If you're a Buffalonian or a native Western New Yorker, you're probably well aware that today's Darien Lake was once a local Six Flags. But your memory might not extend back to the time when it was referred to as "Darien Lake Fun Country," an amusement park, campground, and picnic area. From the late 1970s to early 1980s, the park's pride and joy was a set of water slides, just a bit less exhilarating than today's Boomerang, Mind Eraser, and Red Hawk thrill rides.
While the amusement rides weren't quite as adrenaline-pumping, Darien Lake Fun Country still provided plenty of entertainment. Take a look at this video footage from local great Mike Randall giving Darien Lake Fun Country's Hydro Force water slide a try!
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Did you have a chance to visit Darien Lake Fun Country during its glory days? How does it compare to the amusement parks of today? We'd love to hear your stories in the comments below!
Buffalonians may have the pleasure of having all of the Queen City's attractions right in our backyards, but not everyone has the luxury of living in our hometown. For those who are visiting Buffalo and are looking to see the best of what our city has to offer, we've compiled an ultimate bucket list of things to do in Buffalo to make sure that you hit all of the coolest places. From waterfront parks to old-school candy shops and more, let's see how many of these attractions you've already crossed off of your Buffalo NY bucket list!
Walk along the waterfront at Canalside and you'll get to enjoy a variety of attractions all in one spot. Canalside is often the host of some of our favorite Buffalo festivals, as well as other exciting events that are constantly going on in the park. During the winter you'll find locals and out-of-town visitors making use of Canalside's ice bikes, playing pond hockey, and skating, while during the summer you'll find us going kayaking out on the water or playing games on the lawn. There's so much to do here!
Known for being one of the best hotels in the world, the Richardson Hotel is a 145-year-old building that's full of fascinating history. Once serving as Buffalo's asylum for the insane, the old campus is now a luxurious hotel that will make you feel like you've been transported to a realm like Hogwarts, where jaw-dropping structures like this exist.
3. See the works of art at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.
There are plenty of places around Buffalo where you can enjoy art, but the Albright-Knox Art Gallery happens to be our favorite. A total must-see, you'll always find new eye-catching exhibits coming on display that are sure to lure you into returning for another visit. Founded in 1862, the Albright-Knox gallery has been showcasing amazing works of art for Buffalonians for ages and is more than worthy of being on your bucket list.
Growing up in Buffalo means that we all have our own favorite places when it comes to who serves the best wings in Buffalo. When you survey our residents, you'll hear the names of places like Bar Bill, Duff's, Anchor Bar, Gabriel's Gate, and more. No matter where you choose to eat, the important part is that while you're here in Buffalo you must feast on wings somewhere!
After you've had a night out on the town and stuffed your belly full of wings, head on over to Parkside Candy on Main Street. These days, it's hard to find old-school candy shops like this that still carry their vintage charm. At Parkside Candy you'll be able to find local delicacies like sponge candy, as well as hundreds of other sweets that your eyes will be swooning over.
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6. Take a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin D. Martin House Complex.
If you thought the architecture at Hotel Henry was impressive, try setting your eyes on the marvelous masterpiece that is Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin D. Martin House Complex. Offering a variety of tours throughout the year, the complex was completed in 1905 and is known for being one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most amazing projects.
7. See the natural beauty at the Buffalo and Eerie County Botanical Gardens.
If you're ready to take a break from the typical cityscapes, heading over to the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens is always a great idea. Open all year long, the beautiful glass building houses a variety of flowers, plants, and lush scenery. If you plan on crossing this off of your list, be sure to keep your eye out for exciting events like their Fall Orchid Show, Santa's Workshop, Dollar Day, and Lumagination. They'll blow you away!
We understand that if you're an out-of-town visitor, this isn't something you'll always have as an option to see, depending on the time of year, but if you can make it work - go and see the Buffalo Bills in action! Tailgating at New Era Field is an experience you can't fully understand until you enjoy it firsthand. So turn off the TV and put down your phones, it's time to actually see the Buffalo Bills play right before your eyes.
