Things to do in Buffalo during Spring Break

By: Thomas Salvatori, Contributor

Spring break is a time for warm weather, pools, beaches, sun and traveling – but what do you do if you're staying in Buffalo? With spring break especially early this semester, forecasts expect below freezing weather most of the week. So what should you spend your time on during this break? 

Maybe you want to take the winter weather to your advantage with a projected two to three more inches of snow. It is the perfect time for sledding, snowboarding, skiing and ice skating. We have long winters but it will be done faster than you know. If you don’t want to spend your whole break in the cold, Buffalo still has plenty of fun to enjoy. 

If you are seeking music and culture, Buffalo’s vibrant theater and music scene is a must-see. Shea’s Theatre has a multitude of performances and events happening, while Kleinhans Music Hall and other venues across the city offer concerts that cater to all musical tastes.

A museum is always a great way to spend a day, and Buffalo has a multitude of them. Our Buffalo Science Museum and the Buffalo History Museum both have a plethora of exhibits to explore, making them great places to spend some time. The AKG Art Museum is one of the best museums for art lovers. During break, there is a studio clay class you can get tickets for, also every first Friday of the month, admission is free! 

On a similar note, the Buffalo Naval and Military Park is great if you have never gone inside military ships and submarines, and these are available on the weekend. Forest Lawn often has events and tours, some of which can be taken on a trolley. Canalside and the Frank Lloyd Wright House are also great for those interested in Buffalo’s history. You can also check out the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site and see where one of our former presidents took his oath of office.

For those who love nature, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are a great place to spend a day exploring different flora, they also offer classes you may want to check out. The Buffalo Zoo is one of our best attractions with many cute and interesting animals to see. We also have some amazing parks that are great for a breath of fresh air. 

For my sports fans, both the Buffalo Bandits and the Sabres will be playing over break and this might just be the time for those who haven't to experience true Buffalo pride by going to one of our games. 

When it comes to food, there are so many places in Buffalo to eat; all cultures and dietary wants can be found here. Maybe you haven't had a chance to have proper Buffalo cuisine – if so I recommend Anchor Bar and Jim’s Steakout for wings. If you want to try beef on weck, try Schwabl’s, which has been around since 1837 and is said to be the original, famous for serving it since the 1901 Pan-American exhibition. We have many cafes and great breakfast spots with Sophie’s and SPoT Coffee to name a few. Chef’s Restaurant, though not necessarily traditional Italian, is Buffalo Italian, and an institution beloved by most who eat there – but I recommend not going on a weekend since it is always packed. 

Given that it is Lent, you may wish to enjoy a fish fry whether or not you observe this tradition, and there are many options in Buffalo. For a sweet treat, some classics include Watson’s, a chocolate and candy place with classic Buffalo finds like sponge candy. If you love donuts, Paula’s Donuts has some of the best donuts in the world. If you somehow want ice cream in this cold weather, Lake Effect Ice Cream is one of the more popular stops with unique flavors such as Paula’s glazed donut. For those of legal age, I have been told that Buffalo has some of the best bars and breweries, there is also an espresso martini festival on Feb. 28 at Seneca One.

If you are interested in shopping, we of course have great malls like the Walden Galleria but you may want to visit some of our local shops. In the Elmwood Village, you can go to the Market Arcade and surrounding areas where you can find many great stores including consignment shops and book, craft and novelty stores. Some of the most beloved include Second Chic, Talking Leaves, Thin Ice and Lumpy Buttons. 

For more information on special events happening during Spring Break check visitbuffalo.com and stepoutbuffalo.com. 

Whether you’re embracing the winter chill or seeking something indoors, Buffalo is sure to have a diverse array of activities to make your spring break memorable.