27 Unique & Fun Things to do in Buffalo (New York)

Buffalo is a City full-sight attraction, and the reason is not hard to get. It’s the second-largest City in the state of New York.

In Buffalo, you’ll encounter a totally impactful culture, picturesque attractions, and history that sound quite unbelievable.

Interestingly, Buffalo is a gem among the western cities of New York. As a result, it owes its outstanding history to the activities of European settlers.

Home to cultural landmarks from the Albright-Knox Art gallery to the Buffalo Museum of science, among others.

Therefore, when you come to Buffalo, you will experience American culture from another perspective.

You’ll be amazed at all the fun things to do while visiting the city.

Most importantly, Buffalo is rich in service industries such as education, tourism, health care, and others.

To make your stay in the city worthwhile, here is a list of things to do in Buffalo.

Things to do in Buffalo, New York

1. Niagara Falls

One of the famed attractions in Buffalo is Niagara Falls.

The combinations of three tributaries form these three-sided waterfalls before going to the Atlantic Ocean and flowing between the borders of New York and Canada.

It was formed as a result of glacier formation and the carved formation of the Great Lakes.

Niagara Falls is number one among the attractions you visit in Buffalo.

Therefore if you only have time for one thing to do in Buffalo, I suggest it be Niagara Falls because you will surely enjoy the time spent.

Starting from the scenic view of nature to the boat ride on the high-rated water flow, you will experience nothing but spectacular.

Not only will you gaze at the beauty of the mighty waters of Niagara, but you will also tour by cruising on a boat with the Mist boat tour.

Also, learn about the economic importance of this nature-given resource.

First of all, is that it serves as a valuable source of hydroelectric power. Second is the tourism programs available to gaze at the Falls and catch fun while at it.

And lastly is the Casino and luxury hotel, and other restaurants around the Falls. Balancing industrial, recreational, and commercial uses.

2. Peace Bridge

Are you in Buffalo and planning to visit Canada by road? I will suggest you go through Peace Bridge.

Meanwhile, it’s not only for travelers; tourists can take their time to visit Peace Bridge to experience something spectacular.

Peace Bridge is a wonderful international bridge connecting Canada and the United States from Buffalo, New York, and Fort Erie, Ontario. 

It was constructed between 1925 and 1927, and it runs about 20 kilometers upriver of Niagara Falls.

This bridge was named to commemorate 100 years of peace between the United States and Canada.

You will be Thrilled by the architectural design of the bridge, and also, the classic steel truss, together with other concrete materials, gives the bridge firmness.

It also looks fantastic at night with its superb decorative lighting.

As a tourist, you will enjoy your ride, coupled with the scenic views while on the bridge. 

Also, for travelers, know that there is a toll to enter both Canada and the United States, so you have to be with your passport and other relevant documents!

Address: 1 Peace Bridge, Buffalo, NY 14213, United States

3. KeyBank Center

KeyBank Center is a multipurpose arena located in the heart of Downtown Buffalo.

It’s a comfortable arena for all and sundry, from sports enthusiasts and lovers of Concerts to passionate Wrestling fans.

Being the largest indoor arena found all through Western New York; it can safely and comfortably occupy 19,070 visitors with comfortable seats available for all.

It’s home to the Buffalo Sabres (NHL), Buffalo Bandits (NLL), 1st and 2nd Round of March Madness, Concerts, Comedy, and much more. 

You will be treated to your maximum satisfaction when you are at KeyBank Center.

Also, you will be thrilled by the technological advancement in KeyBank that visiting every event organized there will not be boring to you.

As for the safety and security of guests and visitors, KeyBank is up to the task because everyone goes through security checkpoints, and illegal materials are not allowed within the arena.

The leading shop is the Sabres Store, and refreshment is not lacking throughout the store.

Lastly, the arena is in great shape with many facilities such as Restrooms, Parking lots, elevators for the disabled, and many more.

Address: 1 Seymour H Knox III Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

4. Delaware Park

One of the best places to catch fun and enjoy nature in Buffalo is none other but Delaware Park.

This Park is a historic park located in the North Buffalo neighborhood, and it’s the centerpiece of activities in Buffalo.

The 376-acre park is divided into two areas: a meadow, a water park, Hoyt lake, and other historical and memorial landmarks.

With all these areas accessible to visitors, you can be sure to have a lot of picturesque moments while in Delaware Park.

This park is definitely the jewel of Buffalo because there is something for everyone in this stunning park.

As there are activities such as Picnicking, Running, Skateboarding, Bicycling, Walking, and Sports.

