Snow. Wings. Sports (and probably sports curses). If Buffalo gets brought up in conversation, these are likely the first things you’ll hear about it. But if you ask a Buffalonian, they’ll almost certainly tell you that the city is much, much more than that. Buffalo has a distinct charm you can only really understand if you’ve visited. After all, there has to be something special about a place that so many proudly call home despite it being one of the cloudiest and, yes, snowiest cities in the country.
Since its revival began in the early 2000s, the downtown area—particularly the waterfront—has reclaimed its place as the epicenter of activity. If you’re lucky enough to spend a day or weekend in Buffalo, NY, there are a few things you’ll want to add to your itinerary depending on what season you visit.
Things to Do in Buffalo in the Spring
Get Active at the Outer Harbor
If you have one day in Buffalo, it’s best spent south of downtown at the Outer Harbor, the more natural and nature-oriented side of the waterfront. With over 200 acres of open, green spaces, the Outer Harbor invites guests to walk, bike and run in the fresh air. Wilkeson Pointe is a favorite spot among locals, as it has kayak and bicycle rentals, volleyball courts, beach access, and a community beer garden for refreshments.
Once at the Outer Harbor, the Greenway Nature Trail continues further south toward some of the area’s best outdoor hot spots. The first landmark is Hammock Grove, a somewhat secret with one of the best views of the waterfront. True to its name, this is a small grassy spot with several free-to-use hammocks along the trail. After stopping for a quick rest, the trail leads down to the Lakeside Bike Park, which features pump tracks and skill loops for riders of all ages.
Things to Do in Buffalo in the Summer
Have a Blast at the Ballpark
After a day jam-packed with adventure and excitement, there’s nothing better to top it all off than a beautiful afternoon or evening at Sahlen Field, home of the Buffalo Bisons. Often called The Herd, this minor league team is the Triple-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. The stadium is one of the biggest in minor league baseball and is well known for its “class retro” style. Home game tickets often include extra experiences, like fireworks shows and happy hour discounts.
Before the game starts, don’t forget to grab some pre-game grub at Pub at the Park. Located right on the mezzanine level of the first base side of Sahlen Field, Pub at the Park has great buffet deals for the whole crew and local craft beers for adults over 21. How can you beat all-you-can-eat Buffalo favorite eats and ice-cold beverages before the ball game?
Things to Do in Buffalo in the Fall
Visit the Niagara Corridor
Early fall in Buffalo is marked by comfortably warm temperatures and changing leaves. If you have limited time in Buffalo but are looking for a nice walk with glimpses of the turning leaves, Freedom Park is a must-visit. Located on Unity Island along the Niagara River, the park has plenty of tree-covered parking with access to bike and walking paths north and south along the river. To the south, visitors can walk along the Bird Island Pier, which offers stunning views of the Niagara River and Lake Erie. To the north, pathways link up with other riverside parks in the Black Rock Neighborhood. If you want to have a picnic at the park, make sure to get some sweet treats at Frost Artisan Bakery. Found across the street from the park, Frost’s display cases are filled with pastries, dessert bars, cupcakes and other delectable desserts.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out these Niagara Corridor date night ideas.
Leaf Peeping at Letchworth State Park
A trip to Buffalo in the fall wouldn’t be complete without a hiking excursion to Letchworth State Park. Located about an hour’s drive from the city, the “Grand Canyon of the East” is home to gorgeous waterfalls, jaw-dropping gorges and endless towering trees with changing leaves. It’s a prime spot for leaf-peeping in October. After miles of walking trails, The Glen Iris Inn is the perfect place to rest with a bite to eat. Caroline’s, the on-site dining room, serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in the open season. Visitors might also want to consider renting a room at the Inn or one of the lodges and cottages in the park to make it a real weekend getaway.
Things to Do in Buffalo in the Winter
Outdoor Fun at Canalside
Canalside is one of Buffalo’s most treasured destinations throughout the year, but it really comes to life in winter. If you’re visiting Buffalo for a day between December and February, a trip to Canalside is the perfect addition to your itinerary. Locals and travelers alike come in droves to skate at Canalside’s illuminated ice rink, located right along the waterfront. Guests can bring their skates or rent them on-site for a fee, along with walkers for those just getting comfortable on the ice. Ice skating isn’t the only ice-related activity available for guests. Ice bikes and curling have been big hits with visitors in recent years. Be sure to get your reservations in early since availability for these activities is limited.
If cold weather isn’t your thing, make sure to check out Canalside in late spring and summer for a stroll on the boardwalk. On the north end of the boardwalk, guests can find the Queen City Bike Ferry Landing. Operating from Memorial Day to Labor Day, bikers and pedestrians can ride the ferry down to the Outer Harbor and back for just a dollar. Opposite that, on the south end, is Canalside’s beach and playground area. In between, there are several grassy lawns and Adirondack chairs, perfect for watching kayakers and boaters on the water.