Welcome to the Queen City!

• What's Going On
• The Lay of the Land
• 48 Hours in LGBT Buffalo
• What to See & Do
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat

Stifle that giggle—“the Queen City” is one of the oldest and most popular nicknames for Buffalo. OK, so the phrase really dates back to the days when the entire state was the “Empire State,” but that hasn’t stopped subsequent generations from embracing the phrase in a whole new way. Like any proper queen, Buffalo has a big heart, a terrific sense of humor about itself and the rest of the world, and a great gift for transforming the everyday into something utterly unique - experience gay Buffalo.

We’re not talking about some pampered, precious version of royalty. Buffalo is—to borrow a term in every lip-synching diva’s repertoire—a survivor. Its strong spirit was bred in the kind of working-class environment chronicled in native-born author and activist Leslie Feinberg’s acclaimed novel Stone Butch Blues and in Elizabeth Kennedy and Madeline Davis’s award-winning history of the local lesbian community, Boots of Leather, Slippers of Gold.

That’s not to suggest that all is grit and struggle around here, either. This is a town that knows how to party, as evidenced by the fact that the bars stay open till 4 a.m. and warm-weather weekends (as well as plenty of chillier ones) are packed with all manner of street festivals like Gay Pride Buffalo, concerts, and other ways to have fun.

The arts are huge here; it’s hard to think of any other American city of Buffalo’s size with so much to offer: professional theater companies (many of whom regularly produce works by and about gays and lesbians), world-class museums and not-for-profit galleries like the Albright-Knox and Hallwalls, stellar architecture, and renowned musical ensembles from the Buffalo Philharmonic to a never-ending stream of up-and-coming indie bands.

Speaking of indies, let’s not forget Buffalo’s best-known cultural export of the last ten years, singer-songwriter-guitarist Ani DiFranco. Not only is her self-run label Righteous Babe Records based here, but she’s also the mastermind behind the city’s newest and hottest venue, Babeville.

In the midst of all these riches, Buffalo’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered population has evolved over the fairly short period since Stonewall into a vibrant, active, proud, and diverse community. As more and more people have learned, Buffalo has much to offer; pay us a visit and we’ll treat you like royalty, too!

What’s Going On

Buffalo’s LGBT community is served by a number of publications, organizations, and websites providing a useful window into upcoming events as well as local and international news. The following have sites online, while hard copies can usually be found at area gay bars and at Talking Leaves
(3158 Main St. and 951 Elmwood Ave.) and Rust Belt Books (202 Allen St.)

about

http://www.aboutmag.com/main/
In addition to Buffalo, this monthly LGBT magazine covers Toronto, Cleveland, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and points in between, so the focus tends to be broad, but it’s a good way to get a sense of the entire region.

Artvoice

http://www.artvoice.com/
This free alternative weekly specializes in in-depth coverage of local politics and culture; it’s also an excellent way to learn about upcoming concerts, plays, exhibitions, and other events. The print edition—available in just about every establishment in Western New York—features a directory of LGBT organizations and a corresponding calendar of events.

BuffaloGayBars.com

http://www.buffalogaybars.com/
A detailed, one-stop guide to what’s going on in the bars, including nightly drink specials (the engine that seems to drive most local customers’ nightlife choices) and live entertainment.

Buffalo Rising

http://www.buffalorising.com/
While it exists as both a blog and a print publication, online is where it’s at for daily updates on happenings, personalities, and events in the city, with an occasional item of particular interest to LGBT readers. Plenty of restaurant reviews and arts previews, too.

Out and About

http://www.myoutandabout.com/NY/
This nationally franchised Yellow Pages-style directory exists both online (where you can find listings for the entire country, organized by state) and in print form. The regional version of the latter covers the state from Buffalo to the Hudson Valley. In both cases, you can find contact info for social organizations, religious groups, sports teams, and the like.

Outcome

http://outcomebuffalo.com/
Billed as “Buffalo’s Gay Newspaper,” and that pretty much covers it—an invaluable overview of LGBT Western New York. The online edition provides an easy way to find out about local gay/lesbian events before you hit town.

Pride Center of Western New York

http://www.pridecenterwny.org/
18 Trinity Place
(716) 852-PRIDE (7743)
Established in 2003, this community organization plays a key role in organizing events of its own and spreading the word about the work of other local LGBT groups. The Resources page on the Center’s website is a handy way to track down social organizations, churches, family services, sports teams, and much, much more, while the Events calendar is extensive and easy to navigate.

