Buffalo, the second-largest metropolis within the state of New York, is not any bull in relation to providing an unbelievable bucket listing of experiences. From spicy wings that may make your tongue tingle to the close by pure surprise of Niagara Falls, town will certainly draw you in with its appeal.
It’s time to unleash your internal adventurer and embark on a stampede of enjoyable in Nickel City with our handpicked listing of issues to do in Buffalo, filled with enjoyable sights and unforgettable experiences that may make your go to really outstanding.
Fun Attractions, Activities and Things to do in Buffalo, New York
1. Eat Chicken Wings
Buffalo wings usually are not simply one of many metropolis’s delight and pleasure, however it’s also probably the most well-known wing metropolis in America. And what higher technique to get a chunk of this sauced-up hen perfection than on the place the place the dish is born, Anchor Bar? Since 1964, Anchor Bar has served ‘the best wings in the world’ with their signature secret recipe that continues to win the hearts (and stomachs) of individuals throughout the globe.
But, don’t take their phrase for it, do your individual analysis to search out you favourite place for wingy goodness. You can comply with the Buffalo Wing Trail and go hen wing hopping to considered one of 14 of Buffalo’s finest hen wing joints, every with its personal distinctive recipe (my favourite…thus far..was Bar-Bill, extremely really useful!)
2. Celebrate Dyngus Day
Dyngus Day is a Polish custom celebrated on the Monday after Easter, the place (historically) boys splash water on the only ladies they like, and faucet them with pussy willow branches.
In Buffalo, they began celebrating this widespread vacation throughout the Sixties as a technique to honor the Polish tradition and heritage of its giant Polish-American group (which is why town is also called the Dyngus Day capital of America.)
The Dyngus Day celebrations in Buffalo sometimes contain completely different occasions and actions, akin to parades, reside music, consuming/ingesting conventional Polish foods and drinks (like krupnik), sporting pink and white colours, and, in fact, water fights. And better of all, all people (together with you) can take part on the enjoyable.
3. See the Plants on the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is a historic botanical backyard positioned inside Buffalo’s South Park, and contains a assortment of over a thousand plant species, together with tropical and subtropical vegetation, cacti and succulents, and a big assortment of orchids. The gardens additionally function a number of greenhouses and conservatories, together with a Victorian-style tri-domed glass home modeled after the well-known Crystal Palace in London.
*My dad used to take me right here once I was a child and that it’s stunning!
4. Explore the Buffalo Museum of Science
The Buffalo Museum of Science is a fascinating vacation spot at Martin Luther Jr. Park that melds schooling and surprise. They’ve bought over 700,000 artifacts and a bunch of various displays protecting all types of stuff, from pure historical past to nano know-how to anthropology and a lot extra, so there’s at all times one thing for everybody.
They’ve bought interactive shows and hands-on actions too, which make the entire expertise much more thrilling. You can head to the planetarium and get misplaced within the wonders of outer house, unravel the mysteries of the human physique, and even marvel at dinosaur fossils from 1,000,000 years in the past. Whichever means you go, you’re certainly in for a world of discovery.
5. Go to Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park
Located alongside the banks of Buffalo River, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park is a must-visit spot in case you’re into historical past and navy artifacts, and boasts some severely spectacular shows.
You can discover quite a lot of historic naval vessels, together with a World War II-era destroyer, a submarine, and even a cruiser. It’s like stepping again in time and getting a glimpse into the lifetime of sailors and troopers.
6. Stop by the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Fancy happening a journey by way of an necessary chapter in American historical past? Go on and take a step again in time on the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. The home on the location, the Ansley Wilcox House, is the precise place the place Theodore ‘Teddy’ Roosevelt took the oath of workplace after the assassination of President William McKinley.
Inside, the fantastically restored rooms and displays transport you again to the early 1900s, immersing you within the political and social environment of the time. From the ornate Victorian decor to the artifacts and private belongings of the Roosevelts, you’ll get a firsthand glimpse into the life and legacy of this outstanding chief.
7. Tailgate at a Buffalo Bills recreation
Whether you’re an enormous American soccer fan or an off-the-cuff watcher, there’s no denying the infectious vibe a superb recreation can carry. Here in Buffalo, expertise the exhilarating custom of tailgating at a Buffalo Bills recreation, the place pre-game festivities tackle a lifetime of their very own.
