Buffalo Pictures

The lit up "Buffalo" sign on Shea's Performing Arts Center has become one of the city's defining landmarks. Jim Buah Visit Buffalo Niagara

Buffalo sits on the border of New York State and Canada's Ontario province. It's not uncommon to see both nations' flags flown. Richard Cavalleri Shutterstock

During special events like Independence Day, the city shoots fireworks over Erie Canal Harbor. KC Kratt Visit Buffalo Niagara

Buffalo runs a single-line metro train. Jenn Durfey Flickr

Forest Lawn is dotted with picturesque ponds and lined by manicured paths. Zack Frank Shutterstock

A nice way to get an overview of the city is via an Open-Air Autobus tour. KC Kratt Visit Buffalo Niagara

Buffalo is only about 20 miles south of the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. Songquan Deng Shutterstock

The imposing Buffalo City Hall is considered an art deco jewel. Angel Art Ltd. Visit Buffalo Niagara

This cemetery is one of Buffalo's gems. People walk, picnic and even jog in the peaceful and picturesque setting. Zack Frank Shutterstock

Some people enjoy the sunshine of summertime kayaking in the Erie Canal Harbor. Dylan Buyskes Visit Buffalo Niagara

The Darwin D. Martin House Complex offers a handful of tours at different price points. But keep in mind that many visitors wish they had spent more — rather than less — time here at one of Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpieces. Bill Henrich/IMG_INK Courtesy of the Martin House Restoration Corporation

This art deco building in downtown Buffalo offers the best view of the surrounding Lake Erie and the Buffalo River. On a clear day, you can even see the mist from Niagara Falls. jiawangkun Shutterstock

The Ralph Wilson Stadium is the home of the National Football League's Buffalo Bills. Richard Cavalleri Shutterstock

The Buffalo Zoo is third-oldest zoo in the country. David Gordon Visit Buffalo Niagara

Kleinhans Music Hall was raised as a result of a bequest in the will of a successful Buffalo businessman and his wife. Reading Tom Flickr

The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra calls the Kleinhans Music Hall home. Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Visit Buffalo Niagara

This local treasure — and national historic site — stages Broadway shows. Reading Tom Flickr

For a relatively affordable activity, you can cheer on the Buffalo Bisons baseball team at Coca-Cola Field. Richard Cavalleri Shutterstock

Even if you're not a military history buff, you might be surprised at how much you enjoy a visit to the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park with its submarine, two ships and a handful of helicopters. Jeffrey M. Frank Shutterstock

Although the city's roots are industrial, it has a lot more than just factories to offer its visitors. Richard Cavalleri Shutterstock

The First Niagara Center is home to the National Hockey League's Buffalo Sabres. Richard Cavalleri Shutterstock

Although it's no New York City, Buffalo has some world-class things to do, and it's the gateway to Niagara Falls. spirit of america Shutterstock