Summary of Day Trips from Buffalo
Buffalo is the most renowned city in upstate New York, notable for its proximity to the spectacular Niagara Falls and its well-known invention—buffalo wings. It serves as an excellent hub for travelers and offers a delightful experience in its own right, marked by lush parks and a picturesque setting along the shores of Lake Erie.
Take advantage of the abundant array of high-quality hotels, restaurants, and bars in the City of Good Neighbors. Additionally, consider venturing further into the state and across the border into Canada with these fifteen outstanding day trip options.
1. Niagara Falls
No itinerary for day trips from Buffalo would be complete without highlighting its most famous nearby attraction, Niagara Falls. Regardless of whether you plan to embark on the Maid of the Mist boat ride or simply enjoy the view from the Observation Tower, everyone agrees that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the awe of nature.
Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Goat Island, and the Whirlpool are just a few of the remarkable features within this magnificent waterfall. Moreover, visitors can explore the Canadian side for a slightly different perspective.
2. Ellicottville
Located just over an hour from Buffalo, the town of Ellicottville is an exceptional day trip choice, particularly for those with a passion for sports and the outdoors. It features numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as a local ski resort, making it a pleasant destination for exploration.
Consider visiting the nearby Allegany State Park for some challenging hikes, and conclude your day with a refreshing swim in the lake. Alternatively, you may want to visit Holiday Valley Resort for a leisurely round of golf. For a more relaxed experience, the well-known Salt Cave is also worth exploring.
3. Letchworth State Park
Another prime destination for nature enthusiasts is Letchworth State Park, frequently referred to as the number one state park in the United States.
The park offers various ways to immerse yourself in its beauty, including hiking trails that traverse the valleys, horseback riding, and even cross-country skiing during the appropriate season. The “Grand Canyon of the East” features numerous picturesque locations, making it challenging to appreciate them all in a single day. For those seeking a comprehensive view, consider taking a balloon ride with Balloons over Letchworth.
4. Finger Lakes
For wine enthusiasts, the Finger Lakes region presents an ideal day trip destination. Renowned for its outstanding vineyards, this area spans over 124,000 acres and boasts numerous water bodies.
Expect to find a variety of activities, including kayaking, fishing, and swimming. If your primary interest lies in wine, you will have access to more than 100 wineries throughout the region, accompanied by an emerging restaurant scene to explore.
5. Toronto
Buffalo is in closer proximity to Toronto than it is to New York City, rendering a day trip to Canada particularly appealing. In Ontario’s capital, shopping, dining, and entertainment options abound.
From high-end boutiques to local shops, the city’s malls provide something for everyone, while Toronto is recognized for its vibrant dining scene. Be sure not to overlook a visit to the CN Tower; it remains one of the city’s most significant tourist attractions.
6. Old Fort Niagara
Situated in Youngstown, New York, Old Fort Niagara has significant military historical value for over three centuries. Travel north from Buffalo toward Lake Ontario’s shoreline to reach this site.
Originally constructed by the French in 1726, the fort has witnessed numerous conflicts, changing hands between the French, British, and Americans through the years. The British achieved control during the War of 1812, only for the Americans to reclaim it following the war. Its historical significance makes it an appealing destination for history enthusiasts, while the impressive architecture may attract even those with limited interest in military topics.
7. Chautauqua Institution
The Chautauqua Institution offers a more intellectually stimulating experience for day visitors. This educational center is located near the scenic Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York and hosts events focused on spiritual development and intellectual discussions.
Visitors can attend performances at the amphitheater or simply meander around the grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere—an ideal setting for a few hours of reflection.
8. Niagara-on-the-Lake
If you have previously visited the Falls or seek a unique day trip experience, consider diverting to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake instead of heading directly to Niagara Falls.
Located across the border in Canada, the area boasts numerous attractions from exceptional wineries to beautiful bike trails along the Niagara River. If you time your visit appropriately during the summer, you may also experience the Shaw Festival, named after George Bernard Shaw, which celebrates theatrical performances.
9. East Aurora
Just south of Buffalo lies the Roycroft Campus in East Aurora, home to a vibrant art community. The village boasts a rich heritage as a center of the Arts and Crafts movement—a reaction against mass production during the Industrial Revolution—producing simple, beautiful, handcrafted works.
Be sure to explore the fourteen buildings that make up the historic campus thoroughly.
10. Darien Lake
As New York’s largest water and theme park, Darien Lake represents an exceptional day trip destination from Buffalo, particularly for families. Its seven roller coasters are bound to be a thrilling highlight for children, while bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, and numerous other rides will keep everyone entertained throughout the day.
This destination is a fantastic option for families, proving to be enjoyable for both children and adults alike. Additionally, the adjacent Performing Arts Center may feature concerts that can be worthwhile to attend if the attractions become less appealing for the younger visitors.
11. Corning Museum of Glass
While it may seem like an unexpected inclusion on a list of day trips, the Corning Museum of Glass is genuinely a highlight of the area. Visitors travel from great distances to enjoy its remarkable exhibits, which encompass the history, art, and science of glass-making alongside live demonstrations of the craft.
Marvel at the intricate designs on display and consider visiting the gift shop for a memento of your experience. Should you feel you require more cultural exploration, the nearby Rockwell Museum of Western Art exhibits a collection of Native and Western American art.
12. Presque Isle
Another excellent family-friendly day trip option is the beautiful sandy beaches of Presque Isle, situated along Lake Erie. The peninsula is approximately a two-hour drive from Buffalo, but its range of recreational opportunities—such as swimming, boating, biking, hiking, and bird watching—makes the journey worthwhile.
Equipment rentals are widely available, and renting kayaks for a family outing is a favored choice. Although it may become a lengthy day, it promises to be exceptionally enjoyable.
13. Griffis Sculpture Park
A unique combination of art and nature is offered at Griffis Sculpture Park, located just 45 miles from Buffalo. Immerse yourself in the fresh air while hiking along the park’s extensive trails, showcasing over 250 large sculptures, many of which are interactive and climbable.
The park encompasses more than 400 acres of exploration through meadows, ponds, and hiking paths, which will engage both children and adults alike.
14. Rochester Museum of Play
A fantastic option for a rainy day is found at the Museum of Play in Rochester, New York State’s third-largest city. The museum features numerous interactive exhibits, including beloved characters from Sesame Street and popular comic books.
Explore the renowned toy Hall of Fame, partake in the carousel or passenger train rides, and discover the diverse dining options available in Rochester following your museum visit.
15. Toronto Islands
If you have already explored the city itself, consider the Toronto Islands for a distinctive day trip experience. Take a ferry and bring your bike, as motorized vehicles are prohibited on the islands.
Visitors can walk, bike, or boat around (bike rentals are available if you do not have your own), and the islands also feature a popular amusement park. Plan to enjoy a picnic after wandering the sandy beaches, visiting the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, and exploring Far Enough Farm.
