Did you know that Buffalo, a city rich in history and culture, was once a major industrial hub thanks to its strategic location on the Great Lakes?
The city’s past, which predates European settlement, is still palpable in its architectural marvels and cultural treasures. As you plan your visit, you’ll find that the city offers an authentic slice of American history, coupled with a vibrant present-day experience.
From world-class art museums to revitalized waterfront districts, this place rewards travelers who take the time to explore its many facets. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a base for exploring Western New York, you’ll have a memorable experience.
Discovering Buffalo: The Queen City of the Lakes
Discover the charm of Buffalo, a city that has transformed from an industrial powerhouse to a thriving cultural center. As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll uncover a rich history that spans from Native American territory to a modern-day cultural hub.
Buffalo’s Rich History and Renaissance
Buffalo’s fascinating journey from an industrial giant to a revitalized cultural center provides a compelling backdrop for your visit. The city’s strategic location on Lake Erie and at the western terminus of the Erie Canal fueled its early growth and prosperity in the 19th and early 20th centuries. After facing economic decline, Buffalo has undergone a significant renaissance, with revitalized neighborhoods, restored architectural treasures, and a thriving arts scene.
Best Time to Visit Buffalo
The best time to visit Buffalo depends on your preferences. For the best weather and experience, plan your visit between May and October, with September offering the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer offers the fullest range of outdoor activities and festivals, though August tends to be the most reliable month for consistently good weather. If you’re prepared for winter‘s lake-effect snowstorms, a visit during this season can be magical, with special events like the Christmas lights at Niagara Falls.
Visiting Buffalo is a great experience, regardless of when you go. The city is a wonderful place to explore, with its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty making it an ideal destination for any traveler.
Niagara Falls: Buffalo’s World-Famous Neighbor
Just a short drive from Buffalo lies one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, Niagara Falls. This spectacular destination is a must-visit when in the area, offering an unforgettable experience amidst the raw power of nature.
Must-Do Experiences at the Falls
Niagara Falls is not just a sight to behold; it’s an experience that encompasses a range of thrilling activities. The Maid of the Mist boat tour is a classic, bringing you up close to the falls, where you’ll feel the mist on your face and the thunder in your chest.
For an equally exhilarating experience, the Cave of the Winds tour takes you down to the Hurricane Deck, where you’ll stand mere feet from the rushing waters of the Bridal Veil Falls.
Getting to Niagara Falls from Buffalo
Getting to Niagara Falls from Buffalo is straightforward. The most convenient way is to drive, as it’s just a 30-minute route from downtown Buffalo to Niagara Falls State Park.
Alternatively, you can use public transportation, such as the Amtrak train service or a bus, both of which connect Buffalo to Niagara Falls, making for a hassle-free trip.
Old Fort Niagara
Just north of Niagara Falls lies Old Fort Niagara, a historic site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s colonial past. The “French Castle,” dating back to 1726, is a highlight, along with the spectacular views where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario.
Visiting Niagara Falls from Buffalo is a day trip you won’t soon forget, with its mix of natural beauty, thrilling experiences, and historical significance, all within easy reach of Buffalo, making it a perfect addition to your Buffalo Niagara itinerary.
Buffalo’s Waterfront: Canalside and Outer Harbor
The Buffalo waterfront, comprising Canalside and the Outer Harbor, is a must-visit area that combines recreation, history, and natural beauty. This vibrant destination offers a wide range of things to do and see, making it a perfect spot for visitors of all ages.
Canalside Activities and Events
Canalside is the heart of Buffalo’s waterfront activities, hosting numerous events throughout the year. During the summer, you can enjoy outdoor concerts, fitness classes, and boat rentals. The beautifully restored vintage carousel is another major attraction that delights visitors.
- Outdoor concerts and fitness classes
- Boat rentals and harbor cruises
- Vintage carousel
In the winter, Canalside transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, winter festivals, and heated indoor spaces to warm up.
Exploring the Outer Harbor
Just across the Buffalo River from Canalside lies the Outer Harbor, offering a more natural and serene experience. You can explore miles of scenic trails, visit the Buffalo lighthouse, or enjoy the beautiful beaches. Wilkeson Point is a popular place to watch the stunning sunsets over Lake Erie.
