Things to do with kids in Buffalo

Many families struggle to find fun family activities while visiting a new city. Buffalo offers many kid-friendly attractions and outdoor adventures that keep children entertained. This blog will guide you to the best things to do with kids in Buffalo, including museums for kids, parks, and unique experiences.

Find your next adventure below!

Key Takeaways

• Buffalo offers many family-friendly attractions like the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, which features real World War II ships and submarines for kids to explore.
• Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum provides hands-on exhibits and creative workshops for children of all ages.
• Outdoor adventures await at Canalside, Buffalo Harbor State Park, and Tifft Nature Preserve. Activities include hiking trails, paddleboats, playgrounds, birdwatching, and picnics.
• Cultural sites such as the Buffalo Museum of Science offer interactive science exhibits while the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site lets families walk through presidential history in a restored mansion from 1901.
• Unique experiences include Water Bikes of Buffalo on Lake Erie, Spirit of Buffalo sailing tours with kid activities onboard, Double Decker Bus city tours with hop-on-hop-off stops at popular spots like Sahlen Field baseball stadium (home to the Bisons), and visits to the historic 1833 Buffalo Lighthouse.

Family-Friendly Attractions in Buffalo

Buffalo offers many family-friendly attractions that excite kids and adults alike. Families can explore unique sites that make learning fun and create lasting memories together.

Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park

The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park offers a unique experience for families. Kids can explore real military ships and submarines. The park features the U.S.S. Croaker, a World War II submarine, and several Navy ships.

Interactive exhibits help children learn about naval history in an engaging way.

Parents appreciate the educational opportunities here. Children can touch artifacts and see restored military equipment up close. Educational programs often run throughout the year, making it easy to plan a visit around family activities or children’s events.

After exploring this historical spot, families might enjoy outdoor adventures at Canalside nearby.

Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, JR. Children’s Museum

Explore & More, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum, welcomes families to a space bursting with fun and learning. Children can engage in interactive exhibits that spark creativity and curiosity.

Each exhibit encourages hands-on activities tailored for kids of all ages.

This museum offers various educational experiences in Buffalo. Kids can explore themes like science, arts, and culture through play. It features areas designed specifically for younger children, ensuring they safely participate in the excitement.

Families visiting will find plenty of opportunities for creative workshops and seasonal festivals throughout the year.

Buffalo Zoo

After visiting Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, JR. Children’s Museum, head over to the Buffalo Zoo. This zoo offers a fun experience for families and kids of all ages. Visitors can see animals from around the world in natural habitats.

The Buffalo Zoo spans 23 acres and features more than 300 animals. Kids will love seeing polar bears, lions, and giraffes up close. Families can enjoy interactive exhibits that make learning about wildlife exciting.

Special events often happen throughout the year, which adds to the fun atmosphere. Plan your visit for an unforgettable day filled with family activities and outdoor adventures at this kid-friendly attraction in Buffalo.

Outdoor Activities for Families in Buffalo

Buffalo offers fantastic outdoor adventures for families. You can enjoy activities at the waterfront, hike scenic trails, or explore nature preserves together.

Canalside

Canalside offers a vibrant space for families to enjoy outdoor adventures. You can stroll along the waterfront or take part in seasonal festivals that often feature music, food, and activities for kids.

Families can rent paddleboats during the summer months or skate on ice in winter.

Several playgrounds and interactive exhibits keep children entertained while adults relax nearby. The area also hosts kid-friendly events throughout the year, making it a great spot for family outings.

Canalside’s location makes it easy to explore other attractions nearby too.

Buffalo Harbor State Park

Buffalo Harbor State Park offers fun experiences for the whole family. This park features beautiful views of Lake Erie and various recreational activities. Kids can enjoy fishing, picnicking, or simply playing in the open space.

Families often spend time biking or walking along scenic paths.

Visitors appreciate the playgrounds and beach areas that provide plenty of ways to explore nature. Birdwatching brings a unique touch to outdoor adventures here, as many birds migrate through this spot.

The park also hosts seasonal festivals and events throughout the year, making it a great place for kid-friendly excursions. Enjoy your day at Buffalo Harbor State Park!

Tifft Nature Preserve

After enjoying the stunning views at Buffalo Harbor State Park, families can explore Tifft Nature Preserve. This 264-acre urban oasis offers a chance to connect with nature in the city.

You will find miles of trails winding through diverse habitats, including wetlands and meadows.

Families can participate in various outdoor adventures here. Children can spot wildlife and learn about local ecosystems during guided nature walks. The preserve also hosts seasonal festivals that celebrate the area’s natural beauty.

With free events and educational programs for kids, Tifft Nature Preserve promises an enriching experience for everyone.

Cultural and Educational Experiences

Buffalo offers many cultural and educational experiences that delight families. Kids can learn about science at the Buffalo Museum of Science through hands-on exhibits. They can also step into history at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site.

For book lovers, the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library provides engaging programs for young readers. Explore these enriching activities to inspire learning in your children!

Buffalo Museum of Science

The Buffalo Museum of Science offers hands-on fun for kids and families. Visitors will find interactive exhibits that explore everything from dinosaurs to space travel. The museum features a planetarium, where children can gaze at the stars and learn about astronomy.

