21 Fun Things to Do in Buffalo with Kids

When most people think of Buffalo, NY, they picture three things: snow, chicken wings, and… more snow. But plot twist: Buffalo is actually awesome for families. I recently spent a few days there with my nieces, and let me tell you, this city is way more than just a pit stop on the way to Niagara Falls. We hiked to a waterfall that’s literally on fire, climbed through science exhibits, bounced on trampolines like maniacs, and still had time for dessert (priorities).

If you’re traveling with kids ages 4 to 12, Buffalo has a surprisingly perfect mix of outdoorsy adventures, brainy museums, and good old-fashioned playground time. Here’s your go-to list of the best things to do in Buffalo with kids. Spoiler: you won’t even be bored.

1. Hike Eternal Flame Falls

Yes, it’s a real waterfall with actual fire flickering behind it. Nature basically invented its own special effects here. The hike is short but muddy, so leave the white sneakers at home unless you enjoy regret.

2. Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens

A giant glass conservatory full of exotic plants — it’s like stepping into a tropical jungle without the 8-hour flight or bug spray. Plus, it’s indoors, making it the ultimate rainy-day backup plan.

3. Buffalo Museum of Science

Dinosaurs, hands-on exhibits, and enough buttons to push that your kids will forget about your iPad for a hot second. Honestly, you’ll probably learn something too.

4. Knox Farm State Park

This one is basically a giant backyard — wide open fields, gentle trails, and space for kids to run like they’ve been cooped up in the car for hours. Bring snacks and have a picnic.

5. Glen Park Waterfall

It’s like a mini Niagara Falls — but with fewer crowds and no chance of someone buying a plastic poncho. Quick hike, great views, happy kids.

6. Explore & More Children’s Museum

The name says it all: explore, more, repeat. This place has exhibits designed for play, climbing, building, and splashing. Warning: extracting your kids from this museum may require bribes.

7. Buffalo Zoo

The country’s third-oldest zoo, featuring lions, giraffes, tigers, and a polar bear who looks like he’s silently judging you. Perfect for a half-day adventure.

8. Heritage Carousel at Canalside

Classic carousel rides never get old, and this one’s been lovingly restored. It’s cheap, cheerful, and right by the waterfront — a great add-on to a Canalside day.

9. Get Air Trampoline Park

The ultimate solution for kids who bounce off the walls (literally). At least here, it’s encouraged. Bonus: they’ll sleep well afterward.

10. Moondance Catamaran Cruise

Sail away on Lake Erie and let your kids live their best “I’m on a boat” moment. Parents, enjoy the fresh air — or at least the chance to sit for a while. To be honest I was a little hesitant about taking my nieces on a catamaran but there multiple areas sunk down where you can sit and it’s incredibly safe. The owner is so nice and he even let my nieces drive the boat!!

11. Sweet Treats at White Rabbit

Dessert is non-negotiable on vacation. White Rabbit’s whimsical sweets are so pretty you’ll want to Instagram them before the kids inhale them. It is a bit spendy. $15 – $22 per dish but it’s going to be so memorable and tasty. The portions are large so you could share.

12. Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Not every kid wants to stare at paintings, but this museum makes it fun — there’s even a LEGO-inspired play space. Finally, an art museum where “don’t touch that” isn’t your entire vocabulary.

13. Delaware Park Rose Garden Playground

A solid stop for when kids need unstructured play time. Pretty for parents, functional for kids. Win-win.

14. Billy Wilson Park Playground

Another great playground option — because sometimes kids just need a slide and a swing set, no frills required.

15. Dave & Buster’s

Arcade games, prizes, food, and drinks. The kids get skee-ball, you get a cocktail. Everybody’s happy.

16. Canalside Buffalo

This is the city’s waterfront playground: paddleboats, bikes, kayaks, concerts, and festivals. In winter, it morphs into an ice rink, because Buffalo never wastes an excuse to use its ice.

17. The Dome (Sports & Events)

Whether it’s a Sabres game, a concert, or some random family event, The Dome makes kids feel like they’re part of something big.

Bonus Round: Even More Kid-Friendly Fun

Because Buffalo’s got layers (like a good chicken wing dip).

• Tifft Nature Preserve – Easy boardwalks and nature trails = zero whining.
• Buffalo Naval & Military Park – Tour a battleship and submarine. It’s like “Call of Duty,” but in real life.
• Aquarium of Niagara – Penguins and sea lions just outside Buffalo. Worth the short drive.
• Pierce-Arrow Museum – Cars, history, and the occasional “Whoa, that’s cool” from the kids.
• Indoor Play Spaces (Rolly Pollies & Little Buffalo) – Because sometimes Buffalo weather has other plans.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo is way more than wings, snowstorms, and being that place you drive through to get to Niagara Falls. It’s a family-friendly city full of quirky hikes, legit museums, and enough playgrounds to give you at least ten minutes of peace. Whether you’re in town visiting family (hi, locals!) or making Buffalo the main event, you’ll find more than enough to keep kids entertained — and maybe even yourself.