Where to Stay in Buffalo
Your guide to the best areas and accommodation types
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Best Areas to Stay
Each neighborhood has its own character. Find the one that matches your travel style.
The heart of Buffalo's business and entertainment district, Downtown offers the densest concentration of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. This area has undergone significant revitalization and features a mix of historic architecture and modern developments. It's the most convenient base for first-time visitors wanting to experience the city's cultural attractions and nightlife.
- Walking distance to major attractions including Canalside and KeyBank Center
- Excellent restaurant and bar scene with diverse dining options
- Easy access to public transportation and the Metro Rail
- Proximity to Theater District for shows and performances
- Can feel quiet during weekday evenings in some sections
- Limited grocery store options for self-catering
Buffalo's historic bohemian neighborhood known for its Victorian architecture, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. This eclectic district offers a more intimate, neighborhood feel with independent shops, cafes, and some of the city's best restaurants. The area attracts artists, musicians, and those seeking an authentic local experience.
- Unique character with historic Victorian homes and tree-lined streets
- Excellent selection of independent restaurants, bars, and coffee shops
- More affordable accommodation options including B&Bs
- Walking distance to Delaware Park and Albright-Knox Art Gallery
- Fewer traditional hotel options, mostly B&Bs and smaller properties
- Street parking can be challenging during peak times
Buffalo's revitalized waterfront district offers modern hotels with scenic views of Lake Erie and the Buffalo River. This area is particularly popular during summer months when Canalside hosts concerts, festivals, and outdoor activities. The waterfront provides a resort-like atmosphere while remaining close to downtown attractions.
- Beautiful water views and access to outdoor recreational activities
- Family-friendly with seasonal attractions and events at Canalside
- Newer hotel properties with modern amenities
- Close to Naval Park and Buffalo River kayaking
- Can be crowded during major events and summer weekends
- Some areas are quieter during winter months
One of Buffalo's most walkable and vibrant neighborhoods, Elmwood Village features a thriving commercial strip with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. This residential area offers a genuine neighborhood experience with tree-lined streets and proximity to cultural institutions. It's consistently ranked among America's best neighborhoods.
- Excellent walkability with shops, restaurants, and cafes within easy reach
- Safe, residential atmosphere with local character
- Close to Buffalo State College and cultural venues
- Good selection of breakfast spots and independent businesses
- Limited large hotel options, mostly smaller inns and B&Bs
- Slightly farther from downtown attractions requiring transportation
Located in Cheektowaga, the airport area offers convenient accommodation for early flights, late arrivals, or those using Buffalo as a base for Niagara Falls visits. This area features primarily chain hotels with reliable amenities and easy highway access. While lacking in local character, it provides practical lodging with good value.
- Very convenient for early morning flights or late arrivals
- Competitive pricing with frequent deals
- Free airport shuttles typically available
- Easy access to highways for exploring the region
- Limited dining options beyond chain restaurants
- Requires driving or rideshare to reach Buffalo attractions
Surrounding Buffalo's premier park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, this area offers peaceful, residential accommodation near cultural institutions. The neighborhood provides a quieter alternative to downtown while maintaining proximity to major attractions. It's ideal for visitors who appreciate green spaces and architectural beauty.
- Adjacent to beautiful Delaware Park with walking and biking trails
- Close to major cultural institutions including museums and the zoo
- Quieter, more residential atmosphere
- Beautiful historic architecture in surrounding neighborhoods
- Very limited hotel options in the immediate area
- Requires transportation to reach downtown and waterfront
Home to the University at Buffalo's South Campus, this area offers budget-friendly options popular with visiting families and academics. The neighborhood has a youthful energy with affordable eateries and a diverse community. While not a primary tourist area, it provides good value and authentic local atmosphere.
- Most affordable accommodation rates in the city
- Diverse, authentic neighborhood with international restaurants
- Good for university-related visits and events
- Residential character with local markets and shops
- Farther from main tourist attractions
- Limited upscale dining and entertainment options nearby
A revitalized former industrial district that has transformed into a trendy neighborhood with breweries, food trucks, and creative businesses. Larkinville represents Buffalo's successful urban renewal and offers a hip, contemporary atmosphere. The area is particularly lively during food truck Tuesdays and special events.
