If you are in Buffalo, you surely can't miss one of the most popular national landmarks, Temple Beth Zion. This oldest biggest reform congregation has been a magnificent house of worship since 1850. The original stained glass windows and the large pipe organ in its balcony marks the unique entity of this architectural splendor. This whole edifice comprises of a Sanctuary, Sisterhood Chapel, the Benjamin and Dr. Edgar R. Cofeld Judaic Museum, Rabbi Joseph L. Fink Auditorium, Sisterhood Judaica Shop, board room, meeting spaces and offices. All in all, this place serves to foster humanity and reunite country men.
Located three miles from downtown Buffalo on the Lake Erie shoreline, this unique urban nature reserve offers 264-acre (106 hectares) of trails, anachronistic boardwalks and a marsh. This preserve is the environmental education site for the Buffalo Museum of Science and it's perfect for bird-watching, hiking, and family picnics—not to mention snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during the cold winters. In the 1950s, the site was used as a refuse dump, but thankfully it was converted to a nature preserve in the 1980s. Admission is free but donations are requested.
Located in Buffalo's rejuvenated downtown area with the Theater District to the north and the Main Place Mall to the south, this plaza makes an enticing and comfortable gathering place—especially during warm summer days when you can eat your lunch on one of the benches or simply watch the passing parade.The plaza features a reflecting pool, which turns into a skating rink come winter, and is surrounded by the imposing facade of the Key Center buildings, a twin-tower complex housing numerous businesses and professionals.
Boasting of several shops, restaurants, coffee houses and bars, Elmwood Village is the perfect spot for those who want to spend the day browsing through goodies, enjoying great food and drink or simply taking in the lively vibe of this activity hub. From shops like Spoiled Rotten and Second Chic to Fern plus Arrow and Anna Grace, the shopping hub ensures there is something in store for everyone. The array of designer and secondhand goodies also ensure that people of all tastes and budgets can shop from here. A lot of souvenirs and items for gifting can be found here as well. Don't hesitate to head to any one of the eateries to recharge your batteries after the shopping spree. If you are in the mood to indulge in some retail therapy, then Elmwood Village is your best bet.
