16+ Best Things To Do In Buffalo

Last updated September 28, 2025

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Buffalo, NY, situated on Lake Erie's eastern banks, is a lovely city that has a deep heritage, a lively artistic community, and a strong spirit.

Renowned for its legendary architecture including Frank Lloyd Wright's creations, you will enjoy non-stop fun while exploring Buffalo.

Find out 16+ best things to do in Buffalo!

1. Explore the Albright-Knox Art Gallery's Art Pieces

This gallery is renowned for its remarkable assortment of modern and contemporary art.

Founded in 1862, this gallery is a premier location for art lovers.

Its collection encompasses a diverse array of artistic styles, from Pop Art to Abstract Expressionism and more, showcasing pieces by legendary artists like Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Vincent Gogh.

The gallery’s dedication to presenting original and cutting-edge art has made it a vibrant center for cultural involvement and learning within the lovely Buffalo community.

This gallery is really notable for its exceptional collection as well as its architecturally important structure.

Its initial neoclassical framework, created by E. Green and built in the year 1905, has undergone expansions and renovations throughout the years.

AK360 expansion’s recent incorporation, crafted by the esteemed architectural firm OMA, boosts the gallery's ability to accommodate varied displays and initiatives.

Blending historical and modern features, the Albright Art Gallery remains a cultural landmark, encouraging guests to discover the constantly changing realm of contemporary and modern creativity in Buffalo.

2. Take a Walk Through Buffalo Lighthouse Park

This is a picturesque spot located at the junction of the stunning Buffalo River and Lake Erie.

In the park center perches Buffalo's Main Light, an impressive lighthouse that has been directing vessels through Lake Erie's choppy waters since 1833.

This lighthouse, featuring its traditional architecture and distinctive red roof, has turned into a landmark and emblem of Buffalo’s nautical legacy.

The garden area around the lighthouse also is a lovely place to unwind outdoors and enjoy the scenery.

Visitors can also discover the Buffalo Light House Museum, located inside the keeper’s home, where they can explore the nautical past of the area.

The museum displays exhibits, artifacts, and narratives that highlight the lighthouse's significance and the essential sea operations that influenced Buffalo’s development as a top port city.

Indeed, this park, showcasing a wide combination of historical significance and scenic charm, highlights Buffalo’s maritime history and offers a distinct waterfront encounter for everyone.

3. Stroll Round Delaware Park

This is a beloved green area that provides a multitude of scenic beauty and leisure activities in Buffalo, New York.

Created by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Olmsted, famous landscape architects who are responsible for Central Park in New York City, Delaware Park got completed during the 1800s and stands out as a significant aspect of the Olmsted Park system in Buffalo.

This park covers a 376-acre piece of land and features a scenic lake, winding paths for walking and cycling, athletic fields, and attractively designed gardens.

Albright-Knox’s Art Gallery and the exciting Buffalo Zoo are likewise situated in this park, offering a variety of leisure and cultural activities for guests.

Hoyt Lake is the focal point of the park, a tranquil water body surrounded by shores edged with willows, pathways for walking, and historical bridges.

The legendary Delaware Park's Lake Casino, an architectural gem in neoclassical style by the lakeshore, also enhances the park’s allure.

Then, there is the Forest Lawn Cemetery, a notable location within the park recognized for its artistically designed landscapes, majestic tombs, and the resting sites of prominent figures such as artist Rick James and President Fillmore Millard.

From Hoyt Lake to the different museums and hiking paths, Delaware Park is filled with non-stop enjoyable activities.

4. Discover the Eccentric Elmwood Village

Situated in the heart of Buffalo, NY, Elmwood Village is a lively and diverse community recognized for its distinctive personality, cultural allure, and varied community.

Extending along Elmwood Ave., this fashionable area is bordered by trees, vintage houses, and a variety of independently-run stores, shops, and eateries.

The area serves as a center for innovation and culture, featuring many performance venues, art galleries, and cultural organizations that enhance its vibrant ambiance.

Elmwood Village also serves as a dining and shopping hub as well as a hub for local events and meetings.

Both inhabitants and tourists here can appreciate the Elmwood Bid-well Farmers Market, featuring local manufacture and artistry, along with different events and outdoor markets.

The variety of architecture in Elmwood Village, spanning from the Victorian era residences to contemporary flats, also enhances its attraction.

