Creekside Power

The overriding mission of the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society is to tell the stories about the area that many people may not yet know, but will surely never forget once they visit this highly entertaining venue. Both the pacemaker and Cheerios have their origins tied to Buffalo, and the full stories, among many others, are all waiting to be discovered thanks to the hard work of the county historical society. The society itself is housed in the last remaining structure from the city's 1901 Pan American Exposition, so history is what the Society does best in more ways than one.

The Beaver Meadow Audubon Center was designed to offer Buffalo's many city-dwellers a great opportunity to get close to nature. This 324-acre wildlife sanctuary includes a forest, a field and wetland areas that are all just a short drive from downtown. In addition to the natural settings, the trail on site stretches for eight miles and the adjacent beach offers still yet another scene in which to absorb some natural beauty. Even during the winter, the center is still open as it offers more outdoor fun in the form of snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

One of the city's most triumphant fixtures on the landscape is the Niagara Mohawk Building. The structure's classic design only makes this 294-foot tall skyscraper even more awe-inspiring. Built in 1912, it is still considered to be one of Buffalo's most beautiful sights. Among the attraction's many notable points, the glazed terracotta tower and regal design makes it even more striking when it is lit up among Buffalo's evening skyline.

The Genesee County Park and Forest is quite popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park features more than 400 acres of forest and 17 miles of recreational hiking trails, snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter months. Another reason this destination is a favorite is that it is open year round.