Northtowns Travel Guide

Explore the beauty and charm of Northtowns in New York with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Northtowns

Located in the Niagara Frontier region, in New York State, Northtowns is a collection of towns, suburbs, and small cities that are famous for their quaint charm, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Comprising the northern part of the Buffalo metropolitan area, Northtowns is known for its picturesque countryside, magnificent parks, and vibrant communities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, culture seeker, or food lover, Northtowns has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Northtowns

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Northtowns has a rich and fascinating history that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical landmarks. Here are some must-visit attractions for history buffs:

  • Buffalo History Museum: Located in the heart of Northtowns, this museum features exhibits that explore the history and culture of Buffalo and Western New York.
  • Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site: This historic site is where Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office as the 26th President of the United States.
  • Old Fort Niagara: Built by the French in 1726, this fort is a testament to the colonial past of Northtowns, and features exhibits and reenactments that bring history to life.

Natural Attractions of Northtowns: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature enthusiasts, Northtowns is a paradise of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. From hiking and biking to fishing and boating, here are some of the best natural attractions that Northtowns has to offer:

  • Delaware Park: A beautiful park that covers over 350 acres, Delaware Park is a popular spot for jogging, biking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Niagara Falls: One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, Niagara Falls is just a short drive from Northtowns and boasts breathtaking views and thrilling activities like Maid of the Mist boat rides and Cave of the Winds tours.
  • Eternal Flame Falls: A unique natural wonder in Chestnut Ridge Park, this waterfall features flickering flames behind the water that are caused by a natural gas leak.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northtowns

Northtowns has a variety of hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Here are some of the best routes for hikers and bikers:

  • Erie Canalway Trail: This 360-mile trail runs from Albany to Buffalo and passes through Northtowns, offering scenic views and historic landmarks along the way.
  • Niagara River Gorge Trail: A picturesque trail that runs along the Niagara River Gorge, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Ellicottville-Maple Springs Trail: This 18-mile trail is ideal for hiking and mountain biking, and features challenging terrain and sweeping views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Northtowns: Activities and Tours

From exploring historic landmarks to sampling local cuisine, Northtowns has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors engaged and entertained. Here are some must-try activities and tours in Northtowns:

  • Taste of Buffalo: This annual food festival is a celebration of Buffalo’s diverse culinary scene, featuring food and drinks from over 50 restaurants and vendors.
  • Buffalo City Hall Tour: Take a guided tour of Buffalo’s beautiful Art Deco city hall and admire the stunning architecture and artworks.
  • Roycroft Campus Tour: This historic campus in East Aurora is a tribute to the Arts and Crafts movement, and features beautiful buildings and gardens that showcase the best of American craftsmanship.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northtowns

For visitors who want to explore Northtowns in-depth, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Buffalo History Museum and explore the city’s cultural scene.

Day 2: Take a tour of Niagara Falls and experience the thrill of the Maid of the Mist boat ride.

Day 3: Enjoy a hike or bike ride along the Erie Canalway Trail, and stop to explore the charming towns along the way.

Day 4: Visit Old Fort Niagara and immerse yourself in the colonial past of the region.

Day 5: Take a day trip to Ellicottville and enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, or mountain biking.

Day 6: Explore the local food scene and visit the Taste of Buffalo festival.

Day 7: Take a tour of the Roycroft Campus in East Aurora and learn about the Arts and Crafts movement.

Food and Drink Scene of Northtowns

Must-Try Dishes

Northtowns is known for its delicious cuisine that reflects its diverse cultural influences. Here are some must-try dishes that visitors should not miss:

  • Buffalo wings: The iconic dish that put Buffalo on the culinary map, Buffalo wings are crispy chicken wings coated in hot sauce and served with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.
  • Sponge candy: A unique Buffalo treat, sponge candy is a crunchy, honeycomb-like candy covered in chocolate.
  • Beef on weck: A local specialty, beef on weck is a roast beef sandwich served on a kummelweck roll with horseradish sauce.

Local Beverages

Northtowns has a thriving craft beer scene and is known for its microbreweries and brewpubs. Some of the best local drinks to try are:

  • Labatt Blue: A famous Canadian beer that is brewed in Buffalo, Labatt Blue is a light, crisp lager that is perfect for hot summer days.
  • Wine from the Niagara Wine Trail: Northtowns is located near the Niagara Wine Trail, which features over 20 wineries that produce some of the best wines in the region.
  • Loganberry: A refreshing local drink, Loganberry is a sweet, tangy fruit juice that is a Buffalo favorite.

