When most travelers think of New York the first thing that comes to mind is New York City, and the same for those that have never visited the state they have a vision of yellow taxis and skyscrapers. But there is so much more and on the Canadian border in western New York is the Queen City of the great lakes, Buffalo. The downtown water front overlooks lake Erie and as you travel north you get to view the rapid current of the mighty Niagara and then you will “fall” in love with the breathtaking view of Niagara Falls.
I will give you fair warning, choose the month of your visit carefully. If you’re a lover of snow most likely will not be disappointed between November and March. Also, remember the lake effect will cause the wind chill temperature to feel much colder than it is.
Early in the 20th century Buffalo was a robust city of millionaires, a port city of the great lakes and the Erie Canal, with grain elevators and steel mills overlooking the great lake Erie. If you are savvy in your knowledge of architecture you will recognize the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan and H.H. Richardson. Buffalo’s park system was inspired by Frederick Law Olmsted.
There’s a lot happening in Buffalo today as the canal side development downtown and the addition of the Naval park has the city back in the spotlight. At some parts of the waterside you an literally see another country. our neighbor to the north Canada.
Now for the best of Buffalo….the food….Oh my gosh..I have so many favorite restaurants so I’ll just list a few:
Anchor Bar…the home of the Buffalo wings (Main St. downtown)
Sanatora’s pizza (several locations)
Fazio’s Italian restaurant (Niagara Street-Riverside)
Niagara Cafe ,Niagara Street downtown-Puerto Rican food, the best chicken dish ever
And don’t leave without a peanut donut from Paula’s…..Happy travels…
