Elmwood Village Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Elmwood Village, Buffalo, New York, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is a charming neighborhood located in the city of Buffalo, New York. With its picturesque streets, retro architecture, various local shops, and an abundance of green spaces, Elmwood Village attracts visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you come to stroll the tree-lined streets, explore cultural attractions, indulge in delicious food, or shop for unique souvenirs, Elmwood Village has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Elmwood Village

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Elmwood Village has a rich cultural and historical heritage to explore. Here are a few must-see attractions:

  • Albright-Knox Art Gallery: One of the oldest public art institutions in the United States which features a vast collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock.
  • Burchfield Penney Art Center: A museum dedicated to the works of Charles E. Burchfield, a famous American painter and watercolorist. The museum also hosts exhibitions by other regional and national artists.
  • Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site: A museum dedicated to the life and presidency of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States, where you can see an exhibit of his personal belongings, artifacts, and photos.

Natural Attractions of Elmwood Village: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Elmwood Village has beautiful outdoor attractions and parks that provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are some of the best natural attractions to explore:

  • Delaware Park: A picturesque park located in the heart of Elmwood Village, designed by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, which features walking and biking trails, a golf course, a lake, and many other outdoor amenities.
  • Hoyt Lake: A serene lake located in Delaware Park, which offers visitors the opportunity to rent paddleboats or take a stroll around its perimeter while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
  • Buffalo Zoo: A zoological park located in Delaware Park, which is home to over 1,000 animals from all over the world, including tigers, lions, bears, and many other exotic species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is a bike-friendly and walkable neighborhood, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Here are a few biking and hiking routes to explore:

  • The Niagara River Greenway Trail: A scenic bike trail that follows the Niagara River, which offers visitors panoramic views of the waterfront and the Buffalo skyline.
  • The UB North Bike Path: A 3.75-mile bike path located near the University at Buffalo campus, which features flat terrain and is perfect for beginners.
  • The Scajaquada Bike Path: A 5.2-mile bike path that runs from Delaware Park to Buffalo State College, which takes riders through some of the most beautiful parks and residential areas in Buffalo.

Best Things to Do in Elmwood Village: Activities and Tours

Elmwood Village offers a variety of fun and exciting activities to enjoy during your visit. Here are a few top choices:

  • Buffalo History Tours: Take a walking tour of Elmwood Village and learn about its history and architecture, and discover some of the hidden gems of the neighborhood.
  • Elmwood Village Farmers Market: Visit the local farmers market, held every Saturday during the summer and early fall months, and shop for fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts.
  • Massage and Spa Services: Relax and rejuvenate with a spa day at the local spa or salons that offer massage, facials, and other treatments.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elmwood Village

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to make the most out of your visit in Elmwood Village:

  • Day 1: Albright-Knox Art Gallery and Hoyt Lake
  • Day 2: Buffalo Zoo and Delaware Park
  • Day 3: Burchfield Penney Art Center and Elmwood Village Farmers Market
  • Day 4: City Hall Observation Deck and Buffalo History Tours
  • Day 5: Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site and Museum District
  • Day 6: Niagara River Greenway Trail and Spa Services
  • Day 7: Scajaquada Bike Path and Shopping in Elmwood Village

Food and Drink Scene of Elmwood Village

Must-Try Dishes

Elmwood Village is home to a diverse array of restaurants and food vendors that offer tasty local and international cuisine. Here are a few dishes you should try:

  • Buffalo Wings: A local favorite, these tangy and spicy chicken wings are a must-try when visiting Elmwood Village. Sample them at restaurants like Gabriel’s Gate or Anchor Bar.
  • Beef on Weck: A traditional sandwich featuring thinly sliced roast beef served on a kummelweck roll, topped with horseradish and au jus. Try it at Schwabl’s or Charlie the Butcher.
  • Sponge Candy: A delectable chocolate-covered treat made with caramelized sugar and baking soda. Get them at Parkside Candy or Watson’s Chocolates.

