Delaware Park: Buffalo's Olmsted Masterpiece

Discover Buffalo's 'Central Park': A historic Olmsted-designed green space with a lake, gardens, cultural attractions, and year-round activities.

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Delaware Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, is a 350-acre urban oasis in Buffalo, New York, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Often called Buffalo's 'Central Park,' it features Hoyt Lake, meadows, gardens, and cultural institutions, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Delaware Park

84 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, New York, 14214, US
+1716-838-1249
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Monday 7 am-10 pm
Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
Thursday 7 am-10 pm
Friday 7 am-10 pm
Saturday 7 am-10 pm
Sunday 7 am-10 pm

Local tips

Explore Hoyt Lake by renting a rowboat or paddleboat for a relaxing experience on the water.
Visit the Japanese Garden for a tranquil escape and to admire the cherry blossom trees in late April and early May.
Attend a performance of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, a free summer tradition since the mid-1970s.
Take a walk through Rumsey Woods and find the stunning stone pedestrian bridge surrounded by trees and vines.
Check out the public art at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, located across Lincoln Parkway from the Rose Garden.

Getting There

Walking

From the Buffalo History Museum, walk south along Elmwood Avenue, then turn right onto Nottingham Terrace. Continue along Nottingham Terrace until you reach the park entrance. The Japanese Garden and Hoyt Lake will be on your left. No cost.
Public Transport

From downtown Buffalo, take the NFTA Metro Bus #11 (Colvin) or #25 (Delaware). These buses stop near Delaware Park, at Delaware Avenue and Nottingham Terrace, a short walk from the park entrance. A single fare is $2.
Driving

From I-190, take the NY-198 E/Scajaquada Expressway exit. Follow signs for Delaware Avenue. Take the Delaware Avenue exit and head north. Parking is available along Lincoln Parkway and Rumsey Street near Hoyt Lake. Be aware of parking restrictions on the grass or medians along Lincoln Parkway. Parking is free.

Discover more about Delaware Park

Delaware Park, the centerpiece of Buffalo's Olmsted park system, offers a diverse landscape and a rich history. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux between 1868 and 1870, the 350-acre park was intended as a rural escape from urban life. Originally named 'The Park,' it was later renamed Delaware Park due to its proximity to Delaware Avenue. The park is divided into two main areas: the 243-acre 'Meadow Park' to the east and the 133-acre 'Water Park' to the west. The Meadow Park features open green spaces, a golf course, and the Buffalo Zoo. The Water Park is home to Hoyt Lake, the Japanese Garden, the Marcy Casino, and the Rose Garden. Hoyt Lake, originally called Gala Water, was created by damming Scajaquada Creek. Throughout its history, Delaware Park has served as a hub for recreation and culture. In 1901, the park hosted the Pan-American Exposition, attracting thousands of visitors. While some original features have been lost over time, many remain, including walking paths, the stone pedestrian bridge in Rumsey Woods, and the Japanese Garden. Today, Delaware Park continues to be a vibrant community asset, offering a wide range of activities such as boating on Hoyt Lake, Shakespeare in the Park, and visits to the Buffalo History Museum and Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Despite the construction of the Scajaquada Expressway in the 1960s, which bisected the park, Delaware Park remains a cherished green space in the heart of Buffalo.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Eleanor And Wilson Greatbatch Pavilion

0.5 km

Explore the breathtaking Eleanor and Wilson Greatbatch Pavilion, a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece blending architecture and nature in Buffalo, NY.

The Buffalo History Museum

1.9 km

Delve into Buffalo's fascinating past at The Buffalo History Museum, a captivating local history destination filled with engaging exhibits and community events.

President William Mckinley Sign

2.3 km

Explore the historical essence of Buffalo at the President William McKinley Sign, a key landmark reflecting American history and culture.

InnBuffalo off Elmwood

2.3 km

Discover the charm of InnBuffalo off Elmwood, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Buffalo's vibrant Elmwood Village, perfect for your next getaway.

Elmwood VIllage Art Fest

2.5 km

Discover the creativity and local culture at the Elmwood Village Art Festival in Buffalo, NY, featuring talented artists and delicious local food.