Also, you can sit on a bench in the shade and watch Buffalonians do their park thing.

Furthermore, Hoyt lake is beautifully surrounded by mature trees, and you can ride a boat and fish while enjoying the cool breeze.

Also, the meadow park is adorned with beautiful greenery where families can have a Picnic.

Lastly, awesome facilities are present both for children and adults.

It is open all day of the week from 7 am to 10 pm.

Address: 84 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States

5. Canalside

One of the excellent places to have family fun and unique dates while in Buffalo remains Canalside.

Canalside is a waterfront area situated on the Buffalo River.

It’s a historical place where locals and visitors can enjoy nature coupled with entertainment.

Located at the western terminus of Lake Erie, Canalside offers tourists the opportunity to experience New York at its grandeur.

Some activities include water bike riding, boardwalk, kayaking, and sailing during the summer. 

And also, during the winter, ice skating allows for a fun-filled experience for visitors.

There are sand pits for kids, and also restaurants, food, and ice cream shacks are available.

Additionally, Canalside hosts numerous concerts, live music, and other festivals.

Lastly, your trip to Buffalo will be incomplete without a visit to Canalside.

Address: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

6. Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park

While in Buffalo, you need to pay a visit to Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park.

Being the largest inland Naval & Military Park in the country, this historic Museum is situated on the bank of the Buffalo River.

If you want to know how the Americans fought World War II and the weapons used, visit this Museum to see for yourself.

The Major attraction in the park is the Warships used by the Navy during wars.

This park is home to several decommissioned US Naval vessels, including the submarine USS Croaker, the Cleveland-class cruiser USS Little Rock and the Fletcher-class destroyer USS The Sullivans. 

All these warships are open to the public for tours. 

Along with the ships, a variety of smaller vessels, vehicles, and aircraft are also on display at the park. 

Furthermore, there are smaller exhibits in the museum, and the history is well narrated for visitors.

Lastly, visit hours may vary by season, but the park is closed from December to March.

Address: 1 Naval, Marina Park S, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

7. Buffalo Zoo

You might have been to a Zoo before, but Buffalo Zoo is one of the best in the States.

Founded in 1875, Buffalo Zoo is the third oldest zoo in the country.

Located on 23.5 acres near Delaware Park, the zoo welcomes many visitors as the second-largest tourist attraction in Western New York.

This zoo plays a vital role in preserving rarely-seen animals, and it’s home to a diverse collection of wild and exotic animals.

And not only that, there are more than 320 species of plants.

Animals that can be found at this New York zoo include Polar bears, Gorillas, Tigers, Zebra, Rhinoceros, and more.

Suppose you’re passionate about the lives of animals and want to contribute to the unending care provided for the animals. In that case, your contributions can go a long way in keeping endangered species alive. 

Lastly, it is open all year round.

Address: 300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States

8. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

For History enthusiasts, tours to Theodore Roosevelt’s Inaugural National Historic Site are a great stop while in Buffalo.

Ansley Wilcox House was preserved as a historical marker for the Theodore Roosevelt memorial and a museum showing the use of the building.

Although the structure was originally a Barracks’ officers’ quarters, it became Theodore Roosevelt’s Inaugural site.

Theodore Roosevelt is considered one of the best-known and most influential presidents of the United States.

This Inaugural site offers an excellent opportunity to anyone passionate about the history of the 26th President.

It was after the assassination of President William McKinley that he became the president being the vice president at that time.

Furthermore, the presentations not only describe the inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt but also give plenty of historical context about his life.

Additionally, the Tour guide does an excellent job of leading visitors through the house and explaining Roosevelt’s situation.

 Address: 641 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

9. Buffalo Museum of Science

The Science of life, also called natural science, is very important and plays a good role as the world advances, answering the most curious questions about life and the world itself.

Therefore Buffalo Museum of Science becomes necessary to showcase a collection of more than 700,000 specimens pertaining to the Greater Niagara Region and form.

The 700,000 specimen is, by far, the complete record of life in all of its forms in this area in anthropology, botany, entomology, mycology, paleontology, and zoology.

Furthermore, exhibitions in this Museum are made into eight highly interactive and immersive science studio exhibit spaces. 

These studios and accompanying workshop spaces capitalize on the collection pieces as a foundation of history and information.

Lastly, the Museum offers exhibitions for kids ages two to seven to awaken their curious minds through monthly gallery displays.

Address: 1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14211, United States.

10. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

One of the best places in Buffalo for family-friendly fun in the beauty of the natural world is the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens.

The botanical garden is a historic site, tourist destination, and educational center full of exotic horticulture treasures from all over the world. 

