As the largest city in New York State after New York City, Buffalo has plenty of cultural and historic attractions that make it a top tourist destination.
With its stunning architecture, diverse landscape, and vibrant neighborhoods, Buffalo offers visitors an exciting place to explore. Here’s a list of the best 25 tourist attractions in Buffalo for 2023.
Niagara Falls is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. Whether you’re looking for stateside attractions or international experiences, Niagara Falls is a great place to visit.
Whether it’s taking a boat cruise along the river or walking behind the falls themselves—there are plenty of adventurous activities waiting for you at Niagara Falls.
You’ll also find plenty of shops, restaurants and various other attractions along your way, so be sure to take your time and enjoy them all.
Aside from just enjoying watching the falls itself, there are lots of cool souvenirs that you can buy here too!
From unique Niagara Falls t-shirts to glass figurines filled with water from the City—these make fantastic gifts for friends back home or just something nice for yourself as a reminder.
Plus, be sure to keep an eye out for other unique things like maple syrup candies and even North American Indian artworks that depict this incredible natural spectacle. There’s something for everyone at Niagara Falls!
Erie County is a vibrant, beautiful area located in Northwestern Pennsylvania, and it offers a variety of activities for people to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, shopping, family-friendly attractions, or just want to explore the great sites this county has to offer – there’s something here for everyone.
Presque Isle State Park is an impressive 3,200 acre peninsula, providing one of the most popular summer destinations in Pennsylvania.
This state park has seven beaches surrounded by lush marshes and forests making it perfect for biking, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The sandy beach combined with other water activities makes the park the perfect place to spend a summer day.
Erie County is home to many attractions including resorts, wineries, museums and so much more.
One popular attraction is Waldameer Water World – one of the largest water parks in that region of Pennsylvania—as well as Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park– home to over 13 waterslides and 6 pools!
Entertainment options abound, with theaters like the Warner Theatre offering music concerts throughout the year at its historic venue.
Experience art that celebrates the culture and heritage of western New York at the Burchfield Penney Art Center, located on the campus of Buffalo State College.
Since 1966, the Burchfield Penney Art Center has been a destination for lovers of American art, with an extensive collection of Buffalo-born Charles E. Burchfield’s work, along with modern and contemporary pieces by other artists from around the region.
The mission of the Burchfield Penney Art Center is to serve as an educational center for understanding art in all its forms.
The center strives to be a place where you can explore creativity and expression through artistic practice, research, and scholarship in a wide range of mediums—from painting and photography to music, theater, and installation—provided by local makers and artists from around the country. It’s well worth a visit if you’re a lover of Art.
For those who plan on visiting Buffalo City Hall, you can rest assured that you’ll be in for an interesting sightseeing experience. The building is of significant historical and architectural importance, carrying with it more than a century’s worth of stories and experiences.
The first reason to explore Buffalo City Hall is to admire its deep historical origins. This architectural masterpiece served as a beacon of artistic engagement when it was first opened amid much fanfare.
The history-rich building stands tall today as one of the major landmarks in the city and has been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places since 1982.
Beyond its rich historical value, the second reason to visit Buffalo City Hall is simply its stunning architecture. The building boasts beautiful Romanesque Revival-style attributes, with rusticated stonework and detailed carvings at every turn.
The multiple copper dome towers are also eye-catching attractions of their own, making this a must-see destination for all architecture buffs in Buffalo.
The third reason to venture down to City Hall is certainly its physical centrality in downtown Buffalo; more specifically, it stands at the center of Niagara Square – Buffalo’s largest public square.
People can take a relaxing walk around this historic site while enjoying some scenic views along the way, including fountains and monuments dedicated to veterans who served extensively during both World Wars I and II.
Elmwood Village is one of the most picturesque and classic neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY. Whether you want to visit Elmwood Village for its splendor or just want to explore the area, it will be well worth your time.
Elmwood Village has some of the best restaurants and shops in all of Buffalo. No matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for—from classic Italian to exotic Middle Eastern dishes—Elmwood Village has something for everyone.
And even if food isn’t your cup of tea, there’s plenty else to satisfy your appetite; from clothes stores to vintage furniture shops, and record stores to art galleries!