Colonial Circle

2.7 km

Discover the tranquility and historical charm of Colonial Circle in Buffalo, New York, a serene escape into the past amidst lush landscapes.

The Knox Mansion

3.4 km

Discover the historical elegance of The Knox Mansion in Buffalo, NY - a breathtaking architectural landmark that tells tales of a glorious past.

University Park Historic District

3.5 km

Explore the University Park Historic District in Buffalo, NY, where stunning architecture meets vibrant community spirit and rich history.

The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum

4.0 km

Experience the rich tapestry of history at The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, where every manuscript unveils a story from the past.

Welcome to black rock sign

4.0 km

Discover Buffalo's heritage at the iconic Black Rock Sign, a historical landmark that embodies the spirit and cultural richness of the community.

Kleinhans Music Hall

4.3 km

Explore the architectural marvel and musical heritage of Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo, NY, a top destination for live performances and cultural events.

The Allentown Association, Inc.

4.3 km

Explore Allentown, Buffalo's Heritage Preservation neighborhood, where art, history, and community converge in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Allentown Art Festival

4.4 km

Explore the vibrant Allentown Art Festival in Buffalo, NY, featuring over 500 artists, live performances, and delicious local food, perfect for art lovers and families.

The Mansion on Delaware Avenue

4.5 km

Experience the charm of The Mansion on Delaware Avenue, a boutique hotel blending historic elegance with modern luxury in Buffalo, NY.

Fargo Estate Historic District

4.7 km

Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Fargo Estate Historic District in Buffalo, NY, a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Buffalo Zoo

0.5 km

Discover the rich history and diverse wildlife at The Buffalo Zoo, a historic gem in Buffalo, NY, perfect for family-friendly adventures and wildlife education.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House

0.6 km

Experience the architectural brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright at the Martin House, a historical landmark in Buffalo, NY, showcasing innovative design and lush gardens.

Hoyt Lake

1.4 km

Explore the tranquil beauty of Hoyt Lake in Buffalo, a perfect spot for relaxation, nature walks, and outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes.

Statue of David

1.7 km

Explore the Statue of David in Buffalo, NY - a stunning artistic replica nestled in the serene beauty of Delaware Park, perfect for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

McKinley Shooting Rock

1.8 km

Explore McKinley Shooting Rock, a significant historical landmark in Buffalo, NY, commemorating President William McKinley’s assassination and offering rich historical insights.

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

1.9 km

Explore the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, a vibrant hub of modern art and cultural engagement in Buffalo, New York, showcasing diverse artistic expressions.

Japanese Garden

1.9 km

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Buffalo's Japanese Garden, a serene escape showcasing exquisite landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Burchfield Penney Art Center

2.1 km

Explore the Burchfield Penney Art Center, a premier destination for American art lovers in Buffalo, showcasing innovative exhibitions and cultural programs.

Bidwell Parkway

2.3 km

Discover the beauty of Bidwell Parkway, a lush park in Buffalo, NY, perfect for outdoor relaxation, picnics, and enjoying nature's tranquility.

Historic Site of the Milburn House

2.3 km

Explore Buffalo's rich history at the Historic Site of the Milburn House, a captivating architectural gem in Elmwood Village.

Richardson Olmsted Campus

2.4 km

Explore the Richardson Olmsted Campus, a stunning historical landmark in Buffalo, NY, showcasing architectural beauty and rich cultural history.

Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium

2.5 km

Explore the universe's wonders at Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium in Buffalo, NY - a must-see destination for stargazers and science lovers.

Elmwood Historic District–East

2.6 km

Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant culture of Elmwood Historic District–East, a historic gem in Buffalo, NY, filled with charm and history.

Buffalo Museum of Science

3.0 km

Discover the Buffalo Museum of Science, a captivating destination for families and science lovers exploring natural history and interactive exhibits.

MLK Jr. Park

3.3 km

Explore MLK Jr. Park in Buffalo, NY - a vibrant community space perfect for sports, relaxation, and learning about civil rights history.

Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at SATO in Buffalo - where every bite is a journey into Japan's rich culinary heritage.