I will never not be mesmerized by the bright lights of Shea's. Shea's Performing Arts Center originally opened up back in 1926 and is still as stunning as ever. Shea's is everything you would hope a theatre to be, filled with red chairs and decorated walls and ceilings that make you feel like you're someplace magical - because you are! What's the best show that you've seen at Shea's?
Architecture, architecture, architecture! We can't help but love all the architecture in Buffalo. From the outside, Ellicott Square may look like just another entryway into an average Buffalo building, but once you step inside, prepare to be in awe. Ellicott Square is an Italian Renaissance office building with a lobby that looks like it belongs in a movie. When it was constructed, the 10-story Ellicott Square Building was the largest office building in the world!
Don't underestimate the lovely parks that you'll find in Buffalo. Covering 350 acres, Delaware Park has waterfront walks available all around Hoyt Lake. During the spring, their Japanese Garden comes to life in time for the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival, which is definitely a must-see.
12. Check out the Buffalo and & Erie County Naval and Military Park.
One last historic Buffalo stop is the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park - it may just be our most unique museum! Right on the waterfront, visitors can take tours of decommissioned U.S. Navy vessels, as well as see other vehicles and jets on display.
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How many of these amazing places have you experienced? What would you add to this Buffalo bucket list? Tell us in the comments!
For more ways to stay busy around the Queen City, check out some of the best Wine And Waterfalls In Buffalo! Just be sure to check out our road trip packing list before you head out on the highway and look for adventure!
When most people think of Buffalo, New York, they think of Niagara Falls and Lake Erie. However, those who call it home know there's a lot more to the area; and some of our best spots fly under the radar. From restaurants and coffee shops to nature preserves, the following list nightlights some of the many secret places in Buffalo, NY. So, if you're in the area and wondering, "What are some of the best things to do near me?" read on to discover so much more to explore!
The Dnipro Ukrainian Center looks a lot different on the outside than it does once you enter. Upon stepping inside, you'll feel like you're entering another country. Since 1955, this has been one of the best secret places in Buffalo, with weddings, live music, and Ukrainian school taking place here. It's open to the public every Friday, where you can go for home-cooked Ukrainian food and great beer.
Located in the beautiful Chester Ridge Park, Eternal Flame Falls has a very distinct feature: a small flame that keeps burning due to the natural gas the waterfall's base emits. If you live in Buffalo, we think you owe it to yourself to see this natural marvel at least once when you're seeking some of the best things to do near me.
Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you. Inside this humble cafe, you'll find the best Puerto Rican food in the city (and possibly the country). Niagara Cafe always seems to be busy, yet some locals don't even know that heading here is one of the best things to do in Buffalo when you're craving a bite to eat.
You'll find this secret place in Buffalo NY at Whirlpool State Park. Walk to the top of the gorge from the parking area and turn left at the stairs, where you'll find a quiet (and often uncrowded) three-mile trail waiting for you to explore.
This old-school bar and grill is nestled in a quiet neighborhood, where it has been serving patrons tasty burgers, wings, and booze since the 1930s. The atmosphere is laid back and welcoming, with hearty pub grub and other specials offered weekly. We suggest heading here when you're looking for a local experience that's one of the best Buffalo things to do.
If you enjoy being near nature but don't want to deal with the crowds of some of the area's top spots, you can head to this peaceful nature preserve. The 264-acre nature refuge is quiet and relaxing, with five miles of nature trails and plenty of wildlife. Hence, it's the perfect destination when you're wondering "What are some of the best things to do near me?"
7. Mark Twain Room, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library
While most are aware of this magnificent library's existence, not many realize there's an entire room dedicated to Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain, who spent some time in Buffalo. The room features plenty of mementos from the author, including the original Adventures of Huckleberry Finn manuscript! Therefore, we suggest adding it to your list of secret places in Buffalo NY.
How many of these hidden gems have you discovered? Are there others you would add to this list of under-the-radar places? Share your suggestions in the comments below!
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Buffalo may be one of New York's most populated cities, but it's still possible to escape the crowds. There are also plenty of peaceful destinations in Buffalo to check out when you don't feel like being around hordes of other people. If you're looking for more unique things to do in Buffalo, I recommend taking a look at AirBnb experiences, too.
