The 18 most popular historical attractions in Buffalo
Delve into the rich history of Buffalo through its numerous historical attractions. From the esteemed Albright-Knox Art Gallery, showcasing a collection of over 6,000 works, to the architectural marvel, Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin D. Martin House, these sites offer a glimpse into the city's vibrant past. Don't miss the chance to explore the Buffalo History Museum or the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, further enriching your understanding of historical attractions in Buffalo.
- 1. Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House
- 2. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
- 3. Canalside
- 4. Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum
- 5. The Buffalo History Museum
- 6. Iron Island Museum
- 7. Buffalo Naval Park
- 8. Buffalo Fire Historical Soc
- 9. Richardson Olmsted Campus
- 10. Buffalo Museum of Science
- 11. Burchfield Penney Art Center
- 12. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
- 13. The Colored Musicians Club of Buffalo
- 14. Buffalo Lighthouse Park
- 15. Lower Lakes Marine Historical Society
- 16. The Hiker
- 17. Heritage Discovery Center
- 18. Black Rock Heritage Mural
1. Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House
A Prairie-style gem by Frank Lloyd Wright

Exploring the prairie-style Martin home is a truly magical experience. The tour of the Dwight Martin House, located in Buffalo, offers a breathtaking and captivating journey through its beautiful interiors and exteriors. The house is known for its tree of life art glass windows and 'i' shaped tables, which are just a few examples of the unique and fascinating architectural features seen throughout the home.
The two-hour guided tour of the Martin home is highly recommended, as it covers both the main house, which is currently undergoing interior renovations, and two additional buildings that have been fully restored. This comprehensive tour provides an in-depth look at Frank Lloyd Wright's interior design work, as well as his approach to creating the exterior spaces. The tour is not only fascinating, but also offers a welcome break from your usual activities. The Martin home is a must-see destination for anyone interested in architecture, design, or history.
2. Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office

History enthusiasts will find the site to be an essential visit, providing a captivating look into a critical period of American history. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged and engaging, inviting visitors to delve deeper into the past.
The historic site is a true treasure in Buffalo, offering a guided tour that is both informative and enriching. The interactive displays bring history to life in a way that is both engaging and educational. This destination is highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the rich history of the area.
3. Canalside
Where Buffalo's history meets vibrant waterfront fun

Canalside, situated on Buffalo's waterfront, plays a vital role in the city's revitalization efforts. Spanning 21 acres of historic waterfront property, this vibrant destination hosts numerous cultural events and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors yearly. It is truly a hub of activity and fun for people of all ages.
Apart from its central role in Buffalo's waterfront rejuvenation, Canalside offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the city's rich history. From the story of the Erie Canal to Buffalo's past as the world's largest grain port, visitors can immerse themselves in the region's historical significance. Additionally, Canalside boasts the nation's most extensive collection of standing grain elevators, allowing visitors to experience this important aspect of the area's industrial heritage up close. Overall, Canalside is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Buffalo's fascinating history and enjoy its beautiful waterfront.
4. Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum
Experience Buffalo's transportation legacy and architectural marvels

The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed copper-roofed gas filling station is a major draw at this museum. Although the structure was never built, its inclusion here provides visitors with a unique glimpse into the architect's vision for the future of fueling stations. Additionally, the museum features a range of vintage automobiles, including models from the Buffalo-based Pierce-Arrow Factory.
According to recent visitors, the museum is a standout attraction that goes above and beyond expectations in terms of size and scope. Many have described it as an "unexpected treasure" and a "hidden gem," making it a recommended destination for car enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike. The museum's impressive collection of vintage automobiles and historical artifacts is not to be missed.
5. The Buffalo History Museum
Experiencing history with you.

The building that houses the exhibits is a sight to behold, with an architectural style that is both striking and tasteful. Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a wealth of information about the history of the area, presented in a clear and engaging manner. The history exhibit is particularly well-done, taking visitors on a journey through time and showcasing the key events and figures that have shaped Buffalo's past.
The exhibits extend beyond history, however, with displays that cover a wide range of topics including culture, arts, sports, entertainment, and politics. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated, with a focus on showcasing the achievements and contributions that Buffalonians have made in these various fields. Visitors will come away with a newfound appreciation for the rich history and vitality of the city, and a deeper understanding of the people and events that have made Buffalo the unique place that it is.
6. Iron Island Museum
Experience history and hauntings in one unique location

The Iron Island Museum, located in the historic Lovejoy district, is a treasure trove of local history. The museum's exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the neighborhood's rich railroad history, as well as showcasing the development of its schools, churches, and military contributions. Visitors can expect to learn about the lives and experiences of Lovejoy's residents, both past and present, through the museum's collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents.
Despite its modest size, the Iron Island Museum is well worth a visit. The space is impeccably maintained, with each exhibit carefully curated to provide maximum insight and interest. The museum's collection includes a wide variety of items, from vintage photographs and documents to railroad memorabilia and military artifacts. Visitors are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for the Lovejoy district and its unique history. Whether you're a history buff, a train enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Iron Island Museum is not to be missed.
8. Buffalo Fire Historical Soc
Experience Buffalo's firefighting legacy firsthand.