While at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, you’ll be thrilled by the amazing architecture and the indoor and outdoor scenic garden.

Families and friends can gather together and find peace and harmony and also enjoy the simple power of the natural world.

Furthermore, the Botanical Gardens boast various picturesque flower exhibits, special events, educational programming, workshops, and so much more! 

It’s a home to different varieties of plants, and as a mission of every botanical garden, the plants are well maintained.

No matter where you come from, you will find sections of plants native to your home.

Lastly, everyone is welcome and finds reasons to smile in a well-adorned environment. There is definitely no limitation to all you can do here.

Address: 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218, United States

11. Anchor Bar

Anchor Bar is home to the famed Buffalo chicken wings and draft beers.

It’s a must-visit for both locals and tourists in Buffalo, and if you want a nice treat of tasty grilled chicken wings.

By way of history, on a Friday night in 1964, a group of friends arrived at the bar with ravenous appetites.

Dominic asked his mother, Teressa, to prepare something for his friends to eat. Meanwhile, Teressa prepared deep-fried wings and flavored them with a secret sauce.

Since then, Anchor Bar has spread across the city and New York at large.

The menu is designed in such a way that Buffalo wings come at amazing prices, and not only that, various tasty delicacies and excellent beers are what visitors enjoy here at Anchor Bar.

Address: 1047 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14209, United States

Are you traveling to other cities in New York? Why not check out the list of our top attractions in Syracuse, Old Forge, Queens, and Lake Placid?

12. Darwin D. Martin House

If you want to see some historic and artistry architecture in Buffalo, one of the best places to visit has to be Darwin D. Martin House. 

At Darwin D. Martin House, you’ll have the opportunity to see buildings constructed more than 100 years ago but show no signs of age because of their solid design and well-laid blocks.

The buildings were built for the businessman Darwin D. Martin and his family and were designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. 

When you visit this great attraction, you’ll be thrilled by all the scenic views, inside and out.

Tour to the picturesque spaces in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House comes in two options.

First is the basic tour, which lasts 75 minutes. Also, the second is the premium which lasts for 2 hours.

Additionally, this house is not a single unit.

Instead, it’s six total units, including a conservatory, a pergola, and a gardener’s cottage.

For the past years, lots of efforts have been put in place to restore the complex to its 1907 condition, making it a functional public historic house museum.

Address: 125 Jewett Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States 

13. Sahlen Field

Another home for all baseball enthusiasts! Sahlen Field is a baseball park and the jewel of downtown Buffalo.

It was opened on April 14, 1988, prior to the 1988 baseball season.

The first ‘classic retro’ ballpark ever built and the highest-capacity Triple-A ballpark in the United States.

Moreso, Home to the Buffalo Bisons can seat up to 16,600 spectators.

Sahlen Field is indeed one of the most significant ballparks in baseball history and is conveniently located in downtown Buffalo, just minutes from the Peace Bridge.

You’ll surely have access to many great experiences before and after the game.

Furthermore, the ticket to have access to the Buffalo Bison’s ball game is affordable, and once inside the stadium, you can choose whatever seat is comfortable for you.

Also, Following the game, you can watch a spectacular fireworks show.

And lastly, food and beer options are the best and most affordable.

Bring your family to enjoy the Buffalo Bison’s ball game whenever you are in Buffalo.

Address: 1 James D Griffin Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

14. Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum

Do you want to know about Buffalo as an influential city of industry and producer of outstanding vehicles?

Then don’t miss a trip to Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum.

The museum is located in the building used as a Mack Truck showroom and repair shop. 

Meanwhile, it’s considered by car enthusiasts as one of the most unique in the world.

Exhibits at this museum include important pieces of transportation history, including several Pierce bicycles, a Pierce motorcycle and Pierce-Arrow cars, and other significant cars.

Additionally, items and artifacts are on display, highlighting the history of transportation in western New York.

Address: 263 Michigan Ave, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

15. Old Fort Niagara

Another historical landmark for history buffs is Fort Niagara.

Fort Niagara is a fortification at the mouth of the Niagara River. 

Originally built by France during the colonial wars in North America.

And the purpose of this fort was to act as a defense for New France.

For more than 300 years, this Fort served military post during wars. It was captured by the British during the French & Indian War in 1759 and later by the United States.

However, it remained an active military post until the 20th century.

While you are in Buffalo, visiting Fort Niagara is one of the memorable things to do.

Address: 102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174, United States

16. Elmwood Village

If you want a place full of engaging activities among a community of awesome people, Elmwood Village is one of the best places to be.