- Scenic trails and beaches
- Buffalo lighthouse
- Wilkeson Point for sunset viewing
Buffalo Naval Park
The Buffalo Naval Park is another significant attraction on the waterfront, showcasing four decommissioned naval vessels. It’s a fascinating place to explore America’s maritime military history.
Buffalo, New York: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for Architecture Lovers
Buffalo, New York, is a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of styles and landmarks. As you explore the city, you’ll discover a rich architectural heritage that spans from historic buildings to modern masterpieces.
Buffalo City Hall and Observation Deck
One of the city’s architectural highlights is Buffalo City Hall, an Art Deco masterpiece that offers free tours daily at noon. The building features a stunning observation deck on the 28th floor, providing panoramic views of the city, Lake Erie, and on clear days, even the skyline of Niagara Falls. Be sure to visit on a sunny day to see the beautiful sunburst stained glass window.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
Buffalo is also home to several Frank Lloyd Wright houses, including the Darwin Martin House Complex. This complex is one of Wright’s finest residential achievements and a perfect example of his Prairie style, featuring an innovative open floor plan, distinctive horizontal lines, and over 400 art glass windows. You can explore this architectural gem through various tour options, gaining insight into Wright’s design principles that revolutionized American residential architecture.
Graycliff Estate
Just 30 minutes from downtown Buffalo, the Graycliff Estate provides a complementary Wright experience. Designed as a summer retreat for Darwin Martin’s wife Isabelle, Graycliff sits on a cliff overlooking Lake Erie, showcasing Wright’s evolving style with more transparent, light-filled spaces. This estate is a must-visit for anyone interested in Wright’s work and the broader architectural landscape of Buffalo.
Buffalo’s architectural significance extends beyond Wright’s works. The city is also home to other architectural marvels, including Louis Sullivan’s Guaranty Building, H.H. Richardson’s massive Richardson Olmsted Campus, and Eliel and Eero Saarinen’s Kleinhans Music Hall. These structures, among others, contribute to Buffalo’s status as a city with one of America’s most impressive architectural landscapes.
- Buffalo boasts one of America’s most impressive architectural landscapes, with masterpieces spanning from ornate 19th-century designs to groundbreaking modernist structures.
- The city’s architectural heritage includes works by renowned architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, and the Saarinen brothers.
- Visitors can explore various architectural landmarks, including Buffalo City Hall, the Darwin Martin House Complex, and Graycliff Estate.
Exploring Buffalo’s Historic Grain Elevators
As you explore Buffalo, you’ll discover the city’s rich industrial heritage in its historic grain elevators. These structures are a testament to Buffalo’s significant role in the grain trade during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The city’s strategic position at the terminus of the Erie Canal made it one of the world’s largest grain ports.
Buffalo’s waterfront is home to the world’s largest collection of historic grain elevators, known as Silo City. This unique area has been transformed into a cultural campus featuring art installations, performance spaces, a brewery, and a native plant nursery. Visitors can explore these industrial giants in various ways, including guided tours and self-guided walks.
Silo City Tours and Events
Silo City offers multiple things to see and do. Public tours of the Silo City grounds are available every Saturday morning from June to September. Additionally, Explore Buffalo offers walking tours through the grain elevators from May to October. For a different perspective, Buffalo River History Tours provides cruises and walking tours of Silo City.
| Tour Type | Duration | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Public Tour | Saturday mornings | June-September |
| Walking Tour | Varies | May-October |
| Cruise Tour | Varies | Available through Buffalo River History Tours |
Buffalo RiverWorks
Located between Canalside and the Outer Harbor, Buffalo RiverWorks is an entertainment complex that has repurposed grain elevators into a vibrant place for recreation and leisure. Here, you can rock climb up the side of a silo, ride a Ferris wheel for panoramic views, enjoy craft beer at RiverWorks Brewing Company, or take a tiki boat cruise on the river. This complex is a great way to experience Buffalo’s industrial history in a modern context.
Top Museums in Buffalo
Buffalo’s museum scene is a treasure trove of art and history, offering something for every enthusiast. With world-class collections and unique exhibits, these museums are a must-visit when in Buffalo.
Buffalo AKG Art Museum
The Buffalo AKG Art Museum, formerly known as the Albright-Knox Gallery, has 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 renowned artists. You can enjoy a small cafe with drinks and light bites available within the museum.
