18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway

When planning a road trip to a fun-filled U.S. destination, Buffalo, New York, may not be the first location that comes to mind. Trust me, I often planned a trip to Niagara, spending the night in Seneca Casino and shopping at Niagara Outlet Mall. I’d pop over to Buffalo for “Buffalo Wings,” think there was nothing else to do there and leave.
But don’t let its industrial image of smokestacks and steel fool you. It’s often called “the city of good neighbours,” and for good reason. From the moment I arrived, I was blown away by the welcoming atmosphere and the wide assortment of activities and attractions to explore.

The city is not just about Buffalo Wings (though, let’s be honest, they’re legendary). Buffalo offers something for everyone, whether you’re craving a solo adventure, a romantic escape, or a family fun-filled weekend.

Are you ready to start planning for your next getaway? In this guide, you will learn about the best things to do in Buffalo, NY, including my recommendations on where to stay, the best restaurants and all the best places to visit during your trip.

History of Buffalo, NY

• Built between 1817 and 1825, the original Erie Canal stretched approximately 585 km (363 miles) from Albany to Buffalo, NY. This allowed a direct route between New York City and the Midwest, boosting immigration, commercial development, and agricultural development.
• The first machine-powered grain elevator, the Dart’s Elevator, was built in Buffalo in 1842. It was steam-powered and featured buckets that moved along a conveyor belt to transfer the grain.
• As other grain elevators were built in the area, it became the largest grain shipping port worldwide. This earned Buffalo the title “City of Grain Elevators.”
• The first long-distance electrical power transmission was on November 15, 1896, making Buffalo the first city to have electricity.
• Thanks to Nikola Tesla, who introduced electricity in the area, streetlights powered by the Niagara Falls Power Company earned Buffalo the nickname “City of Light.”
• Buffalo was home to the original Hotel Statler. Opening in 1907, it was the first hotel in the United States to offer a private bath in each room. It closed in 1967 and was demolished in 1968. 

How to Get to Buffalo

Before I get into my recommendations for things to do in Buffalo, let’s look at the different ways to get to the city from Toronto. Here are 4 popular options, depending on your budget, time frame, and preferred way to travel:

By Car

If you want to take a road trip, the drive from Toronto to Buffalo is certainly feasible, whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The journey along Queen Elizabeth Way and ON-403 W is 160 km and will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. But this time estimate refers just to drive time and doesn’t account for any delays you may experience when crossing the Canada-U.S. border.

By Bus

Whether you don’t have access to a vehicle or simply want to enjoy a trip without having to drive, the bus is a cost-effective option. Greyhound offers routes from Toronto’s Union Station Bus Terminal to Buffalo Metropolitan Transportation Center starting at just $37 USD.

By Train

Train travel is easily one of the most relaxing and scenic travel methods. However, the train ride from Toronto to Buffalo is a little more expensive than the bus and will require transfers. A round-trip ticket from Toronto to Buffalow with VIA Rail/Amtrack will cost approximately $195 CAD for a single adult passenger. This will take you from Toronto Union Station to a connection at the Canada-U.S. border, where you will transfer to a train operated by Amtrak for the remainder of your trip.

Another option that will reduce the cost while still allowing you to enjoy train travel would be to drive to Niagara Falls, ON, where you can catch the Amtrack to Buffalo Exchange St. Train Station at approximately $41 USD for a round-trip.

By Plane

The cost to fly from Toronto to Buffalo will be higher than the other options, although the length of the flight and price will vary considerably depending on the airline you choose and your preferred flight time. An average flight from Toronto Pearson Airport to Buffalo Niagara International Airport will take 4-5 hours. 

Hotels in Buffalo, NY

If you are planning a weekend in Buffalo, you will need to find a comfortable place to stay. Luckily, there are many great hotels and accommodations in the city to choose from. Here are three beautiful hotels, well situated to explore the many local attractions. Whichever you choose, you are sure to enjoy your stay.

Hotel @ the Lafayette

391 Washington St

Curtiss Hotel

210 Franklin Street

Another location listed on the National Register of Historic Places is the Curtis Hotel building, originally built in 1912-1913. At the time, the Harlow C. Curtiss Building was designed for office use, with its first tenants including the Kittinger Furniture Company, lawyers, and paramedical companies.

The building changed hands several times before being purchased and renovated into the Curtiss Hotel in 2017. In addition to the 68-room luxury boutique hotel, it also offers an upscale restaurant with year-round patio seating, the Harlow Spa, and an all-weather Urban Hot Springs experience.