Take a stroll through the Elmwood Village green spaces, where you’ll find lush meadows surrounded by historical trees and plants.
Wander up and down the sidewalks along Vanderbilt Street, a shady country road lined with large oak trees that stretches from Main Street all the way up into Delaware Park.
June through August every year boasts an incredible explosion of natural beauty among these trails as dragonflies perch on wildflowers while swallows swoop around their route before they flock southward at autumn’s end.
When exploring Elmwood Village, keep an eye out for some of its historical buildings and landmarks including St. Paul’s church which was built around 1849 and Historic Fire House 6 built over 200 years ago.
In addition to the above, take note when crossing Peace Bridge which was constructed in 1925 during a booming industrial era that saw thousands making their way across it when commuting between states even with Prohibition-related problems behind it during 1938 and 1939!
Craft breweries have become increasingly popular over the last decade. With their larger-than-life flavors, friendly taproom atmospheres and rotating seasonal beers, they provide a unique experience that you will never forget.
If you are looking for an interesting way to spend your nights out, why not visit Craft Brewery in Buffalo.
One of the best reasons to visit the craft brewery is for the opportunity to try out unique beer flavors that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
From IPAs brewed with local hops to sour ales with complex flavor profiles, craft brewers experiment with various ingredients and styles when making their beers.
This can lead them to create truly one-of-a-kind flavor combinations that you won’t find in any other traditional beverage.
Buffalo RiverWorks is an incredible destination for visitors from all over. Located in the center of Buffalo, it’s a hub of music, recreation, and entertainment.
Whether you want to take a tour or just take in the atmosphere, there are plenty of reasons to visit this unique and lively destination.
Music is always alive at Buffalo RiverWorks. As one of the top venues for up-and-coming performers, it’s no surprise that dozens of talented musicians grace its stage each week. From classic rock to acoustic folk and beyond – you’re bound to find something great here!
On top of that, they also offer mixers and open mic nights if you’re feeling brave enough to perform your own music too.
If you’re more of a ‘sporty type’ and enjoy hockey or bowling – indoors or outdoors – Buffalo RiverWorks has something for you!
Their large sporting complex includes three NHL-sized hockey rinks complete with protective netting and an arcade room stocked with the classics like pinball machines and skeeball too.
Alternatively, their outdoor area features bocce courts and a custom golf course which changes frequently depending on visitor interests!
The Walden Galleria Mall is a paradise for shopaholics boasting nearly 200 stores showcasing apparel outlets along with jewelry stores plus plenty of dining options available – perfect if you need a break after spending hours browsing their shops!
Not just that, but there are also annual events held throughout certain seasons (Halloween being one) which make it an interesting visit even when you’re not looking for something specific!
Myrtle Beach Buffalo is a beach destination located near the beautiful South Carolina coast. It has become an increasingly popular vacation spot for people looking to get away from it all – and there are many reasons why visitors should visit Myrtle Beach Buffalo.
Myrtle Beach Buffalo is home to some incredible outdoor activities, with everything from swimming and boating in its namesake buffalo-shaped lake to kayaking and fishing in local rivers and marshes.
You can also explore the nearby Botany Bay Wildlife Preserve or take the kids on an exciting zip line tour through the marshland behind the city limits!
Along with its range of outdoor adventure opportunities, Myrtle Beach Buffalo is home to some truly unique attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach and NASCAR Speed Park Myrtle Beach.
Visitors can also take advantage of nightly entertainment venues such as live music shows and comedy clubs, as well as dozens of restaurants serving fresh local seafood dishes representing many cuisines around the world.
The Buffalo Zoo is home to over 1,000 mammals and birds of all kinds, making it one of the largest zoos in the United States. Visiting the zoo allows you to witness firsthand how animals behave in their natural habitat.
While there might be some design features that cause the habitat to appear “workshopped”—silver fences surrounding the polar bear’s pool come to mind—there are still areas like the bird aviary and buffalo field where animals roam around more freely than many other zoos.
Furthermore, visitors can catch a glimpse of zoo inhabitants such as bison and elk living on grassland meadows that offer a taste of true wilderness.
The zoo also offers an interactive environment which allows visitors to share their knowledge with curious bystanders while observing wildlife together.
