Things to Do in Buffalo
Waterfront, Parks, Culture, and Local Experiences
Things to Do in Buffalo
Buffalo offers a wide range of experiences shaped by its waterfront location, historic architecture, cultural institutions, and neighborhood energy. Whether you're visiting for a few days or exploring your own city, Buffalo blends outdoor recreation, performing arts, history, and local culture in a way that reflects the character of Western New York.
Located along the eastern edge of Lake Erie, the city has spent the past decade reconnecting with its waterfront while continuing to celebrate the landmarks and neighborhoods that define Buffalo’s identity. From major attractions like Canalside and Delaware Park to theaters, museums, and nearby natural wonders, there is no shortage of ways to experience the Queen City.
Below are some of the most well-known places to explore when visiting Buffalo.
Waterfront Experiences
Buffalo’s waterfront has become one of the city’s most active destinations for recreation, events, and scenic views of Lake Erie.
Canalside
Canalside sits at the historic western terminus of the Erie Canal and has become a centerpiece of Buffalo’s waterfront revitalization. Once a working harbor district, the area has been transformed into a lively public space that hosts events and activities throughout the year.
During the summer months, Canalside offers a variety of outdoor recreation, including kayaking, paddleboats, water bikes, and sailing excursions along the Buffalo River and Lake Erie. Visitors can walk the boardwalks, relax in waterfront seating areas, or attend concerts, festivals, and outdoor fitness classes.
The restored canals surrounding the district reflect Buffalo’s role as a historic transportation hub during the Erie Canal era. Today, the area regularly hosts seasonal markets, public events, and community gatherings that attract both residents and visitors.
In winter, Canalside transforms into a seasonal destination with outdoor ice skating and winter-themed programming.
Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park
Located along Buffalo’s waterfront near Canalside, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park is one of the largest inland naval parks in the United States.
The park features several historic naval vessels that visitors can explore, including guided tours aboard decommissioned ships that served during major military conflicts of the 20th century. Exhibits throughout the park provide insight into naval operations and the experiences of American service members.
In addition to the ships, the park includes military memorials honoring veterans and fallen service members.
Its location along the Buffalo harbor also makes the Naval Park a scenic stop for visitors walking along the waterfront.
Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Buffalo is home to one of the most extensive urban park systems in the United States, much of it designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.
Delaware Park is the largest and most well-known part of Buffalo’s historic park system. Designed in the late 19th century by Frederick Law Olmsted, the park features expansive green spaces, tree-lined parkways, and recreational areas used year-round by residents.
Hoyt Lake, located within the park, offers scenic walking paths and open green space, while nearby attractions such as the Buffalo Zoo and park lawns provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Olmsted’s vision for Buffalo was to integrate parks into the everyday life of the city, and Delaware Park remains a central part of that legacy today.
Delaware Park
Located within Delaware Park, the Buffalo Zoo is the third-oldest zoo in the United States, originally opening in 1875.
Today the zoo is home to hundreds of animals representing species from around the world, including gorillas, sea lions, polar bears, reptiles, and endangered wildlife. Visitors can observe animal habitats, attend educational programs, and participate in special events that highlight conservation and wildlife education.
Seasonal programming, animal feedings, and behind-the-scenes tours make the zoo a popular attraction for families and visitors exploring Buffalo’s park system.
Buffalo Zoo
For visitors looking for a quieter experience, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful retreat filled with plant life from around the world.
Located in South Buffalo, the gardens feature a historic glass conservatory and a series of greenhouses showcasing tropical plants, seasonal flower displays, and educational exhibits focused on horticulture and sustainability.
The gardens attract thousands of visitors each year and provide a relaxing environment for those interested in nature, photography, or simply taking a break from the city’s busy attractions.
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
Neighborhoods by Lifestyle
While each Buffalo neighborhood has its own personality, certain areas stand out for particular lifestyles.
Walkable Neighborhoods
Elmwood Village
Allentown
Downtown Buffalo
Family-Oriented Areas
North Buffalo
Parkside
West Hertel
Historic Architecture
Allentown
Hamlin Park
Parkside
Arts, Music, and Cultural Attractions
Buffalo has long been known for its arts and cultural institutions, many of which continue to anchor the city’s Theater District and cultural corridors.
Shea’s Performing Arts Center
Shea’s Performing Arts Center is one of Buffalo’s most iconic cultural landmarks and a cornerstone of the city’s Theater District.
Originally opened in 1926 as an elaborate movie palace, Shea’s Theatre remains one of the most beautiful historic theaters in the United States. The interior features ornate architecture, grand chandeliers, and a large auditorium that continues to host world-class performances.
Today Shea’s presents Broadway touring productions, concerts, comedy performances, and special events throughout the year, drawing audiences from across Western New York and Southern Ontario.
The theater plays a significant role in Buffalo’s cultural life and remains a major destination for performing arts.
Architecture and Historic Landmarks
Buffalo is widely recognized as one of America’s most architecturally significant cities, thanks to buildings designed by influential architects including Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, and H.H. Richardson.
Historic landmarks such as Buffalo City Hall, the Richardson Olmsted Campus, and preserved Art Deco buildings throughout downtown offer visitors the chance to explore the city’s architectural heritage.
Walking tours and guided architecture tours are popular ways to experience Buffalo’s rich design history.
Day Trips from Buffalo
Niagara Falls
One of the most famous natural attractions in the world is located just 20 miles north of Buffalo.
Niagara Falls draws millions of visitors each year who come to witness the massive flow of water cascading over the falls along the border between the United States and Canada. Visitors can experience the falls from observation decks, walking paths, and the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour.
Because of its proximity, Buffalo often serves as the gateway city for travelers visiting Niagara Falls.
Plan Your Visit to Niagara Falls from Buffalo
Explore Buffalo’s Neighborhoods
Many of the best experiences in Buffalo happen within its neighborhoods.
Elmwood Village offers independent shops, cafés, and galleries along one of the city’s most walkable corridors.
Hertel Avenue is known for restaurants, historic theaters, and neighborhood festivals in North Buffalo.
Allentown provides a mix of Victorian architecture, nightlife, and arts culture just north of downtown.
Exploring these neighborhoods offers a deeper look at the everyday character of the city.
Discover More of Buffalo
Buffalo continues to evolve while preserving the landmarks and neighborhoods that define its identity.
Whether you're exploring the waterfront, attending a performance, walking through historic parks, or discovering new restaurants in the city’s neighborhoods, Buffalo offers experiences that reflect both its past and its future.
Explore more inside the Queen City:
Buffalo Neighborhoods
Living in Buffalo
Moving to Buffalo
Buffalo Lifestyle
Abbott McKinley
Broadway-Fillmore
Downtown Buffalo
First Ward
Grider
Kenfield
Fillmore-Leroy
West Hertel
North Park
Cold Springs
West Side
Hamlin Park Historic District
Kensington-Bailey
Lovejoy
MLK Park
Schiller Park
Seneca Babcock
Cazenovia Park
Columbus
Genesee Moselle
Kaisertown
Lakeview
Masten Park
North Delaware
North Buffalo
More residential, quieter, family-oriented, near Delaware Park.
Elmwood Village
Walkable. Creative. Café-lined streets.
Popular with young professionals and those who enjoy an urban village atmosphere.
Hertel Avenue Corridor
Entertainment-driven, theaters, local shops, and neighborhood charm.