Admission to the AKG is pay-what-you-wish on the first Friday of every month, making it an affordable and attractive option for art lovers. Don’t forget to ask for the parking discount QR code at the front desk to reduce the parking fee from $20 to $10.
Buffalo History Museum
The Buffalo History Museum is housed in the only permanent building constructed for the 1901 Pan-American Exposition. Located on the edge of the beautiful Delaware Park, just across from the AKG Art Museum, it offers fascinating insights into Buffalo’s rich past, from its Indigenous origins to its industrial heyday and modern renaissance.
The museum is free to visit on the third Friday of every month and is “pay what you can” the rest of the time, making it one of the most affordable things to do in Buffalo.
Burchfield Penney Art Center
The Burchfield Penney Art Center, located on the Buffalo State University campus across from the AKG Art Museum, celebrates the work of watercolorist Charles Burchfield and other significant Western New York artists. This art center provides a perfect complement to the AKG’s international collection, showcasing the unique artistic heritage of the region.
By visiting these museums, you’ll experience the best of Buffalo’s cultural scene, with a diverse range of art, history, and culture on display.
Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
You can step back in time at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, where a significant event in American presidential history took place. This historic site commemorates the impromptu inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt as the President of the United States following the assassination of President William McKinley at the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo.
The Pan-American Exposition and Presidential History
The 1901 Pan-American Exposition was a groundbreaking event that showcased the latest technology and culture of the Western Hemisphere. Many temporary buildings were constructed for this six-month fair, which became the backdrop for a pivotal moment in U.S. history when President McKinley was shot. This event led to Vice President Theodore Roosevelt taking the oath of office at the Ansley Wilcox House, now known as the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. The site offers a unique glimpse into the Progressive Era and the circumstances surrounding Roosevelt’s presidency.
| Event | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Pan-American Exposition | 1901 | Showcased Western Hemisphere’s technology and culture |
| Assassination of President McKinley | September 6, 1901 | Led to Theodore Roosevelt becoming President |
| Theodore Roosevelt’s Inauguration | September 14, 1901 | Took place at Ansley Wilcox House |
Visiting the TR Site Today
Today, visitors can tour the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site to experience the place where history was made. Guided tours are available every hour on the half-hour, allowing you to explore the rooms where Roosevelt took the oath of office, including the library where the ceremony took place by candlelight. The site also features interactive exhibits that compare the challenges of Roosevelt’s time with today’s issues, making it more than just a static historic home. You can book your tour in advance to secure your preferred time slot and take advantage of the free parking available for visitors.
Buffalo’s Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Buffalo’s park system, designed by the renowned Frederick Law Olmsted, is a crown jewel that offers a unique blend of recreation and relaxation. As you explore the city, you’ll find numerous green spaces that provide a serene escape from the urban landscape.
Delaware Park: Buffalo’s Central Park
Delaware Park serves as the crown jewel of Buffalo’s park system, offering 350 acres of recreational space with walking trails, a golf course, tennis courts, and a scenic lake where you can rent charming flamingo-shaped paddle boats (FLOATmingos) during summer months. The park’s strategic location between the Buffalo History Museum and the AKG Art Museum makes it easy to combine cultural experiences with outdoor relaxation in one visit. Summer visitors can enjoy the long-running tradition of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, one of the largest free outdoor Shakespeare festivals in the country.
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, housed in a stunning Victorian glass conservatory, showcases exotic plants from around the world in a series of themed houses. The gardens are worth visiting in any season, with special events throughout the year, including poinsettia shows in winter and butterfly exhibits in spring. This beautiful garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking to explore the beauty of the Erie County area.
| Park/Garden | Features | Events |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Park | Walking trails, golf course, tennis courts, scenic lake | Shakespeare in Delaware Park |
| Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens | Themed houses, exotic plants | Poinsettia shows, butterfly exhibits |
Exploring the Erie Canal
Experience the Erie Canal, a pivotal piece of American history, firsthand. The Erie Canal is more than just a waterway; it’s a journey through time, showcasing the ingenuity of 19th-century engineering. As you cruise or walk along its banks, you’ll uncover the rich history that made Buffalo a vital shipping hub.
The Erie Canal played a crucial role in America’s westward expansion, connecting the Great Lakes to the Hudson River. Today, you can relive this historic significance on a guided tour that brings the canal’s story to life.
Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruises
A highlight of any Erie Canal visit is the Lockport Locks, where your boat is raised or lowered 50 feet through a series of five massive locks. This experience is both fascinating and educational, demonstrating the ingenuity of the canal’s construction. The Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruises offer a two-hour narrated journey, providing insight into the canal’s impact on early American commerce and transportation.
As you watch the locks in operation, you’ll gain a new appreciation for this marvel of engineering and the time it took to build.
Lockport Cave Underground Boat Ride
For a truly unique experience, take the Lockport Cave Underground Boat Ride. This tour takes you through a water tunnel blasted out of solid rock beneath the Erie Canal, offering a glimpse into the area’s industrial past. As you glide through dimly lit passages, you’ll pass by industrial artifacts and geological formations, making for an unforgettable adventure.
Exploring the Erie Canal is a great way to spend your time in Buffalo, offering a blend of history, engineering, and natural beauty.
Buffalo’s Culinary Scene: Beyond the Wings
While Buffalo wings are a staple, the city’s food scene offers a diverse array of local specialties and innovative restaurants. As you explore Buffalo, you’ll discover that the city’s culinary landscape is more than just its famous spicy chicken creation.
The Original Buffalo Wings: Where to Try Them
No visit to Buffalo is complete without sampling authentic Buffalo wings at their birthplace – Anchor Bar – where Teressa Bellissimo created the now-iconic dish in 1964. Wing enthusiasts should also try variations at Duff’s Famous Wings and Gabriel’s Gate to decide for yourself which deserves the title of Buffalo’s best wings.
- Try the original Buffalo wings at Anchor Bar, the birthplace of this iconic dish.
- Explore different wing styles at Duff’s Famous Wings and Gabriel’s Gate.
Beef on Weck and Other Local Specialties
Beyond wings, don’t miss Buffalo’s other signature sandwich – beef on weck – featuring thinly sliced roast beef on a kummelweck roll, typically served with horseradish and au jus for dipping. Other local specialties worth trying include sponge candy, charcoal-broiled hot dogs, and Buffalo-style pizza with its thicker, chewier crust.
- Beef on weck: a classic Western New York dish featuring roast beef on a kummelweck roll.
- Sponge candy: a unique dessert made from honeycomb toffee covered in chocolate.
Buffalo’s Food Festivals
Time your visit to coincide with one of Buffalo’s food festivals, such as the National Buffalo Wing Festival (Labor Day weekend), Taste of Buffalo (July), or the Buffalo Food Truck Festival. These events offer a chance to sample a wide variety of local specialties in one location, making for a delicious and memorable dining experience.
Buffalo’s Arts and Music Scene
From jazz clubs to outdoor Shakespeare festivals, Buffalo’s creative energy is palpable. As you explore the city, you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its vibrant arts and music scene.
Buffalo’s arts and music scene is a testament to its rich history and contemporary creativity. The city’s numerous venues and events offer something for everyone, making it a great place to experience live music and exhibitions.
The Colored Musicians Club
The historic Colored Musicians Club is a cornerstone of Buffalo’s jazz scene, having hosted legends like Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald since 1917. As the only continuously operating African American-owned musicians’ club in the US, it’s a significant part of the city’s music history. Although the club is currently closed for renovations, it continues to host events throughout the city, maintaining its tradition of excellent jazz performances.
Shakespeare in Delaware Park
During summer evenings, Shakespeare in Delaware Park comes alive with professional productions against the backdrop of Buffalo’s beautiful Olmsted-designed park. You can bring a picnic and enjoy the show, making for a lovely way to spend a summer time in Buffalo. This free outdoor Shakespeare festival is one of the largest in the country, offering a unique cultural experience.
In addition to these highlights, Buffalo’s music scene includes venues like Kleinhans Music Hall and Asbury Hall, featuring a variety of performances. The city’s theater district, centered around Shea’s Performing Arts Center, hosts Broadway tours and local productions, providing a diverse list of entertainment options.
Shopping in Buffalo
You’ll discover a shopping experience like no other in Buffalo, where local charm meets eclectic style. The city is home to unique shopping districts that offer more than just the usual retail therapy.
Elmwood Village Boutiques
Elmwood Village stands out as Buffalo’s premier shopping district, featuring a charming, tree-lined neighborhood with historic architecture housing an array of independent boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. You can explore stores like Sunshine and Bluebirds for Buffalo-themed apparel, Thin Ice for locally crafted jewelry and home decor, and Buffalo ShopCraft for items made by local artists.
