Buffalo is New York’s second largest city with more than 270,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Buffalo is located in the western part of the state that may not be thought of as a top vacation destination. The city, however, does have a range of tourist attractions, varying from historic sites to museums. Check out these fun things to do in Buffalo with the family!
1. Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park
The Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park has a varied collection of military memorabilia. Displays include African-American contributions to the military, women in the military and Western New York Medal of Honor recipients. The range of military equipment displayed at the park includes fighter jets, helicopters and tanks. Three ships are also on display–the U.S.S. Croaker, U.S.S. Little Rock and the U.S.S. The Sullivans.
2. Buffalo Museum of Science
One of the fun things to do in Buffalo is to visit the Museum of Science. The Buffalo Museum of Science attracts families and science lovers. Many of the 700,000 items relate to the Greater Niagara Region and the Buffalo area, like an exhibit about woodlands in Western New York. Other exhibits are about ancient Egypt and dinosaurs. Kids can roll up their sleeves and enter the interactive “Explorations Gallery” for ages two to seven. Activities include learning about different cultures and fossils.
3. The Martin House
Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most famous architects ever. He built the Buffalo house for Darwin D. Martin between 1903 and 1905. Today, the University at Buffalo, State University of New York owns the title to the house–which is under restoration. Tours are offered to the house’s main floor, the second floor, carriage house, conservatory and pergola. The Martin House has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975 and has been a National Historic Landmark since 1986. The house is an example of a Prairie House, a design that Wright developed in the early twentieth century, according to the complex’s website.
4. The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
In historic Allentown National Preservation District, visitors will find antique shops and historic homes and they will be able to tour the mansion where Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as President. This is definitely one of the many unique things to do in Buffalo!
President William McKinley was shot in Buffalo on Sept. 6, 1901 and died on Sept. 14 at 2:15 a.m. Theodore Roosevelt, then Vice President, was sworn in as President later that day at the home of Ansley Wilcox. Wilcox was a friend of Roosevelt and a prominent man in Buffalo. Today, tours are given of the house, including the room where the swearing in took place. Visitors will also learn about Roosevelt’s life and the early twentieth century at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site.
5. Outdoor Recreation in Buffalo
Buffalo Harbour offers kayaking or canoeing and visitors to Delaware Park can go walking, jogging, picnicking or play tennis or golf. Tifft Nature Preserve has numerous plant, animal and bird species but you can also walk on trails and cross-country ski or snowshoe here during the winter.
6. Shopping
In McKinley Mall, visitors can shop in hundreds of specialty shops, dine in restaurants or watch movies in malls and outlets. Broadway Market, which has been in business since 1888, has many unique products and more than 40 stalls. At Duty Free Americas, shoppers can pick up wine, tobacco, designer fragrances and clothing at discount prices. Walden Galleria has over 200 stores, and in Washington Market shoppers will find gourmet deli items.
7. Events in Buffalo
In June, the Allentown Art Festival showcases art and crafts by more than 400 exhibitors, live music and entertainment, a river regatta, a classic car show and a memorabilia display at the Buffalo River Fest. At the Buffalo Irish Festival, attendees can enjoy Irish food and beverages, listen to Irish music and view craft and cultural exhibits.
Located in Erie County, New York, Buffalo is the second largest city in the state and provides residents and visitors with a host of cultural activities and historic attractions. From its famous chicken wings to historic neighbourhoods and museums, Buffalo is a city where families will find many fun things to do and see throughout the year. While in Buffalo, out-of-towners can also enjoy special events and many outdoor recreation opportunities.
Lots of fun tourist attractions in Buffalo. The Buffalo Museum of Science sounds interesting.
Great ideas. If I am in ever in Buffalo will have to check these out.