33 Fun & Romantic Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

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Located in Western New York on the U.S. border with Canada, Buffalo has something to offer all visitors. Notably, it's a great city for couples to explore.

Fun and romantic things to do in Buffalo, NY, range from wandering along the waterfront at Canalside or visiting the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens to going to a sporting event or unwinding at the spa.

You can also plan some incredible couples trips from Buffalo, like a weekend getaway to Toronto or a trip to Niagara Falls. Keep reading to discover 33 of the most unique and memorable date ideas in and around Buffalo!

Organizing a last-minute visit to Buffalo?

To make the most of your visit to Buffalo, we recommend you book accommodations and experiences soon. Below are some top recommendations to get you started.

🏨 Top accommodations in Buffalo

• Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown (relax by the pool)
• Buffalo Harmony House (rated highly)
• The Richardson Hotel (4-star rating)

☂️ Top tours and experiences in Buffalo

• Best of Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tour (rated highly)
• Buffalo Airport to Canadian Destinations Niagara Falls (rated highly)
• The Wing Ride - The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Food Tour (rated highly)
• Private Tour - Niagara Falls Sightseeing From US Side
• Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Admission & Guided Tour

33 Date Ideas in Buffalo, NY

Fun Date Ideas in Buffalo, NY

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Hang out at Canalside

Located next to the Buffalo River, Canalside offers something for everyone! The 21-acre waterfront park has walking and biking trails along the riverside, plus areas to sit and take in the views, which are especially beautiful at sunset.

Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available as well if you want to get out on the water. You can also enjoy the Outer Harbor Concert Series during the summer and go ice skating in the winter.

🏨 Stay nearby Canalside

• Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown Canalside (offers a pool)
• Buffalo Harmony House (well-rated)

Try the best Buffalo eateries on a food tour

You and your date will find no shortage of excellent eateries in the city, and a great way to discover the best of the best is by joining a Buffalo food tour. The tour takes you through Elwood Village and includes samples from up to seven local food establishments. You can also purchase alcoholic drinks at each stop for an additional cost.

Visit the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

Touring the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is a can't-miss date idea for couples interested in history. This New York landmark is where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office to become president after William McKinley was assassinated in 1901.

During a guided tour of the building, you can learn more about its history and the events around McKinley's assassination and Theodore Roosevelt's presidency.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site

• Curtiss Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection (5-star rating)

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Bike around the city on a history tour

You and your partner can enjoy the fresh air and learn more about the city by going on a Buffalo bike tour. This informative two-hour tour includes a bike rental and will take you to various landmarks and areas of interest, including Canalside and the Michigan Street Baptist Church. As you bike around, your guide will give you information on the history of the sites you see.

Learn new things at the Buffalo Museum of Science

The Buffalo Museum of Science is a fascinating place to explore together and is a fun place for a date on a rainy day. At the museum, you can view exhibits on outer space, dinosaurs, and global ecosystems and biodiversity. There's also a planetarium and an observatory.

Look around the Buffalo History Museum

Another of the fun things for couples to do in Buffalo, NY, is going to the Buffalo History Museum. Opened in 1901, the museum remains a much-loved Buffalo attraction, and houses exhibits on the city's history and culture. You'll also get to see a range of historical items, from photographs and sports memorabilia to Native American artifacts.

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Marvel at Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House

You can find amazing architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright across the U.S., including in Buffalo. If you or your partner are interested in architecture, visiting Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House is a must.

The home was constructed between 1903 and 1905 in a Prairie School style and can now be toured with a guide. You can also explore the surrounding gardens.

Experience a Buffalo River history tour

Couples that are interested in local history will enjoy going on a Buffalo River history tour together. This excursion also allows you to admire views of the river and Downtown Buffalo.

During the 90-minute tour, you can learn about the historical importance of the Erie Canal and discover more about the landmarks you pass. Other river cruises, like a brunch cruise or sunset cruise on Lake Erie, are also available.

Appreciate art at Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Art lovers will want to plan at least one visit to the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. This gallery houses over 6,000 pieces and was recently renovated to have space to show as much of the collection as possible. Works to see range from paintings to sculptures and multi-media exhibits with a focus on contemporary artworks.

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Find out more about Naval history at Buffalo Naval Park

There are many interesting landmarks to check out in Buffalo, like the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park. Located on the waterfront, the Buffalo Naval Park is the largest inland Naval park in the United States and features a museum and four decommissioned Naval vessels.

During a visit, you and your partner can learn more about U.S. Naval and military history and see some fascinating artifacts.

Break free from an escape room

Playing an escape game is one of the most fun Buffalo, NY, date ideas and is a good idea for a rainy day or a double date. At Escape the Mystery Room, you can choose from a few themed rooms, like a prison break or a zombie apocalypse escape game. You'll then have 50 minutes to use clues to help you break free.

