Things to Do in Buffalo

Buffalo is New York state’s second largest city, a cultural and economical center of West New York region. Today the city is home to art galleries, universities and world-class architecture.

Here is a list of some of the things you can do while you visit Buffalo:

Day trip to Niagara Falls

The Niagara Fall is one of the most popular and spectacular falls in the world. Access to it is free and there are plenty of walks which offer excellent views of the area. You really don’t need a car to get around, so planning a day trip from Buffalo is easy, cheap and fun.
Getting from Buffalo to Niagara Falls is very easy; there’s a direct bus route between the two cities, which also goes to the Niagara Falls Transportation Center. The distance is 26 miles and the bus ticket costs $3.50 round trip.

Spend half a day at the Buffalo Museum of Science

This is a very popular museum to visit when you are in Buffalo. It is home to robot dinosaurs and some Egyptian mummies. The museum includes a walking path (5 miles) along Lake Erie.
The museum is open Monday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $9 for an adult and $7 for children (age 2-17, students).

Take the kids to the Children’s Museum

If you travel with the kids then make sure to visit the Children’s Museum. Children are encouraged to play with the exhibits and learn by having fun. They can learn about different places in the world and even build houses.

Visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the oldest places of worship in Buffalo. The Cathedral feature three stained glass windows above the main altar.

Learn how maple products are made

The Merle family has been producing maple products for a century. Aside from the well-known syrup, you can also find maple sugar, maple mustard or maple candy. Other good options are Gabel’s Maple Syrup Farm and Smith’s Maple Farm.
The best time to visit the farms is in March. The farms offer fun activities and tours during the Maple Weekends Festival.

A day at the Buffalo Zoo

The Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, crocs, hipos and gorillas. There are also special events held here (both free and paid).
During the high season (July and August) the zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The rest of the year, the zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $7 for children (age 2-14).

Enjoy art at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery

The permanent exhibit comprises works to please any visitor. You can find works by Picasso, Matisse, Van Gogh or Renoir without having to deal with the long crowds.
The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children (age 6-12).

Visit the Old Fort Niagara

This fort has a long history, starting with it being held by French troops in 1678. Later it was a stronghold for both British and American. The oldest remaining structure dates from 1726. Special events are held during summer.
The fort is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. (January to June, September to December) and 7 p.m. (July and August). Admission is $10 for an adult and $6 for children (age 6-12).

hop for treats at Broadway Market

This indoor market has a history of over a century and is one of the largest in the country. You can find German and Eastern European foods along with restaurants and bakeries to make your mouth water.

A day at Sunset Bay Beach

It is one of the popular beaches in the Lake Erie area and features clean sandy beach, with all the modern facilities. The Beach Club is a good option if you want to stay late and party.

Get fresh veggies from the Downtown Country Market

This fresh food market is open only during summer (end of May to end of October). It features some of the top farmers in the area. Aside from the veggies and fruits, you can buy artifacts and specialty items.

Photo credits: Niagara Falls , St. Joseph’s Cathedral , Buffalo Zoo , Old Fort Niagara