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 Blast: A 4-Day Family Adventure Extravaganza

Buffalo, located in New York State, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Visitors can explore the natural wonders of Niagara Falls, just a short drive away, or embark on an educational journey at the Buffalo Museum of Science and the Buffalo Zoo. The city also boasts beautiful parks, such as Delaware Park and Canalside, where families can enjoy outdoor activities and recreational facilities.

Experience Buffalo's Best in a Weekend!

A trip to Buffalo, United States as a tourist will provide you with the ultimate combination of city attractions and natural beauty. You can enjoy hiking or skiing around Niagara Falls or take a tour of the picturesque gardens and historic mansions of the city. The vibrant food scene, art galleries, and museums can also keep you entertained during your stay.

Buffalo Bound: A Fun-Filled 3 Day Adventure

Buffalo, located in Upstate New York, offers a fun and family-friendly trip with a mix of history, culture, and nature. Explore the stunning Buffalo Zoo, home to over 1,200 animals, or take a stroll through the beautiful Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Don't miss the interactive exhibits at the Buffalo Museum of Science or the thrill of riding the historic carousel at Canalside, making Buffalo a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

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.