10 Best Things To Do Near Buffalo, New York This Weekend

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Buffalo, New York (Erie County)

Buffalo, New York has a bit of everything: lake views, historic neighborhoods, loaded wings, and one of the world’s most famous waterfalls just a short drive away. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in and around Buffalo, this guide is for you. Let’s walk through 10 fun, easy-to-plan activities that show off the best of Erie County and the Buffalo area.

1. Feel the Power of Niagara Falls

You can’t talk about things to do near Buffalo without starting with Niagara Falls. It’s only about a 25–30 minute drive from downtown Buffalo, and it’s absolutely worth the trip. At Niagara Falls State Park, you can:
  • Walk right up to the edge of the falls at Terrapin Point and Prospect Point
  • Ride the classic Maid of the Mist boat and feel the spray on your face
  • Take the Cave of the Winds tour and stand just a few feet from the crashing water
  • Stay after dark for colorful nighttime light shows
Standing near the falls feels a bit like being next to a jet engine made of water. The sound, the mist, the wind – it’s intense in the best way. Tip: Wear a light rain jacket or bring a change of clothes if you’re doing boat or deck tours. You will get wet.

2. Stroll, Bike, and Dine at Canalside

Right on the downtown waterfront, Canalside Buffalo is one of the city’s best hangout spots. It’s built around the old Erie Canal, but today it feels more like a lively boardwalk. Things to do at Canalside:
  • Walk along the water and watch boats on the Buffalo River
  • Rent a bike, kayak, or paddleboard in warm weather
  • Relax in colorful Adirondack chairs on the grass
  • Catch live music, yoga classes, or festivals in summer
  • Go ice skating in winter when the rink opens
If you’re visiting with kids, there are often family events, games, and seasonal activities. If you’re there as a couple, grab a drink, watch the sunset over Lake Erie, and just enjoy the view.

3. Explore History at the Buffalo Naval & Military Park

Next to Canalside sits the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park, the largest inland naval park in the United States. You can walk through:
  • A battleship
  • A submarine
  • A destroyer
It’s part museum, part time machine. You squeeze through narrow hallways, peek into sleeping bunks, and stand on decks where sailors once worked every day. If you have kids or anyone in your group who loves history, ships, or the military, this is a must-do near downtown Buffalo. Tip: There are lots of ladders and tight spaces, so wear comfortable shoes.

4. Eat Classic Buffalo Wings Where They Started

You can’t visit Buffalo and skip the wings. The city literally invented them. A few famous spots to try:
  • Anchor Bar – often credited as the birthplace of Buffalo wings
  • Duff’s Famous Wings – loved by locals for big flavor and crispy skin
  • Bar-Bill Tavern – known for wings and beef on weck (a local roast beef sandwich)
Here’s a quick tip: in Buffalo, when you just say “wings,” people assume you mean Buffalo-style (fried and tossed in hot sauce and butter). No need to say “Buffalo wings” unless you’re outside Western New York. If you like a bit of heat, start with medium sauce and work your way up. “Hot” here can be pretty serious.

5. Wander the Buffalo AKG Art Museum

If you enjoy art, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum (formerly the Albright-Knox) is one of the best cultural stops in the region. It’s located right by Delaware Park, just a short ride from downtown. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Modern and contemporary art from big-name artists
  • Striking sculptures and bold, colorful works
  • Special rotating exhibits
Even if you’re “not really an art person,” it’s an easy place to enjoy: the rooms are open and bright, and you can go at your own pace. Wander for an hour or spend an afternoon; it’s up to you. Nearby bonus: After the museum, you can take a walk through Delaware Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect who worked on Central Park in New York City.

6. Relax and Play at Delaware Park

Speaking of Delaware Park, it’s one of the most peaceful spots in Buffalo and a favorite with locals. You can:
  • Walk or jog the loop paths
  • Rent a rowboat on Hoyt Lake in warmer months
  • Pack a picnic and relax on the grass
  • Check out the Buffalo Zoo, which sits on the park’s edge
On a sunny day, the park feels like Buffalo’s living room – people walking dogs, kids playing, couples sitting under the trees. If you’re looking to escape city noise without driving far, this is perfect.

7. Discover Local Wildlife at the Buffalo Zoo

Located in North Buffalo near Delaware Park, the Buffalo Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and a popular family activity. You’ll see:
  • Big animals like lions, tigers, and bears
  • Colorful birds, reptiles, and smaller mammals
  • Special exhibits that change with the seasons
The zoo isn’t massive, which actually makes it nice. You can walk the whole place in a few hours without feeling rushed or exhausted. It’s an easy half-day trip that works well with a visit to Delaware Park or the nearby neighborhoods. Tip: Check their calendar for special events like holiday lights or themed nights.

8. Step Back in Time at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House

Architecture fans will love the Martin House Complex, a stunning home designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 1900s. It’s located in the Parkside neighborhood of Buffalo. Why visit?
  • See one of Wright’s most important Prairie-style homes
  • Walk through beautifully restored rooms and gardens
  • Learn how the design connected indoor and outdoor spaces
Even if you don’t know much about architecture, it’s fascinating to hear how people lived over 100 years ago in a house that still feels modern. Guided tours are the best way to experience it, so try to reserve in advance if you can.

9. Enjoy the Waterfront at Outer Harbor

Just a short drive from downtown along the lake, Buffalo’s Outer Harbor area offers wide-open views of Lake Erie and miles of trails. Things you can do:
  • Walk or bike along the paved paths
  • Visit parks like Wilkeson Pointe or Buffalo Harbor State Park
  • Hang out on the small sandy beach areas
  • Watch the sailboats and kayaks on the water
Sunsets at the Outer Harbor can be amazing, especially on a clear summer night. Bring a light jacket though – the breeze off the lake can feel cooler than you’d expect, even in July.

10. Taste Your Way Through Elmwood Village & Hertel Avenue

If you like walkable neighborhoods filled with local shops, bars, and restaurants, don’t miss Elmwood Village and nearby Hertel Avenue. In Elmwood Village you’ll find:
  • Cafés and brunch spots
  • Local boutiques and gift shops
  • Street art and historic homes
On Hertel Avenue you can:
  • Grab pizza, pasta, or Italian dishes
  • Enjoy lively bars and cocktail spots
  • Catch a movie at the restored North Park Theatre
These areas show a different side of Buffalo: less touristy, more everyday city life. They’re great places to end your day with a good meal and a casual walk.

Final Thoughts: Why Buffalo Is Worth a Visit

From the roar of Niagara Falls to quiet walks in Delaware Park, Buffalo and Erie County pack a lot into a fairly small area. You can:
  • See one of the world’s most famous natural wonders
  • Explore art, history, and architecture
  • Enjoy lake views and waterfront paths
  • Eat some of the best wings you’ll ever try
If you’re planning a road trip around New York State, or flying in for a long weekend, Buffalo makes a great base. You can easily fill a few days with these 10 things to do near Buffalo, New York – and still have more to discover next time.

Share Your Buffalo Experience

Have you been to Buffalo or Erie County before?
  • What was your favorite thing to do near Buffalo?
  • Did you find a hidden gem that’s not on this list?
Drop your thoughts, questions, and travel tips in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories and help future travelers discover new ideas. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about a trip to Buffalo, New York. Your share might be the nudge they need to finally visit this underrated city on the lake.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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