14 best outdoor adventures in Buffalo
Outdoor adventures in Buffalo offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling activities. This city, located in upstate New York, boasts numerous state parks, nature preserves, and lakes, making it a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore endless trails for hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing, or try your hand at water sports such as kayaking and fishing. Outdoor adventures in Buffalo are truly unforgettable, providing visitors with a chance to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors.
- 1. Mutual Riverfront Park
- 2. Grand Lady Cruises Inc.
- 3. Buffalo Pedal Tours
- 4. Buffalo CycleBoats
- 5. BFLO Harbor Kayak
- 6. Hoyt Lake
- 7. Buffalo River History Tours
- 8. Elevator Alley Kayak
- 9. Spirit of Buffalo
- 10. Buffalo Bike Tours & Bike Rentals
- 11. Great Baehre Swamp Wildlife Management Area
- 12. Buffalo Tiki Tours
- 13. Seven Seas Sailing Center
- 14. Times Beach Nature Preserve
1. Mutual Riverfront Park
Historic charm with modern amenities by the Buffalo River

Nestled near Buffalo's historical 'Elevator Alley', Mutual Riverfront Park proves to be an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Among its notable features are the convenient kayak launch and well-maintained walking paths. The park's location offers a unique perspective of the area's industrial past, while also providing a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to connect with nature.
For those who love water activities, Mutual Riverfront Park does not disappoint. Its easy-to-use kayak launch makes it simple for both beginners and experienced paddlers to enjoy a day out on the Buffalo River. Meanwhile, the picturesque walking paths offer a leisurely way to explore the park's natural beauty. Overall, Mutual Riverfront Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for outdoor adventure in Buffalo.
2. Grand Lady Cruises Inc.
Buffalo's only dinner cruise with stunning waterfront views

A truly remarkable experience awaits guests at the Grand Lady - from the exquisite three-course meal to the breathtaking view of the sunset over the lake, and the delightful live music. The price of admission, which covers the dinner, is reasonable for the quality of food and the unforgettable ambiance.
The Grand Lady offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for couples looking for a romantic evening out. The Captain and staff were attentive, courteous, and added to the overall positive experience. This venue is highly recommended for those seeking to enjoy the company of others while taking in the stunning views and delicious cuisine.
3. Buffalo Pedal Tours
Pedal your way through Buffalo's best spots!

A recent team building activity for our company was a Buffalo Pedal Tour, and it was a huge success. The service was user-friendly, and our team had a wonderful time.
A group of us recently used Buffalo Pedal Tours to celebrate a 40th birthday, and it was an exceptional experience. The driver was helpful and responsive to text messages before the tour, and the atmosphere on the bike was lively and fun. The highlight of the tour was the thrilling descent down the "fun" hill. Everyone in the group thoroughly enjoyed themselves and are eager for the next opportunity to do it again.
4. Buffalo CycleBoats
Pedal, Party, Float! Enjoy Buffalo's waterways.

Buffalo Cycleboats is an excellent choice for a fun and memorable experience. The two-hour boat ride is an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon, and the time passes quickly. A recent ride was especially enjoyable as it was a celebration of a birthday. After being cooped up for three months due to restrictions, this activity was a much-needed break.
The staff of Buffalo Cycleboats prioritizes the safety of its passengers. They ensure the area is clean, tidy, and disinfected between parties, providing hand sanitizers on board. The views from the canal are spectacular, including the city, naval park, and the silos. Whether you are a tourist or a local, you are sure to have a great time on Buffalo Cycleboats. It is highly recommended to book a ride this summer and enjoy the beautiful sights.
5. BFLO Harbor Kayak
Explore Buffalo's history from the water.

A great tour experience was had by a group of people with Justin as their guide. The weather was favorable, allowing for a pleasant time on the water. There was a sense of urgency to the tour as the group wanted to ensure they got to see the Crystal Beach Ferry that had recently docked down the canal. The tour and rental were considered to be of excellent value and everyone learned something new.
An excellent way to spend a beautiful day is by going on a guided kayak tour. As locals, this is an activity that is enjoyed multiple times throughout the summer. The guided tour is highly recommended for the guaranteed time slot and the wealth of information provided. Not only is it a great way to spend time outdoors, but it also offers the opportunity to learn about the local area and its history. Overall, the tour is a worthwhile investment for both locals and tourists alike.
6. Hoyt Lake
A serene urban oasis perfect for relaxation and recreation