The Lay of the Land

ALLENTOWN

While gay men, lesbians, and bisexual and transgendered people can be found in every suburb, town, and village of Western New York, the majority of the action, in terms of residence, commerce, and nightlife, can be found in Allentown. (Strictly speaking, its borders are North Street to the north, Main Street to the east, Edward Street to the south, and Plymouth Avenue to the west.) Yes, the city’s oldest neighborhood—dating back to the 1830s—is also its gayest. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, Allentown plays host to stunning late-19th-century architecture, quaint shops, intimate restaurants and clubs, art galleries and performance venues, and much, much more. Meanwhile, the majority of the city’s gay and lesbian bars can be found on or very near Allen Street between Main and Delaware, making bar-hopping a breeze no matter what season you pay a visit.

For more on this fascinating, historic, and gay-friendly neighborhood, click here.

Two other sections of town you should check out even if you’re only in the area for a short time are adjacent to Allentown in either direction.

THE THEATER DISTRICT / DOWNTOWN

The 600 block of Main Street and a handful of adjoining streets play host to Buffalo’s thriving theater scene, which over the last decade has evolved into one of the most active in the country. Here you’ll find the fully restored former movie palace Shea’s Performing Arts Center, well worth a peek for its architectural detail even if you don’t catch a touring Broadway show; Buffalo United Artists, the city’s most gay-focused theater; and several other live venues. Here, too, is CEPA , a not-for-profit photography gallery long committed to LGBT-themed visual art, located among the shops of the turn-of-the-last-century Market Arcade complex. Just around the corner are Squeaky Wheel and Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, two internationally renowned arts organizations that have consistently programmed films, exhibitions, concerts, and other events by and about LGBT people, along with Babeville, the home of Ani DiFranco’s groundbreaking Righteous Babe Records and a thrilling new concert venue. The area also contains many inviting spots where you can grab a drink or a quick bite, or savor an elegant meal. As for the rest of downtown Buffalo, it’s essentially a living museum of world-class architecture; turn any corner and you’re guaranteed one visual delight after another, courtesy of the pre-eminent designers of the early twentieth century. (Much more on that subject can be found here.)

THE ELMWOOD VILLAGE AND BEYOND

From its origins downtown, into the heart of Allentown, on to Forest, straight through the Museum District, and out into the suburbs, Elmwood Avenue is one of Buffalo’s best-known and most-loved streets. A quick drive (or, if you’re without a car, a simple hop on the #20 bus; schedule available here) will give you an instant sense of the city’s vitality as you pass independently owned and operated clothing and gift shops, the Unitarian Universalist Church (a key site in the evolution of Buffalo’s LGBT community over the past two decades), the Lexington Food Co-op, excellent Greek and Mediterranean restaurants, the satellite location of Talking Leaves Books, H. H. Richardson’s dazzling towers for the former Buffalo Psychiatric Center, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and, just across the street, the Burchfield-Penney Art Center (on the grounds of Buffalo State College, home to one of the most active LGBT student groups in the area), and even—for you fashion mavens—the crown jewel of the city’s fabled thrift stores, the Amvets at 1833 Elmwood. The action continues for miles, but we’ll wrap up this quick overview as Elmwood intersects Hertel Avenue.

Roughly speaking, the area locals now refer to as “the Elmwood Village” (or sometimes “the Elmwood Strip”) extends from Bryant Street to the south to Forest Avenue to the north, and from Delaware Avenue to the east to Richmond to the west. Head off Elmwood itself onto any side street in the neighborhood and you’ll find glorious residential architecture (most of these home—with their original fixtures and breathtaking woodwork still intact—were purchased for a fraction of what they would cost in a larger city), lovingly tended gardens, and an infectious spirit of community pride. (That reminds us: you’ll also find more than a few Pride flags waving here and in Allentown, all year long.)

The Elmwood Village Association maintains an informative and constantly updated website with plenty of information about things to see and do in this gorgeous area that the American Planning Association recently designated one of the “10 Great Neighborhoods in America.”

TIPS FOR GETTING AROUND TOWN

Part of the glory of Buffalo is that it’s big enough to support a dizzying amount of activity, but small enough that you can generally get to any part of the city in 20 minutes or less. Morning and evening traffic is minimal compared to larger urban centers, and while the parking downtown and along Elmwood is starting to frustrate longtime locals as those areas grow more and more popular, anyone who has ever dealt with trying to find a space in Manhattan or L.A. will laugh at how convenient it remains.

A few quick tips for tourists:

• If you stand on a busy street hoping to hail a taxi, you’re probably going to be there a long, long time. Best to call one in advance.
• Depending on where you need to go and how long you’ll be here, renting a car may be your best bet. Bus and subway service is generally not as frequent as in some other cities, but it’s still an effective way to get around in many situations. You’ll want to consult the NFTA’s helpful website before taking public transportation for the first time if you’re not familiar with the city. If you’re visiting our fair city in the wintertime from some tropical paradise and are terrified about driving in what you surely fear will be a horrendous blizzard (hey, it does happen – though not nearly as often as most outsiders think), the bus and light rail system allows you to leave the tricky part to a skilled professional.
• Speaking of the subway (technically a light-rail rapid transit system), all the stops above ground (from the Theater District south) are free; you need a ticket if you travel on the underground section (from the Theater District north to the South Campus of SUNY Buffalo). While you’re at the stations, be sure to check out the inventive public art.
• Most of the LGBT-themed destinations mentioned in this website are within walking distance of each other; the gay bars in particular are within a couple of blocks of each other. The area is fairly well lit and populated at night, but—as in any unfamiliar city—you should avoid walking alone in possible, stick to the main streets, and pay attention. Allentown has its share of, let’s say, colorful characters, and not all of them have your best interests in mind. You shouldn’t have any problems, but it never hurts to be careful.
• One final note: bars in this town can stay open till 4 a.m. if they wish. While that makes for an interesting late-night scene, it also means that the action tends to get started later here than in cities with earlier closing times; many establishments don’t reach critical mass till midnight or later on the weekends.

48 Hours in LGBT Buffalo

Heading to Buffalo for the weekend, eh? Smart move! Regardless of the main purpose of your trip—business, pleasure, friends, family—be sure to allot some time to see the town, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised by how much the area has to offer lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgendered visitors.

BEFORE YOUR TRIP BEGINS

While there’s something — more likely several somethings — going on just about every weekend of the year, the specifics change constantly and are often hard to predict, so the best way to find out what’s going on while you’re here is to do some advance work online. The website for Outcome, the area’s gay newspaper, contains entertainment listings, while the site BuffaloGayBars is a handy guide to local nightlife. You’ll learn about even more upcoming events among the posts on the general-interest website Buffalo Rising, and if you want to do some in-depth research into dining options, try the interactive reviews at Bill Rapaport’s Buffalo Restaurant Guide.

FRIDAY NIGHT

If you’re looking for live entertainment, grab a copy of Artvoice, which comes out every Thursday, and Gusto, the entertainment supplement found in Friday’s Buffalo News when you first hit town. Both of these should prove very easy to track down no matter what neighborhood you’re in. While you’re browsing, you might note that ticket prices for concerts, plays, sporting events, and most other activities tend to be significantly lower here than in larger cities, and there’s certainly no shortage of options. For your first meal in a town rich with quality restaurants at every point on the economic scale, we’re going to recommend you spend Friday the way generations of Buffalonians have spent it: at one of the city’s seemingly infinite fish fries. A legacy of Buffalo’s Catholic roots, this tradition extends year-round (and if your trip happens to fall during Lent, expect a hefty wait for a table at the more popular establishments). You can partake of this meal in a working-class hole-in-the-wall or a swank upscale bistro, but for the purposes of today’s demonstration we’re sending you to Hamlin House (432 Franklin) for several reasons: the food is good, the building dates back to 1865, it’s in the heart of the Allentown neighborhood, and odds are excellent your gaydar is going to go off over and over as you look around the room. It’s friendly, it’s unpretentious, it’s classic Buffalo. After dinner—depending on what you’ve learned—you might trek up to the Albright-Knox (1285 Elmwood Ave., 716-882-8700) for their free weekly “Gusto at the Gallery” series, featuring an always-engaging mix of performances, films, guided tours, DJs, and all manner of other fun. Or stay downtown and catch the latest show from Buffalo United Artists, which since 1992 has produced both classics of gay theater and new works by gay and lesbian playwrights), or any of more than a dozen other professional theaters in the area. While in the Theater District, show-tune queens will want to seek out Michael Bennett Lane, named for the Buffalo-born creator of Dreamgirls and A Chorus Line, for a photo op. (It’s a tiny little passageway on the east side of Main Street between the Town Ballroom and the Market Arcade.) If you’re really into the bar scene, you can get a head start with a visit to Club Marcella, but there’ll be plenty of time for that tomorrow night.

