Buffalo, NY

What to do in Buffalo, NY

Explore Canalside and the Buffalo Waterfront

Canalside, located at the historically significant Erie Canal terminus, offers a vibrant and lively experience for visitors. With a scenic waterfront, this area provides an array of activities, including kayaking, paddle boating, and water bike rentals during the warmer months. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are also concerts, festivals, and outdoor fitness classes. Additionally, the Naval and Military Park, featuring the USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans, and submarine USS Croaker, is a fascinating attraction for history enthusiasts. Overall, Canalside and the Buffalo Waterfront offer a diverse array of activities combined with stunning views of Lake Erie.

Visit the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

One of Buffalo’s hidden gems, the Botanical Gardens showcases a vast collection of exotic and native plants spread across several stunning indoor and outdoor gardens. Visitors can explore the Palm Dome, with its tropical rainforest ambiance, as well as the Desert Room, which features an extensive collection of cacti and succulents. The outdoor gardens include a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a beautiful herb garden. The gardens also host events and exhibits that further enhance the experience, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility within the city.

Experience History at the Buffalo History Museum

As the city’s premier resource for regional history, the Buffalo History Museum provides an enriching and informative experience for visitors. The museum’s extensive collection offers insight into the development and progression of Buffalo and the Erie County region. Exhibits spanning from the city’s early days to the present, along with the impressive range of artifacts, convey the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the museum’s fine art collection, which features works by renowned artists, including paintings by Charles E. Burchfield and sculptures by Anna Hyatt Huntington. The museum’s dedication to education through workshops, lectures, and special events makes it a cultural hub that attracts both locals and tourists.

Wander Through the Albright-Knox Art Gallery

Renowned for its extraordinary collection of modern and contemporary art, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery enriches Buffalo’s cultural landscape. The museum boasts an impressive assortment of works by influential artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Joan Miró, and many others. The museum’s commitment to fostering creativity and critical thinking is reflected in its various educational programs and community outreach initiatives. Additionally, the surrounding grounds, featuring striking outdoor sculptures, contribute to the gallery’s allure, offering visitors an opportunity to appreciate art both indoors and out.

Enjoy a Day at the Buffalo Zoo

Established in 1875, the Buffalo Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, providing a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including exotic and endangered species, residing in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can marvel at animals such as polar bears, lions, gorillas, and many other fascinating creatures from around the world. The zoo’s immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, such as the M&T Bank Rainforest Falls, the Vanishing Animals exhibit, and the Children’s Zoo, make it a top destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, the zoo often hosts special events and educational programs, ensuring an engaging and educational visit for all.

Example Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning:

• Start your day at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, explore the naval and military exhibits, and take a tour of the USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans, and USS Croaker.

Late Morning:

• Walk over to Canalside and take a relaxing Buffalo Harbor Cruise or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Buffalo River and nearby waterways.

Lunch:

• Enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries at Canalside, where you can find a variety of options to satisfy your hunger.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Buffalo History Museum and learn about the region’s rich heritage, including exhibits on Native American culture, the War of 1812, and the Pan-American Exposition.

Late Afternoon:

• Take a trip to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery to view its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and many others.

Evening:

• Wander through Elmwood Village and explore its trendy shops, galleries, and charming residential streets. Grab dinner at one of the area’s fabulous restaurants.

Day 2:

Morning:

• Start your day at the Buffalo Zoo, home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including polar bears, elephants, and gorillas.

Late Morning:

• Head to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House complex for a guided tour of the architect’s stunning masterpiece, showcasing his groundbreaking Prairie-style design.

Lunch:

• Enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries in the nearby Hertel Avenue district, known for its diverse culinary offerings.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Buffalo Museum of Science, where you can engage with interactive exhibits, a rooftop observatory, and a vast collection of scientific artifacts.

Late Afternoon:

• Take a leisurely stroll in Delaware Park and visit the Japanese Garden, designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the renowned landscape architecture firm.

Evening:

• Conclude your trip with a visit to the historic Forest Lawn Cemetery, featuring impressive mausoleums, sculptures, and the final resting places of influential figures from Buffalo’s past.