The Buffalo Fire Fighting Museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the late 1800s to the early 1920s. Visitors can explore at least 25 glass cases filled with items such as helmets, photographs, uniforms, band instruments, small paintings, models, firefighting tools, and communication equipment. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of firefighting, and a recommended minimum visit time of one hour should allow for a comprehensive experience.
Housed in a small, nondescript building, the Buffalo Fire Fighting Museum boasts an impressive collection of local fire equipment and memorabilia. The museum is only open on Saturdays, but visitors are sure to be greeted by knowledgeable docents with a wealth of stories about the history of firefighting in the area. The museum's collection includes a variety of items that are sure to interest both casual visitors and serious history buffs alike.
9. Richardson Olmsted Campus
Reimagining history for a sustainable future

The Richardson Olmsted Campus in Buffalo, a National Historic Landmark, is undergoing restoration after years of neglect. This iconic building, designed by renowned American architect Henry Hobson Richardson and the celebrated landscape team of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, is now 145 years old. The Campus is a significant example of Romanesque architecture, with its intricate red brick and Medina sandstone design, and the picturesque landscape enhances its beauty.
Visitors can don hard hats and take a tour inside this National Historic Landmark, which is also one of the largest adaptive reuse projects in the country. The Richardson Olmsted Campus offers a unique opportunity to witness the transformation of a historic building and learn about its rich history. Guests can explore the building's remarkable architecture, intricate details, and unique spaces while gaining insight into the ongoing restoration process. The tours provide a rare glimpse into the Campus's storied past and its exciting future.
10. Buffalo Museum of Science
Discover science through hands-on exploration and innovation.

The Buffalo Museum of Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and natural sciences. Its exhibits on local history are especially noteworthy, providing a comprehensive overview of the Niagara region's past. The museum is a treasure trove of historical and cultural artifacts that are sure to captivate and educate visitors.
The museum's collections are carefully curated, highlighting the region's unique natural and cultural heritage. From dinosaur fossils to Native American artifacts, the exhibits offer a deep dive into the rich history of the Niagara region. The Buffalo Museum of Science is a hidden gem that should not be missed by history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
11. Burchfield Penney Art Center
Dedicated to Western New York art and artists.

The Burchfield Penney Art Center is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in historical attractions. This center offers an immersive experience into the art and history of the region, with exhibits that are both educational and engaging.
Visitors to the Burchfield Penney Art Center will be impressed by the historical significance of the exhibits. The center provides a unique opportunity to learn about local history through the lens of art, with a range of displays that showcase the region's cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to expand your knowledge, the Burchfield Penney Art Center is a valuable resource.
12. Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
A sanctuary of exotic horticulture treasures and tranquility

The Botanical Gardens, a national historic site, is a thriving destination for both education and tourism. Every year, over 125,000 visitors come to explore its stunning architecture and serene garden sanctuaries. The garden is home to a diverse collection of exotic botanical specimens from all around the world.
The historic glass conservatory at the Botanical Gardens, reminiscent of rare glasshouses in London, was unveiled in 1900. Its main purpose was to exhibit the garden's collection of exotic plants, which had been gathered from various parts of the world. The conservatory's unique design and rare plant collection continue to draw visitors from far and wide.
13. The Colored Musicians Club of Buffalo
Oldest continuously operating African-American musicians' organization in the U.S.

The Colored Musicians Club in Buffalo is a significant establishment that pays homage to the city's rich Black musical history. The club's name was chosen by Black musicians who have lived and worked in Buffalo and harks back to a time when Broadway St. was the heart of Black music. The lovingly created space features exhibits with artifacts and instruments from a bygone era, and audio recordings of original music from clubs long gone can be heard on headphones.
Visitors who appreciate music or Black History will find the Colored Musicians Club to be a unique and enriching experience. The museum offers a vibrant and colorful glimpse into a time when Jim Crow laws were prevalent, even in nightclubs. The museum allows patrons to learn about the history, observe the greats, and listen to the sounds of some of the greats in a modern exhibit. The club's original design has been preserved, and the museum store offers items for purchase. It is crucial to support the club's efforts to preserve Black music history and American History.
14. Buffalo Lighthouse Park

15. Lower Lakes Marine Historical Society

16. The Hiker

17. Heritage Discovery Center

18. Black Rock Heritage Mural
