The 22 best road trips in Buffalo
Embarking on road trips in Buffalo is an exciting way to explore the city and its surrounding areas' natural beauty and attractions. Buffalo, known for its cultural landmarks and scenic drives, offers memorable road trip experiences. Discover stunning parks, fascinating museums, and breathtaking landscapes while planning your Buffalo road trip itinerary. Road trips in Buffalo: experience the city's charm and the great outdoors. Uncover hidden gems, historic sites, and fun activities that this vibrant city has to offer. By choosing Buffalo as your road trip destination, you'll enjoy a mix of urban adventures and serene escapes, perfect for creating unforgettable memories. For a fantastic road trip experience, consider exploring Buffalo. With a rich history, delightful architecture, and picturesque parks, this city in upstate New York promises a memorable journey. Plan your road trips in Buffalo to create a blend of educational, relaxing, and exhilarating experiences that cater to your travel preferences.
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- 1. Buffalo Pedal Tours
- 2. Visit Buffalo Niagara
- 3. Letchworth State Park
- 4. Tifft Nature Preserve
- 5. Spirit of Buffalo
- 6. Buffalo Central Terminal
- 7. Buffalo Bike Tours & Bike Rentals
- 8. The Electric Tower
- 9. Japanese Garden
- 10. Buffalo City Hall
- 11. Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum
- 12. Buffalo AKG Art Museum
- 13. Buffalo Harbor State Park
- 14. Maestro Tours
- 15. Ko-Ed Candies
- 16. moondanceCat
- 17. The Buffalo Zoo
- 18. Buffalo Main Light
- 19. Queen City Bike Ferry
- 20. Rochester
- 21. Springville
- 22. Niagara Falls
1. Buffalo Pedal Tours
Interactive, eco-friendly sightseeing
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Buffalo Pedal Tours provided an unforgettable experience during our road trip. The driver was exceptional, contributing significantly to the enjoyment of the tour. This activity is highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Buffalo in a unique and entertaining way.
Our group had a great time on the well-organized Buffalo Pedal Tours. We were able to see many interesting spots throughout the city, making it an ideal outing for a group. This tour is a must-try for anyone visiting Buffalo and seeking a unique and enjoyable sightseeing experience.
Buffalo Pedal Tours provided an unforgettable experience during our road trip. The driver was exceptional, contributing significantly to the enjoyment of the tour. This activity is highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Buffalo in a unique and entertaining way.
Our group had a great time on the well-organized Buffalo Pedal Tours. We were able to see many interesting spots throughout the city, making it an ideal outing for a group. This tour is a must-try for anyone visiting Buffalo and seeking a unique and enjoyable sightseeing experience.
2. Visit Buffalo Niagara
3. Letchworth State Park
Largest park in the New York State system
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Letchworth State Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a day full of natural beauty and exciting activities. The park is easy to explore by car, with numerous vista points to stop at and take in the breathtaking views. Convenient facilities such as bathrooms, snack bars, restaurants, and ample parking make it easy to spend the whole day enjoying the park. One of the highlights of the park is the incredible waterfall, which is a must-see for any visitor.
The prettiness of Letchworth State Park makes it worth the 14-hour drive, even for those who love road tripping. The park offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, with many leading to stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. Whether you prefer to drive or hike, Letchworth State Park is a destination that should not be missed, offering a memorable experience for all who visit.
Letchworth State Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a day full of natural beauty and exciting activities. The park is easy to explore by car, with numerous vista points to stop at and take in the breathtaking views. Convenient facilities such as bathrooms, snack bars, restaurants, and ample parking make it easy to spend the whole day enjoying the park. One of the highlights of the park is the incredible waterfall, which is a must-see for any visitor.
The prettiness of Letchworth State Park makes it worth the 14-hour drive, even for those who love road tripping. The park offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, with many leading to stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. Whether you prefer to drive or hike, Letchworth State Park is a destination that should not be missed, offering a memorable experience for all who visit.
4. Tifft Nature Preserve
Historic grain elevator views
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The Tifft Nature Reserve, located near Buffalo, is a serene and tranquil spot, making it an ideal location for a peaceful break during a road trip. The reserve was specifically impressive given its urban setting, offering a contrast to the surrounding city with its beautiful trails and abundant wildlife.
During a recent volunteer event, the beauty and serenity of the Tifft Nature Reserve stood out, prompting high praise for the location. The reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through Buffalo, providing a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the surrounding wildlife.
