Click on the icons above to discover which destinations you should visit on your next road trip through Buffalo!

As the second-largest city in New York, Buffalo is home to delicious wings, a revitalized waterfront, an esteemed art scene, restored historic architecture, and a load of year-round, family-friendly activities. Clasping the shores of Lake Erie, the Queen City also offers picturesque views that you won’t get elsewhere–be sure to get your phone ready for some awesome family photos!

Adding its affordability, accessibility and easy navigation to the list, Buffalo is an all-around win for parents and kids alike. So if you’re looking for a getaway filled with adventure, nature, history, art and great eats, we’ve laid out the best attractions for a memory-filled trip to Buffalo this summer.

Niagara Falls

A trip to Buffalo is not complete without a stop at Niagara Falls. Just a half-hour drive away, the beloved state park draws in millions of visitors a year to its three majestic waterfalls that span the border between Canada and New York state. Take a ride on the Maid of the Mist, or watch from jaw-dropping viewpoints on land, and revel in scenic sights of glistening rainbows and roaring cascades (which accounts for up to six million cubic feet of water!). Wrap up your excursion with an afternoon of hiking at nearby Devil’s Hole State Park.

Buffalo Museum of Science

A family getaway doesn’t mean all fun and no learning. At the Buffalo Museum of Science, kiddos can get an up-and-close look at a collection numbering over 700,000 specimens across a range of exhibits, such as biodiversity, natural sciences, space exploration and more. Take your youngsters to the rooftop for awe-inspiring stargazing and watch a 3D film in the National Geographic Cinema for a more interactive experience.

The Buffalo Zoo

Established in 1875, the Buffalo Zoo is the third oldest zoo in the nation and houses some of the most exotic animals and wildlife. Spanning close to 24 acres, the zoo also features a variety of exhibits for views of various species.  Some of the most crowd-pleasing exhibits include the polar bears at the Arctic Edge exhibit, the river otters at Otter Creek and the extended family of gorillas in the Gorilla House.

Explore & More Children’s Museum

Discover Western New York’s storied past through seven interactive play zones that touch on the region’s agriculture, architecture, athletics, culture, commerce, history, geography, and innovation. With a motto that emphasizes hands-on play, little ones are encouraged to touch objects in the exhibits. Kids can also try their hand at cooking, handy work and art in the Museum’s three educational studios.

The Buffalo Heritage Carousel

In 2021, Buffalo’s revitalized waterfront welcomed a new attraction to the Canalside boardwalk: The Buffalo Heritage Carousel. Recently restored and brought back to life after years in storage, the Carousel is a stunning attraction with hand-carved wooden animals and chariots that draws in the entire family. Add in the captivating lively organ music and you’ll be immediately transported to a magical space.

Buffal-O Ferris Wheel at RiverWorks

Score breathtaking views of the Buffalo River on the brand new 105-foot Ferris wheel. Located at the popular RiverWorks–the premier waterfront, boating, sports, music and entertainment destination–the Ferris Wheel has been a long-awaited attraction. The new ride will join the RiverWork’s iconic 100-foot-tall grain silos that feature zip lining, rock climbing, and a beer garden (great for both parents and kids).

Book your trip to Buffalo today for an epic family vacation, fully loaded with epic food, great activities and amazing sights. Head to visitbuffaloniagara.com to learn more about what Buffalo has to offer!

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