Local Beverages

Elmwood Village also has a vibrant pub culture, as well as local breweries and wineries. Here are a few beverages to taste:

  • Buffalo Beer: Try a pint of Buffalo’s own craft beer at local breweries like Thin Man Brewery or Community Beer Works.
  • Niagara Wine Trail: Take a Wine Trail tour to explore the local wineries in the area.
  • Local Specialty Cocktails: Many bars and restaurants in Elmwood Village have unique and tasty cocktails, such as Vera Pizzeria’s “Dirty Chai” cocktail, made with coffee, chai tea, and bourbon.

Where to Stay in Elmwood Village: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Elmwood Village offers a variety of lodging options for travelers, depending on their budget and preference. Here are a few popular choices:

  • Mansion on Delaware Avenue: An upscale hotel located in a restored 19th-century manor house, which features luxurious amenities and personalized service.
  • InnBuffalo: A charming bed and breakfast housed in a historic mansion, which offers cozy rooms and a homey atmosphere with a peaceful garden.
  • Hostel Buffalo-Niagara: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Elmwood Village, which offers dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms and kitchens.

What to Buy in Elmwood Village: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Elmwood Village has many unique shops and boutiques that offer locally-made products and souvenirs. Here are a few to check out:

  • Half & Half Boutique: A boho-chic boutique that offers trendy and affordable clothing and accessories for men and women.
  • Her Story Boutique: A woman-owned boutique that offers a wide range of clothing, jewelry, and beauty products made by local and independent designers and brands.
  • Talking Leaves Books: A cozy independent bookstore that features a carefully curated selection of new and used books, with a focus on local authors and publishers.

Local Culture and Customs of Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village has a rich cultural heritage that is expressed through various local festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Here are a few:

  • Elmwood Festival of the Arts: A two-day festival held in August, which features live music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and food vendors.
  • Shakespeare in Delaware Park: A free annual outdoor theater festival that showcases the works of William Shakespeare, featuring professional actors and a beautiful stage set in the heart of Delaware Park.
  • Allentown Art Festival: A two-day festival held in June that features over 400 artists and vendors showcasing unique and handmade products.

Best Time to Visit Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is a great destination to visit year-round, but the best time to go is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and sunny, and the parks and gardens are in full bloom. Additionally, fall is a great time to visit for the foliage and the many harvest festivals in the surrounding areas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elmwood Village

Do:

  • Do experience local culture and history through museums, festivals, and outdoor activities.
  • Do indulge in the local food and drink scene, and try new dishes and flavors.
  • Do respect the local community and its residents.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave valuables in your car or unattended in public areas.
  • Don’t litter or damage public property.
  • Don’t be loud and disruptive, especially during evening hours.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is generally a safe neighborhood, but it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Follow these tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:

  • Travel in groups, especially during evening hours.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car or unattended in public areas.
  • Stay on well-lit and populated streets.

Health in Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village has a strong healthcare system, with many medical facilities and hospitals located in the surrounding areas. Additionally, there are many clinics and pharmacies in the area that can provide assistance if needed.

Getting to Elmwood Village: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Elmwood Village

Buffalo Niagara International Airport is the nearest airport, located just 15 minutes from downtown Buffalo.

Bus Stations Near Elmwood Village

The Greyhound Bus Terminal in downtown Buffalo is the nearest bus station, located just a few minutes away from Elmwood Village.

Other Options

Elmwood Village is easily accessible via car, bike, or public transportation. The neighborhood is served by the NFTA Metro Bus and Rail system, which offers multiple routes to and from Elmwood Village.

How to Get Around in Elmwood Village

Elmwood Village is a walkable and bike-friendly neighborhood, with plenty of sidewalks and bike lanes. There are also many taxi services and ridesharing options available, such as Uber, Lyft, and local cabs.