SATURDAY

Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast at Betty’s (370 Virginia St.), a smallish but very lively café just off Elmwood boasting an extensive vegetarian menu (along with plenty of treats for carnivores) and rotating exhibitions by local artists. (This spot is even more popular for Sunday brunch, but we’ve got other plans for you tomorrow.) You’ll be fairly near Babeville (341 Delaware Ave.), Ani DiFranco’s newly opened multi-million-dollar concert venue, notable for its visual elegance and dazzling acoustics, so if you’re not planning to see a show there during the weekend, you can still get a good sense of the place. While you’re there, be sure to check out the latest exhibition at Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center in the rear of the building. It’s one of the longest-lasting artist-run organizations in the country, and its dedication to LGBT programming (visual art, film, video, music, and literature) dates back to the mid-80s. In the afternoon, take a walking tour to enjoy the many treasures of downtown (seeking out such landmarks as City Hall, Louis Sullivan’s Guaranty Building, and the Ellicott Square Building), the mansions along Delaware Avenue’s “Millionaire’s Row,” or the slightly more humble but equally impressive residences of Allentown. For an excellent self-guided tour, click here. If you really want to experience the full range of what Buffalo has to offer, splurge and make a dinner reservation for Rue Franklin (341 Franklin St.). “The Rue,” as it’s nicknamed, is just past Allentown at the edge of downtown and the Theater District. This upscale French restaurant was on the cutting edge of Buffalo’s now-thriving fine dining scene when it first opened over twenty years ago, and it’s still at the very top of the list, as glowing reviews in The New York Times and Esquire suggest. If you come in the summer, don’t miss the breathtaking courtyard. In the evening, try a concert, since live music is one of the things this city does best. Depending on your taste, that might be a performance by the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra at the acoustically flawless Kleinhans Music Hall, a touring indie act at Babeville or Town Ballroom (681 Main St.), or an up-and-coming alt-country band at Mohawk Place (47 East Mohawk, farther downtown). Perhaps your trip will even coincide with a performance by the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus, whose shows invariably sell out. Whatever your choice, grab a post-show drink and a bite to eat at Sample (242 Allen St.), a fun, innovative new Allentown stop where you order miniature versions of exquisitely prepared dishes. While you’re there, duck your head in the door at Nietzsche’s, one of many local venues where Ani D. honed her singing and playing skills in her teenage years; you’ll find it’s eternally a great place to catch both rising singer-songwriters and national touring acts. In Buffalo, the night is still young, because the bars don’t close till 4 a.m., so this is your chance, if you’re so inclined, to check out gay and lesbian nightlife. The names and locations of the half-dozen or so bars change from time to time, but the vast majority of them are located with walking distance of each other, in the general vicinity of Allen between Main and Delaware. Because they’re so close, you can pick and choose: a trendy martini at Fugazi (503 Franklin St.), a cold Labatt Blue on the back porch at Adonia’s (20 Allen St.), a little raunchy burlesque with the Stripteasers at Roxy’s (884 Main St.), whatever floats your boat.

SUNDAY

Don’t stay up too late Saturday night, because you’re starting the last day of your trip with a few laps around Delaware Park with the Buffalo chapter of the international Frontrunners/Frontwalkers gay/lesbian organization. This long-running group (pardon the pun) meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. (and Tuesdays at 6 p.m.) year-round at the snack stand on Meadow Road near Nottingham Court before tackling the oval-shaped track that takes joggers and walkers through one of the many parks Frederick Law Olmsted designed for the city when it was young. Afterward, you’re welcome to join the group for a bite to eat at a local diner, but we’re going propose that you make your way through or around an even prettier part of the park to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery (1285 Elmwood Ave.) for brunch at the museum’s restaurant, Muse, and a trip through the Albright’s world-class permanent collection of modern and contemporary art. From there, you’ve got a number of options: if you want to continue in museum mode, head across the street to the Burchfield-Penney Art Center (1300 Elmwood Ave., on the campus of Buffalo State College), whose focus is artists with a present or past connection to Western New York. Namesake painter Charles Burchfield looms large in the permanent collection, of course, but you’ll also find work by world-renowned contemporary artists including Cindy Sherman and Robert Longo, as well as sculpture, crafts, video, and an excellent series of short-term exhibitions. A short block away is the Buffalo & Erie County Historical Society (25 Nottingham Court). During your travels, take note that all three institutions contain extensive gift shops, perfect for souvenirs with local flavor. Speaking of shopping, another excellent option for the afternoon is a stroll and/or drive down Elmwood Avenue from the Albright back toward downtown. Among the more than 80 retail establishments between Forest Avenue and West Ferry you’ll discover home furnishings (Room, 988 Elmwood), clothes (Damsel in a Dress, 830 Elmwood), and even a combo of the two (Lu Modern, 504 Elmwood). For fine jewelry, don’t miss Aurum (487 Elmwood); book lovers will want to explore the well-stocked gay/lesbian section of Talking Leaves Books (951 Elmwood). You’ll spot approximately 40 restaurants on your travels, so make mental notes about places to return to on your next visit. Worked up an appetite yet? For the last meal of your stay, unless you’re a vegan, you just know you can’t leave town until you’ve had a dozen chicken wings in the city that made them famous, so head to the Anchor Bar (1047 Main near North), the very restaurant that made them what they are today, or Gabriel’s Gate (145 Elmwood), home to a particularly large and tasty variety. (Two notes: first, we don’t call ’em Buffalo wings around here; second, you can find extraordinary examples all over town, and everyone has his or her passionately defended favorites, so don’t hesitate to ask.) By now, you’ve surely got a plane to catch or a road to hit, and we’ve only scratched the surface. As you leave town, think about what you’ll do on your next trip to the area: In-depth investigations of Frank Lloyd Wright’s acclaimed Buffalo work? Day trips to Niagara Falls or maybe East Aurora, home of the Roycroft campus and the Arts and Crafts movement? Antiquing in Clarence? Tours of nearby wineries? The possibilities are endless!

