Buffalo Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication Services

Options

Local SIM cards from AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon. Airalo for eSIM options.
Free Wi-Fi at hotels, cafes, Buffalo Niagara International Airport, and public spaces. Solis Wi-Fi for portable options.
USPS, FedEx, and UPS for postal services.

Language & Translation

English is the main language, with little to no language barrier for English speakers.

Assistance

Most tourism and service workers speak English.
Translation apps (Google Translate, Microsoft Translator) for other languages. Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Bring an unlocked phone for local SIM use.

Business Hours

Typical operating hours for retail, restaurants, and attractions.

General Schedules

Retail shops: 10 AM - 6 PM (weekdays/Saturdays), 11 AM - 5 PM (Sundays)
Restaurants: Breakfast 7 AM, Lunch 11:30 AM, Dinner 5-6 PM
Attractions/Museums: 10 AM - 5 PM (often closed Mondays)

Banking & Holidays

Access to banking and understanding holiday closures.

Financials & Events

Banks: 9 AM - 5 PM weekdays, some Saturday hours
ATMs: Widely available at banks, stores, and retail centers
Major holidays: Businesses closed or reduced hours (e.g., New Year's Day, Christmas)

Seasonal Considerations

Local Events & Closures

Large festivals (Taste of Buffalo, Allentown Art Festival) can affect traffic and hours.
Seasonal outdoor attractions close for winter (Nov-Apr), e.g., Buffalo Naval & Military Park.
Tourist attractions may have reduced hours in low season (winter).
Always verify opening times on official websites.

Flight Compensation

Flight delays or cancellations may qualify for compensation.
Seek services that help with compensation claims.
This applies for denied boarding as well.
Compensair for flight issues.

Check Before You Go

Always check individual websites for current operating hours and any special closures, especially around holidays or during off-peak seasons.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Handshakes for formal introductions; "hello" for casual. Direct eye contact indicates sincerity.

Appropriate Attire

Buffalo is casual. Smart casual or business casual for fine dining, theater, or formal events.

Photography

Generally permissible in public. Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is a standard practice in U.S. Restaurants, bars, and for services.

Tipping Guidelines

Restaurant servers: 15-20% of the bill
Bartenders: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab
Hotel staff: $1-5 per service (bellhop, housekeeping)

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid sensitive discussions and respect personal space.

Topics to Avoid

Politics or religion with strangers, unless initiated by them.
Respect personal space; Americans prefer some distance.
Be mindful of privacy in residential areas.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure

Most public buildings are ADA compliant (ramps, elevators).
Sidewalks vary; downtown areas have curb cuts.
NFTA Metro buses are wheelchair accessible.

Services & Resources

Audio guides/sign language interpretation upon request at some museums.
Service animals are generally permitted in public.
Contact attractions directly for specific needs. Priority Pass for lounge access.

Accessibility Note

For specific accessibility needs, contact your chosen accommodation, attractions, and transportation providers in advance. This approach helps them confirm facilities and services meet your requirements.

Local Customs & Considerations

Safety & Laws

Buffalo is generally a safe city. General precautions are wise.

Important Information

Driving laws: Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are posted.
Cannabis: Legal for recreational use for adults 21+ in NYS. Public consumption is restricted.
Smoking: Prohibited in most indoor public places.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Buffalo is welcoming and inclusive, with strong anti-discrimination laws.

Inclusivity

New York State laws protect against discrimination based on gender identity.
Allentown is a historically LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood.
Numerous bars and businesses cater to the community.

Health & Safety

General health considerations and emergency information.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911
Major hospitals: Buffalo General Medical Center, Mercy Hospital of Buffalo
Pharmacies: Widely available (e.g., CVS, Walgreens)

Money & Banking

Financial Tips

Currency: United States Dollar (USD).
Credit cards: Widely accepted, carry some cash for small purchases.
Currency exchange: Available at the airport or major banks.

Important Warnings

Safety Reminders

Secure personal belongings.
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Do not leave valuables visible in parked cars.

Weather Alerts

Winters bring heavy snow; check forecasts and dress warmly.
Summers can be hot and humid.
Sudden weather changes are possible.

Political Context

Government System

United States: Federal republic, democratic system.
Buffalo: City government with a mayor and common council.
New York State: State government, part of the U.S. Federal system.

Local Governance

Elections: Held regularly for local, state, and federal offices.
Citizen participation: Active in local policy decisions.
Laws: Federal, state, and local ordinances apply.

General Advice

Buffalo is welcoming. Basic courtesies and an open mind will create pleasant interactions with locals.

Buffalo Travel Tips