As of this writing, Western New York is still social distancing six feet and wearing masks in public. Guidance may change, so be sure to check with the Erie County Department of Health if you have questions or concerns.
Get Outside
Fortunately, there is a ton to do outdoors in the around Buffalo, which makes it easier to keep your social distance while being active, having fun and enjoying the weather.
Be Flexible
If you show up at your planned activity site for the day and it’s packed with people, have a plan B or even a plan C to stay safe and have some fun.
Cluster your potential activities by proximity. If Canalside is too busy, try the Outer Harbor or Tifft Nature Preserve. They are near each other and provide similar activities.
If your heart is set on a popular location that tends to be crowded, try a non-peak time or day. With a lot of travel canceled, you may have a vacation day to spare, so you can visit your favorite location on a Wednesday morning, for example, rather than fighting the crowds on a Saturday afternoon.
Be a Tourist
One of the most popular tourist attractions in our area is Niagara Falls. With fewer out of town visitors expected, you can enjoy this natural wonder right in our own backyard. There are plenty of paved scenic walkways that are a leisurely stroll for most people and beginner–level hikes such as Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike and Upper Great Gorge Hike. Don’t miss Goat Island for a closer look at the top of Horseshoe Falls. There are longer, more challenging hikes as well, such as Devil’s Hole Rapids and Whirlpool Rapids Adventure Hike. You’ll need proper footwear and a moderate level of fitness. Don’t venture off the marked trails. It’s easy to slip into the gorge.
Check Out Architecture and Parks
Buffalo is home to some awe-inspiring architecture. While buildings may be closed, a walking or driving tour can still highlight the outside. Check out buildings by Louis Sullivan, Frank Lloyd Wright, and H. H. Richardson or stroll through one of the Frederick Law Olmsted designed parks.
Forest Lawn Cemetery is located on 269 acres in the city. It was designed to be a park as well as a cemetery. On the historic grounds, you’ll find grassy hills, creeks, lakes, trees and foliage. Many famous people are interred there like Millard Fillmore, Rick James and Shirley Chisholm.
Take a Short Drive
Less than an hour outside the city, you can venture out to East Aurora to Knox Farm State Park. Hike, ride bikes or horses even let your dog burn off some energy in their six–acre off-leash dog park. Hit the beach in Angola if that’s more your speed.
In under two hours, you can go hiking, fishing or rafting at Zoar Valley in Gowanda or Letchworth State Park or visit Griffis Sculpture Park for some art in the wild.
Another hour will get you out to the Finger Lakes for the day or overnight for wine tasting, boating and all-around relaxation.
Buffalo is Slowly Reopening
Keep your eyes open for outdoor activities that may open once there is a reopening safety plan in place, such as Kayaking tours on the Buffalo River or perhaps some exhibits at the Buffalo Zoo will be open to the public.
Grab a Local Brew
Buffalo has a huge local beer scene. Many local breweries have kept their businesses running through the pandemic with delivery and curbside pickup. Venues with outdoor spaces may be able to open sooner than others. Check out websites or social media for Riverworks, 42 North, Flying Bison and Resurgence.
Everyone is eager to get outside and get active. Check out some of these fun activities for yourself. When you’re refreshed and ready to get back to work, get in touch with Metrodata Services, Inc., WNY’s leading pre-employment screening service. We offer employee background checks in Buffalo, NY and beyond. Learn how we can help your company make the best possible hiring decisions!