Spend time outdoors at Buffalo Harbor State Park

On a nice day, hanging out at Buffalo Harbor State Park is a great date idea. The 190-acre park sits on Lake Erie and includes walking paths, a scenic marina, restaurants, and beautiful lake views. There's also a sandy beach to sunbathe and boat launches if you and your partner want to get out on the water.

The stunning lake views here will make it easy to understand why one of Buffalo's nicknames is Queen City of the Lakes.

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Catch a Buffalo Bills or Buffalo Sabres game

Sports-loving couples can find a few professional sports teams to watch in Buffalo, like the Buffalo Bills in the NFL or the Buffalo Sabres NHL team. The Bills play between September and the start of January in the regular season at Highmark Stadium. The Sabres play at the KeyBank Center downtown, and you can catch a game between October and April in the regular season.

Explore Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is a unique and trendy neighborhood in Buffalo. It's an ideal place to explore with your other half during the day or in the evening. As you wander around, you'll find many independent stores to look around. There are also cute coffee shops and breweries.

Whether you have some places in mind to visit or simply check out any places that interest you, you'll both have a great time looking around Elmwood Village!

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View vintage vehicles at the Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum

The Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum is another of the unique and fascinating places to visit in Buffalo. You can learn more about transportation history in Western New York while viewing a range of vintage vehicles, from cars and bikes to wagons and carriages.

See what's going on at Larkin Square

Larkin Square is a bustling attraction with many events and activities to enjoy with your partner. Just a few things to do include checking out the vendors at Food Truck Tuesdays, listening to live music acts, and attending outdoor fitness classes. It's also a fun place to hang out with your date, chatting while enjoying drinks from a nearby cafe.

Romantic Places in Buffalo, NY

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Walk through the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens

Wandering around the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens is definitely one of the most romantic dates in Buffalo, NY. The gardens were designed in 1900 by Frederick Law Olmsted, creator of New York City's Central Park.

During a visit, you can stroll through various themed gardens and explore greenhouses. Plants to see range from palm trees to orchids and roses.

🏨 Accommodation near Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

• Hampton Inn Buffalo-South I-Nine0

Relax at Rejuvinex Spa

Unwinding at the spa is a romantic date idea that will appeal to many couples. There are a few spas in the Buffalo area to book treatments at, like Rejuvinex Spa. Treatment options include various types of massages and facials, plus manicures and foot or hand sugar scrubs.

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Wander around the Japanese Garden

The Japanese Garden in Delaware Park is another beautiful outdoor space to explore together. As you wander around the six acres of garden, you'll get to admire beautiful flowers and tranquil ponds. If you're visiting during the spring, you can also see the pretty cherry blossoms.

Chat over wine at Waxlight Bar a Vin

Whether you're on a first date or going out with your partner, chatting over good wine is a romantic and fun date activity. At Waxlight Bar a Vin, you can order from an extensive wine list, which includes reds, whites, and bubbles. Cocktails and food, including sharing plates, are also available at this stylish wine bar and restaurant.

Date Night Ideas in Buffalo, NY

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Watch a show at Shea's Performing Arts Center

Also known as Shea's Buffalo Theatre, Shea's Performing Arts Center opened in 1926 to show silent movies. Today, it hosts a range of performances and is a memorable place for a date night. Shows to see range from musicals to concerts and comedy shows.

🏨 Accommodations close to Sheas Buffalo Theatre

• Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown (4-star rating)
• Residence Inn by Marriott Buffalo Downtown

Dine at Dapper Goose

There are many romantic restaurants in Buffalo, NY, to choose from for a dinner date, like the trendy Dapper Goose. The menu focuses on contemporary American dishes made using seasonal ingredients.

To accompany your meal, you can get a bottle of wine or opt for beer or craft cocktails. There's also a charming outdoor patio to dine on during warmer months.

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Get dinner and drinks at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery

Pearl Street Grill & Brewery is another excellent spot for a dinner and drinks date in Buffalo. Located in a renovated warehouse, the eatery has multiple bars with over 15 craft beers on tap. You can also enjoy bar food like nachos, burgers, and pizza while watching sports on one of multiple big-screen TVs.

🏨 Places to stay near Pearl Street Grill & Brewery

• Best Western on The Avenue
• Embassy Suites Buffalo

Enjoy drinks with a view VUE Rooftop Lounge

If you're looking for the best places for a drinks date, Vue Rooftop Lounge has to be on your must-visit list! The bar is located at the Curtiss Hotel in Downtown Buffalo and offers fantastic views of the city. As you take in the vistas, you can enjoy signature cocktails or mocktails and wine. Bar snacks and bottle service are also available.