Kids enjoy special programs throughout the year. These educational outings enhance learning through engaging activities. Families can discover science together while having a great time.

Educational experiences at this museum make it a must-visit when looking for things to do with kids in Buffalo.

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site stands as a tribute to an important moment in American history. It marks the place where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office after President McKinley’s assassination in 1901.

Visitors can explore the beautifully restored Wilcox Mansion, which showcases life from that era. Interactive exhibits engage kids and teach them about presidential history.

Families will find this site both educational and fun for children. Guided tours allow guests to discover artifacts and learn through storytelling. The site often hosts children’s events and educational activities, making it a perfect choice for family outings.

After visiting this historic location, families can enjoy more outdoor adventures at Canalside nearby.

Buffalo and Erie County Public Library

Buffalo and Erie County Public Library offers a wealth of activities for families. This library has something for everyone, from storytime sessions to interactive exhibits. Children can explore various topics through books, games, and digital resources.

Parents will appreciate the many programs designed for kids throughout the year. Library events often include seasonal festivals, educational experiences, and children’s events that spark creativity and curiosity.

Families can also enjoy free access to resources that support learning in a fun environment.

Unique Experiences in Buffalo for Kids

Unique experiences await kids in Buffalo. Enjoy adventures like sailing, riding water bikes, or hopping on a double-decker bus for a fun tour of the city.

Water Bikes of Buffalo

Water Bikes of Buffalo offers a fun way for families to explore the water. Kids and parents can ride bright, colorful bikes that float on the lake. Each bike fits two people, making it perfect for family outings.

Enjoying the peaceful surroundings while pedaling along is great exercise too.

The experience combines adventure with a unique view of Buffalo’s waterfront. Families can spot local wildlife or simply enjoy the fresh air. This kid-friendly attraction makes for an unforgettable day on the water.

After trying your hand at water biking, consider visiting Spirit of Buffalo – Buffalo Sailing Adventures for another exciting adventure.

Spirit of Buffalo – Buffalo Sailing Adventures

Buffalo Sailing Adventures offers families a unique way to explore the waters of Lake Erie. The Spirit of Buffalo provides two-hour sailing excursions that are fun for all ages. Kids can participate in hands-on activities during the sail, making it an interactive experience.

This adventure allows families to enjoy beautiful views of the Buffalo skyline while experiencing nature directly.

Sailing on the Spirit of Buffalo is perfect for creating lasting memories. Families can spot local wildlife and learn about sailing techniques from experienced crew members. With its scenic backdrop, this excursion serves up plenty of excitement and education for children and adults alike.

Enjoying outdoor adventures like this adds enjoyable family activities during your visit to Buffalo.

Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tours

Explore the city on a Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tour. This unique experience allows families to see many attractions from an open-top bus. Kids will love riding high above the streets.

The tours give you views of parks, museums, and historic sites.

Stops include popular destinations like Canalside and Sahlen Field. You can hop on and off at different locations along the route. Each tour provides engaging commentary about Buffalo’s history and culture.

This activity combines fun with learning for kids of all ages. Families can create lasting memories while discovering things to do in Buffalo together.

Sahlen Field

After enjoying a ride on the Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tours, families can head to Sahlen Field. This stadium hosts the Buffalo Bisons, a minor league baseball team. Families will love watching exciting games during the spring and summer months.

Sahlen Field offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with fun. Kids can enjoy various entertainment options, including mascot visits and family-friendly events. Families can grab delicious ballpark food while cheering for their favorite team.

Attending a game creates lasting memories for everyone involved.

The Buffalo Lighthouse

The Buffalo Lighthouse stands tall on the shores of Lake Erie. Built in 1833, it guides boats safely into the harbor. Families can enjoy a visit to this historic site while learning about its importance in shipping and navigation.

Those who love photography can capture stunning views of the lake and city skyline.

Kids will find outdoor fun at nearby parks. The lighthouse area offers picnic spots for family gatherings. Catch seasonal events or free activities hosted around this landmark throughout the year.

Explore this unique attraction and create lasting memories with your children while enjoying nature experiences in Buffalo.

FAQs

1. What are the top family activities in Buffalo for kids?

Buffalo offers many family activities, including visits to museums for kids, exploring recreational parks, and enjoying outdoor adventures at local nature experiences.

2. Which kidfriendly attractions should we visit in Buffalo?

Popular kidfriendly attractions include children’s museums with interactive exhibits, childfriendly excursions at Buffalo parks, and educational experiences at science centers.

3. Are there free events or festivals for children in Buffalo?

Yes; families can attend seasonal festivals, free events in city parks, and special children’s events hosted by community groups throughout the year.

4. Where can we find educational attractions or nature exploration spots nearby?

Educational attractions like museums offer hands-on learning while nature exploration is possible through hiking trails and guided tours in regional recreational areas.

5. What types of recreational activities are best for kids during each season?

In summer, enjoy outdoor adventures such as park picnics or water play zones; during winter months try indoor educational experiences at museums or attend seasonal festivals designed for families.