Michael Gimlin - Ameriprise Financial Services

At the Irish Classical Theatre Company, its original tradition of excellence is still very much alive. The theater was started by two brothers from Dublin who loved acting and received great crowd reaction to their early performances. The company performs at the Andrews Theatre, the area's only true theatre-in-the-round, a layout that assures that every seat offers a great view of the entertainment on stage. The performance schedule is always busy, so check the website and make plans to enjoy a stellar production from this much-lauded and multiple award-winning company.

Some steps are worth retracing, even if they lead to a dramatic end. Such is the case of the many stories and episodes you'll uncover when you take the Mob Tours. This is a new tour that highlights the life of former organized crime boss Stefano Magaddino. You'll see various points of interest that include former residences, places where meetings were held, as well as various personal effects and other memorabilia significant to the story. This is a must for followers of criminal history.

Reading about art is one thing, but seeing it for yourself takes the experience of art appreciation to a whole new level. That is the mission of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. This internationally recognized museum proudly houses impressive collections of international sculptures and paintings that will captivate your imagination the moment you see them. Also, there are works from iconic artists like Picasso, Renoir, Matisse and Van Gough that are among the many highlights that you'll see in this world-class art venue.

Discover Buffalo's natural beauty when you visit the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. You will be transported to a world where nature is the focal point in an 1890s tri-domed Victorian glass conservatory on the grounds of South Park. See some of the world's most exotic flowers and plants that are housed in over 13 greenhouses that are located on South Park's 150 beautiful acres. The staff members are knowledgeable and helpful, and the kids will enjoy seeing all the different types of plant life and flowers, too. In all, the garden offers an excellent day of family fun through its floral attractions.