Buffalo, NY might not be a large city, but it does have a rich museum scene that rivals major metropolitan areas. Home to an impressive array of renowned institutions, Buffalo’s museums are dedicated to preserving and sharing stories of history, art, science and much more. These spaces offer locals and visitors alike the chance to celebrate the city’s deep roots and vibrant character in fun and interesting ways. If you’re looking for something to do in Buffalo, add some of these museums and art galleries to your itinerary.
Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum
Just steps from Canalside and the Naval Park is one of Buffalo’s newest museums. The Explore & More Children’s Museum is a premier interactive museum where children are encouraged to learn through play. There are four floors for families to wander around. Hands-on exhibits and activities celebrate Buffalo’s architecture, waterways and diverse culture, creating a dynamic environment for children to engage with the city’s innovative past, present and future. Kids of all ages will love the indoor and outdoor playgrounds and imaginative spaces that inspire creativity and learning.
Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park
Located right along the Buffalo Waterfront, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park invites visitors to venture onto decommissioned vessels. The museum is the largest inland naval park of its kind in the United States. The USS The Sullivans, USS Little Rock, USS Croaker and PTF-17 vessels each have a unique history and significance for our country’s armed forces. Aside from exploring these pieces of history, guests can also check out real military artifacts and pay tribute to service members past and present.
Note:
The Park operates seasonally, from late March to November.
Buffalo AKG Art Museum
Formerly called the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum is one of the oldest museums in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary art. In some ways, it’s also one of the city’s newest institutions, as it recently reopened after several years of multi-million dollar renovations. In 2024, Time Magazine even named it one of the world’s greatest places. The museum is a cultural landmark that attracts art lovers from around the world with its immense collection of precious paintings, sculptures and multimedia works. There are three buildings to walk through, as well as studio classes and events to enjoy. For even more art, head across the street from the AKG to visit the Burchfield Penney Art Center at SUNY Buffalo State University.
Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum
At one point, Buffalo was a major hub of American manufacturing and industry. Pierce-Arrow, a former luxury automobile, bicycle and motorcycle manufacturer, held its headquarters downtown. Today, Buffalo honors that legacy with The Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum. This museum is home to a large collection of vehicles from 1903 to the 1960s, including Buffalo-made Piece-Arrows as well as Thomas Flyers and muscle cars. Another must-see exhibit is the Frank Lloyd Wright Filling Station. Though the iconic architect designed the project, its construction was not completed until long after his passing.
Buffalo History Museum
The Buffalo History Museum sits near the Japanese Gardens in Delaware Park. Originally founded in 1862, the museum is the region’s oldest institution dedicated to conserving Western New York’s past. Over the years, curators have collected nearly half a million objects, documents and artifacts that capture the spirit and stories of Buffalo and the surrounding areas. Visitors can observe exhibits about local sports, the city’s grain elevators, Native American culture and Buffalo’s Pan-American Exposition.
Buffalo Museum of Science
The Buffalo Museum of Science provides visitors of all ages with an immersive experience. The museum holds more than 700,000 specimens, with interactive exhibits covering anthropology, botany, entomology, paleontology, zoology and astronomy. In addition to its exhibits, the museum features a 3D cinema that brings science to life. Plus, there’s a rooftop observatory open during clear weather where you can catch a glimpse at some of space’s most fascinating objects.