10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Buffalo, NY That You’ll Love: Buffalo, NY is a city with a lot to offer for tourists. From parks and historical sites to art galleries and theaters, there are plenty of Tourist Attractions in Buffalo to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, the top-rated Tourist Attractions in Buffalo are sure to delight you. In this blog post, we will explore 10 of the best Tourist Attractions in Buffalo, NY that you’ll love.
1) The Albright-Knox Art Gallery
Located in the heart of Buffalo, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is one of the oldest and largest art galleries in the United States. It has been providing world-class art to visitors since its establishment in 1862. The gallery is home to an incredible collection of modern and contemporary works from the likes of Picasso, Warhol, Pollock, Klee, and many more. The building itself is a work of art, featuring stunning glass walls and an impressive atrium that provides plenty of light for the artwork on display. Visitors can enjoy special exhibitions and permanent collections, as well as educational programs and events throughout the year. The Albright-Knox Art Gallery is a must-see for any art lover visiting Buffalo.
2) Canalside
Canalside is one of Buffalo, NY’s top tourist attractions. Located on the western shore of Lake Erie, Canalside is a waterfront destination that pays homage to the area’s rich history. From its famous paddlewheel boats to its lively music scene, Canalside is sure to impress anyone visiting the city.
The area has been revitalized in recent years and now offers a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic Erie Canal Harbor, ride on the restored Liberty Hound Paddleboat, or explore the interactive fountain. Other popular activities include taking a walk along the boardwalk and admiring the stunning views of the waterfront and the city skyline.
During the summer months, the area hosts live music performances from local and national acts. There are also multiple food vendors located throughout the area offering snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. For an extra special experience, visitors can make reservations for a dinner cruise aboard one of Canalside’s three beautiful paddle boats.
No matter what your interests are, Canalside has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax, an exciting adventure, or just some delicious food, this waterfront destination is definitely worth checking out during your next visit to Buffalo.
3) Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Buffalo, NY. Located on the border between Canada and the United States, Niagara Falls is a series of three waterfalls that form the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. The three waterfalls are Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side, American Falls on the American side, and Bridal Veil Falls on the American side as well.
A trip to Niagara Falls is an amazing experience and is a must-do when visiting Buffalo. There are multiple ways to view the falls, such as taking a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist or traveling to the observation decks at Prospect Point or Cave of the Winds. There are also other attractions such as Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Walk, Niagara’s Fury, and Skylon Tower for visitors to explore.
If you’re looking for a great way to get up close and personal with Niagara Falls, consider taking a helicopter tour. Helicopter tours allow visitors to experience breathtaking aerial views of the falls while they soar above them.
No matter how you choose to experience Niagara Falls, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty of this attraction is like nothing else you’ll find in Buffalo, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity.
4) The Buffalo Zoo
Located in Buffalo’s Delaware Park, The Buffalo Zoo is one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Buffalo, NY. The Buffalo Zoo offers an amazing array of animals from around the world and has been a beloved part of the city since 1875.
At The Buffalo Zoo, visitors can take part in interactive experiences such as watching Sea Lions at the newly constructed Arctic Edge, exploring the African Rift Valley habitat, and interacting with tropical birds. There are also a variety of educational programs offered including story time with children’s books about animals, a scavenger hunt for kids, and a hands-on experience with domestic animals.
The Buffalo Zoo also has a number of special events throughout the year, including “Boo at the Zoo” during Halloween and “ZooRuns” to benefit the zoo’s conservation efforts. Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for a great way to spend the day with the family, The Buffalo Zoo is the perfect destination for a fun and memorable experience.
5) Shea’s Performing Arts Center
Shea’s Performing Arts Center is a vibrant theater located in downtown Buffalo. Opened in 1926, this historic theater is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Home to some of the best shows in the city, Shea’s has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic musicals, live concerts, or world-class ballets, Shea’s can deliver.
The theater features a range of performances throughout the year and also offers behind-the-scenes tours so visitors can learn more about the theater’s history. As an iconic landmark, Shea’s is also a popular tourist destination for visitors to Buffalo. It’s a great place to catch a show and experience the city’s rich culture and history firsthand.
6) Darien Lake Theme Park
Located just 25 miles from downtown Buffalo, Darien Lake Theme Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The park features over 50 rides, including roller coasters, water slides, and more. There’s also plenty of live entertainment for the whole family, such as stunt shows and concerts. Kids will enjoy the variety of kiddie rides and the dinosaur-themed area. For those looking for an extra thrill, there’s the Thrill Hill Skycoaster and the Sidewinder coaster. Visitors can also spend some time at the lake, go fishing or boating, or play a round of mini-golf. It’s easy to see why Darien Lake Theme Park is one of Buffalo’s top-rated attractions.
7) The Erie Canal
One of the most iconic and historically significant attractions in Buffalo is the Erie Canal. It was originally constructed in 1825 and is one of the most impressive engineering feats of the 19th century. The canal spans a total of 363 miles, connecting the Hudson River with Lake Erie. It was an essential part of trade and travel in the midwest, and today it remains a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can take boat tours along the canal to get a firsthand look at its beauty and historical importance. Along the way, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of some of the old industrial sites and abandoned warehouses that dot the canal’s banks. If you prefer to stay on land, there are several walking trails that offer picturesque views of the waterway. In addition, there are several museums and attractions located along the canal, making it easy to explore the area’s history and culture.
No matter how you choose to experience the Erie Canal, it is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its beauty and historical significance make it an essential part of any visit to Buffalo, New York.
8) The Buffalo History Museum
If you are looking to delve into the history of the city of Buffalo, then the Buffalo History Museum is a great place to start. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions and events related to the history of the area. Visitors can explore permanent exhibits on topics such as Native American culture and lifestyles, as well as the stories of early settlers and industry in Buffalo. Additionally, temporary exhibitions provide a look into specific aspects of the city’s history and culture. With an array of interactive activities, artifacts, and multimedia displays, there is something for everyone at the Buffalo History Museum.
9) Theodore Roosevelt’s Inaugural National Historic Site
Located in downtown Buffalo, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is a must-see for anyone looking to get a glimpse into the past of America’s 26th president. The building was originally the Wilcox Mansion and served as the first residence of President Roosevelt following his inauguration in 1901. Visitors can explore the recreated rooms and artifacts that tell the story of TR’s time in the office. The museum also offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that bring the history of this period alive. You can learn about Roosevelt’s conservation efforts, his leadership, and his dedication to public service. Whether you are a history buff or just interested in learning more about one of America’s greatest presidents, you will definitely find something of interest at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site.
10) The Anchor Bar
If you’re looking for the quintessential Buffalo experience, the Anchor Bar is a must-visit. This iconic bar and restaurant are known for being the birthplace of Buffalo wings – it was here in 1964 when Teressa Bellissimo first served up a plate of chicken wings. Today, The Anchor Bar is still a popular spot for foodies, with its wide variety of classic pub dishes and, of course, its famous wings. In addition to the traditional Buffalo wings, the menu also includes boneless wings, fried shrimp, burgers, salads, and more. You can even get beer or wine to pair with your meal. Whether you’re in town for just one night or planning to stay longer, make sure to visit The Anchor Bar and taste why Buffalo wings have become so popular around the world.