Join passionate followers within the parking tons surrounding the stadium for a vigorous celebration of soccer, meals, and camaraderie. Expect a sea of grills, the aroma of mouthwatering barbecue, and a vibrant occasion environment. As an unofficial foreign money, beer flows freely, fostering a way of group and camaraderie amongst followers.
8. Tour The Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum
Get able to be transported to a bygone period of favor, sophistication, and automotive innovation! The Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum on the coronary heart of downtown Buffalo is a treasure trove for automobile fanatics, that includes an beautiful assortment of meticulously restored Pierce-Arrow automobiles and different classic vehicles, bikes, and bikes.
Other highlights within the museum embrace a life-sized duplicate of a two-story, 1,600-foot gasoline station primarily based on Frank Lloyd Wright’s blueprints and a piece devoted to girls drivers on the time.
9. Ride a Water Bike
Riding a water bike might be one of the vital distinctive issues to do in Buffalo, NY, particularly in case you’re searching for a special technique to discover town’s waters. Take within the views at your individual tempo as you pedal alongside the water’s floor aboard your water bike or kayak.
If you head over to the Canalside, you’ll discover loads of locations to lease water bikes (and different boats and tools), such because the Water Bikes of Buffalo and Water Bike Adventures. Paddle boats are additionally accessible for the kiddies (and adults,) making for an exhilarating aquatic escapade everybody will get pleasure from.
10. Eat Beef on Weck
Aside from conventional Buffalo wings, town of Buffalo can also be identified for one more traditional: beef on weck. Beef on weck is a sandwich that has thinly sliced roast beef served on a kummelweck roll (therefore the ‘weck’ within the identify), which is a roll topped with caraway seeds and coarse salt. The sandwich is often served with horseradish sauce and au jus for dipping.
While the sandwich’s origins are up for debate, it’s generally attributed to a German immigrant inhabitants in Buffalo throughout the Nineteenth century. Here are a few of the finest beef on weck within the metropolis:
- Swan Street Diner: affords a traditional beef on weck sandwich with slow-roasted beef and a do-it-yourself kummelweck roll.
- Schwabls: famend for his or her juicy, tender beef on weck that includes hand-carved roast beef and freshly baked kummelweck rolls.
- Charlie the Butcher: a beloved institution identified for his or her signature beef on weck, showcasing thinly sliced slow-cooked beef and a flavorful salted caraway-seed bun.
- Eckls: a neighborhood favourite, serving up a scrumptious beef on weck with succulent roast beef and a gentle, salted kimmelweck roll.
11. See the Buffalo Lighthouse
Buffalo Lighthouse (or Buffalo Main Light) is a historic lighthouse positioned close to the mouth of the Buffalo River, the place it meets Lake Erie. It was in-built 1833 as a guiding beacon for ships coming into Buffalo Harbor from the lake. The lighthouse stands at 60 toes tall, and contains a distinctive octagonal form and a white tower.
Although they don’t have a hard and fast schedule, they’re normally open for excursions between May and October (each Saturday and Sunday.) You would possibly even get the possibility to climb it! They additionally put up common updates on the Facebook web page about their schedules and stuff, so be sure you verify there first in case you’re planning to go to.
12. Hike to the Eternal Flames Waterfall
The Eternal Flame Waterfall is positioned in Chestnut Ridge Park at Shale Creek Preserve, simply south of Buffalo. What’s distinctive about this waterfall is the fixed flame burning behind the small cascade of falling water, which is the place it bought its identify. The ‘eternal flame’ is fueled by pure gasoline seeping by way of the rock, making a mesmerizing sight and a well-liked vacation spot for hikers and nature fanatics.
P.S.: The 2.3 km hike to the falls is reasonably difficult (takes round 33 minutes to finish.) Be positive to put on correct mountain climbing footwear, because the path is generally muddy and slippery.
13. Check out the Animals on the Buffalo Zoo
Founded in 1875, the 23.5-acre Buffalo Zoo is without doubt one of the oldest zoos within the United States. It is positioned within the metropolis’s Delaware Park, and is residence to a various assortment of animals from across the globe, from American bison to princess parrots to pink pandas and lots of extra.