The town attracts individuals from various backgrounds to discover its distinctive features and submerge themselves in the city environment of Buffalo.

Without a doubt, Elmwood Village remains among the most picturesque locations in Buffalo.

5. Connect With Nature at Buffalo's Museum of Science

This museum is committed to honoring and exploring the marvels of natural history and science.

Founded in 1929, this science museum has transformed into a center for educational involvement, igniting curiosity and exploration for guests of every age.

Its displays encompass a wide range of scientific fields, spanning from paleontology and astronomy to anthropology and physics.

Prominent attractions in the museum include the iconic Kellogg Observatory. It provides stunning sights of the universe via its telescopes.

There is also the Bug Works display, where attendees can check out the captivating realm of insects at close view.

More than its intriguing displays, the museum is also dedicated to offering outreach initiatives and educational programs to the Buffalo community.

Its Explore More Center offers an interactive area intended for kids to interact with scientific ideas through engaging experiments and presentations.

Anyone curious about the marvels of the natural environment and science should definitely take a trip to this intriguing Buffalo museum.

6. Explore Niagara Falls Park

A trip to this place from Buffalo is a breathtaking experience that enables travelers to observe the stunning splendor of one amongst the planet’s most famous natural marvels.

Situated a brief drive north, Niagara Falls Park covers Niagara Falls' American portion and provides a variety of perspectives and landmarks to discover.

The park offers breathtaking wide-angle views of the 3 magnificent waterfalls created by the lovely Niagara River – Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and BridalVeil Falls.

Guests can have a walk through the park’s carefully preserved trails to absorb the booming sound of the cascades and sense the mist directly on their skin as they near the observation spots.

A Niagara Falls key feature is the famous Maid the Mist’s boat tour that offers guests an exciting experience near the foot of the waterfalls, offering a distinct viewpoint and an unforgettable encounter.

There is also the Cave the Winds excursion which gives daring visitors the opportunity to approach the falls more closely by going down a set of wooden pathways to sense the force of the flowing water.

You're free to merge all these allures into a thrilling comprehensive guided full-day Niagara Falls tour.

With its breathtaking natural landscapes, countless attractions, and convenient access from Buffalo, a one-day visit to this park is essential for anyone looking for an engaging and memorable experience with this breathtaking natural marvel.

7. Explore Buffalo Harbor Park

Located on the banks of the picturesque Buffalo River and Lake Erie, this state park is a riverside sanctuary providing a mix of leisure activities and natural attractions.

The park has a great marina with docking spaces for boats, launching areas for kayaks, and fishing spots, which means there are many enjoyable activities to experience here.

The Observation Tower at this park stands 60 feet tall above the earth, offering sweeping vistas of Buffalo's skyline, Lake Erie, and the nearby scenery.

The park also features expansive grassy areas, picnic spots, and a system of paths for biking and hiking.

The activities and events in this park, which encompasses live music events and outdoor concerts, enhance its vibrant ambiance and establish it as a center for the community throughout the entire year.

Buffalo Harbor Park’s advantageous position, situated in the inner harbor of Buffalo, enhances its allure as an entry point to the city's vibrant past and current revitalization initiatives.

8. Watch Animals at Buffalo Zoo

Families and animal enthusiasts will enjoy a great time at the lively Buffalo Zoo, situated inside Delaware Park.

Being the third USA oldest zoo, Buffalo Zoo possesses a deep history and an unchangeable dedication to wildlife preservation and community involvement.

The zoo spans a 23.5-acre area of land and hosts more than 1200 animals showcasing various species from across the world.

It offers a distinctive chance for guests to engage with wildlife, thereby nurturing respect for the environment and the significance of preservation initiatives.

A major allure at this zoo is their Arctic Edge display that showcases sea lions, polar bears, and various Arctic animals in a cutting-edge habitat crafted to replicate their natural surroundings.

There is also the beautiful Rainforest Falls display which envelops guests in a vibrant tropical environment, featuring waterfalls and unusual vegetation and displaying creatures like monkeys, birds, and reptiles.

The Buffalo Zoo is also actively involved in conservation projects, study initiatives, and learning engagement, transforming it into more than just a location for entertainment.

It's also a center for fostering environmental consciousness and the well-being of animals in the wild.

With its commitment to both education and leisure, the iconic Buffalo Zoo remains a beloved establishment in Buffalo and even further.

