Find cheap flights to Buffalo from $38

Sitting on the shores of Lake Erie and along the banks of the Niagara River, Buffalo, NY looks out across the Canada / US border. The city is a popular destination for travelers who enjoy visiting historical sights, shopping, and culinary exploration. It’s also a great base from which to visit the world famous Niagara Falls. Buffalo is a city with definite seasons, so make sure you know what to expect when you visit, so you can be prepared with the right gear for the weather. Peak tourist season is during summer, and you can expect temperatures in July – August spiking to 70 – 85 degrees Fahrenheit, along with busy hotels and lineups at Buffalo’s popular attractions. Winter is relatively quiet, but bring your warmest clothing as the temperatures dip to an average high of 35 – 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and you may encounter significant snowfall. Spring and fall, the shoulder seasons, are probably the best time to visit Buffalo. With moderate temperatures and thinner crowds, you can expect to be comfortable, and you can find better prices on accommodation and flights.

The best way to get around in Buffalo NY is definitely by driving. Despite an abundance of one-way streets, the convenient grid system of roadways is well designed and easy to navigate. However, if you’d rather use public transport, the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority (NFTA) operates an extensive network of bus and light rail.

Public Transportation

Within the city, most major bus routes operate approximately every 15-20 minutes during the day, and 30-60 minutes apart in the evenings. The Metro Rail system runs from 6:00 am weekdays until midnight. One-way fares are $1.75 USD, but you might find it worth purchasing a day pass for $4.00 USD, which allows unlimited access to bus and rail. Passes are available from bus drivers or ticket vending machines at the rail stations.

Taxis

Taxis are available in Buffalo but, other than when you’re at the airport, you can’t hail one on the street, you must call for one in advance. Taxi rates are $2.30 USD for the first 1/6 mile, with $0.50 USD for each additional 1/6 mile, and $30.00 USD per hour waiting time.Uber and Lyft are now operating in Buffalo NY.

Bike share

Reddy bike share is a great option for those who want to get around on two wheels. Bikes are available at numerous hubs across the city. For visitors, your best option is the hourly pass, which charges an $8.50 USD activation fee, followed by $3.00 USD per hour.

Things to do and places of interest in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo is one of the most northerly cities in the state of New York, with a storied naval history, and cultural influences from the Polish and German immigrants who settled here. Of course, the city has long been associated with the picturesque Niagara Falls, and any trip here is incomplete without a visit to this geographical wonder. Here are some of the highlights you may wish to see during your trip to Buffalo NY.

• See the Niagara Falls from a jet boat. Niagara Jet Adventures and Whirlpool Jet Boats will give you a heart-pounding whitewater experience like no other. You’ll also learn the history and geology of the majestic Niagara River, and you can choose from ‘wet’ or ‘dry’ tours.
• Tour the Darwin D Martin House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the Prairie style, with trademark features such as a cantilevered roof and a focus on the internal hearth. Here you can view the iconic art glass produced by the revered architect himself.
• Wander around Canalside, Buffalo’s impressive waterfront. The city has invested heavily in new development here, and the area now hosts more than 1000 events throughout the year. Along Central Wharf, you’ll find daily events including activities for children, outdoor yoga, and Thursday at Canalside concerts.
• If you’re traveling with kids, or just like animals, take in the Buffalo Zoological Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the US.
• Explore the historic Forest Lawn Cemetery, which has earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Step into the on-site resource center / museum, the Margaret L. Wendt Archive, to learn more about the famous people interred in the park.
• Gaze in awe at the imposing, Art-Deco style City Hall.
• See the first complete neighborhood to be listed on the National Register in Buffalo. The architecture in Allentown oozes heritage and culture.

Tips and tricks for visiting Buffalo, NY

If you visit Buffalo during winter, it can be very cold and snowy. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing, and if you’re not used to driving in snow, you probably shouldn’t. Use taxis or public transport to get around.

Certain areas of Buffalo can be a bit sketchy, especially after dark. Stick to the tourist areas for safety.