The zoo focuses on conservation efforts and schooling, offering guests with the chance to watch and study numerous species. It affords a spread of displays, together with the Rainforest Falls, Arctic Edge, and the Vanishing Animals exhibit, making it top-of-the-line sights for households and wildlife fanatics.
14. Explore the Churches
Embark on a fascinating journey by way of the wealthy non secular heritage of Buffalo as you discover the varied and beautiful array of church buildings within the space. Among the notable gems is the awe-inspiring Basilica in Lackawanna, a wide ranging architectural masterpiece that stands as a testomony to town’s Catholic heritage. Its grand domes, intricate mosaics, and ornate particulars encourage a way of reverence and awe.
Another must-visit is St. Joseph’s Cathedral, an impressive landmark that serves because the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo. With its towering spires and sumptuous inside, the cathedral showcases outstanding Gothic Revival design, welcoming guests to embrace each its non secular significance and architectural splendor.
These two church buildings are only a glimpse into the abundance of spiritual landmarks that grace Buffalo. From historic church buildings adorned with beautiful stained glass to charming neighborhood chapels, town boasts a formidable variety of locations of worship. Each church carries its personal distinctive historical past, cultural significance, and architectural magnificence, offering a various tapestry of religion for guests to discover.
15. Ride the Buffalo Heritage Carousel
The Buffalo Heritage Carousel is a classic attraction discovered alongside the shores of the Buffalo River close to the Canalside. This fantastically restored carousel options three rows of hand-carved and painted by hand animals representing iconic Buffalo landmarks and historic figures. What additionally makes it one-of-a-kind is that it runs on solar energy (courtesy of Tesla), which aligns with town’s dedication to sustainable practices.
16. Shop at Vidlers
For some, a go to to a brand new place like Buffalo is rarely full with out some procuring remedy. Enter Vidler’s 5 & 10, a family-owned five-and-dime retailer that has been a cherished vacation spot since its institution in 1930.
It can also be widely known as one of many largest five-and-dime shops within the United States, with two flooring of old school appeal full of over 75,000 objects starting from nostalgic toys and traditional candies to kitchen devices and distinctive novelties. Truly a treasure trove that appeals to consumers of all ages!
17. Have enjoyable at Canalside
The Canalside is a vibrant waterfront vacation spot that has change into the guts of town’s actions. Situated alongside the historic Erie Canal, Canalside affords a dynamic mixture of leisure, recreation, and cultural experiences.
Come and revel in a variety of actions right here, together with live shows, festivals, out of doors health courses, ice skating within the winter, and water sports activities throughout the hotter months. The bustling environment, picturesque views, and numerous programming make Canalside a hub of pleasure for each locals and vacationers alike.
18. Visit Longshed Maritime Center
Dive into Buffalo’s nautical legacy and set sail on an immersive journey on the Longshed Maritime Center. This outstanding two-story wood facility on the Canalside is sort of a time machine for boat fanatics, the place you may be taught concerning the craftsmanship and historical past of town’s boat constructing.
And one of the best half? You’ll additionally get the possibility to witness expert craftsmen use conventional strategies to work on a full-sized duplicate of the Erie Canal Boat known as ‘Seneca Chief,’ which is anticipated to be accomplished across the bicentennial celebration of the Erie Canal in 2025.
19. Explore Silo City
Have you ever dreamed of exploring a mesmerizing industrial wonderland? Welcome to Silo City in Buffalo, New York! This stylish vacation spot is a sanctuary for city explorers and artwork fanatics alike, providing a glimpse of town’s industrial previous. Wander by way of the labyrinthine corridors and towering grain silos, the place artwork installations and cultural occasions breathe life into these magnificent constructions, or see the native plant nursery the place town meets nature.
And while you’ve labored up an urge for food out of your explorations, be sure to quench your thirst at Duende, a novel watering gap nestled inside Silo City. Sip on handcrafted cocktails and soak within the rustic ambiance, surrounded by the echoes of Buffalo’s industrial legacy.