The Richardson Hotel

444 Forest Avenue (enter at Rockwell Road)

Located on over 40 acres of beautiful historic green space, The Richardson Hotel is a sight to be seen. The property’s grounds were designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, best known for designing Central Park in New York. This is the hotel I stayed at during my weekend stay.

The building was initially part of the Richardson Olmstead Campus, serving as the Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane in 1880. The property was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Since then, any construction or updates on the property have been focused on maintaining a balance of historical restoration and modern amenities. The result is a unique hotel experience and aesthetic.

Other Options for Accommodations

Are you searching for a different option than the standard hotel stays? One of the often-overlooked things to do in Buffalo, NY, for outdoor lovers is camping. There are several campgrounds and RV parks in and around the Buffalo area, from places to pitch a tent to cabins with all the amenities for a glamping getaway.

Additionally, if you would prefer an entire home or apartment to yourself, you can find many options to choose from on websites and apps like Airbnb or VRBO. 

18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway

Now that you have decided how to travel to the city and where to stay, it is time to consider what to do in Buffalo, New York. From mouthwatering restaurants to a vibrant arts scene, there is something for everyone, regardless of your interests. Here are a few must-see Buffalo, New York attractions: 

Explore the Gardens During Garden Walk Buffalo

If you are searching for free things to do in Buffalo, NY, the Garden Walk Buffalo self-guided tour is a great option, especially if you love plants and gardening. The tour is the largest garden tour in the United States, featuring more than 300 gardeners around the city. To get started, you can pick up a free map at the Garden Walk headquarters and browse an assortment of Garden Walk merchandise or access the map online.

One of the unique things about this tour for garden lovers is the quirky “Buffalo style” of gardening, in which gardeners embrace their unique personalities while playing with colours, shapes, and spaces to create one-of-a-kind gardens. The style can be traced back to rough economic times in the city when locals sought ways to enjoy a beautiful garden area on a budget. Little did they know that they were starting a trend that would continue for years to come.

Some of our favourite gardens from the tour included:

• Greg and Judy Gima, 60 Argyle Park
• Gordon Ballard, 604 Bird Avenue
• Jim Charlier, 215 Lancaster Avenue
• James Locke and Annab Irey, 75 Lancaster Avenue
• The Homes of Little Summer Street

Grab a Bite at One of the Many Incredible Restaurants

As I previously mentioned, there is a strong culinary scene in Buffalo. The wide range of cuisine ensures something for everyone, regardless of your preferences or dietary restrictions. While I could likely write a whole guide just talking about restaurants in Buffalo, NY, I want to spotlight a few that I enjoyed most during my stay.

Streetlight Brasserie (5E Huron Street) is a modern upscale restaurant with a fun menu that combines classic brasserie fare with more modern flavours. The menu changes periodically to showcase seasonal ingredients in their food and creative specialty cocktails. This is a great place to stop any time of day, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

If you are searching for a high-end restaurant with a modern menu, check out Graylynn (537 Main Street). In addition to a contemporary dinner menu, they also have an impressive gin list with options from all over the world, including Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, and South Africa.

For a more laid-back restaurant experience, grab a delicious taco from Breezy Burrito. The menu features an assortment of signature entrees, including quesadillas, chimichangas, enchiladas, and their award-winning dry rub wings, along with a signature cocktail menu. They also have a build-your-own taco and burrito bar. 

Learn About the History of Jazz at the Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum 

One of the important local cultural elements you may be interested in exploring is jazz history, both in the area and in the greater music community.

Buffalo Musician’s Union, Local 533, was formed on February 3, 1917, as a response to the existing union not accepting African American musicians. The union headquarters would move around several times before moving into a vacant storefront at 145 Broadway in 1934. In addition to union meetings, the upstairs provided much-needed space for practice, rehearsals, and performances. The property was granted historic landmark status in 1979 and designated a historical preservation site in 1999.

The Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum is the US’s only continuously running all-Black-owned music venue. It is currently undergoing a $2.95 million renovation and expansion, adding over 2000 square feet to the existing building. This will provide new rehearsal and event spaces for local musicians while the museum and the club/bar/stage remain in the existing space.  

If you are in Buffalo for the last weekend in July, you may also wish to attend the Queen City Jazz Festival, a free yearly festival hosted by the Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum. This festival brings together musicians and music lovers for live music and a celebration of the art of jazz.