Where to Stay in Northtowns: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses, Northtowns has plenty of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the best places to stay in Northtowns:

  • The Mansion on Delaware Avenue: A luxurious boutique hotel in downtown Buffalo that features elegant rooms and upscale restaurants.
  • Roycroft Inn: A historic hotel in East Aurora that is known for its charming rooms and elegant dining options.
  • YOTELAIR Hotel at Buffalo Airport: A modern and affordable hotel near the airport that is perfect for travelers on a budget.

What to Buy in Northtowns: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can find plenty of unique souvenirs and local products in Northtowns to bring back home. Here are some of the best things to buy in Northtowns:

  • Sponge candy from Parkside Candy: A delicious local treat that makes a great gift for friends and family back home.
  • Buffalo-themed merchandise: Visitors can find t-shirts, hats, keychains, and other merchandise featuring the iconic symbols of Buffalo like buffalo wings, Niagara Falls, and the Buffalo Bills.
  • Local craft beer: Visitors can take home a growler or a six-pack of local beer from one of the microbreweries or brewpubs in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Northtowns

Northtowns is known for its friendly and welcoming people, who take pride in their local traditions and culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and etiquette, and be prepared to experience the unique charm and hospitality of Northtowns.

Best Time to Visit Northtowns

The best time to visit Northtowns is between May and October, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the parks and outdoor attractions are open for visitors. Summer is the peak tourist season, and visitors should be prepared for crowds and higher prices. Fall is also a great time to visit, when the leaves turn beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold, and the region is famous for its apple picking and pumpkin patches.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northtowns

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, including Buffalo wings, beef on weck, and sponge candy.
  • Do take a tour of Niagara Falls and experience the thrill of the Maid of the Mist boat ride.
  • Do explore the local parks and natural attractions, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the natural habitats of the local wildlife.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers and bartenders.
  • Don’t disrespect the local customs and traditions of Northtowns.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northtowns

Northtowns is a safe and welcoming region with low crime rates. Visitors should take basic precautions like locking their cars and not leaving valuables in plain sight. It’s also important to follow the rules and regulations of local parks and natural areas, and to respect the local wildlife.

Health in Northtowns

Northtowns has a high-quality healthcare system, and visitors can find plenty of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies in the region. However, visitors should have adequate travel insurance and be prepared for unexpected medical expenses. It’s also recommended to check with your doctor about any recommended vaccinations or health precautions before traveling to Northtowns.

Getting to Northtowns: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northtowns is conveniently located near several airports and bus stations, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the world. Here are some transportation options and logistics for getting to Northtowns:

Airports Near Northtowns

  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport: Located just 10 miles from downtown Buffalo, this airport serves several major airlines and offers direct flights to many destinations in North America.
  • Niagara Falls International Airport: This small airport is located just 5 miles from Niagara Falls and offers flights from several regional airlines.

Bus Stations Near Northtowns

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in downtown Buffalo, this bus station serves several major cities in the Northeast and Midwest.
  • Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Metro Bus: This bus system serves Buffalo and the surrounding suburbs, and offers affordable and convenient transportation options for visitors.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car from several major car rental agencies at the airports or in downtown Buffalo.
  • Taxi and rideshare: Visitors can also take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from the airport or bus station to their destination in Northtowns.

How to Get Around in Northtowns

Northtowns is best explored by car or bike, as public transportation options are limited. Visitors can also find several taxi and rideshare services in the region. Biking and hiking are also popular options, especially for exploring the local parks and natural areas.

Where to Go Next from Northtowns: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northtowns is located near several other famous destinations in New York State and Canada, making it a great starting point for further adventures. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore:

  • Toronto, Canada: Just a 2-hour drive from Buffalo, Toronto is a cosmopolitan city known for its diverse cultural scene and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum.
  • Finger Lakes region: Located just a few hours’ drive from Northtowns, the Finger Lakes region is famous for its stunning lakes, wineries, and farm-to-table dining scene.
  • Letchworth State Park: Located just an hour’s drive from Buffalo, Letchworth State Park is a picturesque park that is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, featuring stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.

Conclusion

Northtowns is a hidden gem in New York State that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, or just a relaxing getaway, Northtowns has something for everyone. From hiking and biking to exploring museums and savoring local delicacies, Northtowns is a destination that visitors will never forget.



    Alden
    Cheektowaga
    Clarence (New York)
    Grand Island (New York)
    Lancaster (New York)