20. Explore the African American Heritage Corridor
Discover the colourful tapestry of African American historical past in Buffalo, New York, alongside the African American Heritage Corridor at Michigan Avenue. This cultural journey takes you thru 4 cultural ‘anchors’ which have formed town’s numerous heritage.
Start by visiting the Historic Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum, the place the spirit of jazz and the legacy of African American musicians come alive.
Continue your exploration on the iconic Michigan Street Baptist Church, a historic beacon of religion and activism that performed a pivotal position within the Underground Railroad and the civil rights motion.
Don’t miss the Nash House Museum, a testomony to the outstanding lifetime of Rev. Edward Nash, a outstanding chief within the metropolis’s African American group.
And final however not least, tune in to the empowering voices and tales of native African American leaders and trailblazers on the WUFO Radio Station and the Black History Collective.
21. Visit an Old Mental Asylum (Richardson Olmsted Campus)
Old psychological asylums have a repute for being related to ghost tales, paranormal exercise, and all types of city legends. But, not this one…most likely! The Richardson Olmsted Campus was as soon as an asylum for the insane till the Seventies, once they transferred sufferers to a brand new location with extra trendy amenities. The campus skilled a revival in 2004 when rehabilitation initiatives went underway.
Today, the Richardson Campus has been sensitively repurposed and remodeled right into a vibrant vacation spot that features the Richardson Hotel. This luxurious boutique resort seamlessly combines historic appeal with trendy magnificence, providing friends a very distinctive expertise. You also can have a picnic on the South Lawn, discover the campus grounds on a motorcycle, or be a part of a historic tour of the place (from June by way of September.)
22. Have Fun at Buffalo RiverWorks
From its vibrant environment to numerous eating choices to distinctive leisure choices, Buffalo RiverWorks is the right place to expertise the power and pleasure of town’s waterfront.
Situated alongside the banks of the Buffalo River, this expansive advanced combines industrial appeal with thrilling leisure alternatives, from kayaking and paddleboarding on the river to ice skating and curling within the winter. The advanced’s centerpiece is a formidable multi-purpose venue that hosts live shows, sporting occasions, and different reside performances.
23. Check Out the Buffalo Central Terminal
The large Buffalo Central Terminal, east of downtown Buffalo, stands as an impressive testomony to town’s wealthy architectural heritage. This iconic Art Deco practice station, as soon as bustling with vacationers, now serves as a fascinating image of years handed. With its grandeur and historic significance, the Buffalo Central Terminal has change into a beloved landmark and gathering place for group occasions, artwork displays, and cultural celebrations, together with the annual Beau Fleuve Music & Arts Summer Festival.
24. See a Show at Shea’s Performing Arts Center
Whether you’re a theater fanatic or just searching for a memorable evening out, catching a present on the historic Shea’s Performing Arts Center is a must-do in Buffalo.
From Broadway musicals to live shows and touring performances, Shea’s wide selection of exhibits and productions showcases top-notch expertise that may depart you mesmerized. The theater’s wealthy historical past, relationship again to 1926, provides to the attract of the expertise, creating a way of nostalgia and grandeur.
25. Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
The architectural masterpiece that’s the Darwin D. Martin House is a testomony to famend architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s genius and his progressive strategy to design. The advanced contains the principle residence, the enduring pergola, the glass-enclosed conservatory, and the beautiful gardens.
Explore the meticulously restored Prairie-style residence, with its harmonious integration of nature and structure, and admire the intricate particulars, flowing areas, and natural parts that exemplify Wright’s signature type.
26. Taste Vino Along the Niagara Wine Trail
The Niagara Wine Trail is a 60-mile scenic path that meanders by way of picturesque vineyards and charming wineries throughout the counties of Niagara, Orleans, and Monroe. From crisp whites to full-bodied reds and all the pieces in between, the wineries alongside the path showcase the area’s wealthy viticultural heritage.
P.S. As the wineries are open year-round, it’s possible you’ll go to them with out reserving a reservation (except for teams of 6+ folks.) You also can take a look at their visiting tips and FAQs for more information.
27. See the Works at Burchfield Penney Art Center
Discover a world of inventive inspiration on the Burchfield Penney Art Center, positioned inside the grounds of Buffalo State University. This vibrant cultural establishment celebrates the legacy of famend American artist Charles E. Burchfield.
