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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

New York State, USA

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Some independent hostels or budget-friendly guesthouses exist, with dormitory-style beds or private rooms at lower prices.

  • Budget Hotels/Motels

    Chain motels typically exist near major highways or close to Buffalo Niagara International Airport. They include basic, clean rooms.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    This category represents the most common type of lodging with numerous options downtown and in suburban areas. Amenities sometimes include breakfast, fitness centers, pools.

  • Luxury Hotels

    Buffalo features boutique hotels and upscale chains, mainly downtown. These properties include higher service levels, premium amenities, unique designs.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Boutique Hotels

    Housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. These properties include a distinct character and reflect the city's architectural heritage.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Mainly in historic neighborhoods like Allentown, B&Bs include a cozy, personalized lodging experience with individually decorated rooms and homemade breakfasts.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Platforms like Vrbo are popular, with a wide range of private homes or apartments. These options cater to various needs, with more space and privacy.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    No camping facilities exist within Buffalo city limits. New York State Parks outside the city (e.g., Evangola, Golden Hill) include campsites.

Neighborhood Guide

Where to stay in Buffalo largely involves your travel style and preferences. Each neighborhood includes a distinct character and advantages.

Downtown/Canalside

Positive Aspects
  • Central location for major attractions (Canalside, KeyBank Center).
  • Metro Rail and bus line connections.
  • Many dining options.
  • Generally safe and well-lit.
Considerations
  • Can be quieter on weekends outside of event times.
  • Mainly a business-oriented district on weekdays.
  • Some areas appear less residential.
  • Can be noisy during major events.

Elmwood Village

Positive Aspects
  • Highly walkable, artistic atmosphere.
  • Wide range of independent dining.
  • Close to cultural institutions (AKG Art Museum).
  • Very safe.
Considerations
  • Accommodation may be higher priced.
  • Street parking poses challenges.
  • Elmwood Avenue bustles with activity.
  • Public transport access mainly via bus.

Allentown

Positive Aspects
  • Historic district with Victorian architecture.
  • Excellent nightlife and music venues.
  • Unique shops and artistic community.
  • Close to downtown.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy at night.
  • Some streets appear grittier.
  • Parking difficulties.
  • Awareness suggested late at night.

Proximity and Ambiance

Proximity to Attractions/Transportation

Downtown: Metro Rail access for Canalside, KeyBank Center, Shea's Performing Arts Center. Elmwood/Allentown: Better for AKG Art Museum, historic architecture, nightlife. Reliance on bus transport.

Noise Levels/Ambiance

Downtown: Noise during events. Elmwood Village: Quieter residential feel, lively main street. Allentown: Noisy, especially on weekend nights.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure accommodation at favorable rates.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-August): Book 2-4 months ahead, especially for popular hotels or major events.
  • Shoulder Seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct): Book 1-2 months ahead for better rates.
  • Low Season (Nov-March): A few weeks ahead. Prices may increase during holiday periods or major sporting events.
  • Flexibility with travel dates leads to savings.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia.com.
  • Direct Hotel Websites: Official sites sometimes include better rates or loyalty benefits. IHG Hotels.
  • Hostel Booking: Hostelworld.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo for private homes/apartments.

Important Considerations

Walk-in Rates
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common in the U.S. Hotel industry.
  • Online booking in advance often yields better rates than arriving without a reservation.
Cancellation Policies
  • These vary by property and booking platform.
  • Always review deposit requirements and cancellation policies before confirming.
  • Many standard rates allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in.
  • Non-refundable rates sometimes carry lower prices.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Peak Periods

Accommodation prices in Buffalo are highest during the summer and periods with major events.

Off-Peak Periods

Prices are generally lowest in late fall and winter, excluding major holidays.

Savings

Flexibility with your travel dates leads to considerable savings.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are specific accommodation recommendations for various preferences and budgets, highlighting properties with particular value or character.

Options by Budget

Budget

Explore budget-friendly motels near the airport or along major routes, or private rooms through Airbnb in residential areas.

  • Hostel Buffalo-Niagara (check availability)
  • Chain motels (e.g., Super 8, Days Inn)
Mid-range

Reliable chains with comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and good locations.

Specialized Stays

Luxury

Upscale properties with sophisticated ambiance and premium amenities.

Family-Friendly Options

Hotels with pools, complimentary breakfast, and larger rooms. Vacation rentals are also popular.

  • Suburban chain hotels (e.g., Embassy Suites)
  • Hotels with kitchenettes (e.g., Residence Inn)
  • Vacation rentals (Airbnb/Vrbo)

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Downtown Hotels

    Excellent access to public transit and major attractions. A convenient base for solo exploration.

  • Hostels

    When available, they feature a social atmosphere for meeting others.

  • Private Rooms in Rentals

    Airbnb sometimes includes private rooms in shared homes for a local feel.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Extended-Stay Hotels

    Properties like Residence Inn, Homewood Suites, TownePlace Suites. These include suites with kitchenettes and living areas. Discounted rates exist for weekly or monthly stays.

  • Full Amenities

    Laundry facilities and more residential amenities are common.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Airbnb or Vrbo rentals for longer stays. They include a residential experience with full kitchens and laundry.

Historically Significant Stays

Hotel at the Lafayette, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

This historic hotel, designed by Louise Blanchard Bethune (America's first professional female architect), showcases stunning French Renaissance Revival architecture.

Curtiss Hotel

This luxury boutique hotel occupies a meticulously restored historic building, blending modern comfort with classic elegance.

Hotel Henry Urban Resort when open

Formerly the Richardson Olmsted Campus, this iconic architectural masterpiece provides a truly unique lodging experience within a renovated former asylum building.

Visitor Tip

Guest Reviews

When booking, read recent guest reviews focusing on cleanliness, noise levels, and location. This provides insight into the actual experience.

Confirm Operating Status

Especially for unique properties like Hotel Henry, confirm their current operating status before planning your stay.

Consider Loyalty Programs

Direct bookings sometimes include benefits through hotel loyalty programs (e.g., free Wi-Fi, upgrades).