Where to Go Next from Elmwood Village: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Elmwood Village is located near some of the most popular destinations and attractions in the Buffalo-Niagara region. Here are a few nearby destinations to explore:

  • Niagara Falls: One of the world’s most famous natural wonders, located just a 30-minute drive from Elmwood Village.
  • The Canalside: A revitalized waterfront area in downtown Buffalo that offers a mix of historical and modern attractions, including restaurants, museums, and events.
  • Buffalo Outer Harbor: A beautiful outdoor area located between Buffalo’s industrial waterfront and Lake Erie, which features beaches, parks, and trails.

Conclusion

Elmwood Village is a charming and vibrant neighborhood that offers a rich cultural heritage, diverse food and drink scene, exciting outdoor activities, and many unique shops and boutiques. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or a culture lover, Elmwood Village will definitely leave a lasting impression on you.

'''Elmwood Avenue''', the backbone of the Elmwood Village, is a crowded thoroughfare of lovely boutiques, art galleries, sidewalk cafés, and fine restaurants. '''Elmwood Avenue''', the backbone of the Elmwood Village, is a crowded thoroughfare of lovely boutiques, art galleries, sidewalk cafés, and fine restaurants. The 1.1-mile (1.8km) path that circumnavigates Hoyt Lake, in Delaware Park, is one of the Elmwood Village's two recreational bike trails. It's popular year-round with cyclists, walkers and joggers. The 1.1-mile (1.8km) path that circumnavigates Hoyt Lake, in Delaware Park, is one of the Elmwood Village's two recreational bike trails. It's popular year-round with cyclists, walkers and joggers. Standing on the north shore of Hoyt Lake, the '''Buffalo History Museum''' is one of the crown jewels of Buffalo's Museum District. A resplendent Neoclassical building designed by eminent Buffalo architect George Cary, the museum was built in 1901 as the Pan-American Exposition's New York State Building, the only permanent structure erected for that World's Fair that was Buffalo's shining hour. Standing on the north shore of Hoyt Lake, the '''Buffalo History Museum''' is one of the crown jewels of Buffalo's Museum District. A resplendent Neoclassical building designed by eminent Buffalo architect George Cary, the museum was built in 1901 as the Pan-American Exposition's New York State Building, the only permanent structure erected for that World's Fair that was Buffalo's shining hour. Large frontal gables, asymmetrical façades, and conical turrets (center) are all characteristics of the Queen Anne style of architecture, which can be found all over the Elmwood Village's housing stock. These houses are located on Ashland Avenue between Hodge Avenue and West Utica Street. Large frontal gables, asymmetrical façades, and conical turrets (center) are all characteristics of the Queen Anne style of architecture, which can be found all over the Elmwood Village's housing stock. These houses are located on Ashland Avenue between Hodge Avenue and West Utica Street. The '''Delaware Park Rose Garden''' in full bloom, June 2013. The '''Delaware Park Rose Garden''' in full bloom, June 2013. The '''Student Union Quad''' at '''Buffalo State College'''. Buffalo State is the second-largest institution of higher education in Buffalo, and its 127-acre (51ha) campus dominates the north end of the Elmwood Village. The '''Student Union Quad''' at '''Buffalo State College'''. Buffalo State is the second-largest institution of higher education in Buffalo, and its 127-acre (51ha) campus dominates the north end of the Elmwood Village. Elmwood Avenue is Buffalo's prime destination for upscale shopping, dining and nightlife. Elmwood Avenue is Buffalo's prime destination for upscale shopping, dining and nightlife. The north end of Elmwood Avenue is dominated by bars, take-out restaurants and other businesses oriented toward students of the adjacent '''Buffalo State College'''. The north end of Elmwood Avenue is dominated by bars, take-out restaurants and other businesses oriented toward students of the adjacent '''Buffalo State College'''. The '''Hotel Henry''' is an upscale boutique hotel and The '''Hotel Henry''' is an upscale boutique hotel and "urban resort" that opened in 2017, representing the first phase in the ongoing rebirth of the historic '''Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane''' on Forest Avenue. Built in 1870 by architect H. H. Richardson with grounds laid out by Frederick Law Olmsted, this is one of the most architecturally distinguished buildings in Buffalo.