A Local's Guide to Buffalo, NY

Visit the Niagara Falls State Park: Niagara Falls is a famous natural landmark. It features three stunning waterfalls: Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls. Known for its beauty and power, it's a must-see when visiting Buffalo. You can walk through the cave of winds & take a cruise on the Maid of the Mist. Just be prepared to get wet!

Go Shopping at the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls: This mall is a popular shopping destination offering discounted prices on top brand-name clothing, accessories and footwear. It features a wide range of stores, from high-end designers to everyday favorites, attracting both locals and tourists looking for great deals.

Visit Canal Side: A vibrant waterfront area offering a mix of outdoor activities, dining and cultural attractions. Located along the city's historic Erie Canal, it features scenic views, parks, events and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, kayaking, concerts and seasonal festivals, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

See a musical at Shea's Performing Arts Center: Originally called Shea's Buffalo, it was opened in 1926 to show silent movies. This historic theater known for hosting Broadway shows, concerts and various live performances. Featuring beautiful architecture, it remains a key destination for entertainment in the region, attracting audiences with its diverse lineup of events.

Take a tour at Buffalo Naval Park: This historic museum features a collection of decommissioned military vessels. This includes the USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans and the USS Croaker. You can explore these ships and learn about the history of the US Navy and military service.

Buffalo Bills tailgate/game: There is nothing like a Bills mafia tailgate party or an actual Bills game. The atmosphere is like no other, and the fan base is like no other. You can’t miss a chance to join a tailgate if you happen to find yourself in Buffalo during football season!

Hike to the Eternal Flame: This moderately challenging 1.2-mile out-and-back trail takes an average of 29 minutes to complete. You’ll find a petite waterfall nestled in the Shale Creek Preserve, part of Chestnut Ridge Park. At the base of the waterfall, a small grotto releases natural gas, which can be ignited to create a small, visible flame. This flame burns almost year-round. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.

Visit Elmwood Village: This vibrant and historic neighborhood in Buffalo is known for its charming tree-lined streets, diverse architecture and lively atmosphere. The area features a mix of locally-owned shops, cafes, restaurants and art galleries. This makes it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. This village offers a unique blend of urban convenience and small-town charm.

Buffalo AKG Art Museum: This Museum is one of the oldest museums dedicated to the art of our time, and the sixth-oldest public art institution in the United States.

Buffalo Central Terminal: The Buffalo Central Terminal is a historic site in Buffalo. It opened to the public on June 22, 1929. Built by the New York Central Railroad and designed by architects Alfred T. Fellheimer & Steward Wagner, the art deco style station was built to accommodate up to 3200 passengers per hour, or 200 trains per day. The Buffalo Central Terminal hosts a series of events and tours throughout the summer months.

Three Girls Cafe: If you want a true small-town dining experience, this diner located in Boston, NY, is the place to eat. Serving American comfort food in a cozy diner setting, I make sure to go here at least once when I go back to visit. Country fried steak with home fires, over-easy eggs and white toast is my go-to. (This is a cash-only restaurant, but there is an ATM in case you don't have cash!)

Buffalo Chophouse: If you are wanting a mouthwatering meal, this is the place to go. It is a top-shelf steakhouse known for its high-quality steaks, fresh seafood and elegant atmosphere. Between the food, quirky decor, excellent service and fine dining atmosphere, this place makes you feel special.

The Beach Club at Mickey Rats: Though it’s seasonal, this is a great place to hang out and drink during the summer. It’s directly on the beach so you can either hang out at the bar or grab a drink and go lay in the sun. Sunday Fundays are the best day at Mickey Rats.

Connor’s Restaurant: Located in West Seneca, NY, offering American fare food, this place is my go-to for a Beef on Weck (Roast Beef) sandwich. They also have amazing fries and gravy.

Ilio DiPalos Restaurant and Banquet Facility: Hall of Fame Wrestler Ilio DiPaolo opened the doors in 1965. It has been a beloved must eat spot in Western NY since. Not only is the authentic Italian food delicious, but the owners make it a point to stop by and check on you while you are dining. One of my favorite things about this restaurant is the family-friendly atmosphere.

Anjon’s Pizzeria: You cannot go to Buffalo and not get pizza or wings. And this pizzeria is the place to get them. The wings turn out crispy and saucy. The pizza has more of a sweet sauce and is delicious!

Bar-Bill Tavern: Located in East Aurora, NY, is a popular casual dining spot known for its delicious wings and laid-back, friendly atmosphere. With its rustic charm and welcoming vibe, the tavern has become a local favorite for both food lovers and craft beer enthusiasts. They even have a mug club.

Red Top Hot Dogs: My favorite hot dog place. This beloved, family-owned fast-food spot is known for its charbroiled hot dogs and retro charm. This little eatery has been a local favorite for decades, offering a variety of hot dog options, burgers and fries. With its no-frills menu and friendly service, it provides a nostalgic dining experience.

Buffalo RiverWorks: This beautiful location is a dynamic waterfront entertainment complex located along the Buffalo River. It offers a unique mix of dining, live music and recreational activities, it features a variety of restaurants, bars and outdoor spaces. You can enjoy activities like ice skating, kayaking and axe throwing, along with vibrant events and concerts throughout the year. With its industrial charm and scenic river views, Buffalo RiverWorks is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking fun and entertainment in a lively setting.

Taste of Buffalo: This isn't so much a place to eat as it is a festival to eat. Because Buffalo is so rich in culture, especially food culture, there are so many places to eat that have amazing food. This festival celebrates the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Typically, in July, it is one of the largest food festivals in the US. It features a wide array of local restaurants, food trucks and vendors offering a variety of dishes ranging from savory bites to sweet treats. In addition to food, the festival includes live entertainment, cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities.