Buffalo, NY · Guide

Things to do with kids in Buffalo

Last updated October 11, 2026 · 14 places

1. 01

   Our Lady of Victory National Shrine & Basilica

   4.9 (1,492)767 Ridge Rd, Lackawanna, NY 14218, USA
   CalmAll ages

   This stunning basilica is an architectural marvel, rivaling European churches with its opulent marble sculptures and paintings. The lower level features a museum detailing the charitable work of Father Nelson Baker. It offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

   Parent tip · Don't miss the free museum located downstairs.
2. 02

   Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House

   4.8 (2,200)125 Jewett Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
   CalmBest for school-age

   Experience the architectural genius of Frank Lloyd Wright at his Martin House. Meticulously restored, the property includes multiple buildings. Knowledgeable guides offer informative tours, making the intricate details of the home come alive.

   Parent tip · Consider the 75-minute tour for a good overview of the property.
3. 03

   Buffalo Naval Park

   4.7 (3,512)1 Naval Park Cove, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   Explore three historic naval vessels and a submarine at this park on Buffalo's waterfront. Walk inside these massive, preserved ships, experiencing where sailors lived and worked. It offers a tangible connection to military history.

   Parent tip · Plan for at least two hours to thoroughly explore the ships and submarine.
4. 04

   Kleinhans Music Hall

   4.7 (2,071)3 Symphony Cir, Buffalo, NY 14201, USA
   LivelyAll ages

   This beautiful music hall boasts amazing acoustics and comfortable seating. It hosts a variety of performances, from orchestras to rock shows. The staff is generally friendly and helpful.

   Parent tip · Be prepared for potential lines at the bar for beverages.
5. 05

   Stiglmeier Park

   4.7 (1,971)810 Losson Rd, Cheektowaga, NY 14227, USA
   CalmAll ages

   A favorite local park offering well-marked nature trails for walking and hiking. It features numerous fields for various sports and picnic areas with shelters. Bathrooms are plentiful and clean.

   Parent tip · The park has a playground located across from a set of bathrooms.
6. 06

   Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

   4.6 (4,203)2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218, USA
   CalmAll ages

   This botanical garden is a beautiful and whimsical escape, featuring a historical conservatory filled with gorgeous plants. Enjoy feeding the Koi fish or participate in a fun scavenger hunt for a sticker.

   Parent tip · Consider checking if your existing botanical garden membership offers reciprocal admission.
7. 07

   Buffalo Museum of Science

   4.6 (3,224)1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14211, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   A surprisingly engaging museum with diverse exhibits, including dinosaur bones, taxidermied animals, and insects. Many interactive screens and hands-on areas make it fun for all ages.

   Parent tip · Allow about 2.5 to 3 hours for a thorough visit, starting from the top floor and working down.
8. 08

   Buffalo AKG Art Museum

   4.6 (3,068)1285 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222, USA
   CalmAll ages

   This art museum offers a thoughtfully curated collection within stunningly designed buildings. Visitors can photograph artwork to share its stories. The staff are friendly and helpful in navigating the exhibits.

   Parent tip · The staff can provide a map and suggest a route to best experience the museum.
9. 09

   Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve

   4.8 (484)93 Honorine Dr, Depew, NY 14043, USA
   CalmAll ages

   A peaceful nature preserve with well-maintained trails suitable for easy walking in any season. It’s a great place to observe wildlife, including deer, turtles, and various birds, with beautiful ponds and a unique library in the woods.

   Parent tip · The preserve offers a 'secret library' in the woods with benches for reading.
10. 10

    Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

    4.7 (931)641 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This historic site offers timed tours detailing Theodore Roosevelt's life and the Pan-American Fair. Interactive exhibits, including a 'president for a day' desk, make it engaging for younger visitors.

    When to go: reserve in advance

    Parent tip · Make reservations in advance, as the last tour may depart before closing time.
11. 11

    Explore & More - The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children's Museum

    4.6 (1,301)130 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA
    LivelyBest for toddlers

    A hands-on children's museum offering numerous play stations across its floors. It's a land of make-believe and job training with areas like a treehouse and water play.

    Parent tip · Staff can direct you to less crowded floors, especially if school groups are visiting.
12. 12

    Tifft Nature Preserve

    4.7 (522)1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
    CalmAll ages

    This quiet and peaceful nature preserve features well-maintained trails winding through wetlands and woods, with elevated boardwalks. It's an ideal spot for observing native birds and enjoying outdoor recreation.

    Parent tip · The pond is suitable for fishing, with species like bluegill and perch.
13. 13

    The Buffalo Zoo

    4.3 (7,710)300 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
    CalmAll ages

    A beautiful park with a serene walkway along the water. It's a pleasant spot for watching geese and ducks, and hosts Thursday evening concerts during the summer with food vendors.

    Parent tip · The park offers free Thursday concerts with live music and food vendors.
14. 14

    Peace Bridge

    4.3 (6,404)1 Peace Brg, Buffalo, NY 14213, Canada
    LoudAll ages

    This bridge connects Buffalo, NY, and Canada. Reviews note potential for long lines during peak times, but also mention efficient processing when documents are readily available.

    Parent tip · Have your travel documents prepared for customs to expedite the process.