Enjoy Dinner and a Show with Live Jazz Performances

Another excellent opportunity for music lovers visiting the area is the many bars and restaurants that offer live jazz performances. Whether you’re interested in enjoying dinner and a meal or just grabbing a cold drink while you relax and take in the music, options are available.

The Terrace at Delaware Park is an upscale restaurant with a stunning city view, including the Buffalo History Museum, Albright Knox Art Gallery, Delaware Park, and Hoyt Lake. The restaurant offers an incredible menu with options for any taste or dietary preference, but they are best known for their Sunday Jazz Brunch.

For those who prefer a more casual vibe, Duende is a great place to enjoy dinner, drinks, and live jazz music. Located in Silo City, a newer area of the city where old, unused grain silos are being repurposed in creative ways, it truly embodies the soul of Buffalo. 

Get Your Caffeine Fix at a Local Café

Are you the type of person who needs your morning coffee to get up and go daily? If so, you’re not alone! Starting your day with a well-made cup of coffee isn’t difficult, thanks to the availability of high-quality cafés throughout the city.

Tipico Coffee is a great place to grab breakfast, offering many delicious options such as breakfast empanadas or breakfast sandwiches. While the food is tasty, they specialize in premium and exotic coffees – that’s easy to see! Their roasting operations are just blocks away from the café, allowing them to easily provide the freshest, best-tasting coffee selections.

Another stop that I highly recommend is Remedy House, an all-day coffee bar with breakfast or lunch options, freshly roasted coffee, and a limited wine and beer menu. This is the perfect way to break up a busy day of sightseeing and exploring.

If you are staying at The Richardson Hotel, don’t miss the chance to check out the Café Calvert. This on-site café is not only convenient for those staying in the hotel but also for anyone in the general area with their walk-up outdoor order window.  Choose from their specialty coffee and tea blends, freshly made bread, bagels, scones, and other pastries. 

Go Shopping at the Elmwood Village Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday, from May 7^th to the end of November, you will have the opportunity to shop at the Elmwood Village Farmers Market. Many local vendors come together to sell fresh produce, fruits, baked goods, and more. While there, I purchased pop-tarts from a local business called Butter Block. They have a location in town but also set up a pop-up shop at the market. They were delicious, and I highly recommend them if you are searching for a sweet treat! 

Spend Time in Beautiful Delaware Park

If you’re searching for activities in Buffalo, NY, that you can enjoy outdoors, basking in the sunshine and fresh air, make sure you add Delaware Park to your list of places to visit. Delaware Park is the largest of Buffalo’s original parks, covering 350 acres and featuring walking paths, a quarry garden, unique structures like the Spire Head House, and beautiful Hoyt Lake.

This is the perfect location to enjoy a family picnic, let the children (or the dogs) stretch their legs on the walking trails, or explore the area by water with rowboat and FLOATmingo paddle boat rentals. You can also take a gondola tour of Hoyt Lake and the Japanese Gardens. 

Immerse Yourself in the City’s History at the Buffalo History Museum

Another one of the key places to visit in Buffalo, New York, for history lovers is the Buffalo History Museum. Here, you can truly experience the history of Buffalo and Erie County through a wide assortment of exhibits, including hands-on activities (many child-friendly), interactive displays, and one-of-a-kind artifacts. Admission is by donation, but the recommended amount is $10 USD per person.

Exhibits to check out include:

• Continuum: A History of Erie County
• The John R. Oishei Native American Gallery
• Ralph C Wilson Jr. Gallery Icons: The Makers and Moments of Buffalo Sports
• WNY Business Hall of Fame

Kick Back and Enjoy Some Local Craft Beer

Boasting nearly 50 craft breweries in the area, Buffalo has made a name for itself in the craft beer world. This makes it a great place to visit both for craft brew enthusiasts as well as those of us who simply want to enjoy a cold beer with friends or family.

First opening its doors in 2014, Big Ditch Brewing has grown to earn the title of Buffalo’s largest brewery. The name is a nod to the area’s history, referencing the fact that the Erie Canal, when first presented, was jokingly called “Clinton’s Big Ditch.” They offer a mix of popular beers and limited-time experimental brews.

Combining a fun and welcoming atmosphere with a desire to share their love of craft beer, Resurgence Brewing Company is a great addition to the craft beer community in Buffalo. They encourage visitors to “experience beer” both in their beer garden and taproom. If you are there on a Saturday, book a spot in one of their weekly brewery tours to learn more about the brewery’s history and the brewing process.

