Unforgettable Buffalo Weekend: Curator's Top Picks Revealed!

As someone who hails from New York City, I take immense pleasure in welcoming friends and family to Buffalo. It’s an opportunity to showcase my beloved city’s rich history and vibrant culture, highlighting the places that truly make Buffalo feel like home.

Day 1 begins with a delightful kickstart at Unapologetic Coffee, located at 1375 Main St. This Black women-owned coffee shop is dedicated to sustainability and creates a cozy environment filled with culture and community spirit. Just two miles away, the charming Elmwood Avenue awaits, adorned with its Victorian-style shops, restaurants, cafes, and museums. A visit to the Burchfield Penney Art Center at 1300 Elmwood Ave is a must. As a curator here, I take pride in the diverse array of exhibitions and artists, alongside the rich history of Charles Burchfield and his captivating watercolor landscapes. Don't forget to warm up with a delicious bowl at the museum's Roux Soup Bar and Cafe.

Cross the street to the Buffalo AKG Art Museum at 1285 Elmwood, where you can wander through the latest exhibits housed within the stunning, three-story Gundlach building. A winding, windowed bridge connects you to the original 1905 gallery, allowing you to appreciate the historic campus and its internationally acclaimed collection.

Step outside and explore the vibrant AKG commissioned murals that adorn buildings throughout the city. One highlight is the Freedom Wall, located at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and East Ferry Street in East Buffalo, which features portraits honoring both local and national African American trailblazers. From there, continue your journey to the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor, just two miles away. Here, you'll uncover the stories of Buffalo's musical legends, including Aretha Franklin, and visit the 1845 church that served as a refuge for freedom fighters, along with the house museum of a minister pivotal in establishing the local NAACP.

As evening approaches, it’s time to satisfy your appetite. Head to Connecticut Street, my go-to spot. At Mister Sizzles, 346 Connecticut, indulge in a delightful milkshake cocktail, crispy sweet potato fries, and a tasty fried chicken sandwich, all while enjoying a variety of vegan options. Just down the block, at 365 Connecticut, don’t miss the award-winning Indian-fusion barbecue at Southern Junction.

Day 2 kicks off with a morning brew at Golden Cup Coffee, situated at 1323 Jefferson Ave. This Black-owned gem is nestled in a historic African American neighborhood and serves grits that evoke the comfort of grandma’s cooking. Surrounding landmarks include the Challenger Community News, established in 1963, and the Frank E. Merriweather Library. Make sure to stop by the Tops supermarket at 1275 Jefferson to pay your respects at the memorial honoring those lost in the tragic massacre on May 14, 2022.

Just a short stroll away at 1382 Jefferson is Zawadi Books, a cherished community resource for nearly half a century, its name meaning "a gift" in Swahili. A quick six-minute drive will take you to my other favorite, Fitz Books and Waffles, located at 433 Ellicott St. Here, you can savor delicious Belgian-style waffles while exploring books that reveal hidden histories and inspire us to enact change.

If you're up for a little adventure, Niagara Falls is only a 30-minute drive away. Visit the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center at 825 Depot Ave, where you can learn about the courageous freedom fighters who aided others in escaping slavery to find safety in Canada. It serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history that surrounds us.

As the afternoon transitions into evening, make your way to Buffalo's picturesque waterfront, where the sunsets cast a mesmerizing glow over the horizon. Canalside, a vibrant downtown park and promenade along the historic Erie Canal, features the Buffalo Heritage Carousel, a beautifully restored merry-go-round originally built a century ago by a local factory. To wrap up your day, unwind with dinner and drinks at Deco Lounge, located at 69 Delaware Ave. This stylish bar offers an enticing menu of small plates and cocktails, often complemented by live music.

The experiences you’ll have in Buffalo are sure to leave lasting memories, showcasing the heart and soul of this incredible city.