We know Buffalonians sometimes get tired of recommending the same old tourist traps to out-of-towners. What might feel like the same ol’ to us; however, are intriguing for tourists to check out firsthand! When you’re in a bind and can’t think of what to recommend (or to do for yourself in the city), here are 9 weird and wonderful tourist traps in Buffalo that actually live up to the hype.
1. Iron Island Museum (998 E. Lovejoy Street)
The Iron Island Museum is thought to be one of the most haunted places in Buffalo. Tourists from all over flock to this former funeral home to get a glimpse of ghost activity! This place has been featured on several ghost hunting shows and if you're lucky enough to have a sighting, it's totally worth the hype.
2. Japanese Garden (1 Museum Court)
Is it weird that we have a Japanese garden in Buffalo, NY? Kind of. Is this place worth the hype? Definitely. The Japanese Garden is one of the most tranquil spots in the city. While it is popular with tourists, the gardens maintain their zen no matter how many people are wandering through.
3. Central Terminal (495 Paderewski Drive)
The Central Terminal is one of the most intriguing historic locations in Buffalo. This train station was once bustling with commuters and now hosts a range of tours for locals and tourists alike. We highly recommend a visit to this beautifully restored destination.
4. Albright-Knox Art Gallery (1285 Elmwood Avenue)
If fine art is your thing (or even if it's not), the Albright-Knox is totally worth the hype in Buffalo. This is one of the most interesting art galleries around, with new exhibits popping up on the regular. If you aren't a fan of heading indoors to view the pieces, check out the several murals scattered around the Queen City as a part of Albright-Knox's public art initiative!
5. Buffalo Double Decker Bus (297 Fuhrmann Boulevard)
This is another tourist trap that is weirdly wonderful to have in the 716. The Buffalo Double Decker Bus appeals to tourists (obviously), but also locals. Sign up for one of their many themed tours to get a unique new look at the city! Worth the hype? Absolutely.
6. Forest Lawn Cemetery (1411 Delaware Avenue)
It might seem weird to direct tourists to check out our cemetery, but Forest Lawn is worth the hype in more ways than one. This sprawling cemetery is the final resting grounds of great like Rick James and President Millard Fillmore. It is also home to the Blue Sky Mausoleum, a Frank Lloyd Wright creation.
7. Our Lady of Victory Basilica (767 Ridge Road)
"What did you do in Buffalo?" "Went to a church." It might not sound exciting at first, but we guarantee a trip to the OLV Basilica will surpass your expectations. This place is stunning, and learning the history behind the building if you take a tour will blow you away. The Basilica is worth the hype - and any weird looks when you suggest a visit to church to your out-of-town friends looking for fun.
8. Pierce-Arrow Museum (263 Michigan Avenue)
The Pierce-Arrow Museum is dedicated to showing the automotive and transportation history in Western New York. While it's a popular spot for tourists, it's also raved about by Buffalonians who visit!
9. Botanical Gardens (2655 South Park Avenue)
Tourists and locals love the Botanical Gardens for their obvious beauty... and for the fact that it's always warm inside! This is a great place to visit year-round, but especially in the winter months when the weather gets too cold to handle. Worth the hype - and worth shedding some layers once you step inside!
Where are your favorite tourist traps that you actually enjoy visiting in Buffalo? Recommend a few in the comments below!
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