Getting Around Buffalo. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

NFTA Metro System

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) operates the Metro system, which includes both a light rail line and an extensive bus network. This system connects areas of the city and its immediate suburbs.

The Metro Rail is a single light rail line stretching approximately 6.4 miles, running north-south from Canalside, through downtown, the theater district, and up to the University at Buffalo South Campus.

Metro Rail Features

Direct link between some of Buffalo's most popular attractions.
Serves downtown, theater district, and university area.
Operates roughly from 5 AM to 1 AM on weekdays.
During peak hours, trains typically run every 10-15 minutes.

Metro Bus Network

An extensive network of routes covering the entire city and many surrounding suburbs.

Important Hubs

Downtown Metro Rail stations (Fountain Plaza, Church Street) and Buffalo Metropolitan Transportation Center.

Accessibility

All NFTA Metro buses are wheelchair accessible. Metro Rail stations are generally accessible with elevators.

Ticketing & Fares

Fare Options

Single ride on bus or rail: $2.50.
Day Pass: $5.00 for unlimited 24-hour rides.
7-day pass: $25.00, good for longer stays.

Payment Methods

Cash: Exact change needed on buses (drivers do not give change).
NFTA Token Transit App: Purchase fares on your smartphone.
Physical Passes: Acquire at select vendors (grocery/convenience stores).

Efficient Navigation Tips

Free Fare Zone

Metro Rail is free to ride between Erie Canal Harbor and Fountain Plaza stations.

Use Transit Apps

Google Maps or the Transit App for real-time bus tracking and route planning.

Consider a Day Pass

If you plan more than two rides in a single day, a Day Pass offers better value.

Plan Ahead

Public transit frequency decreases on weekends and in the evenings. Check schedules.

Taxi & Ride-Share Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services deliver convenient, on-demand transportation throughout Buffalo.

Licensed Taxis

Typically display company names (e.g., Buffalo Transportation, Liberty Cab) and a distinct color.
Hailing less common; order by phone or hotel concierge.
Taxi stands at the airport and major hotels.
Credit cards almost universally accepted; confirm payment methods.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Buffalo.
Download apps, create account, link payment method to request rides.
Operate throughout Buffalo and suburbs, including Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
Wait times are generally short, especially in more populated areas.

Ride-Sharing Safety

Verify driver's name, license plate, and car model with app information before entering.
Share your trip details with a trusted contact through the app's safety features.
Always confirm your destination in the app.

Only enter the vehicle that matches the app's details.
Avoid sharing personal information with drivers.
Rate your ride and driver after completion.

Ride-Sharing Estimates USD

Route

BUF Airport to Downtown

UberX Estimate

$30 - $40

Lyft Standard Estimate

$30 - $40

Vehicle Rental Services

Buffalo has various rental possibilities for independent travel.

Car Rental Essentials

Valid driver's license (International Driving Permit for non-English licenses).
A major credit card in the renter's name is needed for the rental agreement and deposit.
Minimum age to rent a car in New York State is generally 21 (surcharge for 21-24).
Consider purchasing rental car insurance.

Major Rental Companies

All major car rental companies operate at Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF).
Companies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty.
Various city locations are available for pickup/drop-off.
Book in advance for best prices.

Bicycle Rentals

Buffalo BikeShare

A seasonal program (typically May-October) with docks around the city.

Use an app to unlock and rent bikes.

Local Bike Shops

Several shops like Campus WheelWorks or Tom's Pro Bike offer daily or weekly rentals.

Wider range of bike types, helmets, and locks often included.

Helmets

Helmets are recommended for all cyclists in New York State.

Required for those under 14.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road; seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Obey posted speed limits; right turn on red permitted after a full stop unless signed "No Turn on Red."
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited.

Parking Information

Metered street parking exists in downtown and popular areas (e.g., Elmwood Village, Allentown).
Numerous parking ramps and surface lots offer more secure and convenient parking.
Residential areas may have permit parking or time limits; read signs carefully to avoid tickets.

Important Travel Notes

Book train/bus tickets in advance for best prices and to confirm availability.
Have all required travel documents ready for border crossings (if applicable).
Confirm car rental cross-border allowances if driving to Canada.
Be aware of traffic congestion during commute hours (typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).

Winter storms may cause significant travel disruptions (road closures, flight delays).
Follow local weather advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
Heatwaves in summer may call for seeking air-conditioned spaces and staying hydrated.
Check policies on AirHelp if flights are delayed or canceled.

Final Tip for Your Trip

Buffalo, New York, is a destination that rewards visitors with a mix of historical depth, architectural beauty, and genuine hospitality.

Approach your visit with an open mind and a spirit of discovery, and you will uncover a city that is both welcoming and wonderfully unique.

Getting Around Buffalo