Buffalo's Best: A 5-day Adventure Guide

Experience the unique blend of history and modernity in Buffalo, USA.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Buffalo, United States, visitors can experience the city's rich history through its many museums and landmarks such as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site. The city is also known for its bustling food and drink scene with plenty of local breweries and farm-to-table restaurants to try. For outdoor enthusiasts, Niagara Falls is only a short drive away, providing scenic views and thrilling activities.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the Queen City

  • Check-in at Hotel Henry, a beautifully restored historic building with modern amenities
  • Visit the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park to learn about the region's military history
  • Take a stroll through Canalside, an outdoor venue with events, dining, and a scenic view of the lake
  • Grab a beer at Resurgence Brewing Company, a local favorite for craft beer enthusiasts
  • Enjoy the lively atmosphere in the trendy Allentown neighborhood, with its eclectic mix of shops, art galleries, and dining establishments
Day 2

Discover Buffalo's Architecture

  • Take a guided tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Darwin Martin House, a masterpiece of Prairie-style architecture
  • Admire the art-deco splendor of the City Hall, a towering landmark with a panoramic view of the city
  • Visit the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, a world-renowned museum showcasing modern and contemporary art
  • Check out the Buffalo Central Terminal, an impressive art-deco train station that has been abandoned for decades
  • Dine at the Black Sheep, a gastropub that serves farm-to-table cuisine with an innovative twist
Day 3

Experience America's Best Small Brewery

  • Head to the charming village of East Aurora and tour the historic Roycroft Campus, an arts and crafts community founded in the early 20th century
  • Visit the Southern Tier Brewing Company's new brewery and taproom in nearby Lakewood, named "America's Best Small Brewing Company" in 2016
  • Sample the wide variety of beer and food at Flying Bison Brewing Company, a local favorite in the Larkinville neighborhood
  • Head to the Buffalo Brewpub, the city's oldest brewpub, for classic pub fare and a pint or two
  • Catch a live music show at the Tralf Music Hall, a popular venue for jazz, blues, and rock performances
Day 4

Get Close to Nature

  • Take a scenic drive to Letchworth State Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," and hike its trails for stunning views of waterfalls and forests
  • Watch for birds and wildlife at Tifft Nature Preserve, a 264-acre urban nature refuge on the shore of Lake Erie
  • Tour the Buffalo Zoo to see exotic animals and learn about conservation efforts
  • Go on a sunset sail on Lake Erie with Buffalo Harbor Sailing Club, and take in the stunning views of the city skyline
  • Dine at Hutch's, a cozy bistro with farm-to-table cuisine and an extensive wine list
Day 5

Shop and Dine in Style

  • Browse the unique boutiques and shops in Elmwood Village, and enjoy lunch at the charming Blue Monk, known for its Belgian beers and mussels
  • Head to the Buffalo History Museum to learn about the region's past, and grab a coffee at the charming bakery-cafe, BreadHive
  • Shop for vintage finds at the Antique Man, a quirky shop with a treasure trove of collectibles and oddities
  • Dine at Tempo, a chic restaurant with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and a hip vibe
  • End the night at the lively Colter Bay Grill, a bar and restaurant with a beach party atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails.

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

Buffalo Bites and Bike Rides.

A trip to Buffalo, United States on a limited budget can still be exciting, with plenty of free or affordable activities to enjoy. Visit the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park for a small fee, explore the Buffalo Zoo or take a stroll through the historic Allentown neighborhood. Affordable dining options include Anchor Bar, famous for its Buffalo wings, or Lloyd Taco Factory for delicious tacos.

Buffalo Blitz: 2 Days of Fun on a Budget

A family friendly trip to Buffalo, United States offers a plethora of exciting activities to engage everyone. From exploring the world-renowned Buffalo Zoo and immersing in interactive exhibits at the Buffalo Museum of Science, to enjoying a picnic at Delaware Park or taking a relaxing boat tour at the Buffalo Harbor, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its vibrant festivals, mouthwatering food scene, and stunning waterfront, Buffalo provides a memorable getaway that will leave the whole family with cherished memories.

Discover Buffalo: A Romantic 5-Day Getaway

Experience a romantic trip to Buffalo, United States, which offers stunning scenery, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. Plan a visit to the Niagara Falls and enjoy a romantic stroll, take a tour of the local wineries, and indulge in the local cuisine at some of the city's renowned restaurants. Book a cozy hotel room for a romantic stay and make unforgettable memories with your loved one.

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.