Experience the Perfect Buffalo Weekend: A Curator's Guide

As a proud native of New York City, I eagerly anticipate the visits of friends and family to Buffalo. It’s always a pleasure to share the city’s unique history and vibrant culture, which collectively make Buffalo feel like home.

Day 1 kicks off with a delicious start at Unapologetic Coffee, located at 1375 Main St. This charming coffee shop, owned by Black women and committed to sustainability, offers a cozy atmosphere filled with community spirit. After savoring your brew, take a short two-mile journey to Elmwood Avenue, renowned for its picturesque Victorian streets lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and museums. Begin your exploration at the Burchfield Penney Art Center at 1300 Elmwood Ave. As a curator here, I take pride in the diverse range of exhibitions and artists on display, as well as the captivating history of Charles Burchfield and his dynamic watercolor landscapes. Don’t forget to warm up with a comforting bowl at the museum’s Roux Soup Bar and Cafe.

Just across the street lies the Buffalo AKG Art Museum at 1285 Elmwood. Here, you can wander through the latest exhibits housed in the striking, three-story glass Gundlach building. Make sure to traverse the curvy, windowed bridge that leads you to the original 1905 gallery, where you can appreciate both the historic campus and its esteemed international collection.

Once you're back outside, take a moment to admire the AKG-commissioned murals adorning buildings throughout the city. A must-see is the Freedom Wall, featuring portraits that honor the legacies of influential African American figures, located at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and East Ferry Street in East Buffalo. Continue your journey for another two miles to the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor. Here, you can delve into the stories of musicians with ties to Buffalo, including Aretha Franklin, and visit the historic 1845 church that served as a refuge for freedom fighters, as well as the house museum of a minister pivotal in founding the local NAACP.

When it’s time for dinner and drinks, head to Connecticut Street, my go-to destination. Enjoy a delicious milkshake cocktail, crispy sweet potato fries, a fried chicken sandwich, and plenty of vegan options at Mister Sizzles, located at 346 Connecticut. Just a block away, don’t miss Southern Junction at 365 Connecticut, famous for its award-winning Indian-fusion barbecue.

Day 2 begins with a delightful morning brew at Golden Cup Coffee, situated at 1323 Jefferson Ave. This Black-owned coffee shop, located in a historic African American neighborhood, serves up grits that taste just like grandma used to make. Nearby, you’ll find notable landmarks such as the Challenger Community News, established in 1963, and the Frank E. Merriweather Library. Be sure to stop by Tops supermarket at 1275 Jefferson to pay your respects at a memorial dedicated to the victims of the tragic massacre on May 14, 2022.

Just down the road at 1382 Jefferson, Zawadi Books, which means "a gift" in Swahili, has been a beloved community hub for nearly five decades. A short six-minute drive will take you to one of my favorite spots: Fitz Books and Waffles at 433 Ellicott St., where you can enjoy Belgian-style waffles while browsing books that uncover hidden histories and inspire us to enact change.

If you’re up for an adventure, Niagara Falls is a quick 30-minute drive away. Don’t miss the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center at 825 Depot Ave, which recounts the brave efforts of freedom fighters who assisted enslaved people in their quest for safety in Canada. This experience serves as a profound reminder of the rich history that surrounds us.

As daylight wanes, make your way to Buffalo’s scenic waterfront, where the sunsets cast a mesmerizing glow on the horizon. Canalside, a vibrant park and promenade along the historic Erie Canal, features the Buffalo Heritage Carousel, a beautifully restored merry-go-round from a century ago. To wrap up your day, relax with dinner and drinks at Deco Lounge, located at 69 Delaware Ave. This stylish bar offers a selection of small plates and cocktails, often accompanied by live music.