


Delaware Park
About
Delaware Park is Buffalo's premier urban oasis, offering 350 acres of beautiful green space perfect for family adventures. Kids can explore multiple playgrounds, feed ducks at Hoyt Lake, enjoy scenic bike rides along paved paths, and burn energy with endless room to run, play sports, and picnic under mature trees.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups
- ✓Hoyt Lake with paddle boats and duck feeding opportunities
- ✓Wide paved paths perfect for biking, scooters, and strollers
- ✓Large open fields for frisbee, soccer, and kite flying
- ✓Free summer events including Shakespeare performances and concerts
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring bread or birdseed to feed the ducks at Hoyt Lake - it's always a hit with younger kids
- 2.Park near the Rose Garden entrance for easiest access to playgrounds and restrooms
- 3.Rent bikes or bring your own - the paved paths are stroller-friendly and perfect for family bike rides
- 4.Visit the Shakespeare in Delaware Park performances in summer for free, family-friendly outdoor theater
- 5.Pack a picnic and claim a spot early on weekends near the playground areas for the best shade
Best Time to Visit
Spring through fall weekday mornings (9-11am) offer the best weather with smaller crowds. Summer weekends are busiest but offer the most activities. Avoid peak afternoon hours in July-August when it's hottest.
What to Know
The park is completely free to visit with ample free parking throughout. There are restrooms near major playground areas, but limited food vendors, so pack snacks and water for longer visits.
Seasonal Notes
Peak season is May through October when all facilities are open and weather is ideal. Paddle boats at Hoyt Lake operate summer months only. Winter offers sledding hills and ice skating opportunities, but playgrounds may have limited access in heavy snow.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Spot Coffee on Delaware Avenue for kid-friendly sandwiches and treats, or grab pizza at Picasso's on Elmwood Avenue, both within a 5-minute drive.
More Activities Near Buffalo
Wendell Castle Workshop
This one-of-a-kind art-themed playground in Scottsville transforms outdoor play into a creative adventure with its sculptural climbing structures inspired by renowned furniture designer Wendell Castle. Kids can explore whimsical, artistic play equipment that looks like it belongs in a modern art museum while getting plenty of physical activity in a visually stunning setting.
The Saloon
The Saloon offers families a relaxed sports bar atmosphere where parents can actually enjoy the game while kids stay happily entertained. With a dedicated kids menu featuring hearty favorites and activities to keep little ones busy, this Buffalo staple welcomes families with open arms in a casual setting where everyone can feel comfortable.
Niagara County Farm Bureau
The Niagara County Farm Bureau offers families a delightful seasonal farmers market experience where kids can connect with local agriculture while enjoying fresh produce and family-friendly activities. This educational farm destination provides hands-on learning opportunities about where food comes from, making it an ideal outing for families who want to combine shopping for healthy local foods with entertaining and enriching activities for children.
Museum Store at the Martin House
The Museum Store at the Martin House offers family-friendly architectural tours of this stunning Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, making design history accessible and engaging for children. The tours are specifically designed to spark curiosity in young minds, with visually captivating details and educational content that brings the Prairie School architecture to life in ways kids can understand and appreciate.