The establishment showcases a various assortment of latest and regional paintings, be it Burchfield’s personal works (which they’ve the biggest assortment of on the planet) or from distinguished native artists.
28. Tour Old Fort Niagara
Known because the oldest navy set up nonetheless in use in North America, Old Fort Niagara is steeped in tales of navy technique, colonial life, and cultural trade. This well-preserved fortress, with its commanding place between Niagara River and Lake Ontario, affords a glimpse into the strategic significance of the area throughout the 18th and Nineteenth centuries.
Explore the stone partitions, barracks, and cannons that when witnessed vital navy conflicts and cultural exchanges, and immerse your self in dwelling historical past demonstrations, the place reenactors carry the previous to life by way of partaking shows. One of its most important attracts, nevertheless, is the oldest constructing within the Great Lakes Area known as the ‘French Castle,’ which dates again to 1726.
29. Get Up Close and Personal with Niagara Falls
This subsequent one will certainly be one of many highlights in your issues to do in Buffalo, NY.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer energy and grandeur of Niagara Falls, one of many world’s most well-known pure wonders. Spanning the border between the United States and Canada, these awe-inspiring waterfalls include three distinct cascades: the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Experience its breathtaking magnificence up shut with the thrilling Cave of the Winds tour, the place you may enterprise close to the bottom of the falls and really feel the mighty rush of water. For a very immersive expertise, embark on the enduring Maid of the Mist boat tour, permitting you to witness the thundering roar and spectacular spray of Niagara Falls.
30. Visit the Niagara Heritage Village
The Niagara Heritage Village is a dwelling historical past museum which affords a fascinating glimpse into the area’s wealthy heritage and rural life. This meticulously recreated Nineteenth-century village contains fourteen buildings (ten are historic) and over 40,000 objects, which represents the completely different trades, crafts, and tradition on the time.
Experience the each day routines and trades of the previous as you go to the blacksmith’s store, the overall retailer, or the one-room schoolhouse. Adding to its appeal are the costumed interpreters who carry historical past and the village to life by way of demonstrations and seasonal occasions.
Buffalo is a metropolis that beckons with its vibrant power, wealthy historical past, and an unbelievable array of experiences. From savoring the world-famous Buffalo wings to exploring architectural marvels, immersing oneself in artwork and tradition, and witnessing the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, the City of Good Neighbors affords an journey that’s second to none.
So, let this vacation spot ignite your wanderlust as you embark on a journey of discovery, checking off unforgettable experiences from your individual private itinerary of issues to do in Buffalo. Embrace the magic and let this outstanding metropolis depart an indelible mark in your journey reminiscences!
Best Tips for Visiting Buffalo NY
How to Get to Buffalo NY: Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a significant hub and most airways will fly into it. You can simply verify for one of the best fare offers at Skyscanner, which additionally has the choice to decide on ‘cheapest month’ because the departure to search out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot. From the airport to town heart, you need to use the a personal switch, a taxi or a bus.
Getting Around: Driving in a brand new vacation spot generally is a little bit of a problem, however in case you select to lease a automobile, RentalCars.com has nice offers. If you aren’t renting a automobile, there are many different choices. Taxis, Lyft and Uber can be found all around the metropolis. For a extra finances pleasant possibility, you may take the metro bus or metro rail.
Best Time to Visit Buffalo NY: Between the month of June and August.
Where to Stay in Buffalo NY: It’s finest to remain close to town heart, public transportation or the realm that you’ll be spending probably the most time in. The Richardson Hotel is a good selection within the Koror district. For one thing on the cheaper facet, attempt The Delavan Hotel positioned in Buffalo. For a resort with a bit extra extravagance, ebook a room on the Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER. Or search some nice offers on accommodations of your selection at Booking.com. If you’re searching for extra of a house environment (or are touring with a gaggle of individuals), head over to VRBO that has homes, residences and even only a room for lease in each value vary.
Best Tours in Buffalo NY: You can discover a few of the prime excursions at Get Your Guide or Viator, and listed here are a few of the prime ones. excursions: