Buffalo NY is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With so many amazing places to choose from, it can be hard to know where to go. To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Buffalo NY based on traveler ratings and reviews. So whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway spot or an adventure playground, there’s something for everyone in this metropolis!
The Best Place to Visit in Buffalo NY
Canalside
- Address: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (7672)
- Phone: +1 716-436-7100
- Website: Link
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Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Buffalo NY
The Buffalo Zoo
- Address: 300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.3 (5766)
- Phone: +1 716-837-3900
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: ClosedTuesday: ClosedWednesday: ClosedThursday: ClosedFriday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Reviews:
Very nice zoo! We traveled here from Texas and really enjoyed the different animals than what we have in our zoo! Seeing a Polar bear was super cool! Several animals we have seen before, but the exhibits are easy to get through and we’re very clean.By Heather Johnson (5 months ago)Overall it was great day. Fun, day trip with the kids. We had beautiful weather the day we went during the late fall. All the animals were out except for the giraffes, which were put away, but still got to see them inside their house. The rainforest was a beautiful attraction even with some parts being under construction it didn’t take away from the beauty. You still got to see some of the animals they still had in the exhibit. The children’s park and some of the attractions were closed till spring. The rides were up and running on the weekends and were $3.00 each. If you forgot to pack a lunch, they have a small food court next to the children’s park where you can stop to get something to eat and drink that except cash and cards. They also have a gift shop at the exit of the zoo with a lot of nice souvenirs that make great gifts for the animal lovers in your life.By Mrs Wheeler (a week ago)A nice Zoo with a good selection of animals. They also have a few rides but they were pretty expensive $3 per ride. We had some at wild burgers. The chicken tenders were good with fries. Also a good size beer selection. Parking was $7 for the 3 hours we were there. The habits were pretty close together so cut down on the walking. We were able to see everything in about 2 hours. I would recommend 2-3 hours for a visit to see everything. Entrance prices were reasonable for what they have. Definitely would recommend but not a world class zoo.By Eric Eddy (4 weeks ago)Had a nice day with my girlfriend and got to see some cool animals. Many of the animals were off exhibit however, and the extra things around the zoo such as the concession stands, carousels etc. were not operating. Had fun but did not meet full expectations.By Gabriel Nugent (6 months ago)A wonderful small zoo tucked into an Olmsted Park. They have polar bears and rhinos which were the highlights. If you have a membership you get discounts to other zoos. The lions had recently had a baby who the staff were great about educating our daughter all about. They do fun shows where different birds participate and it is really fun. It costs to park in the parking lot but there seemed to be plenty of parking along the street at no charge.By Nathan Frazee (3 months ago)
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
- Address: 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (3126)
- Phone: +1 716-827-1584
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMTuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMWednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMThursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMFriday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Reviews:
Nice experience as always at this place. They have a small student discount which is nice. Tons of different varieties of plants and all well maintained. Also a couple places to take nice photos. Would come back again, and I especially like the cactus section because it reminds me of the south west.By Caleb (2 months ago)Beyond beautiful!!! Everyone here always has a smile on their face and is more than welcoming. We went for pride night a few months back and it was stunning. The plants are huge and definitely loved. The lights were an added bonus! Definitely a good place to go for a date nightBy Calla Bellis (5 months ago)Really cute little place! Amazing variety of plants for being a relatively small place. I learned so much and saw several plants I had never seen in my life before. Plants are all in great health and very enjoyable to observe and read all the little descriptions. Can get a little humid during the summer, but there is one outdoor area where there’s a very nice breeze, plenty of seating and even a play area for kids! I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and would take my family when I visit Buffalo again. Tiny gift shop but cute and has most things you could want.By Daniel Frisch (2 months ago)We stopped here on purpose on our way back from PA to upstate NY. This is absolutely beautiful place to spend a few hours walking through gorgeous displays of flowers. Every flower and plant and then some you never know are on exhibit. They are well put together and Maintained.
The aroma of all the flowers is awesome. Cuteittle gift shop. Highly recommend ?By Janette Sepulveda (7 months ago)This place is a wonderful break from the snowy tundra that is Buffalo in winter. The greenery and warm well lit indoor environment is a welcome reminder that spring will come. Winter is temporary. The place was clean, well maintained bathrooms and easily can consume 90 minutes of your time. There is a good kids area, and given the fact you’re within an enclosure, they can’t run off.By J P (9 months ago)
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
- Address: 125 Jewett Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (1356)
- Phone: +1 716-856-3858
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMTuesday: ClosedWednesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMThursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMSaturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PMSunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Reviews:
Beyond beautiful from every angle! Recommend the tour and gift shop. The gardens, ground, atrium are absolutely gorgeous. Found great items in the gift shop. Bought a few things I can use everyday and be a reminder of Martin House as well as unique items. Visitor Center had an excellent array of photos showcased in lighted displays in a historical timeline. Tours and self-guided tour options available.By Tracer 396 (3 months ago)We enjoyed the basic tour (2 options avl: basic is 75 minutes and premium is 120 minutes). We didn’t ask what the difference between the 2 tours was, but since 75 minutes fit into our schedule, we chose it. It was an interesting tour and the tour guides were quite knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. I would like to view the gardens in late spring or summer as the grounds appear to be meticulously maintained. We visited on April 1(too early for blossoms) and it was snowing and quite windy. Photos are only permitted while OUTSIDE or inside the conservatory. No photos allowed inside the house whatsoever. A short (8 minute) and informative movie started off the tour that provided a background on the relationship between Wright and Martin. The attention to detail and design of the home was exclusively Frank Lloyd Wright, including the furniture throughout the home. There were many references to the rather large basement which was supposedly used for some entertaining, however, that is only viewable with the premium tour. In our opinion, the basement should be included in the basic tour since it is referenced throughout the basic tour. At the very least, it should be identified in advance of purchasing your ticket so as a consumer you are aware of that option and make an informed decision. Very clean reception area, well maintained restrooms and friendly staff.By Sharon DeBlois (8 months ago)Amazing house and it’s very well preserved. I took the basic tour at it lasted around 1.5hrs. You can ask as many questions as you want and the tour guides are very good experts in Wright’s architecture. Take the tour, is the only way to go inside the house. Indoor photos are not allowed. There is a 10 min video presentation at the begging that really helps understanding the historial context of the house. Take time after the tour to look around the house and see some cool old houses in this historical neighborhood.By Gerardo Guerrero (6 months ago)My wife and I took the two hour tour on a Wednesday morning, our tour guide was Dave. Dave was absolutely fantastic, and very knowledgeable not just about this particular property, but the history of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, his life, and other properties. There was not one question that was raised which he could not answer in-depth. He was very engaging, which made the tour actually fly by. We have been to many Frank Lloyd Wright properties around the country, and this was undoubtedly one of our favorite tours. What’s unique about this particular property is you get to see Mr. Wright’s genius unleashed with an unlimited budget from Darwin Martin for design and construction. We highly recommend this tour!By Monica & Mark Girdner (5 months ago)Holy Holy Cow! What an amazing place to visit. We did the $22 1 hour 15 min tour and loved it. They do not allow interior pics. For a 1904 home, this is amazing. The way the architect constructed the house from the outside-in. The same bricks you see on the outside compose the inside walls!By marc dombrowski (a month ago)
Buffalo Double Decker Tours
- Address: Naval Park, 1 Naval Park Cove The Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 5 (1207)
- Phone: +1 716-246-9080
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: ClosedTuesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PMWednesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PMThursday: 12:00 – 8:00 PMFriday: 12:00 – 8:00 PMSaturday: 12:00 – 8:00 PMSunday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Reviews:
This tour was absolutely fantastic! The owner is incredibly knowledgeable, funny, and kind. They offer 6 other tours, and I want to return for all of them! You get a very unique experience and perspective of Buffalo, things that you never would have learned otherwise.By Elena B (5 months ago)Officer O’Connor is second to none! What a fun loving, creative historian. Filled with with and wisdom! The four of us had so many reasons to smile and laugh. So much so, that our teeth were drying out! Thank you for a truly educating experience and fun couple of hours.By Debi Werner (3 months ago)The tour guide was funny! Never a dull moment. Had a blast! If your visiting buffalo must try the double decker so you would know the history of buffalo in a none boring way.By Abdul Hussien Mangotara (3 months ago)We had a wonderful time on our recent Queen for a Day Tour. Joel, the host, was funny and very informative. It was a special day celebrating my daughter’s upcoming wedding and he made sure to include her with jokes, musings and good wishes regarding her upcoming nuptials. All the stops were a delight and we especially enjoyed the Tiki Boat ride. Highly recommend!By Julia Nolan (4 months ago)I love the thoughtfulness that the owner put into this tour from the booking process through the end. It’s showing from the level of detail on the website, how-to-get-there guide, and the experience itself. Really fun and I learned a lot about buffalo!By Amanda Clarissa (3 months ago)
Wilkeson Pointe
- Address: 225 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (959)
Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum
- Address: 130 Main Rd, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (788)
Hoyt Lake
- Address: 199 Lincoln Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14222, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (607)
Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum
- Address: 263 Michigan Ave, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (563)
Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
- Address: 641 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (516)
Lafayette Square
- Address: 415 Main Rd, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.3 (412)
Tifft Nature Preserve
- Address: 1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (370)
Buffalo City Hall
- Address: 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.4 (350)
Burchfield Penney Art Center
- Address: 1300 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (318)
Mutual Riverfront Park
- Address: 41 Hamburg St, Buffalo, NY 14204, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (231)
Saint Joseph Cathedral
- Address: 50 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (191)
Although Buffalo NY is a large state with many amazing places to visit, these 15 locations stand out as the best according to traveler ratings and reviews. Did your favorite spot make the cut? Let us know in the comments above!
My husband and I rented one of the igloos at Canalside at the ice rink. It was absolutely worth it. When we booked it, we had no clue it would be a CRAZY cold day. It was 8 degrees when we were there. The igloo made it a totally comfortable and super fun experience. They can have up to 8 people, but with Covid my husband and I decided to just make it a date day. There is an electric fireplace inside that kept it super warm. You get a thermos of hot cocoa to enjoy and our skates were already in the igloo when we got there. They knew the skates run big, so they even adjusted the size before we ever got there. They came and checked on us several times to see how everything was going or if we needed anything. This was our first time at the ice rink and it was awesome and I highly recommend it!!
When I visit Canalside today, I remember what it was like when I was a kid and I have a hard time believing it’s the same place.
But it is! And it’s so much cooler now.
The ships and other military stuff (tank, plane, etc) were always there. If they weren’t so big, you might not even know there was a tourist attraction, with all the dirt and gravel and chain link fences under a highway overpass… But now, they’re surrounded by flowers and trees and green grass and nice landscaping!
Plus there’s shops and museums and restaurants. There’s a merry-go-round and a pit of sand for kids to play in. There’s a skating rink. Events are hosted here all summer long.
It’s morphed from “oh yeah, the dirty area with ships next to the arena” to one of my favorite parts of Buffalo.
It’s small. It’s charming. It’s a perfect little encapsulation of some Buffalo culture.
We came here to see the US Navy ships. The exhibits we’re awesome. The memorials outside were wonderful. The WW 2 museum was great.
Beautiful place to walk around and kill some time. Lots of history here. The snack bar was dead. If you are thinking of a boat tour they are closed on Mondays. Also, if you take a bio break the ladies restroom did not have TP.
Absolutely FANTASTIC time. Walked around til water bike rental place opened and have plans to go again. So much to do and see. Rode the carousel waiting for the rental place to open! Water bikes were easy and more fun than I’ve had in a long time. Took our time and casually rode while we talked and laughed. Fun and great cardio!!!!