In beautiful settings like butterfly gardens and reptile exhibits, it’s easy to make friends with people who share an appreciation for nature – not just animals—like birders, wildflower hunters, and nature photographers.
Horseshoe Falls, located in Niagara, Canada, (a stone’s throw from Buffalo) is a spectacular tourist destination that attracts travelers from all over the world.
From its majestic view over the falls to its wide array of activities and attractions, there’s something for everyone at this breathtaking location.
The power and beauty of Horseshoe Falls can’t be underestimated. It’s estimated that up to 6 million cubic feet of water goes over the falls every minute!
That’s enough to fill a ballpark seating 20,000 people with an impressive 40-foot high waterfall! Standing so close to such an incredible force of nature will take your breath away.
It’s hard not to be drawn in by the sheer magnitude of Horseshoe Falls. Not only does it offer visitors a spectacular view, but also provides ample photo opportunities for anyone interested in capturing its beauty on camera.
Whether you’re looking for stunning landscape photos or unique shots that feature one or two figures standing against a backdrop of cascading waters, Horseshoe Falls won’t disappoint when it comes to inspiring images!
If you are looking for a place to explore and learn about the amazing world of science, then the Buffalo Museum of Science is worth considering.
This museum showcases interactive exhibits and activities that allow the public to connect with science from a tangible perspective.
The Museum has plenty of interactive displays that offer visitors unique learning experiences.
From dinosaurs to earth-friendly materials, there’s always something new to explore at the museum. Plus, it’s free to attend exhibits, and they even have special events throughout the year.
You can also view a live demonstration in their Animal Exploration Center or discover technology like 3D printing at their Maker Space.
The Buffalo Museum of Science is an ideal place for families thanks to its numerous kid-friendly activities around every corner.
Kids can ride in canoe replicas inside an Erie Canal Lock chamber or get hands-on with their next project at the digital fabrication studio — (Hive Five).
They may even touch living animals at their Animal Exploration Center or participate in glow-in-the-dark programs during regular museum hours!
The Buffalo Lighthouse is a historic and architectural wonder that graces the entrance to the vital port of Buffalo, New York.
Located 100 feet (ca. 30 m) above the water line of Lake Erie, it can serve as a beacon to all those who negotiate their way around the city. Built in 1818, this grand structure is open to visitors during certain times in summer and autumn.
The Buffalo Lighthouse was part of a chain of lighthouses established along major ports in the Great Lakes region that formed an essential maritime network for ferrying supplies using steam-driven vessels.
Its history makes it a significant part of human engineering, as well as being an integral piece of art and architecture.
On a clear day, one can enjoy sightings that include everything from downtown Buffalo’s urban landscape to even innermost Canada!
Apart from the tours provided alongside direct visits, there are many interactive exhibitions located within the premises at Buffalo Point Lighthouse.
These help visitors understand its significance better while also educating them more on matters related to maritime navigation and geographical features surrounding the harbor area.
The Buffalo Harbor State Park is a naturally diversified outdoor recreation destination located in Buffalo, New York.
The park offers beautiful views of Lake Erie, Niagara River and the Buffalo skyline, along with several hiking trails and an abundance of wildlife watching opportunities.
If you’re looking for some excitement, take a guided tour on one of the many nature trails within the park. For some serious sightseeing, try the Sandstone Trail that goes along the lake’s edge (depending on weather conditions).
There are also geocaching trails like Southtowns and Northtowns that you can explore to gain digital points and discover unique wildlife along the way.
Pearl Street Grill & Brewery is a popular restaurant located in Buffalo, New York. Not only does this establishment serve great food and private events, it also offers a wide variety of craft beer brewed on-site.
The Pearl Street Grill & Brewery brews many varieties of beer and ales from its own microbrewery located at the restaurant.
From classic American lager to Belgian style witbier, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds at Pearl Street. Make sure to try the brewery’s Flagship Fiddlehead IPA or any one of the rotating seasonal beers that are brewed each year.
Located in the Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas, Buffalo National River offers an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life – whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a weeklong exploring trip.
