City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Buffalo, New York
Located in western New York on Lake Erie at the Niagara River, Buffalo offers a rich history and wide variety of outdoor attractions and recreation. From the architectural marvels of Frank Lloyd Wright to the natural wonders of crashing waterfalls, there's something for your whole crew to do from a private boat dock for rent. Here are some of the top attractions that Buffalo has to offer.
Niagara Falls State Park
Photo: Niagara Falls State Park USA (Facebook)
No visit to Buffalo is complete without a trip to one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, Niagara Falls State Park. Located just a short drive from the city, the falls feature millions of gallons of water cascading over the edge every second. Visitors can take the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls or simply stroll along the scenic Niagara River Gorge. There are hiking trails, restaurants and shopping throughout the area.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin D. Martin House
Photo: Wikimedia
For architecture enthusiasts, the Darwin D. Martin House is a must-see attraction. Designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this prairie-style home is one of the most significant buildings of the 20th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and grounds, which feature beautiful gardens and intricate mosaics.
Buffalo Zoo
Photo: Buffalo Zoo (Facebook)
The Buffalo Zoo is a great place to spend a day with the family from a private boat slip for rent. Founded in 1875, it has more than 1,200 animals from around the world, including tigers, lions and giraffes. Check out the zoo's many exhibits, including the Rainforest Falls, which features a replica of a tropical rainforest.
Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park
Photo: Wikimedia
The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park is a tribute to the men and women who have served our country. The park's many exhibits include three decommissioned naval vessels: the USS Little Rock, the USS The Sullivans and the USS Croaker. The park also features a museum with displays on local military history.
Canalside
Photo: Wikimedia
Canalside, once known as Canal Side and Erie Canal Harbor, is a vibrant waterfront district that offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year. Take a kayak or paddleboard tour of the Buffalo River, catch a concert at the outdoor amphitheater or just relax and enjoy the views. In winter, Canalside transforms into a winter wonderland, with ice skating, curling and other fun activities. It's a terrific place to visit from a private boat slip rental.
Buffalo Museum of Science
Photo: Buffalo Museum of Science (Facebook)
The Buffalo Museum of Science is a great place to explore the wonders of the natural world. Visitors can check out the museum's many galleries and displays, which include a dinosaur exhibit, a science playground and a planetarium. The museum also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year that include science camps and workshops.
Tifft Nature Preserve
Photo: Wikimedia
The birdwatchers in your crew will want to head to Tifft Nature Preserve. The 264-acre park offers five miles of trails and boardwalks through a wooded setting. Don’t forget your binoculars. You can also go fishing and picnicking. There's an education center where you can get trail maps and rent showshoes in the winter months.
Buffalo City Hall
Photo: Wikimedia
Built in 1931, Buffalo City Hall is an architectural marvel that’s worth a visit from a private boat dock for rent. This towering 32-floor art deco-style building features stunning views of the city from the observation deck on the 28th floor. Photographers, architecture fans and history buffs will want to take a guided tour of the building, which includes a visit to the Mayor's office and the Council Chamber. At 398 feet tall, it's one of the tallest municipal buildings in the U.S.
Hopefully you’ve found some great ideas to add to your next Buffalo boat trip. Let us know what you find.
