Things to do in Buffalo

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Buffalo featuring a pond

Buffalo Attractions

Immerse yourself in the rich history and character of Upstate New York in Buffalo, the state's second-largest city after the Big Apple. Due to its advantageous location next to Lake Erie and the Erie Canal, Buffalo underwent rapid economic growth in the 19th and 20th centuries that drew immigrants and industrial workers, who shaped it into the diverse, multicultural place it is today. From architectural treasures designed by Frank Lloyd Wright to contemporary art galleries and beautiful outdoor spaces, Buffalo offers a wealth of things to see and do to please all types of travelers.


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Most popular activities in Buffalo

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What to do in Buffalo

Free Things to Do in Buffalo

A break in Buffalo doesn't have to break the bank. You won't have to spend a penny if you check out:

Buffalo Fire Historical Society - Check to see if there are any special displays or guided tours on at this interesting museum.

Lafayette Square - Tour this local landmark and enjoy its impressive design.

One M&T Plaza - If you'd love to explore the area's history through its landmarks, mark this one down on your sightseeing list.

Niagara Square - Spend a while in this popular spot and imagine what life would be like as a local.

Buffalo and Erie County Public Library - If you'd like to explore some of the more important or interesting places in the community, this place is worth a visit.

St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral - Spend a bit of time in meditation or prayer at this peaceful sacred site.

LaSalle Park - If you're into working in your garden, this place will appeal to your green thumb.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Buffalo

As Buffalo's economy has evolved in the age of technology, the city has experienced a renaissance, creating a palpable energy and an enchanting mix of old and new. Set amidst historic buildings and homes, Buffalo's different neighborhoods beckon with vibrant restaurants, shops, and entertainment destinations that speak to the city's continued growth.

Downtown

Heritage landmarks and architectural gems meet up-and-coming businesses, eateries, and arts centers in the revitalized Downtown area. Stroll along the waterfront in the lively Canalside district, or catch a Broadway show at Shea's Performing Arts Center in the Theatre District.

Elmwood Village

Home to Queen Anne-style houses, independent boutiques, and open-air cafes, Elmwood Village brims with urban charm. Art lovers and creatives also flock to this neighborhood to visit the Albright-Know Art Gallery and the Burchfield Penney Art Center.

Allentown

Found just north of Downtown, the Allentown combines picturesque brick buildings with a bohemian feel. This historic district is known for its live music bars and local galleries, as well as landmarks like the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site.

Things to See in Buffalo

Buffalo's industrial past spurred a flurry of development, and the result is an incredible collection of distinct architecture from visionaries of the 19th and 20th century. Explore one of Frank Lloyd Wright's finest creations at the Darwin D. Martin House Complex, and then pay a visit to Buffalo City Hall to admire a stunning example of exquisite Art Deco style. For a taste of Buffalo's impeccable outdoor planning, revel in the peaceful greenery at Delaware Park, part of an extensive park system designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Olmsted also created the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, which feature one of the few large Victorian conservatories in the United States.

Sightseeing in Buffalo

When planning your trip to Buffalo, you'll find activities and adventures to please everyone in your group. The city has an avid sports fan base, so join in the fun with a hockey game at KeyBank Center, home of the Buffalo Sabres. If baseball is more your speed, head to the retro-classic Coca-Cola Field to cheer on the beloved Buffalo Bisons. While discovering Delaware Park, don't miss the Buffalo Zoo, which has housed a wide variety of exotic and endangered wildlife since 1875. Buffalo's waterways brim with interesting history, so consider a boat tour to cruise your way through the prolific Erie Canal while learning the many stories of the city. If you're in search of family-friendly things to do, set aside some time to explore the Buffalo Museum of Science, where hands-on exhibits on everything from animals to astronomy are sure to keep the kids entertained. Finally, no visit to Buffalo would be complete without a trip to the thundering Niagara Falls, which lies just 20 miles (32 km) up the Niagara River. With options for land, air, and water tours, you can choose your perfect excursion to this breathtaking natural landmark.

Things to Do in Buffalo with Kids

There are loads of unforgettable experiences in Buffalo that the whole gang will enjoy. These are some of the best family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Buffalo? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Buffalo on a sunny day?
What to do in Buffalo on a rainy day?
Dive into some of these enticing indoor activities and turn a gray, rainy day into something fun:


What should I not miss in Buffalo?
If you’d like to discover the best of this place, add these sights to your schedule:

  • KeyBank Center
  • Bills Stadium
  • Buffalo Zoo
  • Buffalo Museum of Science

Are there cheap things to do in Buffalo?
What can you do in Buffalo for free?
You’ll hardly have time to grab your wallet out of your backpack with so many wonderful free attractions:

  • Walden Galleria Mall
  • Canalside
  • Peace Bridge
  • Delaware Park


Discover the most popular places to visit in Buffalo

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Buffalo

Buffalo showing a city, a monument and a skyscraper

Downtown Buffalo

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Known for its lively bars and live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Buffalo. Top attractions like Chippewa District and Shea's Performing Arts Center are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Fountain Plaza Station or Lafayette Square Station to see more of the city.

Downtown Buffalo
Delaware Park showing a lake or waterhole

North Buffalo

The live music and zoo are just a few things visitors like about North Buffalo. Buffalo Zoo and Albright - Knox Art Gallery are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Amherst Street Station or Lasalle Station to get around the larger area.

North Buffalo
Tiramisu

Elmwood Village

Travelers come to Elmwood Village for its live music, and you can see top attractions like Blue Sky Mausoleum and Ujima Theatre Company while you're in town.

Elmwood Village
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Willert Park

Willert Park might not have many top sights, but Shea's Performing Arts Center and Chippewa District are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Willert Park
Mmmmm bone marrow

Front Park

If you're spending some time in Front Park, Peace Bridge and Kleinhans Music Hall are top sights worth seeing.

Front Park
The USS Little Rock and the submarine, USS Croaker just to the left. Both are open for tours.

Waterfront

While visiting Waterfront, you might make a stop by sights like Canalside and Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park.

Waterfront

Popular day trips from Buffalo