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Buffalo, New York, is a city packed with charm, history, food, and adventure—making it a surprisingly perfect destination for families. Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a longer vacation, you will find plenty of exciting things to do in Buffalo with kids of all ages. From hands-on museums and outdoor adventures to wildlife encounters and seasonal attractions, Buffalo ensures that every moment of your trip becomes a cherished memory. What makes this city stand out is how family-friendly its attractions are, offering interactive experiences that keep children engaged while giving parents a chance to relax and enjoy themselves.
In this guide, we explore the best things to do in Buffalo with kids, covering everything from famous parks and historic sites to indoor playgrounds and unique culinary spots. No matter what your child’s interests are—science, animals, nature, or adventure—Buffalo offers a wide variety of activities to keep everyone happy. Let’s dive into the top attractions that should be on every family’s Buffalo travel list and help you plan the perfect kid-friendly vacation.
1. Explore the Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in the United States, and it remains a top pick when searching for things to do in Buffalo with kids. Families can spend hours exploring its diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, reptiles, and exotic birds. The zoo is designed to be both educational and entertaining, offering programs like animal feedings, wildlife shows, and interactive exhibits. Kids especially love the Rainforest Falls exhibit, where they can walk through a tropical rainforest environment filled with waterfalls, monkeys, toucans, and other fascinating creatures.
In addition to the animal exhibits, the Buffalo Zoo features plenty of outdoor spaces, picnic areas, and shaded paths, making it suitable even for younger children. Seasonal activities like the Halloween “Zoo Boo,” Christmas lights, and summer camps add extra excitement. If you’re looking to combine fun with learning, the zoo’s hands-on programs give kids the opportunity to explore wildlife conservation and animal behavior. It’s truly a must-visit destination for families seeking memorable things to do in Buffalo with kids all year round.
2. Visit Canalside for Outdoor Fun
Buffalo’s Canalside is a vibrant waterfront destination and one of the most family-friendly places in the city. If you’re planning a day full of energetic things to do in Buffalo with kids, Canalside offers countless activities. During warmer months, families can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, water bikes, and boat tours. The boardwalk area is perfect for walking, relaxing, or grabbing an ice cream while enjoying the refreshing breeze of Lake Erie. Kids also love the giant sandbox, free outdoor games, and splash pads that make Canalside a lively summer hotspot.
In winter, Canalside transforms into a magical area with ice skating, ice bumper cars, and colorful light displays. Parents can sit back with hot chocolate while the kids enjoy skating on the outdoor rink. Seasonal festivals, concerts, and pop-up markets also keep the waterfront buzzing year-round. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or quality family bonding time, Canalside is one of the best places to experience authentic and fun-filled things to do in Buffalo with kids.
3. Discover the Buffalo Museum of Science
The Buffalo Museum of Science is a paradise for curious young minds and families who enjoy learning through play. This museum offers interactive displays and hands-on exhibits covering astronomy, physics, biology, and natural history. Kids can explore space in the planetarium, experiment with physics in the “In Motion” exhibit, and learn about dinosaurs in dedicated paleontology sections. The immersive learning environment makes it one of the most rewarding things to do in Buffalo with kids, especially for school-aged children.
One of the highlights is the “Explorations Gallery,” specifically designed for children ages two to seven. It offers building stations, sensory elements, and imaginative play areas that allow little ones to learn while having fun. Meanwhile, older kids and parents enjoy the science labs and rotating exhibits that feature everything from weather patterns to robotics. Whether your child is fascinated by fossils, loves space, or enjoys discovering how things work, the Buffalo Museum of Science is the perfect place for an educational yet exciting family outing.
4. Spend a Day at Delaware Park
Delaware Park is central to Buffalo’s natural beauty and outdoor culture. Designed by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted—the same visionary behind Central Park—Delaware Park offers wide green spaces, walking paths, and scenic picnic spots. For families searching for peaceful yet enjoyable things to do in Buffalo with kids, spending a day at this park is a fantastic choice. Children can explore playgrounds, play sports, or feed ducks by the water, while parents enjoy the serene surroundings.
