Woodlands Earth & Stone

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.

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.

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.

The Allegany State Park is the largest of New York's state parks as it contains an impressive 65,000 acres of public lands and offers a wide range of recreational activities throughout the year. You can enjoy a guided walk along the Bear Cave Trail, check out the stunning rock formations at the Allegany Plateau, go swimming and sunbathe on either of two beaches, and even go boating or fishing. There's cross-country skiing available, too. So in addition to enjoying some outdoor beauty, you won't be at a loss for any fun activities to enjoy!