Buffalo is a unique city that has the honor of hosting the NHL Draft this weekend. For Colorado Avalanche fans, this guide can help you find your way in the Queen City.
I moved to Western New York two years ago for both work and school. While I don’t live particularly close to the city itself, it’s a distinct destination very different from almost anything in Colorado.
Where to eat
Food is a big part of the Buffalo region; the chicken wing is basically a deity in the city, and there is almost no wrong way to go when getting wings here.
Bar-Bill is an exceptional spot for wings and good bar food. However, I also highly recommend the Anchor Bar, which is considered the birthplace of the chicken wing.
Not only are the wings stellar, but the history of the bar is exceptional. There are several locations (including one in Loveland right down the road from where the AHL-affiliate Colorado Eagles play, of all places!), but the original is in the town of Buffalo.
The hot wing as we know it was invented in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. Today the Anchor Bar is one of the nation’s regional food pilgrimage spots, and has expanded, added a few outposts, and ships lots of wings.
Another Buffalo staple is the Beef-on-Weck, which you can find at both places. However, horseradish is a big part of the sandwich, which isn’t for everyone, myself included. But the meat, bread, and dip are pretty good all paired together.
Finally, I’d also recommend trying pizza logs. They are cheese with toppings, all wrapped in an egg roll, and extremely tasty. Bar-Bill has also been one of the best places for those as well.
Those Buffalo staples will be some of the best things to eat that are uniquely Western New York. While it’s not as diverse as other places across the country, the food culture is uniquely Buffalo and one to get involved in.
Things to do in the area
Aside from the NHL Draft taking place on Friday and Saturday, there are still plenty of things to do in the surrounding area both before and afterward. The Buffalo Sabres are hosting several things at and around the arena after their historically great season. Former Avs forward Alex Newhook and the Montreal Canadiens eliminated them in the second round in overtime in Game Seven.
The Sabres are riding the wave of momentum by hosting a youth hockey clinic with draftees on Friday morning. In addition, there’s a fan festival with activations to play street hockey and meet draftees on the red carpet on Friday afternoon.
Aside from the events at KeyBank Center, this time of year is a wonderful time to get outside. Just up the road, Niagara Falls is a sight to behold. It might be busy, but quite the sight. If you’re able to get on a boat tour, it’s a nice way to cool off close to the falls.
A rainbow is refracted in the mist of American Falls from Luna Island at Niagara Falls State Park in Niagara Falls, NY on May 6, 2025.
However, the view of the falls might just be better on the Canadian side. Don’t be afraid to bring your passport and check it out from over there too!
About an hour east of the city, you can find Letchworth State Park. Deemed the Grand Canyon of the East, several hiking trails and massive waterfalls dot the canyon. Plus, if you’re lucky enough, you can snag a tour of the massive dam at the end of the park.
Finally, if you really have extra time and want to explore even more, the Finger Lakes region is exceptional. Plus, you can find several wineries and breweries along the way from Watkins Glen to Ithaca and more.
While Buffalo is beyond its heyday, there are still plenty of unique things around to check out between Joe Sakic working on his draft plan and picks. It can make up for what will hopefully be a weekend to remember for Avalanche fans.