Elmwood Village is located in the central part of Buffalo.

It’s a neighborhood in Buffalo that has become a popular site for mixed-use commercial and residential sites. 

So, in Elmwood Village, you’ll encounter different kinds of outstanding businesses.

It features over 300 local shops, restaurants, coffee houses, art galleries, and bars.

From dining to shopping in Buffalo, Elmwood Village offers you diverse kinds of options.

Shopping options in the Village include Half & Half Boutique, the Blush, and Her Story.

Restaurant options include Mister Goodbar, Kuni’s, a place for wings, Vera Pizzeria, and a sushi restaurant.

Elmwood Village is not limited to shops and restaurants but offers some of the top places to get educated in New York.

In addition to the Burchfield Penney Art Center, there’s also the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Lastly, when you are in Elmwood Village, you’ll experience a great community that believes in unity.

Address: 875 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222-1433, United States

17. Erie Basin Marina

A really nice place to visit while in Buffalo this weekend is Erie Basin Marina.

This municipal inland harbor is located in downtown Buffalo.

Constructed in 1974 and was designed to look like the American buffalo when viewed from overhead.

Meanwhile, Erie Basin Marina is a great place if you want to be in the city and on the beach at the same time! 

The Erie Basin Marina stands out among the most exciting attractions in New York.

This marina offers more than just docking for boats; It’s primarily for residential usage.

At the Erie Basin Marina, you’ll enjoy a park, top-notch restaurants, and the public lookout tower to catch a scenic view of the area.

Not only that, but you’ll also find the marina suitable for walking along the water, enjoying the calming breeze from its flow, and watching the Sunset.

Additionally, riding on the water is another fun and engaging activity, and it can be in a luxury yacht or a simple kayak.

Address: 329 Erie St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

18. Niagara Wine Trail

Niagara Wine Trail is a world-class wine country located in Western New York. 

It’s close to Niagara Falls and a short trip from Buffalo.

Niagara Wine Trail has many wineries that offer a good selection of wines. 

This Wine Trail is adorned with a unique microclimate suitable for the production of the types of fruit that are used to create its fine wines. 

When you plan a visit, get ready for all you will see and experience.

This Is because this New York Trail contains more than just a few rows of grapes growing.

It’s a perfectly clean space composed of more vineyards than you could possibly imagine.

A tour of the Niagara Wine Trail will show you the uniqueness of wine and grapes.

Furthermore, there’re also events like wine pairing dinner, the Harvest Festival, and the Niagara USA Wine Festival.

19. Buffalo River History Tours

One of the exciting things to do in Buffalo is Buffalo River History Tours. 

As a tourist to a new city, you may need to learn about the history of Buffalo.

And this exciting tour happens live cruising in a boat on the Buffalo River.

On these tours, for 90 minutes, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise and a narrated detailed account of the days of the Erie Canal straight through to the present.

Also, you will learn the history of Buffalo as the largest grain port.

While riding down the Buffalo River, you’ll have interesting scenic views of the city.

Additionally, the 48-seat River Queen boat from Buffalo River History Tours provides the perfect setting for breathtaking excursions.

Address: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

20. Buffalo City Hall

Buffalo City Hall is the seat of municipal government in Buffalo.

Although the City Hall is the seat of political dealings, it also freely welcomes tourists for the perfect Buffalo experience.

The 32-story Art Deco building was completed in 1931.

 While on the observation deck on the 28th floor, you’ll have a 360 view of the surrounding areas.

The Art Deco design of the building makes it unique.

Although Buffalo City Hall is worth viewing from the ground level, there is lots of fun from inside.

Lastly, in Buffalo City Hall, you’ll have a wonderful and unique buffalo experience that doesn’t cost a cent.

Address: 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

21. Buffalo Pedal Tours

If you want to tour around Buffalo and catch all the fun available, you should consider the Buffalo pedal tour.

Buffalo Pedal Tours lets you and other riders enjoy the boat ride through pedaling.

Part of the fun-filled activities of the pedal tours is riding around the city.

With a driver in charge of making sure you get a blast experience, pedal tours can be breathtaking.

You can bring along your favorite canned beverage for more fun. Also, you can choose your favorite playlist.

When you hop on Buffalo Pedal Tours across the city, it offers you an opportunity to see great dining sites, stunning buildings, and the general beauty of the city.

On Buffalo Pedal Tours, you’ll get around the city and have some great experiences.

Address: 93 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

22. Allentown Historic District

Allentown Historic District is a neighborhood in Buffalo; this neighborhood is good both for residential and fun making. 

And as a result, it’s impressive for its residential and commercial value.

