Things to do in buffalo ny

Must-See Attractions in Buffalo

1. Darwin D. Martin House (Frank Lloyd Wright)

A National Historic Landmark and an iconic example of Wright’s Prairie-style architecture, the Martin House complex was fully restored in 2019 and is widely considered one of his finest residential designs.
Bonus: Nearby, explore other Wright gems like the Fontana Boathouse, Blue Sky Mausoleum, and Filling Station inside the Pierce-Arrow Museum.

2. Canalside & Buffalo Waterfront

This vibrant downtown waterfront area—once the Erie Canal’s endpoint—now hosts festivals, concerts, and seasonal activities like ice skating in winter. Enjoy kayaking, boat tours (Spirit of Buffalo, Harbor Queen), or just relaxing in the park.

3. Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Formerly the Albright–Knox Art Gallery, this museum reopened in 2023 after a massive renovation. Inside, you’ll find modern and contemporary masterpieces, a café, a bar, and even a LEGO play space for kids.

4. Buffalo Zoo

One of the country’s oldest (and popular) zoos, it’s home to over 320 species and 1,200 animals in exhibits like Arctic Edge and Sea Lion Cove.

5. Buffalo Museum of Science

Great for all ages, this interactive museum features exhibits like a planetarium, the National Geographic 3D Cinema, and immersive displays focused on science, wellness, and natural history.

6. Buffalo City Hall Observation Deck

Visit the Art Deco masterpiece and take in sweeping views of the city from its free observation deck.

7. Explore & More (Children’s Museum)

Located at Canalside, it's a hands-on museum with interactive zones where kids can learn about the city's history, agriculture, and engineering — all while having fun indoors.

8. Silo City & Duende

This unique, artsy area repurposes old grain silos. Stop by Duende, a restaurant-bar with live music and cocktail vibes set amid industrial remnants.

9. Cultural & Historic Sites

• Freedom Park (formerly Broderick Park): A scenic site tied to the Underground Railroad with sweeping views over the Niagara River.

• Shakespeare in Delaware Park: One of the largest free outdoor Shakespeare events in the U.S., staged every summer.

10. Buffalo Wing Trail

Experience Buffalo’s signature culinary export through a guided tour of iconic wings spots, including the original Anchor Bar.

11. Parkside Candy Shoppe

Step into nostalgia at this century-old candy shop and ice cream parlor, famous for its sponge candy—still made in its original 1927 building.

12. Buffalo RiverWorks

A fun, adaptive-use space set in an old grain elevator, hosting ice events, live music, roller derby, and even Pond Hockey tournaments.

Local Picks You Don’t Want to Miss (from Reddit)

From residents’ favorites:

• Buffalo City Hall Observation Deck

• AKG Art Gallery

• Silo City and RiverWorks

• Sunset cruises and kayaking on the Buffalo River

• Bird Island Pier

• Grab a Stinger sub or sponge candy; visit during Food Truck Tuesdays

Suggested Day or Weekend Itinerary