Go to Anchor Bar

Anchor Bar is a great place for a laid-back date night in Buffalo, NY. You can enjoy drinks like craft cocktails, wine, and many types of beer. Food is also available to order with your drinks, including "world-famous wings" and pizza. As Anchor Bar is a sports bar, you and your date can also watch the game, with most games by local teams like the Buffalo Sabres shown.

Cute Date Ideas in Buffalo, NY

Have a picnic in Delaware Park

Delaware Park is a scenic 350-acre park complete with flower gardens, the pretty Japanese Garden, and a lake. It's also the perfect place for a picnic on a nice day. After enjoying your meal together next to the lake or the flower beds, you can go for a romantic walk or take a swan boat out on the water.

🏨 Accommodations nearby Delaware Park

• The Edward Buffalo (well-regarded)
• The Richardson Hotel (4-star rating)

Meet cute cats at Buckminster's Cat Cafe

Animal-loving couples can plan a fun date with feline friends at Buckminster's Cat Cafe! The adorable coffee shop serves various coffee drinks as well as other beverages and snacks.

Of course, you can also pet and play with adoptable cats during your visit. Do note that you must make a reservation in advance if you want to go into the "Cat Zone," where you can hang out with kitties.

🏨 Accommodations close to Buckminsters Cat Cafe

• The Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo-Downtown
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Buffalo Downtown

Go ice skating at Canalside

Going ice skating is one of the best winter activities, and a fun place to do so is at the rink at Canalside. Open between November and March, the rink is suitable for skaters of all ability levels. The ice rink stays open until the late evening most days, so it's the ideal place for a cute daytime or nighttime date.

🏨 Places to stay near Canalside

• Hotel at the Lafayette, A Hotel (rated very highly)
• Hyatt Regency Buffalo Hotel & Conference Center

Things to Do Near Buffalo, NY, for Couples

Drive to Toronto for the weekend

While there are many fun things to do in Buffalo, NY, for couples, you'll also find some great getaway destinations nearby. If you don't mind crossing the Canadian border, going to Toronto for the weekend is a must!

You can reach the city in approximately two hours when driving from Buffalo. Once you arrive, you'll find an array of things to do in Toronto, from visiting Toronto Islands and exploring The Distillery District to taking in the views from the CN Tower or catching a Toronto Raptors game.

🏨 Accommodations close to Toronto

• Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto (relaxing pool)
• The Novotel Toronto Centre (4-star rating)

Cook delicious at the Culinary Arts Center

Couples that like to cook, or want to learn, should plan a date at the Culinary Arts Center. Located about 20 minutes from central Buffalo, the cooking school offers various classes which will teach you how to make four delicious dishes, including a dessert.

🏨 Accommodation near the Culinary Arts Center

• The Delavan Hotel (rated 4-stars)

Plan a trip to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a world-renowned landmark that's only about half an hour from Buffalo. The breathtaking falls sit on the border between the U.S. and Canada, and you can view them from observation decks or take a boat ride below them.

As Niagara Falls State Park is only 30 minutes from Buffalo, it's easy to drive there yourselves. However, you could also book a private Niagara Falls tour from Buffalo. If you're unsure of the best time to visit Niagara Falls, opt for a spring or fall trip. Crowd levels are lower than during the summer, and the falls shouldn't be frozen as they may be in the winter.

🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to Niagara Falls

• The Butler House Bed & Breakfast (highly acclaimed)
• Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino (4-star rating)

Sip local wine along the Niagara Wine Trail

While Niagara is best known for its famous waterfalls, the area is also home to many wineries. If you and your date enjoy trying locally produced wines, you can spend the day stopping at wineries along the Niagara Wine Trail.

There are over 20 wineries to visit, and you can try a range of wines, from reds and whites to sparkling wine and ice wine.

Travel back in time at Old Fort Niagara

Couples that love history will be interested in planning a day trip to Old Fort Niagara, located just under an hour from Buffalo. Constructed in 1726 by New France, the fort was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and today has informational exhibits on its history.

During a visit, you can also see the Old Fort Niagara Lighthouse and may get to watch a historical reenactment. Before leaving, don't forget to take in the views of Niagara River; you can even see across the river to Canada!

🏨 Stay nearby Old Fort Niagara

• Queens Landing (chill out by the pool)
• 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa (5-star rating)

In Conclusion

Buffalo has an array of fun and romantic places to go on a date. Whether you're living in the city or are visiting with your other half, this list should have given an array of ideas for unique and memorable activities to enjoy together in Queen City.

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Learn more about Buffalo:

• 9 Buffalo Nicknames You Should Know

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