Car Rental Buffalo

If you’re flying into Buffalo Niagara International Airport it’s just a short drive into the city on State Route 33 or Interstate 190 (I-190). The city is linked to other parts of the US by the New York State Thruway, or I-90. This toll road runs west to Erie, Pennsylvania and Cleveland, Ohio and east towards Rochester, Syracuse and Albany.  

To reach New York City you can follow I-90 to Syracuse and then join I-81. It’s a drive of six to seven hours, depending on traffic.

Buffalo is easily accessible from Canada via the Queen Elizabeth Way. On the other side of the border I-190 connects Buffalo to Niagara Falls, just over 30km north of downtown. This route follows the path of the Niagara River, and past Niagara Falls it continues north into Canada across the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge. Other border crossing options include the Rainbow International Bridge in Niagara Falls – both bridges are accessible from the Queen Elizabeth Way.

The speed limit on most New York State highways is 55mph (88km/h although this rises to 65mph (104km/h) on stretches of some routes such as the Thruway and I-87. The speed limits are well signposted. There is no statutory minimum speed limit, but on some Interstates you will see a posted minimum speed of 40mph (64km/h). Like other parts of the US, you should keep to the right lane on interstates unless passing another vehicle or making a turn.

Many people stop off in Buffalo on their way to Niagara Falls, but dedicate more of your time in this city and you’ll discover a thriving destination filled with impressive architecture, historic sights and a lively waterfront.

History in the making

If you’re a history buff, there are plenty of attractions to explore in Buffalo. Start your journey at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site at 641 Delaware Avenue, to see the spot where one of America’s most influential presidents took his unexpected oath of office in 1901.

Just a short drive away is Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park, home to decommissioned US Navy ships and submarines. Visit the on-site museum before taking a tour of the three main vessels – USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans and USS Croaker –learning about the role they played in World War II.

Art and architecture

Buffalo is home to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery - a huge collection of modern and contemporary art. Highlights include works by Frida Kahlo, Roy Lichtenstein, Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso, while temporary exhibitions and installations take place all year round.

Another attraction not to be missed is Darwin D Martin House Complex at 125 Jewett Parkway. Designed by the influential architect Frank Lloyd Wright, this complex is recognised as one of his finest works. Take a tour of the six interconnected buildings to learn about the house, its restoration and why this is such an important site in the history of American architecture.

There are several other buildings designed by Wright in Buffalo, including the Graycliff Estate set on a cliff with magnificent views over Lake Erie. The city’s architecture tours offer a great way to explore Buffalo’s most impressive buildings.

Hit the beaches

You don’t need to drive far from Buffalo to reach the sandy beaches of Lake Erie. Lake Erie Beach Park, just south of Buffalo, boasts clear blue waters that are great for swimming. It also has a number of restaurants, play areas for the kids, and great views along the bluff.

Head further south to Bennett Beach, where you can swim and sunbathe while enjoying excellent views over the water at sunset. You might even spot deer along the coastline.

Wet and wild

As well as hitting the beach, when you rent a car in Buffalo you’ll be able to take the short drive north of the city to Niagara Falls. Millions visit here every year and it’s easy to see why – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls make up a truly unforgettable sight.

Pull on your poncho and take one of the tours that allow you to get up close to the rushing water, or head for the observation tower at Prospect Point for spectacular views of all three falls together.

The surrounding Niagara Falls State Park is said to be the oldest state in the US, with islands and hiking routes that take in all the best scenery. Stick around after dark to see the falls light up in a spectacular illuminated display, with fireworks lighting up the night skies from May to November.

With Buffalo car rental, you’ll be able to really make the most of your time in the city while also exploring the amazing natural sites nearby.