The Tifft Nature Reserve, located near Buffalo, is a serene and tranquil spot, making it an ideal location for a peaceful break during a road trip. The reserve was specifically impressive given its urban setting, offering a contrast to the surrounding city with its beautiful trails and abundant wildlife.
During a recent volunteer event, the beauty and serenity of the Tifft Nature Reserve stood out, prompting high praise for the location. The reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through Buffalo, providing a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the surrounding wildlife.
5. Spirit of Buffalo
Only fully operational steam-powered vessel in NY
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The trip was fantastic, with a knowledgeable and accommodating staff that ensured a great time was had by all. However, there was an issue with a non-working bathroom that would have been helpful to know about in advance. The last Sunday sailing adventure on the Spirit of Buffalo was a wonderful experience. The crew was attentive and made sure to do everything possible to make the experience enjoyable. The weather was perfect, adding to the overall great time had by everyone onboard.
Despite the minor inconvenience of the non-functional bathroom, the trip was enjoyable due to the attentive and knowledgeable staff. The sailing adventure on the Spirit of Buffalo was a great way to spend a last Sunday, with the crew going above and beyond to ensure everyone had a great experience. The beautiful weather was an added bonus, making for a picture-perfect day on the water.
The trip was fantastic, with a knowledgeable and accommodating staff that ensured a great time was had by all. However, there was an issue with a non-working bathroom that would have been helpful to know about in advance. The last Sunday sailing adventure on the Spirit of Buffalo was a wonderful experience. The crew was attentive and made sure to do everything possible to make the experience enjoyable. The weather was perfect, adding to the overall great time had by everyone onboard.
Despite the minor inconvenience of the non-functional bathroom, the trip was enjoyable due to the attentive and knowledgeable staff. The sailing adventure on the Spirit of Buffalo was a great way to spend a last Sunday, with the crew going above and beyond to ensure everyone had a great experience. The beautiful weather was an added bonus, making for a picture-perfect day on the water.
6. Buffalo Central Terminal
Undergoing restoration
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Buffalo, often viewed negatively as a rust belt city, contains hidden gems such as the beautiful train station known as the Guaranty Building. Though not always open to the public, there are events and tours throughout the year that allow visitors to appreciate its beauty. Recently, I went on a tour of this art deco building, which is currently being renovated by a non-profit organization. The tour highlighted the building's abandoned yet stately atmosphere and its immense size, with some areas still in disrepair. However, there are signs of revival, such as the successful restoration of the original clock.
The Guaranty Building is a stunning architectural masterpiece with a fascinating history. Despite being mostly closed to the public, there are various events and tours available throughout the year to admire its beauty. On a recent tour, I discovered the haunting charm of this art deco building, which boasts of an impressive yet neglected size. Although there are still considerable sections in disrepair, I was excited to learn that the organization has successfully restored the original clock, symbolizing the hopeful revival of this magnificent structure. Having the chance to explore the Guaranty Building was one of the highlights of my trip.
Buffalo, often viewed negatively as a rust belt city, contains hidden gems such as the beautiful train station known as the Guaranty Building. Though not always open to the public, there are events and tours throughout the year that allow visitors to appreciate its beauty. Recently, I went on a tour of this art deco building, which is currently being renovated by a non-profit organization. The tour highlighted the building's abandoned yet stately atmosphere and its immense size, with some areas still in disrepair. However, there are signs of revival, such as the successful restoration of the original clock.
The Guaranty Building is a stunning architectural masterpiece with a fascinating history. Despite being mostly closed to the public, there are various events and tours available throughout the year to admire its beauty. On a recent tour, I discovered the haunting charm of this art deco building, which boasts of an impressive yet neglected size. Although there are still considerable sections in disrepair, I was excited to learn that the organization has successfully restored the original clock, symbolizing the hopeful revival of this magnificent structure. Having the chance to explore the Guaranty Building was one of the highlights of my trip.
7. Buffalo Bike Tours & Bike Rentals
Explore Buffalo's rich history and vibrant culture
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A memorable part of a road trip was the stop at Canalside, which offered a wide range of events and a lively atmosphere. The area boasted numerous activities and stunning views, making it a standout destination.
Canalside is a must-visit location for anyone taking a road trip. Its vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by a host of activities and the natural beauty of its surroundings. With so much to do and see, it is no wonder that Canalside left a lasting impression.
A memorable part of a road trip was the stop at Canalside, which offered a wide range of events and a lively atmosphere. The area boasted numerous activities and stunning views, making it a standout destination.