From canoeing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting to camping, caving and fishing, the Buffalo River offers outdoors enthusiasts of all ages plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Whether you’re planning on taking part in any outdoor activities or not, simply taking in the scenery of this beautiful river is worth it alone. Enjoy breathtaking views of limestone bluffs and rugged terrain along your journey through this iconic waterway.
Spending a hot summer day canoeing or kayaking down this pristine river is one of the best ways to beat the heat while taking advantage of some great scenery along the way— perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike!
For those seeking more excitement, there’s also rafting available through some safe but thrilling Class I-III rapids. An event not to be missed for the adventurous adrenaline junkies.
Lake Placid is a beautiful community nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of New York state. With its stunning natural scenery, rich local culture, and abundance of outdoor activities to choose from, it’s no wonder Lake Placid is a popular tourist destination.
There’s no shortage of incredible opportunities for experiencing nature at its finest in Lake Placid.
Specifically, Mirror Lake features crystal clear waters with soft sandy beaches and breathtaking views that make the perfect spot to soak up some sun or take a swim during the warmer months.
Additionally, those looking for more adventure can reap all the rewards that come with trying their hand at fishing, kayaking, or canoeing. From casual diners to upscale eateries, there’s something for everyone when it comes to satisfying your appetite in Lake Placid.
Additionally, much like any great vacation destination—visitors will have plenty of options for craft beer, signature cocktails and other libations located near the downtown district and surrounding areas.
Located in the southwestern corner of New York State, Chautauqua Lake is one of New York’s premier outdoor destinations (Also check out Weekend Getaways In New York State).
Boasting a unique combination of scenic beauty and year-round recreational opportunities, Chautauqua offers something for everyone—from nature lovers to adrenaline junkies.
Chautauqua is home to an inactive volcano with numerous hiking trails and many other outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and camping.
There are also tons of water sports available including paddleboarding, kayaking and water-skiing. No matter what type of outdoor activity you’re looking for, Chautauqua has something for you!
Chautauqua Lake’s sunsets are some of the most beautiful in all of New York state. Whether you decide to take a boat tour or just watch from shore, the stunning shades of pink and orange will take your breath away in the fall evening!
Plus, there’s no better way to relax after a long day in the sun than watching a sunset over the lake.
Chittenango Falls is a beautiful natural attraction in Chittenango, NY and is popular amongst locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking for an adventure, consider experiencing the stunning sights of Chittenango Falls.
The main attraction of Chittenango Falls is its majestic waterfall. Spanning over 167 feet (ca. 51 m) tall, it is the largest single-drop waterfall in Central New York. The cool mist that comes off the thunderous falls will refresh your senses like never before.
As one of the most visited waterfalls in Central New York, visitors to the park have plenty of opportunity to soak up the beauty surrounding them.
With lush forests and picturesque views, visitors to the falls are sure to experience natural peacefulness that can’t be found anywhere else.
Chittenango Creek runs along both sides of the park, making it a great place for fishing opportunities when visiting Chittenango Falls. Visitors can fish for trout during all seasons inside Chitenango County for their freshwater fix!
If you love history and learning, then you’ll love visiting this small town in Central New York.
This site along with nearby Oneida Indian burial grounds offer a historical look back into colonial times, while nearby Cazenovia College and Morrisville State College earn props as being first names in educational excellence within Onondaga County boundaries just miles away from here!
Located in Buffalo, NY, this beautiful marina is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day or weekend.
Erie Basin Marina is situated right next to the Buffalo River, one of the most beautiful natural rivers in America.
You can enjoy stunning views while walking or biking along its scenic shores. Spend an afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding along its calm waters – it’s an experience you won’t forget.
One of the great things about Erie Basin Marina is that it offers visitors unique cultural experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.
A visit here would not be complete without exploring its two beautifully restored historic ships – USS The Sullivans and US Brig Niagara. There are also plenty of festivals and events held throughout the summer at the marina celebrating local art and culture.
If you love fishing, then getting out on Lake Erie from Erie Basin Marina is a must-do experience. The wide selection of boats available provide plenty of opportunities for adventure as well as angling for fish like salmon and trout.
And even if you don’t have your own boat, you can easily rent one at affordable prices with lots of amenities included such as live baitwells and experienced guides who can teach you everything you need to know about fishing the area.