The Hoyt Lake Walking Tour is an excellent choice for individuals who love the outdoors and history. This 1.8-mile walk around the lake provides breathtaking views of Delaware Park and showcases Frederick Law Olmsted's notable impact on Buffalo's landscape design. Along the trail, informative signs reveal intriguing historical facts about the park and its designer, providing an educational experience.
This walking tour is more than just a stroll around a lake. The terrain includes some uphill sections and stairs, adding a layer of challenge to the adventure. It's an ideal way to soak up the natural beauty of the surroundings while learning about the park's rich heritage. With its refreshing water features, exquisite landscape, and fascinating historical insights, the Hoyt Lake Walking Tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
7. Buffalo River History Tours
Cruise through Buffalo's rich history and iconic waterways

The Buffalo history tour is highly regarded, providing a comprehensive journey through the past two centuries. Volunteers at Canalside enthusiastically endorse this tour for its exceptional equipment and knowledgeable staff. This experience is highly recommended for both visitors and Buffalo residents seeking to enhance their understanding of the city's history.
The tour guides are extremely informative, and the docent leading the tour was particularly impressive. Moreover, the staff members, including the woman at the ticket booth, were not only friendly but also added a touch of sweetness and fun to the experience. Overall, the entire crew succeeded in making us feel welcome and valued, making this tour an unforgettable and positive experience.
8. Elevator Alley Kayak
Experience Buffalo's history from the water.

Elevator Alley Kayak provides a distinctive opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Embarking on a journey through the historic Buffalo River proves to be a memorable experience. The company offers a chance to engage with nature while learning about the area's rich history.
The excursion is facilitated by experienced and knowledgeable guides, who add depth to the already beautiful scenery. The activity is perfect for those seeking to enjoy some quality time with family or friends, all while connecting with the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, Elevator Alley Kayak has something to offer for everyone. It's a highly recommended experience for those looking to add some adventure to their lives.
9. Spirit of Buffalo
Experience Buffalo's beauty aboard a majestic schooner

A memorable experience awaits visitors at The Spirit of Buffalo on Lake Erie. The sunset sail provides a spectacular view of the horizon, with vibrant colors painting the sky. The crew is knowledgeable, hospitable, and contributes significantly to the enjoyable atmosphere onboard.
Families looking for an exciting outdoor adventure will find it in The Spirit of Buffalo's pirate-themed sail on Lake Erie. With engaging activities tailored for kids, this excursion promises a fun and immersive experience. Furthermore, the picturesque views of Buffalo from the water provide an unforgettable perspective of the city's charm.
10. Buffalo Bike Tours & Bike Rentals
Explore Buffalo's history and flavors on two wheels!

Cycling the Erie Canal from Buffalo to Albany was made possible with the assistance of Buffalo Bike Tours, who provided excellent ebikes for the journey. The batteries on these bikes were reliable and enabled the riders to cover significant distances each day. Although a Uhaul truck was required to return the bikes to Buffalo, overall, the ebikes proved to be a valuable asset for the trip.
The staff at Buffalo Bike Tours were courteous and went above and beyond to ensure a smooth rental process. The bike pick-up location is conveniently situated near Canalside, with easily identifiable full-size blue bikes. Bike fittings and helmet provision were handled professionally, and the digital waiver process was straightforward. For those looking for a shorter ride, a 3-hour rental is available at a reasonable price, offering a chance to explore scenic bike paths along the lake and outer harbor.
11. Great Baehre Swamp Wildlife Management Area
A serene escape into nature's beauty

The boardwalk section of the Great Baehre Swamp trail is a visual delight, boasting careful maintenance and informative signage about the local flora and fauna, as well as cautions for potentially hazardous plants such as poison ivy. However, after the boardwalk ends, the trail becomes less well-tended. The grass grows untamed, reaching great heights, and the bugs become a substantial nuisance. These issues unfortunately led to an early end to the excursion, as the reviewer turned back before finishing the trail.
Located in the Town of Amherst on Hopkins Road, Great Baehre Swamp is officially recognized as a New York State Wetland and spans 270 acres of silver maple-ash swamp. The trail can be accessed through the adjacent Margaret Louise Park, which provides parking and additional day-use facilities for visitors' convenience.
12. Buffalo Tiki Tours

13. Seven Seas Sailing Center

14. Times Beach Nature Preserve