Canalside is a must-visit location for anyone taking a road trip. Its vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by a host of activities and the natural beauty of its surroundings. With so much to do and see, it is no wonder that Canalside left a lasting impression.
8. The Electric Tower
Electricity themed decor
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The Electric Tower, located in Buffalo, is a striking architectural masterpiece that should not be missed on any road trip. Its white exterior, standing 14 floors tall, is a shining beacon that can be seen from a distance. The building is a remarkable example of the Beaux-Arts Classical Revival Style.
Upon entering the Electric Tower, one is immediately greeted by a friendly guard. The main floor, with its attractive design and pictures of the skyscraper, is open to visitors. The ceiling, adorned with an array of lights, adds to the overall aesthetic of the building. Once the home of a fridge manufacturer, the Electric Tower still retains its original charm and beauty. The building's design is impressive, from the intricate details on the floor to the ceiling, making it a worthwhile visit.
The Electric Tower, located in Buffalo, is a striking architectural masterpiece that should not be missed on any road trip. Its white exterior, standing 14 floors tall, is a shining beacon that can be seen from a distance. The building is a remarkable example of the Beaux-Arts Classical Revival Style.
Upon entering the Electric Tower, one is immediately greeted by a friendly guard. The main floor, with its attractive design and pictures of the skyscraper, is open to visitors. The ceiling, adorned with an array of lights, adds to the overall aesthetic of the building. Once the home of a fridge manufacturer, the Electric Tower still retains its original charm and beauty. The building's design is impressive, from the intricate details on the floor to the ceiling, making it a worthwhile visit.
9. Japanese Garden
Unique Japanese-inspired flora and landscaping
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Situated behind the museum, the garden can be accessed from either side of the parking lot. It is a small, well-maintained, and quiet space, making it a nice additional spot to visit if you are already planning to go to the museum or will be in the area. However, it might not be worth going out of your way for as a must-see destination.
The garden features beautiful cherry trees that are especially stunning during the spring blossom season. It is a peaceful and calming environment, and the best part is that it is free to visit. The garden is conveniently located near the Art Gallery and Museum of History, making it an ideal add-on to your itinerary if you plan to visit those places. Be careful when walking on the pathway to the left of the museum after it has been watered, as it may be slippery.
Situated behind the museum, the garden can be accessed from either side of the parking lot. It is a small, well-maintained, and quiet space, making it a nice additional spot to visit if you are already planning to go to the museum or will be in the area. However, it might not be worth going out of your way for as a must-see destination.
The garden features beautiful cherry trees that are especially stunning during the spring blossom season. It is a peaceful and calming environment, and the best part is that it is free to visit. The garden is conveniently located near the Art Gallery and Museum of History, making it an ideal add-on to your itinerary if you plan to visit those places. Be careful when walking on the pathway to the left of the museum after it has been watered, as it may be slippery.
10. Buffalo City Hall
Oldest city hall in the US with an observation deck
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Buffalo City Hall is a striking metropolitan building, reminiscent of Gotham City's architecture. The observation deck on the 26th floor offers a unique and free view of the entire region, including Canada, Lake Erie, downtown Buffalo, and several historic neighborhoods. The experience is enhanced by the elevator ride to the top, where the elevator doors are particularly noteworthy.
The observation deck is a must-visit for anyone staying downtown or passing through. Despite being dimly lit and sparse, the small windows in each direction provide breathtaking views. The deck allows visitors to see the city from a different perspective, making it an excellent way to gain a better understanding of Buffalo's layout and history. Spending a half-hour on the observation deck is highly recommended for a memorable experience.
Buffalo City Hall is a striking metropolitan building, reminiscent of Gotham City's architecture. The observation deck on the 26th floor offers a unique and free view of the entire region, including Canada, Lake Erie, downtown Buffalo, and several historic neighborhoods. The experience is enhanced by the elevator ride to the top, where the elevator doors are particularly noteworthy.
The observation deck is a must-visit for anyone staying downtown or passing through. Despite being dimly lit and sparse, the small windows in each direction provide breathtaking views. The deck allows visitors to see the city from a different perspective, making it an excellent way to gain a better understanding of Buffalo's layout and history. Spending a half-hour on the observation deck is highly recommended for a memorable experience.