Another community-focused brewery in the city is Community Beer Works. With events like karaoke and live music performances on their calendar, they are sure to offer a fun and lively experience for those searching for that kind of atmosphere. The location includes a tasting room, a full restaurant, and front and back patios. In addition to creating community within their brewery, they also play a key part in the local community by donating a portion of their profits to local charities and organizations.

Are you travelling with a furry friend? Fattey Beer Company is a dog-friendly brewery featuring a bottle shop and tap room. Enjoy their vast drink menu, including craft beer, wine, cider, seltzer, soda, and various non-alcoholic drinks. If you want to make your trip memorable, consider pairing your drink with their world-famous chicken sandwich. 

Visit a Local Watering Hole

If craft beer isn’t your drink of choice, there are plenty of other places in the city where you can grab a drink. These bars and pubs offer a variety of different atmospheres, depending on what makes you most comfortable.

Are you a whiskey drinker? If so, Lucky Day is one of the must-see places to visit in Buffalo, New York, that needs to make your list! Here, you will have your choice of over 500 options on their whiskey list, ensuring that even the biggest whiskey lovers will find something new to try. Stepping into the bar, the décor will leave you feeling like you are stepping back in time. Pay attention to the artwork and décor for some added fun – there are hidden jokes in many paintings.

Another great place to get in touch with the area’s history is The Place, one of the oldest taverns in Buffalo. The building itself was constructed in the late 1870s. While the tavern has been open in this location since the 1940s, it did close for a short time in 2015 for a major remodel while maintaining that classic neighbourhood tavern feel.  

Finally, one of my favourite bars in Buffalo is Ballyhoo. This is a great place to grab a cold beer or one of their signature Jam Session cocktails. Located across the road from the General Mills factory, you can often catch a whiff of Cheerios in the air. My friend Drew from Visit Buffalo Niagara recommends trying the ice cream sandwich, and I can say, from first-hand experience, that you will not be disappointed! 

Embrace Your Love of the Arts by Visiting the Buffalo AKG Art Museum & Burchfield Penney Art Center

Thanks to these two incredible locations, art lovers will have a great time visiting Buffalo.

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum is one of the oldest public art museums in the United States. Founded in 1862 as the Buffalo Fine Arts Academy, it was designed as a hub of artistic and creative energies, encouraging a love and respect for the arts in the local community across the U.S. and worldwide. The collection continues to grow today, offering a remarkable experience for all who visit. Tickets cost $18 USD for adults, $16 USD for seniors and college students, and $10 USD for youth. Children 5 and under can visit for free.

I was lucky to get a sneak peek at the art museum’s new addition during my visit.

The second art-focused attraction to mention is the Burchfield Penney Art Center. Launched in 1966, the museum is dedicated to the work of renowned painter Charles E. Burchfield and other talented artists in the region. Browse the incredible collection of works on display or attend one of the museum’s events, like the monthly open studio, where visitors are invited to experiment with new themes and art materials, exploring their artistic side. Tickets cost $10 USD for adults, $8 USD for seniors (62 and older), and $5 USD for students (with ID). Children 10 and under can visit for free. 

Enjoy an Incredible Live Performance at Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Buffalo Theatre District

Another one of the great attractions in Buffalo, New York, for lovers of the arts, is the Buffalo Theatre District. Here, you will find a collection of movie theatres and live theatre venues dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the performing arts.

Shea’s Performing Arts Center includes three theatres: Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, Shea’s Smith Theatre, and Shea’s 710 Theatre. Each theatre is dedicated to a different style or subset of the theatre world. For example, the performances at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre are all centred around the historical creativity of stage vaudeville shows. The location has hosted many famous performers, including Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, George Burns, and the Marx Brothers. 

Visit the Buffalo Naval & Military Park

For those who love learning about military history, the Buffalo Naval & Military Park is a must-see attraction. Open seasonally from late March to November, the historic museum is one of the largest inland Naval Parks in the United States, including 4 decommissioned Naval vessels – USS Croaker, USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans, and PTF-17.

You can take a self-guided tour of the museum building and the grounds or plan to take a guided tour with a knowledgeable tour guide. Tickets for a self-guided tour cost $20 USD for adults, $17 USD for seniors (65+), and $14 USD for youth (5-17). Children four and under can visit for free. 