Explore unique, sustainably sourced fashion at Second Chic, Buffalo's beloved consignment shop in the heart of Elmwood Village.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Central Park Grill

1.0 km

Explore the best of Buffalo dining at Central Park Grill, where flavorful grilled dishes and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.

Moor Room

1.6 km

Experience the lively atmosphere of Moor Room in Buffalo, NY, where great drinks and a vibrant social scene come together.

Sidebar

1.7 km

Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Sidebar Lounge, a must-visit spot in Buffalo's North Park neighborhood.

The Wellington Pub

1.7 km

Discover the warmth of The Wellington Pub, where delicious food meets an inviting atmosphere in the heart of Buffalo.

Més Que

1.7 km

Discover Més Que in Buffalo - the perfect blend of casual dining, vibrant cocktails, and lively sports entertainment for an unforgettable night out.

The Public House of Buffalo

1.9 km

Explore the vibrant flavors of Buffalo at The Public House, where local ingredients meet a warm, inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Merry Shelley

2.1 km

Experience the charm and creativity of The Merry Shelley, Buffalo's unique bar offering crafted cocktails and local brews in a welcoming atmosphere.

Mr. Goodbar

2.1 km

Discover the lively atmosphere of Mr. Goodbar in Buffalo, where great food, live music, and sports come together for an unforgettable experience.

McGarrets

2.3 km

Discover Buffalo's vibrant nightlife at McGarrets, a lively bar in Elmwood Village offering craft beers, cocktails, and live music.

High Violet

2.7 km

Discover High Violet, Buffalo's trendy cocktail bar, offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere in Elmwood Village.

The Heights Experience

2.9 km

Discover the warm and inviting atmosphere of The Heights Experience, a beloved bar in Buffalo, where every visit feels like coming home.

Thirsty Buffalo

3.0 km

Discover the excitement at Thirsty Buffalo, your go-to sports bar for American cuisine, drinks, and lively nightlife in Buffalo, NY.

Milkie's

3.1 km

Discover the charm of Milkie's, a cozy lounge in Buffalo, NY, blending great American cuisine with a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

Free Street Tavern

3.8 km

Discover the lively atmosphere of Free Street Tavern in Buffalo, NY, where craft beers and friendly faces create unforgettable memories.

26

4.0 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at 26, a lively bar in Buffalo's Allentown, known for craft cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Delaware Park with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Delaware Park: Buffalo's Olmsted Masterpiece

A brief summary to Delaware Park

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Delaware Park

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Delaware Park

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Eleanor And Wilson Greatbatch Pavilion

The Buffalo History Museum

President William Mckinley Sign

InnBuffalo off Elmwood

Elmwood VIllage Art Fest

Colonial Circle

The Knox Mansion

University Park Historic District

The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum

Welcome to black rock sign

Kleinhans Music Hall

The Allentown Association, Inc.

Allentown Art Festival

The Mansion on Delaware Avenue

Fargo Estate Historic District

Unmissable attractions to see

The Buffalo Zoo

Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House

Hoyt Lake

Statue of David

McKinley Shooting Rock

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Japanese Garden

Burchfield Penney Art Center

Bidwell Parkway

Historic Site of the Milburn House

Richardson Olmsted Campus

Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium

Elmwood Historic District–East

Buffalo Museum of Science

MLK Jr. Park

Essential places to dine

Oliver's Restaurant

Kostas Family Restaurant

The Burning Buffalo Bar & Grill

CRaVing Restaurant

Je Ne Sais Quoi

Hutch's

SZND

Ristorante Lombardo

The Garage Bar & Restaurant

Cole's

Jack Rabbit

JT’s Restaurant

Iron Tail Tavern

Aguacates Mexican Bar & Grill

SATO

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Buffalo Seamery

Uni Dolls Boutique

Buffalomart.com

Man Cave Outfitters of Buffalo

Stella & Brooke Gift Studio

Her Story

Everything Vintage Apparel

Terrapin Station

Half & Half Boutique

Parables Gallery and Gifts

neo gift studio

Scoop Shop

Anna Grace

Save The Rags

Second Chic

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Central Park Grill

Moor Room

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