View of seats in Shea's Buffalo Theater from stage

Image courtesy of Shea’s Buffalo Theater

Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

There are so many fun and interesting things to do in Buffalo, NY that it can be difficult choosing what to do on any given day. Here at Basil Family Dealerships, we’ve compiled a list to help you find some of the best things to do in Buffalo today.

Shea’s Buffalo Theater

Opened in 1926, this classic theater is listed on the National Historic Registry. Originally a silent movie venue, then a vaudeville house, the theater now brings a touch of Broadway to Buffalo. The lavish and ornate interior is a treat in itself, and with a slate of shows featuring touring Broadway troupes and other special events, you’ll be thoroughly entertained.

Location: 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY.

Buffalo Zoo

The third oldest zoo in the country, the Buffalo Zoo opened in 1875. Today visitors can see a large variety of exotic mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Popular attractions include the EcoStation, the Gorilla House, and the M &T Bank Rainforest Falls exhibit. If you want to grab a bite to eat after touring the zoo, we suggest stopping by Parkside Meadow located right across the street. One of the top restaurants in Buffalo, the Parkside Meadow offers a wonderful menu and a friendly neighborhood pub-like atmosphere.

Location: 300 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, NY.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House Complex

The legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright called this complex of buildings “the opus” and a “domestic symphony.” Built in the early 1900s, the complex includes the main house, the pergola, the conservatory, the carriage house, and the Wisteria Museum Shop.

Location: 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, NY.

Buffalo City Hall

If you’re looking for free stuff to do in Buffalo, you should not miss the Buffalo City Hall. This 32 story art deco building features 1,520 windows, a stained-glass ceiling, and an observation deck that offers stunning views of Lake Erie, the Buffalo River, and the city streets below.

Location: 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY.

Niagara Falls

One of the most popular things to do near Buffalo, NY is to visit Niagara Falls. Just 20 miles from the city, the falls are one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. There are a variety of ways to view and experience Niagara Falls, from boat tours to hiking along a path that takes you behind the falls themselves. If you’re ever in the Buffalo area, you definitely should take the short trip over to Niagara Falls.

Location: Niagara Falls State Park Visitor Center, 332 Prospect Street, Niagara Falls, NY. Find out how to get from Buffalo to Niagara Falls by car, by bus, or by bike, today!

Get Your Local Tips from Basil Family Dealerships

Finally, if you’re just visiting Buffalo or are a longtime local, make sure to stop by the annual Buffalo Motorama, which takes place in March, or the Basil Port of Call: Buffalo celebration, which occurs in July. It’s a fun, family-friendly event that showcases a wide assortment of classic cars and features entertainment, celebrity guests, and more.

We know that our list just barely scratches the surface of all the things to do in Buffalo, NY, so if we missed mentioning any of your favorite attractions or free stuff to do, please let us know! While you’re at it, why don’t you check out a few of our favorite Buffalo restaurants!

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