9. Explore Niagara Wine County

Another top activity in Buffalo is to go on a trip to the wine region of Niagara.

A day journey from Buffalo, New York, to Niagara’s wine region is a pleasurable adventure through scenic vistas and prize-winning wineries.

The Niagara's Wine Trail stretches across Niagara County's picturesque rural landscape, spanning both Canada and the United States, and highlighting a varied selection of vineyards and wineries.

Guests can enjoy an array of wines, ranging from refreshing whites to full-bodied reds, grown in the area's rich soil and distinct microclimate inspired by the adjacent Niagara Waterfalls.

With many vineyards scattered across the path, each presents a unique ambiance, making the encounter a luxurious array of tastes and picturesque landscapes.

Numerous wineries here have tasting rooms and offer sweeping views of other orchards, vineyards, and Lake Ontario's occasional views.

Guests can likewise relish snacks and cheese sourced from local producers that pair well with the tasting wine experience.

The relaxed tempo of a tour here permits the discovery of charming communities such as Youngstown and Lewiston throughout the journey, enhancing cultural and historical aspects.

10. Go Back into History at Buffalo History Museum

In case you're passionate about history, be sure to explore this museum.

Founded in 1862, the museum is among the USA's oldest history institutions and has been instrumental in maintaining and highlighting the cultural legacy of Western NY.

The museum is located in an impressive neoclassical structure within Buffalo’s historical Elmwood Village, which is itself evidence of the architectural heritage of the city.

The vast collections housed in the museum cover centuries, showcasing artifacts, records, and displays that showcase significant events in Buffalo that evolved from its origins as a top frontier settlement to its emergence as a manufacturing giant.

Guests at the museum can discover a diverse array of exhibitions that explore the history of the city, including presentations on Indigenous American history, industrialization, the 1901 Pan-American Exhibition, and the historic Erie Canal.

Through its dedication to conserving and disseminating the narratives that have molded the city, this museum serves as an ideal location to acquire an understanding of Western NY's lively history and link to the past.

11. Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's Architectural Pieces

Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic architectural works, Graycliff Estate and the MartinHouse Complex, serve as monuments to Frank’s creativity and impactful design concepts.

Both can be reached easily from downtown Buffalo.

The Darwin Martin D. House Complex, situated in the historical Parkside area of Buffalo, serves as a quintessential illustration of Frank Wright's Prairie School architectural style.

Built from 1903 to 1905, this complex encompasses a trellis, the primary Martin House, one greenhouse, a carriage home, and additional linked buildings.

Guests at the complex have the opportunity to discover the carefully renovated interiors showcasing Wright's distinctive glass windows, elaborate stained glass, and creative design features that reconceptualize the idea of a house.

Graycliff Estate, constructed from 1926 to 1931 for Martin’s family, prolongs Wright’s architectural heritage throughout Lake Erie's borders. It's just a brief drive from Buffalo.

The Graycliff property, situated on an elevation overlooking the stunning lake, showcases the design principles of Wright within a more cozy dwelling.

The Martin Complex and the Graycliff Estate provide an engaging experience of Frank Wright's brilliance, enabling guests to value his innovative concepts and lasting impact on contemporary architecture.

12. Have Fun Outdoors at Glen Falls

This is a charming and petite waterfall located in Williamsville, Buffalo's suburban area.

The waterfalls belong to Ellicott Creek. Their flowing waters form a peaceful refuge within the suburban scenery.

Enveloped by vibrant foliage, Glen Falls provides a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban living.

A network of hiking paths meanders through the picturesque space to appreciate the nice fresh air and stretch out your legs.

Glen Falls is historically important too, since the region previously functioned as a milling location in the nineteenth century.

The leftovers of the mill's foundation enhance the natural environment by incorporating an additional layer of intrigue, merging the aspects of nature and history effortlessly.

Whether you want to have a fun picnic beside the creek, enjoy a relaxing walk, or just relax in a serene environment, Glen Falls provides an enchanting and welcoming getaway, highlighting the scenic beauty that enhances the Buffalo region.

13. Dine at New York's Local Food Trucks in Buffalo

Buffalo, NY, has adopted the food truck culinary trend, establishing a lively and varied atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of preferences.

From Buffalo wings’ delicious scent to upscale tacos and creative fusion cuisine, the food trucks of the city offer a banquet to locals and guests as well.

Larkin Square specifically has turned into a popular destination for food truck meetings.

