15 Places To Explore If You’re New To Buffalo

A recent post on Reddit from a new Buffalonian has long-time residents all over Western New York chiming in. 

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Exploring our fair city can be a bit daunting if you're new to the Buffalo area. There is so much to do, see and try - but it can be overwhelming to know where to start. 

Reddit user TotallyKyle49 posted in the Buffalo Subreddit asking for advice about this exact issue.

“Just moved near Elmwood Village. I have the next month and a half off. What are some things I should check out in my free time? I rode my bike down the Niagara River today. Planning on checking out the food truck festival this Tuesday. Any other ideas?”

The responses to this post show that the “City of Good Neighbors” truly lives up to its name.  Users came up with a plethora of great suggestions of things to check out in the Buffalo area. Whether you’re a nature lover, food connoisseur, history buff, or an explorer looking for something new, there is something on this list perfect for you.

We’ve compiled a list of some of these great ideas for you to check out if you’re new to the Buffalo area, visiting the 716 for the first time, or are a life-long Western New Yorker looking for something different to explore.

“Check the list of festivals and lawn fetes and just plan on visiting each of them to see the town/area/neighborhood they are being held. Most are cheap or free to attend.”

“Ditto for markets and farmers markets - Elmwood/Bidwell, Downtown, Buffalo Flea, etc - also old-school marketplaces like Clinton-Bailey or Broadway Market on weekends.”

“Take the bike ferry to the Outer Harbor - there is supposed to be a new weekend market there or else take the trails, see the beach and pier, etc.”

“Free concerts!”

“Spend a couple of days exploring Niagara Falls Ontario and US. You can walk across the Rainbow Bridge with your passport. There is even a Metro Bus that runs between Buffalo and Niagara Falls if you don't drive.”

“Learn some of the city's history at the Historical Society at Delaware Park, right by the Japanese Gardens at Mirror Lake.”

“Hit up the library downtown, get your card, and check the exhibits and collections.”

“Pick a random neighborhood bar, grab a chair at the bar, order food with your drink, and have a chat with your new neighbors - you will either make new friends or just leave after the best meal you've eaten in a long time.”

“Hit the beaches in US and Canada for a change of scenery.”

“Go to a Bisons baseball game to chill, enjoy the atmosphere and food.”

“Ride the free section of Metro Rail, why not, it's free.”

“If you are into culture check out the Darwin Martin House (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) and the Burchfield (Art) Museum on Elmwood Avenue adjacent to Buffalo State College.”

“First thing I did when I moved here was ride my bike from North Buffalo to Niagara Falls. There are bike paths and street riding. Once you get about 1/2-2/3 there, it’s all bike paths the rest of the way. Total trip could be about 1 1/2-2 hours one way and google maps should show you the bike paths, that’s how I found the route.”

“City hall observation deck, always good for a visit.”

“Sullivans before it sinks again.”