basking on its white sands . Spend warm days venturing to offshore cays, exploring fishing villages and watching yacht races during the Anguilla Regatta, typically held every May. Since this is the start of the island's rainy season, the weather can be wetter and more humid than the winter months, but visitors will be rewarded with cheaper accommodations. 

May is a great time for a trip to this seaside Spanish city before the heat and humidity become unbearable. Can't-miss architectural marvels to check out include Antoni Gaudí's whimsical Park Güell and the Gothic-style Sagrada Família. Budget time for visiting some of Barcelona's highly regarded museums, such as the Picasso Museum, and relax at Barceloneta beach before stopping at a nearby seafood restaurant for some of the best paella in the city. What's more, the city plays host to a number of events come May, including film and music festivals

Craggy coastline views, a world-famous aquarium and a superb farm-to-table dining scene draw tourists of all types to Monterey, California. Though temperatures here remain in the 60s for most of the year, rainfall drops significantly in May. Popular festivals also make this a great time of the year to visit. Come early in the month for the Pacific Grove Good Old Days Street Festival, which showcases local artisans and craft vendors, plus a variety of food booths. And near the end of the month, the three-day California Roots Music & Arts Festival celebrates reggae artists.

Visit Laguna Beach for a perfect sunny-and-70, laid-back beach vacation. May is part of this Southern California town's spring shoulder season, so you'll find fewer people on popular stretches of sand like Main Beach and Crescent Bay Beach. Plus, the quieter month is ideal for relaxation-focused activities, such as outdoor yoga and hiking. When travelers need a break from reconnecting with themselves or nature, they can check out Laguna Beach's thriving art scene, which includes hundreds of galleries, studios and public works of art.

Bright turquoise water, gorgeous white sand and lush green vegetation await vacationers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Composed of 32 islands and cays, this Caribbean archipelago is perfect for a tropical getaway. May falls between the country's peak winter season and its hurricane-prone low season, making it an ideal time for scuba diving and snorkeling in the Tobago Cays Marine Park, swimming and soaking up some rays at Canouan's beaches and hiking to beautiful waterfalls like Dark View Falls. Travelers will also want to check out the country's 20-acre Botanical Gardens, the oldest available in the Western Hemisphere.

Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, sits on the southern portion of Vancouver Island. Not only does this Canadian destination boast comfortable highs in the low 60s in May, it is just a short ferry ride from Seattle (less than three hours), making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway . Spend your visit strolling through the 55-acre Butchart Gardens, which are bursting with colorful tulips and cherry blossoms come May, then get out on the water on a whale watching tour. Before heading home, don't forget to shop for souvenirs along Government Street.

Considered the birthplace of democracy and drama, Athens boasts a historical legacy that is hard to top. The main reason to visit is to see the ancient city's impressive ruins, which you'll find at the Acropolis and Ancient Agora. For an additional look at Athens' past, check out the incredible Greek artifacts on display at the National Archaeological Museum and the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. May vacations are especially enjoyable thanks to comfortable daytime temps hovering in the mid-70s.

By late May, most of Yellowstone's trails and must-see attractions are open, welcoming eager nature enthusiasts seeking a breath of fresh air. The average 50-degree temperatures provide a brisk but comfortable atmosphere for a hike on one of the Old Faithful area's trails or a kayaking excursion on Yellowstone Lake. For a glimpse of wildlife, head to Lamar Valley to view wolf pups emerging from their dens. Keep in mind that if you visit during Memorial Day weekend, you'll likely run into crowds.

With warm weather year-round (average temperatures sit in the 80s), there's never a bad time to visit Singapore. But in May, this Asian city-state on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula welcomes events such as the Singapore Cocktail Festival, the Singapore International Festival of Arts and the Singapore HeritageFest. When you're not enjoying your time at one of Singapore's cultural events, check out top attractions like Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic nature park that is home to the Supertree Observatory and the Cloud Forest.  

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Kruger National Park

Mont-Tremblant

Miami Beach

Newport, RI

Mexico City

Indianapolis

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• solar eclipse

Solar eclipse 2024: Everything to know about the celestial event in NYC, Tri-State

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Millions in New York City and across the country had a chance to see the total solar eclipse as it moves over North America.

