7-Day Budget-Friendly Nature Itinerary in Buffalo, NY

Day 1: Explore Buffalo

Buffalo, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet_ness 7 Cafe

Start your day with a budget-friendly breakfast at Sweet_ness 7 Cafe, known for its homemade pastries and robust coffee.
Located in the Elmwood Village, it's easy to reach by foot or a short bus ride.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Buffalo Botanical Gardens

Wander through the stunning Buffalo Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst diverse plant species.
Take Bus No. 4 from Elmwood Village to the Gardens, about a 15-minute ride.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Black Sheep

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at The Black Sheep, which offers delicious daily specials and local craftsmanship.
A short 10-minute bus ride or 20-minute walk from the Gardens.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tifft Nature Preserve

Explore Tifft Nature Preserve, where you can hike and observe various wildlife along its trails.
Take Bus No. 25 to the preserve, which takes around 30 minutes.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Canalside Waterfront

Relax at Canalside, where you can walk along the waterfront, rent a kayak, or simply enjoy the view of Lake Erie.
Catch Bus No. 5, a 20-minute ride to Canalside.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Chef's

Savor some classic Buffalo cuisine at Chef's, famous for its spaghetti and local dishes.
It's a 10-minute walk from Canalside back into the city.
USD15, 1 hour

8:00PM

Stroll Around Elmwood Village

Finish your day with a leisurely stroll around the charming Elmwood Village, discovering local shops and art galleries.
Walk back to Elmwood Village, which is a 30-minute trek.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, NY

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tim Hortons

Grab a quick and budget-friendly breakfast at Tim Hortons before catching the bus to Niagara Falls.
The bus stop is close to Elmwood, making for a convenient start.
USD8, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Bus to Niagara Falls

Take the NFTA bus to Niagara Falls, which offers stunning views along the way.
The bus ride takes about 30 minutes.
USD6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Niagara Falls State Park

Arrive and enjoy the majestic views of the Falls with plenty of hiking and photo opportunities.
The park is easily accessible from the bus stop.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Hard Rock Cafe

Savor lunch at The Hard Rock Cafe with a fun ambiance and local flair.
Located within walking distance from Niagara Falls State Park.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Cave of the Winds

Experience the Cave of the Winds as you get an up-close view of the Falls.
Tickets are available at the park, and it's a short walk from lunch.
USD19, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Goat Island

Stroll around Goat Island for breathtaking views and peaceful nature walks.
Easily walkable from the Cave of the Winds.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Bus back to Buffalo

Take the bus back to Buffalo to unwind from a day of adventure.
True to form, buses run frequently back to Buffalo.
USD6, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Just Pizza & Wings

Unwind with a casual dinner at Just Pizza & Wings, a local favorite for late-night cravings.
Located conveniently in Buffalo's dining district.
USD12, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening at Delaware Park

Wrap up your day at Delaware Park with an evening walk and refreshment by the lake.
Just a few blocks away from dinner.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: More Buffalo Adventures

Buffalo, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ashker’s Juice Bar & Cafe

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast from Ashker's, known for its fresh juices and smoothies.
Located in the Elmwood Village, walk or take the bus.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Buffalo History Museum

Explore the exhibits at the Buffalo History Museum to learn about local culture and history.
Take Bus No. 20 from Elmwood Village, a quick 15-minute ride.
USD8, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike at Delaware Park

Immerse yourself in nature with a hike through the scenic trails of Delaware Park.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gala Vegan

Enjoy a delicious vegan meal at Gala Vegan, perfect for a health-conscious lunch.
Just a 10-minute walk from Delaware Park.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Erie Basin Marina

Visit the Erie Basin Marina to take in the beautiful waterfront views.
Take Bus No. 5 towards Canalside, arriving in about 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Buffalo RiverWorks

Head to Buffalo RiverWorks for outdoor activities, including paddleboarding or just relax along the river.
A 15-minute walk from Erie Basin Marina.
Free to walk around; activities vary., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Anchor Bar

End your day with Buffalo wings at the iconic Anchor Bar, home of the original buffalo wings.
A quick 10-minute bus ride from RiverWorks.
USD12, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening Walk at Albright-Knox Art Gallery

Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk around the Albright-Knox grounds.
It's a mere 15-minute bus ride or 30-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Day Trip to Letchworth

Letchworth State Park, NY

6:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before your day trip.
Prepare and pack lunch for the road.
USD5, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive or Ride to Letchworth State Park

Head out to Letchworth, often called 'the Grand Canyon of the East' for its breathtaking scenery.
Consider carpooling with friends to share the gas costs, driving takes about 1.5 hours.
USD15 (for gas), 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Hiking at Letchworth State Park

