Winter Itinerary 

When it’s time to plan your winter adventure, look to Buffalo, NY and be received with open arms. During this time of year, the welcomes are warmer, staple dishes are even more comforting, and the snow capped structures give the City of Good Neighbors even more of a majestic feel.

Discover the magic of the city’s seasonal charm with this two-day guide to exploring the area’s art, culture, and culinary delights. From savoring hearty breakfasts to skating along the canals, each day is packed with unique adventures that celebrate the heart and soul of Buffalo in winter.

Day 1

Rise and dine at Kostas Family Restaurant, a favorite on the Hertel strip. Their all-day breakfast menu includes American and Greek-style dishes, such as steak-n-eggs, souvlaki, omelets, pancakes, saganaki, and much more. Pair your meal with fresh-brewed coffee, tea, or fresh-squeezed juice, and your taste buds will thank you. The restaurant’s soothing Mediterranean color palette and Greek-style exterior add to its authentic flare.

Continue exploring the charm of Buffalo’s neighborhoods with a visit to Hertel Avenue. Here, you’ll discover unique finds among a mix of local boutiques, vintage shops, and specialty stores. You’ll also get a taste of Buffalo’s vibrant street art scene – a result of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum’s Public Art Initiative – which creates a colorful contrast to the snowy streets. Here is a complete list of instagram-worthy locations (including estimated neighborhood walk times) to enjoy as you stroll through the city.

(And you’ll be visiting the Buffalo AKG Art Museum during tomorrow’s journey!)

Next, head over to the historic Parkside neighborhood to embark on a Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House tour. One of the architect’s earliest and most important works, this estate offers a warm refuge from the cold. Explore the 1.5-acre grounds, where the expansive design invites you to connect with nature, even in the heart of winter. The 75-minute tour delves into the intricate details of the Martin House, pergola, conservatory, and carriage house.

Lunch today is a flavorful batch of chicken wings at Cole’s Buffalo! And if you’re not in the mood for wings, no worries – Cole’s is serving up other dishes sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds, including soups, starters such as crispy Tuscan egg rolls, nachos and hot banana pepper dip, handhelds like beef on weck (another Western New York classic), and more. (Fun fact: Cole’s is a staple on the Buffalo Wing Trail!)

After lunch, dive into the rich history and culture of Buffalo and Western New York at the Buffalo History Museum. Housed in a stunning neoclassical building from the 1901 Pan-American Exposition, the museum features diverse exhibits that cover the city’s industrial past, its role in the Underground Railroad, and Buffalo’s connections to presidential history, including artifacts from President Millard Fillmore. Plan to explore interactive displays and rotating exhibits that bring the city’s stories to life.

After a full morning and afternoon of fun, you deserve some downtime to relax, soak up your day’s experiences, and get yourself ready for this evening’s plans.

When you’re ready and refreshed, make your way over to Big Ditch Brewing Company. for dinner. A craft brewery dedicated to providing delicious and drinkable beers with plenty of Buffalo favorites on the menu. 

In the evening, experience a musical, concert or other live event at Shea’s Performing Arts Center, one of the city’s premier venues. Listed on the National Register for Historic Places, the theater is a stunning example of historic architecture and the only surviving Tiffany designed theater in magnificent condition.

Day 2
Your second day starts with a warm beverage and grab-and-go bite at Tipico Coffee & Café, located in Elmwood Village. Tipico’s inviting environment will feel like a cozy embrace as you tuck yourself inside to enjoy their award-winning coffee and espresso varieties (also available for purchase by the bag). For nourishment, treat yourself to bagels, breakfast sandwiches, overnight oats, breakfast burritos, or cauliflower toast.

After your meal, spend the morning exploring Elmwood Village, named by the American Planning Association as one of the country’s 10 best neighborhoods and home to some of the city’s most popular artisan shops. You’ll also find quirky bookstores, nostalgic record shops, and eye-catching buildings to enjoy during a leisurely stroll through the snow-capped village. And if you’re in the mood for an early sweet treat, be sure to visit Watson’s Chocolates, famous for its delightful sponge candy.

Next, make your way to the Buffalo AKG Museum, which offers a world-renowned collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as its striking architectural design. Located in the heart of Buffalo’s cultural district, the museum showcases works by iconic artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Pollock, alongside emerging contemporary voices. The museum also hosts educational programs, guided tours, and interactive art activities.

You won’t have to go far for lunch today: Make your way to Cornelia, Buffalo AKG Museum’s fast-casual dining room – named after the first female director of a major art museum in North America, Cornelia Bentley Sage Quinton. Choose from hearty salads, small and shareable plates, sandwiches and pita pockets, or flavorful entrees like mushroom Boursin risotto or sausage and shrimp gumbo. You can also enjoy a glass of wine or beer with your meal.

Now’s a great time to give yourself a midday break and freshen up before dinner.

For a fine dining experience with a cozy and inviting ambiance, head to dinner at The Left Bank, which has been located on the historic West Side for three decades. This trendy restaurant offers fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, and handcrafted pasta.

After your meal, embrace the winter spirit and cap off your adventure with a visit to the Ice at Canalside at the Buffalo Waterfront. ‘Tis the season for ice skating! Lace up and enjoy a fun glide across the ice; skates and other equipment can be rented on-site. Traveling with the whole family? Kids Club Sundays pulls out all the stops offering a kids skate zone, bumper cars, mini hockey shots, and Polar Express train rides.