Right in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York State sits Buttermilk Falls, a peaceful and stunning place ideal for relaxing and exploring.
The Buttermilk Falls area features hundreds of acres of pristine parkland in the deep valleys, rolling hills, and deep woods of Central Finger Lakes. Whether you’re up for a long day hike or nature walk, there will be plenty to take in on your visit.
From cascading waterfalls that feed into the nearby gorges to vibrant natural wildlife to behold, visitors won’t ever be without something new and exciting to explore.
Buttermilk Falls is an outdoor-lover’s paradise! Water lovers can try kayaking or canoeing down one of the many rivers running through the park, while hikers can traverse miles of well-maintained paths winding through fields and forests.
For those who prefer something more leisurely, grab a blanket and lay out by one of several scenic lakes dotted throughout the region—the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation!
Billy Beez, a family fun center and indoor playground franchise based in New York City, provides a fun-filled experience for children of all ages.
Visiting a Billy Beez facility can offer children an out of the ordinary experience, while providing helpful activities and snacks to keep them active and healthy.
With over 30 attractions, such as the Giant Tube Slide Maze and Mini Golf Course, you’re sure to find something that makes your trip to Billy Beez worth it!
The Gamers Zone is also packed with popular game consoles like Xbox One and PlayStation 4 for your entertainment pleasure.
Aside from being an entertaining hangout spot for your little ones, there are also weekly educational programs hosted by Billy Beez which focus on biology or STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) topics.
These programs give parents the opportunity to bring their children along on a learning journey without sacrificing fun!
If you’re looking for a unique place to visit, consider Forest Lawn Cemetery. People often overlook cemeteries as a tourist destination, but Forest Lawn Cemetery has a lot to offer.
Forest Lawn Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States and is filled with historical significance. Many notable people and figures are buried here, including Susan B. Anthony and Thomas Edison.
By taking a walking tour of the cemetery, visitors can learn more about its history and appreciate famous grave sites they may never have known otherwise existed here.
The vast grounds of Forest Lawn Cemetery offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. At over 400 acres in size, there’s plenty of space for visitors to explore and observe wildlife or simply relax amid nature.
The cemetery features several gardens and ponds, making it an ideal spot for bird watching or just taking in some fresh air on a sunny day.
Military Park Buffalo is a WWII era military museum located in Buffalo, New York. This park showcases many displays and artifacts about the events of World War II that took place in the area.
From weapons and uniforms to documents depicting historical events, Military Park Buffalo is an excellent way to discover more about this important and fascinating part of American history.
One of the best reasons to visit Military Park Buffalo is to learn more about World War II history.
The park has several historical displays, including replicas of artillery pieces, as well as documents that tell the story of specific battles or stories from combat veterans.
You can also view uniforms worn by soldiers who served during WWII, along with weapons they used in battle.
If you’re looking to add a beautiful outdoor experience to your next trip, consider visiting Botanical Gardens Buffalo. Located in Western New York, the gardens are filled with breathtaking botanical sculptures and attractions that showcase the native plants and flowers from the region.
In addition to the vibrant displays throughout the gardens, there are also educational facilities for kids and adults alike.
The Botanical Gardens feature a variety of unique sculptures and exhibits that reflect the beauty of nature through art.
Located throughout the park are larger-than-life bronze statues honoring inspirational figures such as Nelson Mandela, George Washington Carver, and Buffalo’s own Joseph Hirt.
Additionally, other art features like mosaic benches provide visitors with an opportunity to relax in style as they walk through the gardens.
Conclusion
Buffalo, New York is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the city’s rich history and culture.
From visiting historical sites like Forest Lawn Cemetery to experiencing outdoor attractions like Military Park Buffalo and Botanical Gardens, there are plenty of things to do in Buffalo that will keep visitors entertained.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an educational experience, Buffalo has something for everyone. Happy exploring.
Hi, my name is Alex Kallen and I love to travel. Ever since I could afford the ticket, I hopped on a plane and never looked back. I’ve made a living writing travel guides and blogging my experience all over the world.
I want to encourage and inspire others to travel around the US like I am. There’s no need to go on vacation overseas when there is an amazing land of opportunity right on your doorstep. Enjoy my website, I hope to see you out here one day.
