Principal Financial Group

Old Fort Niagara offers you the unique opportunity to connect nature to history. The fort and historic attraction is situated at the head of the Niagara River, and you can enjoy the river's inviting natural beauty as you learn about the fort's tri-cultural history. Originally held by the French in 1678, the fort ended up being a major strategic point for both the British and Americans. As you walk through the grounds, see several vintage structures, the oldest of which dates back to 1726. If you visit during the summer, there are various special events that are on the schedule, with a musket firing demonstration being one of the most popular.

Buffalo's economic growth owes much to the Niagara River and Lake Erie. Historically, this body of water has been pivotal in the area's water trafficking economy and is also an attractive natural spectacle. Hear about the commercial growth while enjoying the aquatic visual appeal when you take the Buffalo Harbor Cruises. The cruises feature highly informed guides who tell the stories that have occurred between these shores. They will be happy to answer your questions, as well. Take your camera to snap lots of great views of the harbor and the city. The tour's vessel, "Miss Buffalo II," regularly departs from the dock at 79 Marine Drive.

Browsing through a book store is always an adventure. But that adventurous experience is brought to a higher level when you visit Talking Leaves Books. You'll find everything from paperbacks to vintage versions of your favorite titles, not to mention a generous selection of first editions and lots more. Plus, don't miss the expansive area that features magazines and other reading items. There is also an open, comfortable lounge area for thumbing through your latest find, or you can just sit back for a while and do some people watching.

The Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village offers visitors a fascinating glimpse of what life was like for the area’s settlers. The museum is situated on a 35-acre park that is dedicated to telling the story of frontier life in the Niagara area. See such interesting sites as vintage houses, restored homes, and actual buildings in which the area's pioneers lived. Don't forget to stop into the museum to see some authentic arts and crafts that date back to this formative period in Buffalo's history.