Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Our Lady of Victory National Shrine & Basilica is a beautiful and storied landmark. Built in 1926, it was originally designed as a shrine to Father Nelson Baker, a 19th century priest who served the poor and disadvantaged of Western New York. The basilica is constructed in the Romanesque Revival style with stunning Italian marble altars, dramatic stained glass windows and magnificent frescos. In addition to the basilica, the shrine has a museum, library, gift shop and auditorium

Gallagher Beach in Erie County is a popular tourist spot for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located along the shores of Lake Erie, this beach offers incredible views of the lake and its many islands. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. With miles of sandy beaches along with plenty of picnic areas and playgrounds, Gallagher Beach is a great spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Cazenovia Park is a stunning 685-acre park with a wealth of recreational amenities. The park features two golf courses, a pool complex, playgrounds, trails and picnic areas. During the summer months, visitors can take advantage of sports fields, tennis courts and an outdoor amphitheater for special events. Visitors can also explore the park’s historic features, including the Cazenovia Park Casino and historic stone arch bridge.

Tifft Nature Preserve is a 264-acre nature preserve in Erie County, New York, owned and operated by Buffalo Audubon Society. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including beavers, foxes, great blue herons, and over 250 species of birds, including bald eagles. The preserve contains a variety of ecosystems, including marshland, woods, meadows, and ponds, as well as a 1.5-mile boardwalk which allows visitors to explore the wetlands and observe wildlife.

Buffalo Harbor State Park is a premier waterfront destination in Western New York. Located on the banks of the Buffalo River near downtown Buffalo, the park offers spectacular views of Lake Erie and a unique mix of recreational facilities. Highlights include a boardwalk, fishing pier, boat launch, playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails. Visitors can also explore the park’s wetlands, nature center, and shoreline beach.

The SS Columbia was a side wheel steamer that operated on Lake Erie in the 19th century. Built in Buffalo, New York in 1859 for the Union Steamboat Company, it was one of the first modern steamers to be built on the Great Lakes. The ship sailed out of Buffalo and offered trips up and down Lake Erie between Detroit, Cleveland, Sandusky, and Buffalo. It was a popular passenger ship, with the capacity to carry 1,500 passengers and up to 500 tons of cargo.