You might not know this, but Buffalo is the second-most populous city in New York state—second to New York City, of course—but it’s also a cultural and historic landmark of the United States. Originating in the late 1700s as a small trading community, over the years, Buffalo has played host to some of the greatest technological and artistic movements, which allowed Buffalo to make its mark on history time and time again.
We’re going to outline a brief itinerary that will give you the opportunity to visit some of the most influential historical landmarks located in and around Buffalo. If you’re planning a trip to Buffalo, NY, and want to plan something informative and interesting for you or your family, then take a look at the following Historical places to visit right here in Buffalo, NY.
Must-see historical places in Buffalo NY
Below you’ll find a list of the most influential and iconic historical landmarks that Buffalo has to offer. Take a trip through history by visiting these Buffalo, NY landmarks:
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
The Martin House is a National Historic Landmark located in Buffalo, NY, and is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie House, and it ranks as one of his greatest residential designs. Originally designed for Darwin D. Martin—a Larkin Soap Company executive—the multi-residential estate is a unique and one-of-a-kind composition. Consisting of the main House (Martin House), a smaller carriage house, complete with chauffeur’s quarters and stables (Barton House), a glass-roofed conservatory connected to the main house via a 100-foot pergola, and a gardener’s cottage. Tours offer the opportunity to explore the restored and reconstructed buildings, surrounding landscape, and give you an extensive look at the house’s collection of art glass and furnishings, all designed by Wright. Together, all of these elements form a totally integrated architectural masterpiece.
Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park
The Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park, formerly known as The Buffalo Naval and Servicemen’s Park, is a museum located on the shore of Lake Erie right here in Buffalo, NY. Step back in time as you stroll the decks of WWII-era naval ships and explore the history that they represent. The Buffalo Naval and Military Park is home to four decommissioned naval vessels: The USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans, USS Croaker, and USS PTF-17. From now until Sunday, November 21st, you can learn about the military history of Buffalo from 10am to 4pm, Friday through Sunday.
Buffalo City Hall
Originally constructed in 1931, the towering Buffalo City Hall is an art deco masterpiece, richly decorated with figures and symbols that portray the unique history and spirit of Buffalo, NY. The observation deck on the 28th-floor offers visitors a panoramic view of Lake Erie and western New York beyond. You can take a tour that meets in the lobby of City Hall at noon, Monday through Friday. The tour lasts approximately an hour and normally includes the lobby, Common Council Chambers, the Mayor’s Office, and the Observation Deck. No reservation is required.
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is a national historic site, education center, and tourist destination which features exotic horticultural treasures from across the globe. Over 125,000 tourists visit the Botanical Gardens annually to enjoy the unique architecture and the scenic outdoor and indoor garden sanctuaries. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are the product of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, glass-house architects Lord & Burnham, and botanist John F. Cowell.
Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Following the assassination of President William McKinley in 1901, New York native Teddy Roosevelt was inaugurated as the 26th President of the United States here at the Inaugural National Historic Site in Buffalo, NY. The Exhibits focus on the assassination and subsequent inauguration, Teddy Roosevelt’s life details, and consequential issues of the early 1900s. Visitors can also take tours of the nearby historic neighborhoods.
Stay With Us at Ellicott Development
Our staff is willing to help, no matter what the circumstances may be. If you’re visiting Buffalo or Niagara Falls and need accommodations, we’re happy to make arrangements that will suit your needs. Our locations are staffed by dedicated employees who understand their crucial role in our guests’ experiences.
Ellicott Development is a full-service hospitality management company offering hotel development, construction, operations, and marketing expertise. Our current portfolio includes everything from luxury boutique to extended-stay hotels.
Whether you’re planning a Fall Vacation or just need somewhere to stay for the weekend in Buffalo, NY, an Ellicott Hotel is the place you want to be to ensure you’re getting everything there is to offer in the area. We invite you to stay at our Buffalo hotels and share in the magic that is Queen City. For more information, you can call us at 716-854-0060 or visit us online to see available rooms.
Image Source: Sandra Foyt / Shutterstock