The eclipse started just after 2:00 p.m. in the New York City area with skies darkening around 2:50 p.m. Peak coverage was at 90 percent at 3:25 p.m.

Eyewitness News had team coverage of the big event, including meteorologist Lee Goldberg reporting from Burlington, Vermont while Brittany Bell reported from Niagara Falls.

This eclipse was almost twice as long, with an even wider audience, than the total solar eclipse that stretched coast-to-coast in the U.S. in 2017.

The moon covered the sun for up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds, a spectacle normally unfolding in remote corners of the globe but this time passing over major cities like Dallas, Indianapolis and Cleveland and Buffalo.

Monday's spectacle was watched by millions in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. It was North America's biggest eclipse crowd ever, thanks to the densely populated path.

EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT THE 2024 SOLAR ECLIPSE

Big crowds gather to view the eclipse at the green-wood cemetery.

One of the more unique places where people came together to watch the eclipse was in Brooklyn at Green-wood Cemetery.

Kemberly Richardson has the story:

Eclipse sparks interest in science for students

For kids and teenagers, a day like Monday could help spark a lifetime interest in science and astronomy.

Michelle Charlesworth is at a school in Boonton Township, New Jersey, where there are special eclipse lessons and programs for students.

Toni Yates was at the Liberty Science Center where many gathered on the Great Lawn to watch the eclipse.

Cheers break out in Mexico as eclipse begins

Cheers broke out along the beach in this resort city as the moon began to pass over the sun.

Hundreds in a beachside park had passed the waiting time by readying their equipment and listening to a youth orchestra play Star Wars songs while a large screen projected images of Princess Leia behind them.

Luz Elena Aguillón de la O sat in the grass with a group of 14 family and friends who had gathered from Mexico City, Guanajuato and right here in Mazatlan to take in the spectacle.

"Happy to be here with family, friends sharing a singular, unrepeatable event that the universe and nature give us," she said.

Eclipse excitement in Central Park

From the top of The Edge to Central Park, New Yorkers have plenty of options to take in the eclipse.

Lauren Glassberg is in Central Park as the excitement builds:

Last-minute scramble to find eclipse glasses

New Yorkers waited in line all weekend and even Monday morning and early afternoon to get their hands on eclipse glasses.

CeFaan Kim was there as the line wrapped around the block in front of B &H Photo in Midtown.

What the solar eclipse means depending on your astrological sign

While we know the total solar eclipse is a major deal astronomically, many have been taking to social media wondering what it means astrologically .

It's a rare occurrence, a cosmic coincidence, the moon's shadow masking the sun, it's a total solar eclipse. While millions will be looking to the sky to witness the eclipse, lots are looking to the stars to see what it means for them.

Companies roll out total solar eclipse promotions

More and more businesses are taking advantage of the total solar eclipse set to dim skies across North America.

In the snacks department alone, Krispy Kreme is teaming up with Oreo to sell a limited doughnut-cookie creation. Sonic Drive-In is selling a "Blackout Slush Float." And Frito-Lay's SunChips has unveiled a new flavor that will only be available during the celestial event's nearly 4 and a half minutes of totality.

Meanwhile, airlines like Southwest and Delta have advertised eclipse-viewing flight paths. And beyond promotions from big-name brands, small businesses along the 115 mile (185 kilometer)-wide prime path are leading the charge to meet the incoming tourist demand. Nina Pineda has more details:

Tourism boost in New York

Gov. Kathy Hochul said at least one million tourists have come to New York to see the eclipse.

Despite the clouds in Western New York, "all the hotels are still booked. hotel taxes are still being collected. restaurants were still packed yesterday."

She said the state is "experiencing less traffic than we had planned for" in Western New York, "which is good. I will say its a different dynamic than the other half of the state, where people are heading north from New York City to Albany and up to Plattsburgh."

Free glasses, best viewing locations across Tri-State to see total solar eclipse

New York City public libraries are offering eclipse glasses while supplies last and there are plans for New York City Parks to host viewing events in all five boroughs.

Check out a full list of where to view the eclipse as well as other places to get your free eclipse glasses.

