The 7 Best Backroads Around Buffalo For A Scenic Drive

Sunday drives aren't just for Sundays anymore, and sometimes you may simply feel like taking one of the many scenic drives in New York without a purpose other than driving. Make your best playlist, grab a friend, and fill up your tank, then hit one of these seven best backroads that make for perfect scenic drives near Buffalo – any day of the week!

1. Route 219

Route 219 stretches from just south of Buffalo in West Seneca all the way to Virginia, spanning 533 miles - most of which is surrounded by stunning natural scenery! The 219 is especially glorious in the fall, as the area between Orchard Park and Ellicottville is flanked by miles of lush foliage. Check out the lovely fall foliage on this route:

2. Route 20A

Route 20A is an East-West road that weaves from Hamburg to Geneseo. Depending on which section of the road you're traveling, you'll find everything from farm fields and subtle hills to windmills and quaint towns to explore!

3. Route 39

Route 39 is nearly 100 miles long, starting in the west in Sheridan and stretching to the east in Sardinia. Along the way, you'll pass through towns such as Springville and Gowanda to grab a bite to eat or fill up your tank, so you can continue along your merry way!

4. Route 62

Believe it or not, Route 62 is a part of the highway system that stretches from Texas all the way to Niagara Falls, but for the purposes of this list, we'll focus on the 102 miles of the route in our area. Travel north to Niagara Falls or South all the way past Jamestown to the PA line for the ultimate Sunday drive!

5. Route 5

Route 5 is one of our personal favorites, and while most might associate it with the Skyway, this route offers so much more! Travel south along the shores of Lake Erie to Lakeview and beyond to get stunning views of the lake. Pro tip: Head out just before sunset, pull over at Hamburg Beach, and bring your camera for stunning photos with city views in the background! Take a look at some of the gorgeous scenery along this route:

6. Route 18

Route 18 stretches from Lewiston to Rochester, with much of the drive running parallel to the shores of Lake Ontario.

7. Route 391 (Boston State Road)

Boston State Road (AKA Route 391) is a small country road that goes from Hamburg to Boston. Although it's a short stretch, the surrounding areas are perfect for a relaxing, scenic drive!

Have you been on any of these scenic drives near Buffalo? Which route do you turn to when you want to take a back road? Let us know in the comments! If you're looking for more on-the-road adventures, check out these lovely scenic byways in New York.