They organize weekly activities that feature a changing variety of trucks, ranging from gourmet pizzas to global cuisines from street vendors.

The range of dishes and the imaginative takes on classic favorites transform the food truck landscape of Buffalo into a vibrant culinary expedition.

Whether stationed close to popular sights, business areas, or unique locations and events, Buffalo's food trucks provide a tasty and convenient option to discover the city's changing food scene.

From legendary Buffalo globally inspired meals to food truck offerings, this food truck culinary scene adds an exciting, tasty, and mobile aspect to Buffalo’s culinary choices.

So, be sure to enjoy some buffalo wings during your visit to Buffalo, NY!

14. Discover the Splendid Buffalo City Hall

This hall is a remarkable Art Deco landmark situated in the center of Buffalo, NY downtown.

Finished in 1931, the architectural treasure was created by George Dietel and John Wade, showcasing the hopefulness and splendor of the time.

The building’s impressive height creates a striking presence, and it is even the USA third third-highest city hall.

Its complex features, featuring geometric designs, elaborate engravings, and a notable central spire, enhance the structure’s aesthetic charm and highlight the artistry of a past time.

The inside of the Buffalo CityHall is just as remarkable, showcasing a magnificent Art Deco style that features sleek marble, intricate metal designs, and elaborate details.

The CommonCouncil Chamber, featuring its intricate murals representing the city's past and stained beautiful glass dome, is a special focus.

Guests can participate in a guided tour to discover its architectural marvels and discover the city’s past.

The observation platform on its 28th floor provides sweeping views of Lake Erie and Buffalo and offers a distinctive perspective to enjoy the urban scenery.

15. Visit Burchfield Penney's Art Center

A top activity in Buffalo, especially for art enthusiasts, is exploring this arts center.

Situated on Buffalo State College's grounds, this cultural treasure celebrates the advancement of the region’s modern art and Charles Burchfield's legacy, an American watercolorist.

The center houses a vast array of Burchfield’s artworks.

The collection features not just watercolors but drawings, diaries, and archival documents, offering insight into Burchfield’s creative approach and the development of this approach.

The remarkable design of the structure, created by Gwathmey Siegel and Associates Architects, enhances the neighboring landscape, offering a visually striking setting for art exploration.

Through its dedication to maintaining the heritage of Charles Burchfield and supporting the modern art community, the center serves as an essential cultural entity that enhances the artistic scenery of Buffalo.

16. Explore the Buffalo & Erie County Gardens

Situated inside South Park, this is a charming horticultural treasure that delights guests with its breathtaking architecture and varied plant collections.

The cherished Gardens showcase a network of linked outdoor gardens and greenhouses that exhibit a diverse variety of species of plants from various regions globally.

Its iconic glass conservatory in the Victorian style, created by Lord and Burnham, stands as a symbol of architectural grace and offers a distinct environment for the thriving plant marvels inside.

Guests can begin on an adventure through arid terrains, botanical gardens, and themed gardens featuring tropical rainforests.

A centerpiece of this conservatory, the iconic Palm Dome features vibrant greenery and impressive palm trees that immerse visitors in a tropical haven.

Educational initiatives, seminars, and temporary displays additionally improve guests' experience, transforming the gardens into a center for nature fans.

Boasting a deep history, stunning architecture, and lively plant collections, these Gardens, without a doubt, represent the city's highlight.

17. Have Fun on the Buffalo River Tour

Joining this tour presents an intriguing experience via the diverse seafaring legacy and manufacturing background of Buffalo, New York.

These escorted boat tours traverse the scenic Erie Canal and Buffalo River's waters, offering travelers a distinct view of the city’s growth and evolution throughout the ages.

Informed guides provide historical insights and interesting stories, narrating tales about the building of Erie Canal and the busy waterfront businesses.

They also narrate tales of the essential part Buffalo contributed to the transportation system connecting the large Atlantic Ocean to the stunning Great Lakes.

Anyone seeking an entertaining method to explore while enjoying distinct familiarity with the city’s past ought to dedicate the afternoon to Buffalo River Tours!

Conclusion

Buffalo presents a vibrant blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities, rendering it an appealing location for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re interested in art galleries, historical landmarks, or natural beauties, Buffalo’s attractions showcase the city’s distinctive allure and lively community.

So, start organizing your journey now to explore the numerous unforgettable adventures that await you in Buffalo!