The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from North Tonawanda to Buffalo
North Tonawanda, NY, and Buffalo, NY, are two vibrant cities in Western New York that offer unique and fun-filled experiences for visitors. A road trip from North Tonawanda to Buffalo is a perfect opportunity for travelers to explore the area's rich culture, history, and natural beauty. The journey covers approximately 30 miles and takes about 45 minutes, with the halfway point being Williamsville, NY. In this article, we will highlight the top five things to do on this road trip, each with an interesting fact to make your journey more memorable.
1. Visit the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is a must-visit attraction on this road trip. This 120-year-old glasshouse conservatory features 11 interconnected greenhouses that are home to over 3,000 plant species from around the world. The gardens offer visitors a chance to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature in its various forms. Interesting fact: The Botanical Gardens were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same architect who designed New York City's Central Park.
2. Stop by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery
For art enthusiasts, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is a perfect stop. This world-renowned gallery boasts an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol. The gallery also features a sculpture garden with over 20 outdoor sculptures. Interesting fact: The Albright-Knox Art Gallery was the first museum dedicated exclusively to modern art in the United States.
3. Experience history at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is a must-see attraction for history buffs. This site features the home where President Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office on September 14, 1901, following the assassination of President William McKinley. Visitors can explore the restored rooms of the house, including the library where Roosevelt took the oath of office. Interesting fact: The house is located on Delaware Avenue, known as "Millionaire's Row" due to the many mansions that lined the street in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
4. Take a stroll through the Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo is a great stop for families traveling on this road trip. The zoo is home to over 1,200 animals from around the globe, including exotic and endangered species. Visitors can also engage in various activities like giraffe feeding, sea lion shows, and train rides. Interesting fact: The Buffalo Zoo is home to Luna, a female polar bear that made national headlines for receiving a root canal procedure in 2019.
5. Relax at Canalside
Canalside is a vibrant and bustling waterfront district in Buffalo that offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and water biking on the Buffalo River, relax by the waterfront, or participate in one of the many outdoor events held on the lawn. Interesting fact: Canalside was historically a busy commercial district and transportation hub that saw over 5,000 ships pass through the Erie Canal each year in the 19th century.
In conclusion, a road trip from North Tonawanda to Buffalo is a fun and memorable experience with various activities and attractions that cater to all interests. Visitors can expect to spend about 45 minutes on the road, but the journey is worth it as they explore the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Western New York. Whether traveling with family or friends, the top five destinations highlighted in this article offer an exciting experience that will stay with visitors long after their trip ends.