Take a Tasty Tour on the Buffalo Wing Trail

If you have never heard of the Buffalo Wing Trail, there is no better time than the present. As the name suggests, the Buffalo wing was invented in Buffalo, NY. It all began at the Anchor Bar in 1964 when the famous sauce was created by blending Frank’s Red Hot and natural butter with paprika. Today, you can celebrate your love of the food by touring 14 pubs and taverns in the city known for making the best wings. Of the incredible locations included on the trail, there were two that I enjoyed during my visit and wanted to highlight:

Located in historic Allentown, you will find Gabriel’s Gate, otherwise called “The Gate” or “Gabe’s” by the locals. Operating for 50 years, the restaurant has earned a well-deserved reputation as a staple in the area.  The aesthetic is a fun blend of the past and modern creativity, with elements like the antique tin ceiling, a large chandelier, and wood accents. Wings can be ordered in a wide range of flavours and heat levels, including the “suicide” heat, reserved for only the biggest thrill seekers.

The other stop on the Buffalo Wing Trail that caught my attention was Gene McCarthy’s. In addition to some of the best chicken wings in the city, the menu also features other pub-style favourites, including street tacos, fish and chips, and smoked pulled pork sandwiches. This is also the site of Old First Ward Brewing Company, one of the 50+ breweries in the city. 

Head Out on a Nightcap Sail Aboard the Spirit of Buffalo

Unlike many other Buffalo tourist attractions on this list, a Nightcap Sail aboard the Spirit of Buffalo is just for adults. Enjoy the sunset and view Buffalo from the water with this relaxing evening cruise. The Nightcap Sail is a 1.5-hour cruise on Lake Erie at 8:30 PM with a nightcap beverage in hand. Tickets are $37 USD and can be booked online to reserve your seat. Does a nightcap sail not fit your schedule? Spirit of Buffalo also offers a Day Sail that may be a better fit. 

Tour the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

Built between 1902 and 1905 for businessman Darwin D. Martin and his family, the Martin House is a beautiful example of nature-inspired architecture. In 1992, the property was restored and converted into a public historic house museum. Visitors can view the beautiful design elements, including art glass, light fixtures, and Wright-designed furniture.

There are several different tours to choose from, depending on your budget and which parts of the property you wish to see. The standard Martin House Tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tickets cost $25 USD for adults, $23 USD for seniors, and $10 USD for students. Children 8 and under can attend a tour for free. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can take an exterior self-guided audio mobile tour for $15 USD. 

Enjoy Fresh Baked Treats, Jams, and Other Locally Sourced Goods at Five Points Bakery

Like a farmer’s market, the Five Points Bakery provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy fresh baked goods and locally sourced items like honey, milk, eggs, wheat, and more. You can dine in, enjoying a selection of tasty items from the full café menu, or purchase high-quality items sourced from local farmers to take home. If you are searching for a good breakfast spot, they offer an assortment of dressed-up toast plates that are a perfect way to start your day. 

Enjoy the City’s Unique Architecture

When visiting a city as rooted in its history as Buffalo, it can often be seen in the local architecture – a fact that certainly rings true here. You can walk through the city and enjoy the beauty of these buildings yourself or take a guided architecture tour to learn more about the various buildings and how they tie into the city’s history. These are also great locations for selfies and family photos. A few buildings I recommend checking out include:

• Buffalo City Hall: This historic city hall was built and dedicated in the early 1930s. Experts believe the style of this building inspired the style and design of the rest of the city.
• Connecticut Street Armoury: Built in 1899, this large castle-like building was constructed entirely from Medina sandstone. In 1995, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
• Guaranty Building & Interpretive Center: Built between 1895 and 1896, this early skyscraper features a complete terra cotta exterior, giving it a unique appearance.
• Hotel at the Lafayette, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: The first official female architect in the United States, Louise Blanchard Bethune, designed this building. 

Discover These Great Things to Do in Buffalo, New York, on Your Next Getaway!

Whether you are travelling solo, taking a romantic couple’s getaway, or bringing the whole family, Buffalo is a destination with so much to do and see.  From exploring the area’s fascinating history to enjoying dinner and a show performed by one of the many local talents, there is truly something for everyone. The most difficult decision to make will be where to start!

I want to give a special thank you to Drew Brown from Buffalo Niagara for the unbelievable hospitality. It didn’t take long to see why so many people fall in love with his incredible city.