- Emerging neighborhood with unique dining and entertainment options
- Strong local community feel with regular events
- Close to downtown while maintaining distinct character
- Growing number of breweries and artisan food venues
- Very limited traditional hotel options currently available
- Still developing with some areas under renovation
Accommodation Types
From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, here's what's available.
Buffalo has several beautifully restored historic hotels, particularly in Downtown and Allentown, offering character-filled stays in buildings dating from the early 20th century. These properties typically feature original architectural details, period furnishings, and modern amenities.
Best for: History enthusiasts and those seeking unique, atmospheric accommodations
Buffalo offers extensive chain hotel coverage from budget to upscale brands, concentrated around the airport, downtown, and major highways. These provide reliable, standardized experiences with loyalty program benefits and consistent amenities.
Best for: Business travelers, families wanting predictable amenities, and loyalty program members
Buffalo's residential neighborhoods, especially Allentown and Elmwood Village, feature charming B&Bs in Victorian homes offering personalized service and homemade breakfasts. These provide intimate, local experiences with hosts who share insider knowledge.
Best for: Couples, solo travelers seeking local connections, and those who appreciate personalized hospitality
Buffalo's boutique hotel scene has grown significantly, with properties offering distinctive design, locally-inspired decor, and personalized service. These hotels often occupy repurposed historic buildings with modern, stylish interiors.
Best for: Design-conscious travelers, special occasions, and those seeking Instagram-worthy stays
Several extended stay properties serve Buffalo's medical district visitors, relocating professionals, and long-term tourists. These feature kitchenettes, separate living areas, and weekly rates that reduce per-night costs significantly.
Best for: Extended visits, medical tourism, business relocations, and budget-conscious families
Entire apartments and homes are available throughout Buffalo's residential neighborhoods, offering more space and local living experiences. Options range from downtown lofts to historic homes in Elmwood Village and Allentown.
Best for: Families, groups, extended stays, and travelers wanting kitchen facilities
Booking Tips
Insider advice to help you find the best accommodation.
Hotel prices can double or triple during Buffalo Bills home games, particularly for divisional matchups and prime-time games. If attending a game, book 2-3 months in advance and expect minimum night requirements. If not attending, avoid these weekends entirely for better rates and availability.
Buffalo's notorious lake-effect snow can impact travel plans from November through March. Book hotels with flexible cancellation policies during winter months, and consider properties with covered parking or parking garages. Downtown and waterfront hotels often provide easier access during snow events than suburban locations.
Many Buffalo hotels offer packages combining accommodation with attraction tickets, dining credits, or Niagara Falls tours. These packages frequently provide 15-25% savings compared to booking separately and often include parking, which can save $15-30 per night downtown.
Downtown hotels typically charge $15-30 per night for parking, while suburban and airport properties usually offer free parking. If staying downtown without a car, you'll save significantly and can use rideshare, Metro Rail, or the city's bike-share program to get around.
Booking directly with hotels, especially independent and boutique properties, often yields better rates than third-party sites and includes perks like room upgrades, flexible check-in times, and waived resort fees. Many Buffalo hotels price-match and add complimentary amenities for direct bookings.
If visiting for medical appointments at Buffalo's extensive medical campus, several hotels offer special medical rates and shuttle services. Contact the hotel directly mentioning your medical visit, as these rates typically aren't advertised online and can save 20-30%.
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When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability.
For summer visits (June-August) and fall foliage season (September-October), book 6-8 weeks in advance for best selection and rates. Buffalo Bills home game weekends require 2-3 months advance booking and often have 2-night minimums.
Spring (April-May) and early fall offer good availability with 3-4 weeks advance booking typically sufficient. Rates are generally 15-25% lower than peak summer, and you'll find easier availability at popular properties.
Winter months (January-March, excluding Bills playoffs) offer the lowest rates and best last-minute availability. You can often book quality hotels just days in advance and find rates 30-40% below summer pricing, though some waterfront properties have limited services.
Book 4-6 weeks ahead for standard visits to secure mid-range pricing. Last-minute deals appear frequently during winter weekdays. Always check the Bills schedule and major convention dates at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center before booking.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information.