11. Buffalo Transportation Pierce Arrow Museum
Interactive exhibits and unique collection
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A stop during a road trip turned out to be a fantastic experience for the whole family. The old cars at the museum caught the attention of the kids, who were fascinated by the history behind each one. The museum may be small in size, but it is filled with interesting exhibits that are worth taking the time to explore.
Overall, the museum was a great addition to the road trip itinerary. The history buffs in the group were able to appreciate the significance of the various cars on display, while the kids were entertained by the classic designs and bright colors. The museum's compact size made it easy to see everything in a reasonable amount of time, and the interesting exhibits made it well worth the visit.
A stop during a road trip turned out to be a fantastic experience for the whole family. The old cars at the museum caught the attention of the kids, who were fascinated by the history behind each one. The museum may be small in size, but it is filled with interesting exhibits that are worth taking the time to explore.
Overall, the museum was a great addition to the road trip itinerary. The history buffs in the group were able to appreciate the significance of the various cars on display, while the kids were entertained by the classic designs and bright colors. The museum's compact size made it easy to see everything in a reasonable amount of time, and the interesting exhibits made it well worth the visit.
12. Buffalo AKG Art Museum
combines art, nature, and architecture
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The Buffalo AKG Art Museum is a stop worth making during a road trip. Located in Buffalo, the museum boasts a confusing layout but features an art collection that makes it worth the visit. The museum's recent renovations have only served to enhance its beauty and appeal.
If you're passing through Buffalo, be sure to include the Buffalo AKG Art Museum on your itinerary. The art collection is impressive and the museum's new renovations are stunning. The museum may be a bit difficult to navigate, but the art is certainly worth the effort. All in all, it's a must-see destination for any art lover.
The Buffalo AKG Art Museum is a stop worth making during a road trip. Located in Buffalo, the museum boasts a confusing layout but features an art collection that makes it worth the visit. The museum's recent renovations have only served to enhance its beauty and appeal.
If you're passing through Buffalo, be sure to include the Buffalo AKG Art Museum on your itinerary. The art collection is impressive and the museum's new renovations are stunning. The museum may be a bit difficult to navigate, but the art is certainly worth the effort. All in all, it's a must-see destination for any art lover.
13. Buffalo Harbor State Park
Largest state park in NY on water
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Our initial plan was to visit Tifft Nature Preserve, but we ended up spending our time walking near Lake Erie instead. The weather was pleasant, and we had a great experience exploring the area. We were there on a Thursday morning, so it was not crowded at all.
In the early days of the pandemic in 2020, we created a Tour By Car Series to provide Western New Yorkers with a safe way to get out of their homes. While we are no longer in the same level of isolation as before, touring the Buffalo and Western New York area by car still offers many benefits. With restrictions easing, people can now park and explore off the guided path, making for a more flexible and personalized experience.
Our initial plan was to visit Tifft Nature Preserve, but we ended up spending our time walking near Lake Erie instead. The weather was pleasant, and we had a great experience exploring the area. We were there on a Thursday morning, so it was not crowded at all.
In the early days of the pandemic in 2020, we created a Tour By Car Series to provide Western New Yorkers with a safe way to get out of their homes. While we are no longer in the same level of isolation as before, touring the Buffalo and Western New York area by car still offers many benefits. With restrictions easing, people can now park and explore off the guided path, making for a more flexible and personalized experience.
14. Maestro Tours
Scenic views, rich history, vibrant culture
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Maestro Tours guide Bill has led some of the best bus tours our group has ever experienced. He is known for his friendliness, care, and exceptional knowledge. Bill's dedication to his trips is evident in his attention to detail, including setting up a table with a linen tablecloth for rest stop beverages and snacks. His restaurant and lodging choices are excellent, and he has earned high praise from our group.
Our trip to Mackinac Island, led by Bill, was truly outstanding. The itinerary included a stay at the Grand Hotel and an upgraded carriage tour of the island. Bill added a personal touch to the journey by providing snacks at rest stops and organizing a pizza party with homemade goodies on the first night. His meticulous planning, approachability, and attentiveness to every tour participant's needs make him an exceptional guide.
Maestro Tours guide Bill has led some of the best bus tours our group has ever experienced. He is known for his friendliness, care, and exceptional knowledge. Bill's dedication to his trips is evident in his attention to detail, including setting up a table with a linen tablecloth for rest stop beverages and snacks. His restaurant and lodging choices are excellent, and he has earned high praise from our group.
Our trip to Mackinac Island, led by Bill, was truly outstanding. The itinerary included a stay at the Grand Hotel and an upgraded carriage tour of the island. Bill added a personal touch to the journey by providing snacks at rest stops and organizing a pizza party with homemade goodies on the first night. His meticulous planning, approachability, and attentiveness to every tour participant's needs make him an exceptional guide.
15. Ko-Ed Candies
Family-owned business since 1930
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Ko-Ed Candies is a popular destination in Buffalo, known for its delicious handmade chocolates and sponge candy. The charming, nostalgic atmosphere of the store and the welcoming staff make it a must-visit location for anyone passing through the area. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat for yourself or a gift for someone else, Ko-Ed Candies has a wide variety of options to choose from.
During a work trip to Buffalo, I made a point to stop at Ko-Ed Candies based on the recommendation of their sponge candy. I was not disappointed - the sponge candy was delicious and I ended up purchasing three different types, as well as some other novelties for Valentine's Day. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience of the store. I would highly recommend a visit to Ko-Ed Candies to anyone looking for a great road trip stop or a delicious treat.
Ko-Ed Candies is a popular destination in Buffalo, known for its delicious handmade chocolates and sponge candy. The charming, nostalgic atmosphere of the store and the welcoming staff make it a must-visit location for anyone passing through the area. Whether you're looking for a sweet treat for yourself or a gift for someone else, Ko-Ed Candies has a wide variety of options to choose from.
During a work trip to Buffalo, I made a point to stop at Ko-Ed Candies based on the recommendation of their sponge candy. I was not disappointed - the sponge candy was delicious and I ended up purchasing three different types, as well as some other novelties for Valentine's Day. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience of the store. I would highly recommend a visit to Ko-Ed Candies to anyone looking for a great road trip stop or a delicious treat.
16. moondanceCat
Restored grain elevator now a cultural hub
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The Moondance experience, led by Peter and his crew, is a consistently enjoyable time on the lake. Accompanied by music and a variety of beverages, the Buffalo skyline serves as a lovely backdrop for this relaxing activity.
As a two-time season pass holder, I find great joy in sharing the Moondance experience with friends and family during summer boat rides. My top recommendation is the sunset cruise, which never fails to deliver a wonderful atmosphere.
The Moondance experience, led by Peter and his crew, is a consistently enjoyable time on the lake. Accompanied by music and a variety of beverages, the Buffalo skyline serves as a lovely backdrop for this relaxing activity.
As a two-time season pass holder, I find great joy in sharing the Moondance experience with friends and family during summer boat rides. My top recommendation is the sunset cruise, which never fails to deliver a wonderful atmosphere.
17. The Buffalo Zoo
Oldest continuously operating zoo in the United States
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Over the Labor Day weekend, I visited the Buffalo Zoo with friends. However, by the end of the trip, I found myself feeling embarrassed that I had recommended it. The zoo is quite old, and this is evident in its appearance and the condition of its animals. Many of the animals, including the polar bears, appeared unhappy and were lying in the mud with sad expressions.
Despite these issues, our trip to the zoo was generally enjoyable. The weather was beautiful, and the Zoo-magination lantern festival, which takes place during the summer, added a lot of extra activities and sights to see. Overall, it was a good visit, but the condition of some of the animals was a disappointing aspect of the experience.
Over the Labor Day weekend, I visited the Buffalo Zoo with friends. However, by the end of the trip, I found myself feeling embarrassed that I had recommended it. The zoo is quite old, and this is evident in its appearance and the condition of its animals. Many of the animals, including the polar bears, appeared unhappy and were lying in the mud with sad expressions.
Despite these issues, our trip to the zoo was generally enjoyable. The weather was beautiful, and the Zoo-magination lantern festival, which takes place during the summer, added a lot of extra activities and sights to see. Overall, it was a good visit, but the condition of some of the animals was a disappointing aspect of the experience.
18. Buffalo Main Light
19. Queen City Bike Ferry
20. Rochester
Rochester's answer to the culinary success of nearby Buffalo can also be found here, in the form of the "junk plate," a mix of meat sauce, macaroni salad and French fries.
21. Springville
22. Niagara Falls
It will take seven hours from New York, but if you walk 400 miles north of the city, you will reach Niagara Falls, New York. The drive itself is exceptionally scenic, with plenty of opportunities for hiking or picnic lunches along the way. Once you arrive at Niagara Falls State Park, you will be overwhelmed by rainbows, mist, and the thunderous roar generated by the Americana, Horseshoe, and Bridal Veil Falls.