Local Souvenirs and Gifts
When looking for souvenirs, consider visiting specialty shops in Elmwood Village like Lexington Co-op for local produce, Watson’s Chocolates for Buffalo sponge candy, and Premier Gourmet for international foods. You can also find meaningful gifts that support the local economy, such as Buffalo-themed artwork, locally roasted coffee, or craft beer from the city’s breweries.
| Shop | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Sunshine and Bluebirds | Buffalo-themed apparel and accessories |
| Thin Ice | Locally made jewelry and home decor |
| Buffalo ShopCraft | Items crafted by Buffalo-based artists |
Buffalo for Families
Visiting Buffalo with your family? You’ll love the city’s many kid-friendly attractions and events. Buffalo offers a variety of activities that are both fun and educational, making it an ideal destination for travelers with children of all ages.
Explore & More Children’s Museum
The Explore & More Children’s Museum at Canalside is a must-visit, providing 43,000 square feet of interactive exhibits focused on Buffalo’s culture and history. Your children will engage in hands-on activities that teach them about the region’s heritage in an entertaining way. It’s a great place to spend a day, exploring and learning together.
Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo, the third oldest zoo in the United States, is home to over 1,200 animals in naturalistic habitats. Your family can enjoy special programs like behind-the-scenes tours and seasonal events that delight visitors of all ages. It’s a wonderful place to introduce your children to the wonders of wildlife.
| Attraction | Age Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Explore & More Children’s Museum | 2-12 years | Interactive exhibits, hands-on activities |
| Buffalo Zoo | All ages | Over 1,200 animals, behind-the-scenes tours |
Day Trips from Buffalo
You can explore a multitude of attractions within a short drive from Buffalo, making it an excellent hub for day trips. Buffalo’s strategic location allows you to visit various exciting destinations, enjoying a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
East Aurora and the Roycroft Campus
East Aurora, just 25 minutes from Buffalo, offers a charming small-town experience centered around the historic Roycroft Campus, the birthplace of the American Arts and Crafts movement. You can tour beautifully preserved buildings, watch artisans at work, and visit the Millard Fillmore House Museum, the home of the 13th U.S. President.
While in East Aurora, browse the eclectic Vidler’s 5 & 10, one of America’s largest variety stores, and enjoy farm-to-table dining at the Roycroft Inn. This makes for a great day trip from Buffalo.
Letchworth State Park: The Grand Canyon of the East
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East.” The Genesee River has carved a dramatic gorge with three major waterfalls surrounded by forests that are especially spectacular during fall foliage season. It’s a perfect place for a day trip, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors and make the most of your time.
Other worthwhile day trips include Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming Victorian town in Ontario’s wine country, and the Chautauqua Institution, a historic summer community with lectures, performances, and recreational activities. Planning your trip strategically will help you make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay in Buffalo
Buffalo, NY, offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for luxury, boutique, or budget-friendly options, Buffalo has something for everyone.
Downtown Buffalo Accommodations
Downtown Buffalo offers the greatest concentration of hotels, providing easy access to Canalside, the Theater District, and major attractions. Options include the luxurious Hotel @ The Lafayette in a beautifully restored 1904 French Renaissance-style building and the modern Curtiss Hotel with its rooftop lounge.
Boutique Hotels and Historic Inns
For travelers seeking more intimate accommodations, Buffalo’s boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts are a great choice. The InnBuffalo, a painstakingly restored 1898 mansion in the historic Elmwood Village, and the Parkside House, a Victorian B&B near Delaware Park and the Darwin Martin House, offer unique experiences.
When choosing your accommodation, consider your transportation plans. Downtown stays work well if you’re relying on public transportation, while airport area hotels might be more convenient if you’re renting a car to explore the wider Buffalo Niagara region.
Conclusion: Why Buffalo Deserves More Than Just a Stopover
Buffalo, NY, is more than just a pit stop on the way to Niagara Falls; it’s a destination that warrants a multi-day visit. The Buffalo Niagara region offers a diverse array of attractions, from its stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural scene and delicious food, including the famous wings. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Buffalo has something for everyone. With its rich history, world-class museums, and beautiful waterfront, Buffalo is a city that will captivate you. It’s time to add Buffalo to your travel list.