The park is also home to the Buffalo History Museum and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, offering an added cultural attraction for families. In summer, families can enjoy paddle boating on Hoyt Lake or watching outdoor theater performances. During fall, the park becomes a stunning landscape of colorful leaves—perfect for pictures and outdoor fun. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, exploration, or a picnic day, Delaware Park is an ideal spot for family-friendly outdoor activities in Buffalo.
5. Experience Fun at Explore & More Children’s Museum
When it comes to indoor things to do in Buffalo with kids, Explore & More Children’s Museum is one of the top picks. Located at Canalside, this museum is specially designed for children to learn through creativity, exploration, and imaginative play. It features several themed zones, each offering unique hands-on activities. Kids can pretend to work in a mini city, explore Buffalo’s waterways through water play exhibits, or build structures using engineering-focused tools and blocks.
Families love Explore & More because it provides a safe, exciting environment where children can express themselves and learn new skills. The “Driving Buffalo’s Dreams” exhibit lets kids sit in vehicles, use tools, and participate in role-play, while the “Farm-to-Table” area educates children on healthy eating and agriculture. It’s suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, and young school-age children alike. Whether you’re visiting Buffalo on a rainy day or simply looking for enriching indoor activities, this museum guarantees hours of joy and learning.
6. Walk With Wildlife at Tifft Nature Preserve
Nature-loving families looking for peaceful yet enriching things to do in Buffalo with kids should head to Tifft Nature Preserve. Spread across 264 acres, this urban nature sanctuary offers walking trails, boardwalks, and diverse wildlife habitats. Kids can spot turtles, frogs, deer, and dozens of bird species as they explore the preserve. It’s a great place to teach children about nature, ecosystems, and wildlife conservation in a fun and engaging way.
Tifft also hosts annual events, guided nature walks, and educational programs that introduce kids to the environment through hands-on learning. Families can enjoy hiking, photography, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the natural surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere provides an excellent break from the city’s fast-paced attractions. Whether you’re looking to spend a few hours or a full day in nature, Tifft Nature Preserve offers one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in Buffalo.
7. Enjoy Exciting Adventures at Buffalo RiverWorks
Buffalo RiverWorks is a massive waterfront entertainment complex offering tons of action-packed things to do in Buffalo with kids. Families can enjoy roller skating, rock climbing, zip lining, and arcade games—all under one roof. The outdoor section includes a riverside patio, water activities, and the famous grain elevators painted with vivid murals. The unique industrial atmosphere combined with family-friendly attractions makes it a must-visit for adventure-loving families.
Kids especially love the roller rink, adventure courses, and seasonal activities like outdoor concerts or winter ice skating. Parents enjoy the restaurants and seating areas where they can relax while keeping an eye on the kids. If your family loves excitement and wants to experience Buffalo’s energetic side, RiverWorks is one of the best places to add to your itinerary.
8. Take a Trip to Niagara Falls (Just 25 Minutes Away!)
Although technically outside Buffalo, no list of things to do in Buffalo with kids is complete without mentioning Niagara Falls. Just a short drive away, the falls offer breathtaking views and unforgettable family experiences. Kids can ride the Maid of the Mist boat, walk through the Cave of the Winds, explore hiking trails, or watch fireworks at night. The thunderous sound of the falls, the misty air, and the scenic beauty create a magical atmosphere.
Families can also visit the Aquarium of Niagara, Niagara Falls State Park, or take the scenic trolley. The area offers plenty of kid-friendly restaurants and souvenir shops, making it perfect for a half-day or full-day trip. Whether you’ve visited before or this is your first time, Niagara Falls is always awe-inspiring—especially for children.
Conclusion On Things to Do in Buffalo With Kids
Buffalo is a city full of surprises, offering endless opportunities for memorable family adventures. From wildlife encounters and museum explorations to outdoor excitement and natural beauty, you will always find the best things to do in Buffalo with kids no matter the season. Whether you’re a local parent looking for weekend fun or a traveler planning your next family vacation, Buffalo has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and get ready to create unforgettable moments with your children in one of New York’s most vibrant and family-friendly cities.
