Buffalo, the second-largest city in New York State, sits at the eastern end of Lake Erie where the Niagara River begins its journey toward Niagara Falls. Once a powerhouse of American industry and trade, Buffalo thrived in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a major shipping and manufacturing hub, thanks to its strategic location along the Erie Canal and Great Lakes.
In recent decades, Buffalo has undergone a notable resurgence. Its revitalized waterfront, thriving arts and food scene, and restored landmarks, like the Richardson Olmsted Campus and Canalside, have turned it into a destination for culture and recreation. The city also serves as a gateway to the world-famous Niagara Falls, just 20 miles north.
Home to the Buffalo Bills and the University at Buffalo, the city combines deep-rooted pride with a welcoming, blue-collar spirit. From its snowy winters to its summer festivals along the lake, Buffalo offers a distinct blend of grit, history, and heart that defines western New York.