Embark on different trails featuring stunning waterfalls and vistas throughout the park.
Use one of the many trails accessible from the entrance.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Picnic Area

Enjoy a packed lunch in one of the park’s scenic picnic areas surrounded by nature.
Stay at a picnic area, allowing plenty of time to relax.
Free (picnic lunch), 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore More Trails

Continue exploring more trails or visit the visitor center to learn about the park's history.
Follow park maps available at the visitor center.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Drive Back to Buffalo

Make your way back to Buffalo, reminiscing about the day's adventure.
The drive back takes approximately 1.5 hours.
USD15 (for gas), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lloyd Taco Factory

Treat yourself to delicious tacos at the trendy Lloyd Taco Factory.
Back in Buffalo, it's about a 25-minute drive from downtown.
USD12, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening at Canalside

Wind down your day with the sunset at Canalside, enjoying live events if available.
Short drive back to Canalside.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Visit Rochester

Rochester, NY

7:00AM

Breakfast at Park Avenue Grill

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Park Avenue Grill, offering great value meals.
Drive to Rochester (Approx. 1.5 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Highland Park

Stroll through Highland Park, known for its beautiful gardens and walking trails.
A short drive (10 minutes) from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Rochester Museum & Science Center

Visit the Rochester Museum & Science Center for engaging exhibits and experiences.
Take the bus from Highland Park for around a 15-minute ride.
USD12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Owl House

Have lunch at The Owl House, a charming eatery with delicious sandwiches and salads.
A 10-minute walk from the museum.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Genesee Riverway Trail

Spend some time walking or biking along the scenic trails beside the Genesee River.
Easily accessible from The Owl House.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Strong National Museum of Play

If time permits, visit the Strong National Museum of Play, focused on the importance of play.
Take a short bus ride or enjoy a 15-minute walk.
USD18, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

Enjoy a mouthwatering BBQ dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
A 20-minute drive from the museum.
USD15, 1 hour

8:00PM

Return to Buffalo

Drive back to Buffalo after a fun-filled day in Rochester.
This drive typically takes around 1.5 hours.
USD15 (for gas), 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Buffalo's Hidden Gems

Buffalo, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Betty's

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Betty's, famous for its fresh ingredients and brunch options.
Located in the Allentown District, easy to reach by walking or a short bus.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Forest Lawn Cemetery

Explore the sprawling grounds of Forest Lawn Cemetery, a historic site with beautiful landscapes.
Catch the bus to the cemetery, which takes about 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Return to explore more of the Botanical Gardens if you missed any days.
Take the same bus back to the Gardens.
USD10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Elmwood Taco & Pita

Grab lunch at Elmwood Taco & Pita, known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful tacos.
10-minute walk from the Gardens.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Buffalo's Arts District

Stroll through the Arts District to check out galleries and public art installations.
Take Bus No. 20 from Elmwood to reach the Arts District, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Fort Niagara

Drive or take a bus to Fort Niagara for a glimpse into local history and stunning views.
Planning ahead for a bus ride or carpooling is ideal (30-40 minutes).
USD10, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Nova Pizzeria

End your week with a relaxed dinner at La Nova, famous for its pizza and authentic Italian cuisine.
A short 25-minute drive from Fort Niagara.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30PM

Evening at Waterfront Park

Take a serene evening walk at Waterfront Park, enjoying the views of Lake Erie.
The park is a 15-minute drive from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Buffalo, NY

9:00AM

Brunch at the Walnut Grill

Enjoy brunch at the Walnut Grill, known for its hearty plates and cozy atmosphere.
A short walk from your accommodation.
USD14, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Buffalo Creek Reservation

Spend your morning at Buffalo Creek Reservation, experiencing nature and tranquility.
Catch a bus to the reservation, about 35 minutes away.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Frank's Gourmet Hot Dogs

Savor a quick lunch at Frank's, beloved for its unique hot dogs and informal setting.
It's near the bus stop back to downtown.
USD8, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at the Niagara River Greenway

Take the afternoon to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the Niagara River.
A short bus ride back toward the river, around 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wrap up at the Buffalo Lighthouse

Conclude your journey by visiting the historic Buffalo Lighthouse, capturing some last memories of Buffalo.
A 15-minute bus ride from the Niagara River Greenway.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Dapper Goose

Enjoy a final dinner at The Dapper Goose, offering seasonal dishes and a cozy ambiance.
About a 20-minute bus ride or 10-minute drive.
USD20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Relax Evening at Home

Spend your final evening reflecting on the experiences and adventures of your week.
Enjoy the comfort of your accommodation before your journey continues.
Free, N/A
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