Top Things to Do in Lake Erie & Western New York

Top Things to Do in Lake Erie & Western New York

Planning a visit to the Lake Erie region? There are plenty of things to do in Lake Erie and throughout Western New York beyond time on the water. From world-famous waterfalls and waterfront attractions to museums, architecture, family activities, and local food, the area offers something for nearly every traveler. If you're visiting for a trip with RNK Outdoors, consider adding a few of these local experiences to your itinerary and make your Western New York getaway even more memorable.

1. Experience the Power of Niagara Falls

No list of Lake Erie attractions is complete without Niagara Falls. Located a short drive from Buffalo, Niagara Falls is one of the region's most iconic natural attractions and an excellent choice for families, couples, and first-time visitors. Get close to the falls, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and spend time exploring Niagara Falls State Park.

For visitors searching for things to do near Lake Erie, Niagara Falls makes an easy addition to a Western New York itinerary. Plan several hours to take in the scenery and experience the falls from different viewpoints before returning to Buffalo or continuing your regional adventure.

2. Explore Buffalo's Waterfront and Canalside

Buffalo's waterfront is another great destination for visitors looking for Buffalo family activities and things to do in Western New York. Canalside offers a lively setting with seasonal activities and attractions, while nearby RiverWorks adds another entertainment option along the waterfront. Visit Buffalo Niagara highlights activities such as paddleboats, water bikes, kayaks, and family-oriented attractions in this area.

The waterfront is also a convenient place to slow down after a busy day of sightseeing. Grab a meal, enjoy the scenery, or simply take a walk and experience Buffalo's connection to its waterfront and canal history.

3. Visit the Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Art and culture lovers should make time for the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. Located in Buffalo's Cultural Corridor, the museum is surrounded by other notable cultural destinations, including the Burchfield Penney Art Center, Buffalo History Museum, and Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House.

The museum is a great option when you're looking for indoor Buffalo attractions, particularly during colder or rainy weather. Families and travelers interested in art can combine a museum visit with a walk through the surrounding neighborhoods for a relaxed cultural afternoon in Buffalo.

4. Tour Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House

Architecture enthusiasts will find one of the area's most impressive cultural experiences at Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House in Buffalo. The National Historic Landmark was designed by Wright and has undergone an extensive restoration, allowing visitors to experience the estate and learn about its architecture and history.

Tours range from guided experiences to self-guided options, and families are welcome on the appropriate tours. The Martin House also offers a complimentary architectural scavenger hunt for children on its self-guided audio tour, making it an interesting choice for Buffalo family activities.

5. Spend Time at Delaware Park

If you're searching for outdoor things to do in Buffalo, Delaware Park is an easy choice. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the park features walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, gardens, and scenic green space. Visit Buffalo also highlights seasonal opportunities around Hoyt Lake, including paddling and other outdoor recreation.

Delaware Park works especially well for families who want some downtime between sightseeing stops. Pack a picnic, take a walk, let the kids play, or simply enjoy some fresh air while exploring one of Buffalo's signature green spaces.

6. Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Graycliff

For another memorable Lake Erie-area attraction, head south of Buffalo to Frank Lloyd Wright's Graycliff. Perched above Lake Erie in Derby, New York, the estate was designed as a summer home for the Martin family and features three buildings surrounded by gardens and expansive grounds.

Graycliff combines architecture, history, gardens, and Lake Erie scenery, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers interested in the area's culture and landscapes. It also provides a different perspective of Lake Erie than you'll find in downtown Buffalo.

7. Taste Buffalo's Local Food Scene

Your Western New York itinerary wouldn't be complete without sampling some of Buffalo's famous local food. Buffalo wings are an obvious starting point, but the city also offers a broad dining scene ranging from casual neighborhood restaurants to breweries, cafés, and more contemporary dining experiences.

After exploring Lake Erie attractions, Buffalo's waterfront, museums, and parks, set aside time for a relaxed meal and experience the city's local character through its food. Whether you're traveling with family or planning a weekend getaway, trying regional favorites is an easy way to make your visit to Buffalo more memorable.

Make Your Western New York Trip One to Remember

With Niagara Falls, Buffalo's waterfront, world-class architecture, museums, parks, and local dining, there are plenty of things to do in Lake Erie and Western New York before or after your outdoor adventure. These attractions make it easy to build a full itinerary around your visit while experiencing the culture, scenery, and family-friendly activities that make the region special.

When you're ready to add a genuine outdoor experience to your trip, RNK Outdoors is ready to welcome you. After exploring Buffalo and the surrounding Lake Erie attractions, make your visit even more memorable by booking a guided fishing or hunting adventure with Ryan Garra and experiencing Western New York from a local guide's perspective.