In this neighborhood, you’ll come in contact with the best of Buffalo culture.

Being one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buffalo, Allentown has made its mark in the history of New York.

The collection of brick houses has classic designs.

There are lots of activities for anyone looking for something lively to do in New York.

Furthermore, Allentown has one of the most exciting music venues in Buffalo.

23. Burchfield Penney Art Center

Burchfield Penney Art Center is an art and educational institution Center and part of Buffalo state college.

Located adjacent to the main campus in Buffalo, this Art Center is a place to visit for all lovers of art.

The center features a museum, an activity space for the arts, and a library.

Although formerly dedicated to the art and vision of American painter Charles E. Burchfield, it now contains artworks of various noble artists in the United States.

Some of these artists include Gloria Plevin, Chuck Tingley, and Patrick Foran. 

Even if those names seem unfamiliar, there’s no cause for worry.

As the works of these contemporary artists showcase every aspect of Buffalo and the region’s rich cultural activity.

Interestingly, admission to the Burchfield Penney Art Center is very affordable.

It is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for students, and free for children.

Address: 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, United States

24. Pearl Street Grill & Brewery

One of the best restaurants in Buffalo, where you’ll be treated to mouthwatering delicacies, is Pearl Street Grill & Brewery.

At this restaurant, you’ll enjoy some of the best beer and most delicious food in Buffalo.

This entire building consists of four floors with nine full bars.

On top are fantastic craft beers like Blue-eyed Blueberry Blonde and Trainwreck Amber Ale.

Every beer has a distinct and complex taste.

The menu also suits the beer really well.

Furthermore, delicacies like onion rings, stuffed peppers, and steak sandwiches are the best options with your tasty brews.

Lastly, visiting this restaurant will make your trip to Buffalo fun-filled.

Address: 76 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

25. Forest Lawn Cemetery 

Forest Lawn Cemetery is a historic Cemetery in Buffalo, New York.

When you are on a trip to Buffalo, you’ll discover that the essential activities aren’t always the most fun activities.

Buffalo is full of fun things to do that keep you excited, and not only that, there are also places like Forest Lawn Cemetery.

At this Buffalo cemetery, you can visit the graves of some of the most influential people in American culture.

These include president Millard Fillmore and his first lady, civil rights legend Mary Burnett Talbert, congresswoman Shirley Anita Chisholm, and musician Rick James.

All of these have added an unforgettable impact on the history of this great country.

Although these souls have departed the physical realm, we can still remember their impact on our country and honor them.

You can pay your respects and reflect on the life well lived at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Lastly, It’s one of the places in Buffalo for showing reverence for lives gone ahead.

Address: 1411 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209, United States

26. Shea’s Performing Arts Center

For lovers of music, Shea’s Performing Arts Center is a cool place to visit in Buffalo.

It’s a theater for musicals and special events.

Although it was opened in 1926 mainly to show Silent movies, today, it remains one of the few theaters in operation in the building for which it was designed.

The architecture of this theater stands out among its peers in New York, and the theater is adorned with great decoration and comfortable seats.

This lovely old theater offers you an excellent opportunity to experience Buffalo at its grandiose. 

While at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, you’ll enjoy quality music and movies with an ambiance atmosphere.

The sound system of the theater is impeccable, and its clarity is spot on.

Besides, the Arts Center is large enough for its stage facilities to accommodate larger touring productions.

Aside from being a successful performance center, it hosts special events such as 43 North finals and Nutcrackers.

It will be worth the time!

Address: 650 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

27. Tifft Nature Preserve

To experience want a nature park looks like, you must visit Tifft Nature Preserve.

This nature Preserve consists of 264 acres of restored habitat where different kinds of species can be sighted.

It’s a special stopover for waterfowl and migratory raptor species.

In 1998, this Preserve was identified as an important Bird Area by Audubon.

Tifft Nature Preserve features attractions such as Birdwatching, snowshoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing.

During the Birdwatching activity, you’ll be thrilled to see beautiful bird species like tree swallows, horned owls, waterfowl, and raptors.

Also, there are educational displays to equip visitors with the history of the preserve and other informative programs.

The restrooms look great, and there are other facilities like event space.

Address: 1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

Start Your Trip to Buffalo

Buffalo, New York, is a place full of activities.

A trip to Buffalo is all you need to experience the culture and history of New York City.

There are tons of fun things to do and see all day of the week, in and out of Buffalo. 

Even on the weekend, this city welcomes tourists and offers them opportunities comparable to other big cities in the United States.

Therefore, plan your trip to Buffalo today.