Buffalo Adventures: A 5-Day Budget Getaway

Discover the hidden gems of Buffalo without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

On a limited budget, a trip to Buffalo, United States can be an exciting and affordable adventure. Highlights may include visits to the iconic Niagara Falls, exploring the city's historic sites and museums, and indulging in Buffalo's famous food scene, including world-renowned wings. With a little research and planning, a memorable trip to Buffalo is within reach for budget-conscious travelers.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Buffalo's History

  • Start your day with a trip to the Buffalo History Museum, which offers exhibits showcasing Buffalo's intriguing past.
  • Take a stroll through Forest Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of notable Buffalo figures like President Millard Fillmore and composer Rick James.
  • Check out the iconic Darwin D. Martin House, a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work.
  • Grab a bite to eat at Ted’s Hot Dogs, a local treasure.
Day 2

Exploring Buffalo's Architecture

  • Take a walking tour of downtown Buffalo’s stunning architecture, including the Art Deco masterpiece, City Hall.
  • Visit the picturesque Kleinhans Music Hall, designed in a contemporary Art Deco style.
  • Head down to the Canalside District and explore the Buffalo Naval & Military Park, showcasing artifacts from past wartime efforts.
  • Sample some of Buffalo's best wings at Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the original Buffalo sauce recipe.
Day 3

Embracing Buffalo's Art Scene

  • Spend your morning at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, home to one of the finest collections of modern and contemporary art in North America.
  • Visit the Burchfield Penney Art Center, dedicated to the work of watercolorist Charles E. Burchfield.
  • Take an interpretive tour of the Silo City grain elevator complex, where each grain silo boasts beautiful works of street art.
  • Cap off your day with a meal at the acclaimed Vera Pizzeria, serving authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.
Day 4

Nature and Recreation in Buffalo

  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the Eastern Hills Mall or the Walden Galleria, Buffalo's premier shopping centers.
  • For something more natural, walk along the wide open, blue sky spaces of Niagara Falls State Park, with its breathtaking waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and lush hiking trails.
  • Enjoy swimming, paddle boating, or taking a bike ride at Delaware Park, a green space in Buffalo that also includes a golf course and tennis court.
Day 5

Off the Beaten Path

  • Head to Cow Pok for a unique gift experience, where you can peruse whimsical and quirky options for the young-at-heart, and big-kid in all of us.
  • Visit the Buffalo Zoo, one of the oldest in the United States, and spend some time exploring its wildlife.
  • For dinner, try out the hip 100 Acres, The Kitchens at Hotel Henry, where a menu of small plates comes from local and regional "purveyors of deliciousness."
  • Take a drink, and take in the views of the Buffalo skyline and beyond at the SkyBar where a glass enclosed top level bar allows you to see all the way to Canada, or get down at panoramic basement-level discotheque called Bottoms Up.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Buffalo

If you like wings, snow, and more snow, then boy do we have the city for you! Welcome to the land of Buffalo, where the buffalo didn't roam but the wings sure do.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Buffalo: 3 Days of Fun & Adventure

A trip to Buffalo, United States on a limited budget can still be incredibly rewarding. Start by exploring the city's affordable cultural attractions like the Albright-Knox Art Gallery or the Buffalo Zoo. When it comes to dining, aim for delicious but budget-friendly options like La Divina Mexican Store or Lake Effect Artisan Ice Cream. Finally, consider utilizing public transportation or renting a bike to save money on transportation.

Buffalo Adventure! A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip

A family-friendly trip to Buffalo, United States offers a variety of engaging activities for all ages. You can explore the renowned Buffalo Zoo, with its wide array of exotic animals, or visit the thrilling Buffalo Museum of Science. Additionally, the iconic Niagara Falls are just a short drive away, providing an unforgettable experience for the whole family to enjoy.

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 Bites, Brews, and History

Buffalo may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to the United States, but it offers a range of attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the city's historic architecture, enjoy world-renowned cuisine, and experience the beauty of Niagara Falls, which are just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for culture, adventure, or relaxation, Buffalo has something to offer.