Does a long Buffalo winter have you feeling down? A short drive to one of these local destinations is a guaranteed cure for your winter blues. While these towns and cities may not be any warmer than Buffalo, they’re sure to help you fill the days until spring arrives.
Cleveland, Ohio
Distance from Buffalo: 3 hour drive
Classy jazz bars, the house from A Christmas Story, a trip aboard the Polar Express, tobogganing and ice skating are just a few ways to fill a weekend in Cleveland. Stroll through Public Square or along the Hope Memorial Bridge and if you’re visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss Scuba Claus at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium.
Lake Placid, New York
Distance from Buffalo: 6 hour drive
If you’re up for a longer road trip, Lake Placid is the ideal destination for an extended weekend getaway. This winter wonderland was home to the 1980 Winter Olympics and you can tour many of the facilities today. Ski the majestic White Face Mountain or sip hot cocoa in one of many cozy coffee shops downtown.
Ellicottville, New York
Distance from Buffalo: 1 hour drive
Spend you days on the slopes at Holiday Valley Resort and evenings fireside in many local lodges and restaurants. Shops, craft breweries and spas are dotted along the main street.
Letchworth State Park, New York
Distance from Buffalo: 1.5 hour drive
Unwind and unplug in a cozy cabin at Letchworth State Park. Year-round accommodations give you a warm and comfortable home base from which to enjoy fantastic snowmobiling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Distance from Buffalo: 3.5 hour drive
Tired of the same old ski slope? Check out the ski resorts in Pittsburgh. The city is also home to a handful of unusual museums including Bicycle Heaven, the Roberto Clemente Museum and the Bayernhof Museum. Downtown you’ll find breweries and spirits to warm you on a cold day.
Rochester, New York
Distance from Buffalo: 1.5 hour drive
Skiing Bristol Mountain or ice skating at Martin Lutering King Jr. Park are just a few cool things to do in Rochester this winter. The Strong Museum of Play is a great destination if you’re traveling with kids. The young (and young at heart) may also enjoy a horse-drawn wild safari at Hidden Valley Animal Adventure.
Toronto, Canada
Distance from Buffalo: 2.5 hour drive
North of the border, Toronto, offers loads of cold weather entertainment. The Winterlicious festival is a great opportunity to indulge in creative cuisine. Take in a Raptors game or catch the Sabres’ legendary rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs, hit the ice. For a truly Canadian experience, join sports fans for outdoor broadcasts of games in Maple Leaf Square.