“Canadians who think Buffalo is only good for cross-border shopping and watching sports have got it all wrong.”
Our friends to the North are picking up on the “quirky Americana” vibe that is Buffalo, and we’re here for it.
According to this article from Canada.com, Buffalo’s architecture is just one of the many things that make the queen city such a desirable place to be. Author, Jennifer Bain has been coming to Buffalo since the early 2000s for many different reasons. Our architecture, micro museums, meals, waterfront, silos, etc. have all left a lasting impression on her. In the article, Bain breaks down her itinerary of things to do in Buffalo and surrounding areas.
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The list includes:
1. Tour Buffalo’s architecture
Buffalo is full of walking, biking, and bus tours that all have a focus on highlighting our architecture. These tours focus on buildings like the Ellicott Square building, the Guaranty Building, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral.
2. Visit City Hall’s observation tower
See the art deco designs of Buffalo City Hall and the 360 degree views of the city from the observation deck.
3. Get some beef on weck
A local favorite and specialty of Buffalo, beef on weck is way more than a roast beef sandwich. Where to find one? Bain says she’s partial to Charlie the Butcher.
4. Stop by Swan Street Dinner
Located in the Larkinville neighborhood, Swan Street Dinner brings ultimate comfort food and a 1930s diner feel.
5. Enjoy the scent of Cheerios
One perk to visiting Buffalo? The city smells like cheerios from the General Mills Plant located downtown.
6. Check out Silo City
Buffalo is known for its historic grain elevators. Silo City allows visitors to climb a grain elevator, kayak through the area, or have a drink at the Duende Bar + Restaurant.
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7. Explore the Children’s museum
Located in the heart of Canalside, the Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum brings an interactive space of play that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.
8. Get your Mexican fix
Dine at Las Puertas for upscale Mexican dishes. The menu changes frequently so you’ll always have something new to try.
9. Can you spot a buffalo?
With a city named Buffalo, it only makes sense to find buffalos all over the place. There’s one in the visitor center, a few at Canalside, and one in front of Riverworks. Any local knows there are so many more located throughout the region.
10. Stay at Hotel Lafayette
Hotel Lafayette is a historic gem in buffalo full of French Renaissance styles. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Public Espresso + Coffee, located just off the lobby.
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11. Look for the red & white awning
Head out to East Aurora and check out Vidler’s for some old-school shopping and quirky items.
12. Visit Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls may be the main attraction but, there is a deep history involving the Underground Railroad in this region that is worth checking out at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center.