How to find the best solar eclipse viewing spot near you

As excitement builds for the total solar eclipse on Monday, the Tri-State area may have some of the more favorable viewing spots in the country.

And the New York City area, though 10% shy of totality, will enjoy a great shot of taking in the celestial spectacle, with darkening skies, dropping temperatures and wild animals reacting to the sudden dimming.

Upstate New York could offer a sweet spot for viewing. Places like Syracuse are right on the edge of the path of totality and where cloud cover will be lowest.

How the solar eclipse will impact plants and animals

Scientists will be studying how the solar eclipse phenomenon will affect plant and animal activity on Earth . The eclipse may last just mere minutes for those in the path of totality, but the effect it has on the natural world will be profound, researchers told ABC News.

Researchers expect breeding birds to quiet down, crickets to start to vocalize and bees to stop buzzing.

LaVerne Biser, 105, to witness his 13th solar eclipse

LaVerne Biser will soon witness his 13th solar eclipse on April 8. The 105-year-old, born in Ohio, would travel the world with his wife, Marion Biser, and schedule their vacations around the eclipse.

Biser is an amateur astronomer who has a large collection of images and photos of the solar eclipses they've witnessed. By trade, he was a mechanical engineer, whose team performed stress tests for large-scale planes.

State of emergency declared as 1 million people expected to visit Niagara Falls

Ontario's Niagara Region has declared a state of emergency as it prepares to welcome up to a million visitors for the solar eclipse in early April. The total solar eclipse will be the first to touch the province since 1979, and Niagara Falls was declared by National Geographic to be one of the best places to see it.

The city is in the path of totality, where the moon will entirely block the sun's rays for a few minutes. Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati said earlier in March that he expects the most visitors his city has ever seen in a single day.

New York City public libraries to give away free solar eclipse shades for safe viewing

If you still need to pick up shades for the total solar eclipse, New York City libraries have you covered. All three of the city's public library systems will be distributing free solar eclipse glasses .

Glasses will be available while quantities last on a first-come, first-serve basis at all Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Public Library, and New York Public Library locations.

New York inmates are suing to watch solar eclipse after state orders prisons locked down

Inmates in New York are suing the state corrections department over the decision to lock down prisons during next Monday's total solar eclipse.

The suit filed Friday in federal court in upstate New York argues that the April 8 lockdown violates inmates' constitutional rights to practice their faiths by preventing them from taking part in a religiously significant event.

Fake eclipse glasses are hitting the market. Here's how to tell if you have a pair

As the total solar eclipse, occurring across Mexico, the United States and Canada on April 8, draws near, experts are reminding spectators to grab a pair of eclipse glasses to view the celestial event safely - and to make sure they aren't fake .

Whether you're using a fancy camera or a smartphone, here's how to take photos of the solar eclipse

The upcoming April 8 total eclipse will likely be the one of the most photographed events of the year, with almost 32 million people in the United States alone living in the path of totality.

Weather permitting, it is an incredible opportunity for photographers of any skill level. Whether you're working with a high-end DSLR camera or a smartphone, an experienced astrophotographer has some tips on how to make the moment last through images.

Total solar eclipse could cause air travel delays: FAA

A total solar eclipse set to deliver a stunning display in the sky on April 8 could be trouble for some air travelers and pilots due to possible flight delays, the Federal Aviation Administration warned.

The eclipse -- which will pass over Mexico, the United States and Canada -- is expected to impact air traffic and airports along the eclipse's path from April 7 until April 10, the FAA said in a notice about special air traffic procedures. This could mean delays for air travelers, too -- especially as the eclipse overlaps with spring break travel, the agency said Wednesday.

The FAA estimated that any air travel impacts from the eclipse would be felt from April 7 at 6 a.m. until April 10 at midnight.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

Chief Meteorologist Lee Goldberg will cover the eclipse from Vermont, while meteorologist Brittany Bell will be reporting from Niagara Falls. Plus, we invite you to watch

ABC News and National Geographic's "Eclipse Across America" live on April 8 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. EDT on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu.

Related topics.

• NEW YORK CITY
• SOLAR ECLIPSE
• U.S. & WORLD

Solar Eclipse

NYC, Tri-State experience the solar eclipse

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April 8 partial solar eclipse times and magnitudes across the US

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