Recently renovated and expanded in 2023, the AKG is a Buffalo favorite with an outstanding collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, Rothko, Pollock, and de Kooning. It’s right in our neighborhood, so we love coming here for afternoon dates, special events, or simply walking the grounds when the weather is nice. We highly recommend this easy and inspiring way to spend an afternoon in the city.
A Buffalo institution and a very special spot for us. This is where we went on our first date. The Place is known for its cozy, intimate atmosphere and classic Italian-inspired dishes. It’s the kind of restaurant that feels timeless and uniquely Buffalo. We recommend taking a walk through the elmwood village neighborhood and stopping by their beautiful outdoor patio for a bite and a drink!
Located right in our neighborhood and in the building of the beloved restaurant, Pano's, Mira is a newer addition to the Buffalo food scene and one of our favorites. The menu is Mediterranean-inspired with fresh, flavorful dishes and a great atmosphere for a relaxed but elevated meal. The owners really outdid themselves with the design elements of the restaurant as well. If you would like to come here for dinner, be sure to book in advance as their reservations fill up fast! You can also walk in and sit at the high top or bar as well.
Right in our neighborhood, Delaware Park and Hoyt Lake are part of Buffalo’s historic park system designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the late 1800s. Delaware Park was created in the 1870s as one of the country’s earliest planned urban green spaces, and Hoyt Lake, originally known as Gala Water, was reshaped in the early 1900s into the scenic centerpiece it is today. We love walking the paths when the weather’s nice, and it’s where Cam does many of his runs, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a glimpse of everyday life in Buffalo.
One of our favorite ways to experience Buffalo’s story is on a 90-minute narrated riverboat tour along the Buffalo River, where you learn how the city grew from Erie Canal beginnings into one of the world’s busiest grain ports and see iconic industrial landmarks from the water. The boat even has a bar on board, making it a fun and relaxing way to take in the views. What makes this especially meaningful for us is that the boathouse where we both rowed in high school sits right on the tour route, and the river tours were one of Arianna’s dad’s favorite summer activities. It’s a great choice for guests who want a unique mix of history, scenery, and local charm.
Located in Delaware Park, the Buffalo History Museum is housed in a surviving permanent building from the 1901 Pan-American Exposition (Cam and Arianna live in the second surviving building from the Pan-Am). The museum traces Buffalo’s past, from the Erie Canal and industrial boom to local culture and sports, offering a thoughtful and engaging way to learn more about the city and its role in American history. It’s a great stop if you want a deeper appreciation for Buffalo beyond the weekend’s celebrations.