10 Exciting Things to Do in Buffalo, New York

By M L | Updated December 5th, 2022

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If you’re looking to get out of the big city and enjoy some fresh air and culture, take a trip to Buffalo, New York! This town on the shores of Lake Erie has been around since the 1800s and was once a major shipping port. Today, it’s still bustling with shops and restaurants that are sure to delight you and your family when you come to visit. Here are 10 of the most exciting things to do in Buffalo.

Abstract blur contemporary art gallery for background usage

Ranked as one of the world’s top-ten art museums by Travel + Leisure magazine and named World’s Greatest Museum by Smithsonian magazine, Albright Knox Art Gallery is a major cultural institution on the western edge of downtown Buffalo. The impressive museum houses over 30 galleries that are dedicated to masterpieces from American painting and sculpture from 1850 to 1950. Named after Henry T. Albright and John J.

The Albright Knox Art Gallery – IsTemporaryy closed for construction.

Elmwood Village

Snow Flurry in Elmwood Village during a cold winter morning. Buffalo, New York, USA, February 9tj 2021

Visit Elmwood Village during the summer months so that you can enjoy the charming street fairs, live music and sidewalk festivals. Stroll down Elmwood Avenue from Delaware to Allen and browse specialty shops along the way.

The stores are full of vintage finds and Buffalo-made goods that you’re sure to love. The summer evenings will be filled with music performances on outdoor stages. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair for your enjoyment. Every year there are different festivals so visit regularly if you want a variety of things to do every time you go.

Kleinhans Music Hall

USA – March 20, 2018: James Young with Styx performs live

Buffalo is home to a number of things to do that are sure to make you and your family feel entertained. One of the most exciting things to do is going out for a show at Kleinhans Music Hall. This historic theatre has been around since the 1920s and still draws a large crowd of both locals and visitors. The theatre hosts four different types of shows: pop concerts, family-oriented plays, dance performances and comedy shows.

Address: 3 Symphony Cir, Buffalo, NY 14201

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls from the American side in spring. A view from Niagara State Park on American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Goat Island and Horseshoe falls on the background.

One of the most iconic landmarks is Niagara Falls. It’s located on the border of Canada and the United States and it’s a natural wonder that everyone should experience at least once. The best way to see it is from the Canadian side where you’ll get an even better view since there are fewer trees blocking your sight.

Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park

Blackhawk County Forest Preserve with autumn colors in South Elgin Town of Illinois

The Naval and Military Park offers a glimpse into the city’s naval and military heritage with beautiful views of Lake Erie. The park features a memorial dedicated to the men and women who served on behalf of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.

Buffalo History Museum

One of the coolest places I visited while exploring Buffalo was the the Buffalo History Museum. With so much rich history and culture, there is no better way to explore this great city than by coming here. The museum covers everything from what life was like before Europeans arrived all the way up until today. This place is a true gem and provides any visitor with an opportunity to get a glimpse into what life was like for Buffalonians over time.

The Burchfield Penney Art Center

Abstract blur contemporary art gallery for background usage

The Burchfield Penney Art Center is a unique cultural institution located in Buffalo, New York. The center was founded in 1966 and is dedicated to both exploring and celebrating the rich artistic legacy of this vibrant city. The museum’s collections are extensive, spanning a wide range of media including sculpture, painting, photography, and film.

The facility itself is also beautifully designed and features numerous impressive galleries that showcase rotating exhibitions on an ongoing basis. Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for a fun day out with friends or family, the Burchfield Penney Art Center is certainly not to be missed. So if you’re ever in upstate New York, be sure to check it out! You won’t regret it.

Canalside Buffalo

Canalside is a dynamic waterfront district with shops and eateries, theaters and public art. You can take a ride on the Scajaquada Creek Boat or an ice skate on the Canalside Ice Rink. The historic Erie Canal goes through Canalside where you can walk along the Erie Canalway Trail or enjoy live music under the Pavilion.

Cleaver Co. Table Tennis Club

Cleaver Co. Table Fishing Club is a great place to go if you’re looking for some family-friendly fun. It’s got a huge game room with ping pong, air hockey and foosball tables as well as a large arcade with more games than you can shake a stick at! There’s also an indoor pond with live fish and turtles that kids can pet and feed.

Lake Erie Nature and Science Center

The Lake Erie Nature and Science Center is a great place for kids of all ages. The center has an interactive water table where you can explore the different aspects of the lake that live below the surface. There are also many exhibits on topics such as history, natural habitats and ecosystems, environmental science, and animals. It’s fun for all ages!

Visit Canada

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to take a day trip outside of the city, go visit Niagara Falls! It’s only an hour drive away. You can’t see all of it from the American side but you can get a good glimpse. And if you’re up for it, go hike the Devil’s Hole Trail!

Conclusion

Buffalo is a city with a lot of history and culture. It’s small enough that you can explore everything on foot, but big enough that there’s always something new to see. From the amazing architecture of the city to the delicious food it has to offer, Buffalo offers many things for visitors and locals alike.