Freebies in The Queen City

Hello,

Well we knew it was going to happen, and it has. Summer. Now I'm not a summer person, I don't have AC in my apartment and the only relief I can find from the heat while in the city is in the form of a giant faint pointed directly at my face.

However I know all of you people in the Buffalo are "summer lovers". So here's my little guide on free crap to do in the summer months.


To escape the heat:


-Bennett Beach
A large remote beach off route 5 in Evans Center. This beach is amazing, its never crowded, the sand is white and the water is clear. A friend introduced me to this beach and I haven't strayed since. Its easy to located. If your coming from the city take route 5 (main street) along the lake shore. Continue it until you enter the town Evans Center. On your right at a light is Bennett Road. Continue down the road, and when it forks remain straight as the park is directly in front of you.

(The Beautiful Bennett Beach)

-City Hall Observatory
This is free! Anytime of the day you can take the elevators up to the top floor, climb a few flights of stairs and then suddenly have the best view of Buffalo! The observatory is only open during normal business hours. Also from noon to one each weekday there is a free guided torn of city hall (which by the way is air conditioned) in case your a history buff.

-Commercial Slip
Some people know it by the Erie Canal Basin, but whatever you call it, its a nice place to relax on a hot summer day. Located right near the marina is the newly opened Commercial Slip. You'll find the historical opening of the Erie Canal, plus a large board walk that gives you the opportunity to feel a nice breeze off the water. There are many informational signs around that area that give you some fun facts about the historic region.

(The commercial slip, and a my very handsome man)

-Shakespeare in the Park
Though I've never been to it (due to lack of time, and heat) you can find the wonderful works of Shakespeare right here in Delaware Park. This years play is King Lear, and according to Art Voice & The Buffalo News it is a show to see. The play is held every day except Sunday right near the casino in Delaware Park. Be careful, and arrive early. Nothings worse then sitting in the hot sun trying to understand 400 year old english.

Niagara Falls, America -
Everyone in Buffalo is aware of Niagara Falls and we've become far to use to it. This is a perfect place to visit for a afternoon! Many of us forgo the American side and head to the bright lights of the Canadian side. But now with the new border restrictions, the cost to even cross the bridge, and the rise of the Canadian dollar. It seems like its time to utilize our own state side attractions. If your like me, you may be a little hesitant on walking around a park in the hot sun. But let me assure you, there is nothing better than walking around huge rapids, and standing on a long overlook being covered in a nice refreshing mist. The best part about the park in the states, is that you can park along road on the Robert Moses Parkway heading out of the park for free! This is a totally cost affective mini-vacation.

(The amazing rapids a long the Niagara River)

Thats all I have time for today. But keep in mind, you don't always have to spend money to have fun. There a tons of free and exciting things to do in Buffalo. If you like shopping, and strolling the streets of the city try Elmwood, try Allen, even try Delaware Avenue and see the old historic mansions. But if your like me, and want to relax and be cool then try a few of the places I've listed.

Thanks for reading!

-Sean