Blake James M, DDS

Of the several classic structures found in Buffalo, one of the most essential is the Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Complex. Wright, the legendary architect, designed this truly unconventional home that features long banded windows, pitched roofs, and a glass roof conservatory. Fans of classic architecture or just casual observers will want to see this attraction from the inside as well, and to do so you must make a reservation, but it is definitely worth the time.

For some of the finest musical performances you'll ever see and hear, you only have to go as far as Buffalo's Kleinhans Music Hall. Built in 1940, this iconic entertainment venue features incredible acoustics and a classic yet inviting atmosphere. The hall is also the home of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as the site of various seasonal plays, operas and ballets. So if you are in the mood to broaden your cultural outlook and be pleasantly surprised at the variety of performances you can take in, the Kleinhans Music Hall is most definitely the place to discover it all.

There's something truly charming about visiting an Irish pub, and Eddie Brady's Tavern is a textbook example of such a place. This friendly watering hole recalls an early 20th century pub, complete with worn brick walls and a tin ceiling. But the clientele and mood of this nightlife venue will warm you up quickly, as will the delectable fare from the kitchen that includes excellent burgers and their signature fried bologna. Wash it down with one of the many fine ales available at the bar, and enjoy!

While many people see the Erie Canal from a distance, getting a closer look will reveal how this body of water works to further the area's economy. The canal is actually quite interesting, and you can learn more about it when you take the Lockport Locks and Erie Canal Cruise. Your tour guide will be quite informative from start to finish, describing how Lockport is known for the area's water "locks" that run approximately 50 feet. When you cruise through the canal on this tour, you'll actually go through the "locks" and see for yourself how these locks are used to move traffic along the river and its uniquely elevated terrain. It's a great tour for the whole family.