Things to Do & Must-See Attractions in Buffalo

Step back in time, to September 14, 1901, when Theodore Roosevelt was inaugurated the 26th President of the United States following the assassination of President William McKinley. The Ansley-Wilcox house has been preserved as the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, and appears much as it did on that fateful day.

Located in her hometown of Jamestown, New York, the Lucille Ball Museum is an homage to all things I Love Lucy, one of the greatest sitcoms of all time, as well as the couple who created it. A must for fans of the show, step onto exact recreations of the I Love Lucy sets, admire Lucille and Desi’s awards, check out original costumes, and soak up the lives and legacies of Ball and Arnaz.

A unique housing complex of a particular design, the Darwin D. Martin House (Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Complex) was designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright during his Prairie School era. It is considered by many to be a masterpiece of 20th century architecture and one of Wright’s best works.

It is particularly noted for its design integration with the surrounding nature. With a low, gently-sloped roof, it stands in contrast to the traditional Victorian homes that were popular at the time. The idea behind the design for Wright was unity of light, air, and space, and this can certainly be felt while visiting the home today.

Built in 1904, it was constructed for business executive Darwin D. Martin (for whom the home is named) and his family. The complex’s many buildings are connected by long, shaded pergolas and includes structures such as a carriage house, conservatory, and gardener’s cottage. It also features art glass designed by Wright throughout, including his famous “Tree of Life” window. These can be seen alongside unique furnishings and decorative arts and artifacts preserved in the estate today.

Voted one of the top 10 most beautiful places in America, the Buffalo Niagara Region is home to incredible sports fishing, a killer casino, the Niagara wine trail and of course, Niagara Falls State Park. And while a trip to this region in western New York isn’t complete without a stop at the roaring falls, there’s certainly more to do, see and experience than just the rushing waters.

Visitors can take a relaxing cruise along the historic Erie Canal, visit the Anchor Bar where the famous buffalo wings were invented, hike the awe-inspiring gorge of scenic Letchworth State Park or tour one of the impressive art museums in the heart of Buffalo. While the region is certainly home to plenty of outdoor adventure and iconic New York state scenery, history buffs and art lovers will find plenty of reasons to visit, too.