Buffalo Adventures: A Budget-Friendly 4-Day Guide

Experience the charm of Buffalo without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Traveling to Buffalo on a limited budget, visitors can enjoy various free attractions and activities such as exploring the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park and taking a self-guided walking tour of downtown Buffalo's historic architecture. For affordable dining options, visitors can check out the city's popular food trucks and local markets such as the Broadway Market. Staying at budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or Airbnbs can also help save money while still experiencing all that Buffalo has to offer.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Fun and Flavorful First Day

  • Check into Hotel @ The Lafayette, a gorgeous historic property with rooms starting at $99
  • Grab lunch at Ted's Hot Dogs for a delicious, quick bite of Buffalo's iconic dish
  • Tour the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, housing gorgeous plants and exhibits
  • Visit the Buffalo Zoo to see over 1000 unique and exotic animals
  • Catch dinner at Lenox Grill, where you can enjoy catfish, fried chicken and other Southern cuisine that will transport you into a New Orleans Jazz joint.
Day 2

Artistic Buffalo

  • Have breakfast in Elmwood Village at Ashkers, an eco-cafe
  • Explore the Albright-Knox Art Gallery with a free guided tour or take a self-guided tour
  • Stroll around the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus neighborhood and visit each of the art installations, including the neon pink "Ascent" sculpture
  • Visit Burchfield Penney Art Center to see Western New York's finest art pieces
  • Enjoy sunset drinks at Angelica Tea Room followed by dinner at Toutant where you can enjoy Southern Biscuits and Gravy and Fritters.
Day 3

Wonders of Niagara

  • Drive out to Niagara Falls and take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to experience the natural wonder up close and personal
  • Stop by the Cave of the Winds to feel the power of the falls and see the gorge from a new perspective
  • Head downtown to Hatchets & Hops for axe-throwing and beer
  • Explore the interactive exhibits at the Buffalo Museum of Science
  • Have dinner at Chef's, a local Italian staple you don't want to miss.
Day 4

Adventurous Buffalo

  • Wake up early for breakfast at the family-owned Lake Effect Diner
  • Go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Erie
  • Visit the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, where you can get close to two incredible US Navy ships from WWII's Pacific battles
  • Check out Adventure Landing nearby for miniature golf and go-karting
  • Head to the Resurgence Brewing Company's tasting room and try the local beer
  • Grab a quick bite at Lloyd Taco Factory, Buffalo's favorite food truck turned brick-and-mortar spot.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Buffalo, United States by plane is to fly into Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) which is located approximately 11 miles northeast of downtown Buffalo. Major airlines that operate daily flights to BUF include Delta, United, American, and Southwest. From the airport, you can take a shuttle, taxi or rent a car to get to your final destination in Buffalo.

Car

Driving to Buffalo is a great option if you are traveling from nearby cities such as Toronto, Rochester, or Cleveland. Buffalo is easily accessible via several major highways such as the New York State Thruway (I-90) and the Niagara Falls Boulevard (U.S. Route 62). It's important to note that parking in downtown Buffalo can be expensive, so plan ahead and research parking options before arriving.

Train

Although Buffalo has an Amtrak station, it is not the most efficient mode of transportation to reach Buffalo from other major cities in the United States. There are very limited direct trains to Buffalo, and the trip could take several hours. Therefore, it's recommended to avoid traveling to Buffalo by train if possible.

Boat

Although Buffalo is located on the shores of Lake Erie, there are no direct passenger ferries that operate to the city. However, it is possible to take a boat ride from nearby towns such as Niagara Falls or Erie, Pennsylvania, and then drive or take a bus to Buffalo. Some popular boat companies in the area include the Maid of the Mist and the Miss Buffalo II.

Bus

The best way to get to Buffalo by bus is to take a Greyhound or Megabus, both of which operate daily bus service to Buffalo from major cities in the United States such as New York City and Toronto, Canada. The Greyhound and Megabus stations in Buffalo are located in downtown Buffalo, making it convenient to reach the city's main attractions.

More travel plans

An Epic Long Weekend in Buffalo, USA

Buffalo, located in upstate New York, offers tourists a unique mix of history, art and delicious cuisine. Popular attractions include the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the famous Niagara Falls and the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. Visitors can also indulge in some classic Buffalo wings at the Anchor Bar, the birthplace of this tasty dish.

Discovering Buffalo's Romantic Charm in One Day

Buffalo, a city located in western New York, offers a romantic getaway with its picturesque views of Lake Erie, quaint architecture and charming neighborhoods. Couples can explore the city's rich history by visiting museums, art galleries and iconic sites such as the Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin D. Martin House. Whether it's indulging in local cuisine or taking a stroll along the waterfront, Buffalo promises a memorable experience for lovebirds.

5 Days of Buffalo Bliss: The Ultimate Family Adventure

Buffalo, located in the state of New York, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a variety of attractions and activities. Visit the Buffalo Zoo, where kids can get up close with animals from around the world, or explore the interactive exhibits at the Explore & More - The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum. Don't miss the opportunity to see the breathtaking Niagara Falls, just a short drive away from Buffalo, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable family adventure.

Buffalo in Four Days: Art, History, and Wings

Located near the iconic Niagara Falls, Buffalo is a delightful city that boasts a vibrant arts scene and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy exploring the stunning architecture of buildings like Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin D. Martin House or indulge in the city's famous wings at the Anchor Bar. Whether it's during the summer or winter months, Buffalo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a cultural and scenic adventure.