What to See & Do

Festivals & Special Events

Buffalo loves a good party. From late May through mid-October, the streets of Western New York come to life with every conceivable kind of celebration—ethnic heritage festivals, free concerts, food fests, tours of local homes and gardens, and much, much more—and when the weather gets a little cooler, the action simply moves indoors! For the LGBT community, of course, the high point of the summer is Pride Week. This annual extravaganza gets bigger and better every year, growing to include theatrical presentations, concerts, lectures, workshops, and other special events, all capped off with a Dyke March on Saturday night and one of Buffalo’s best annual parades (starting at Kleinhans Music Hall and heading up Elmwood Avenue) on Sunday afternoon, followed by a giant gathering in Bidwell Park featuring both national and local performers. In recent years, the main festivities have taken place the first weekend of June, but the exact details do vary from time to time, so be sure to check the organizers’ website at www.pride-buffalo.org before planning your trip. One of the newest arrivals on the scene for gay men is the annual Bear Trap in early October. Organized by the Buffalo Bears, this three-day extravaganza attracts hundreds of men from throughout the Northeastern U.S. and Canada who converge on Buffalo to eat, drink, dance, and socialize. The first Saturday in December brings Women’s Gifts, one of the holiday season’s most fun activities for well over 10 years. This largely (but by no means exclusively) lesbian event celebrates the creativity of Buffalo’s women artists, craftspeople, and musicians. The location and lineup change from year to year, so check their website for updates.

OTHER EVENTS OF INTEREST

As we’ve suggested, there’s no shortage of reasons to celebrate around here. What follows are several additional annual summer and fall events, organized by month, that you may want to incorporate into your travels.

MAY-SEPTEMBER

Thursday at the Square
Every Thursday from Memorial Day to well beyond Labor Day from 5-9 p.m., tiny Lafayette Square downtown swells to the bursting point with a hugely popular free concert series featuring both national touring acts and local bands.

JUNE

Allentown Art Festival
Second weekend in June. One of the largest arts and crafts festivals in North America, right in the heart of the gayest neighborhood in the city.

Pride Weekend

First weekend of June.  Recognizes, celebrates and affirms the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people.  Festivities include the Dyke March and LGBT pride parade and celebration. 

JULY

Garden Walk
Last weekend of July. Free, self-guided tours of over 250 gardens throughout Allentown, the Elmwood Village, and surrounding neighborhoods.

JULY-AUGUST

Buffalo Infringement Festival
Last weekend of July through the first Sunday of August. Eleven-day grassroots celebration of “art under the radar,” including theater, dance, media, music, and much more, featuring both local and international artists, often with a strong queer presence.

AUGUST

Elmwood Festival of the Arts
Last weekend of August. The emphasis is on local artists, craftspeople, vendors, musicians, and dancers in this beloved end-of-summer tradition.

SEPTEMBER

Secrets of Allentown
Date varies. Tours throughout Allentown of the interiors of private homes and businesses not normally open to the public; the lineup changes every year and is kept a closely guarded secret until the event itself.

Curtain Up!
Date varies. The Theater District kicks off its new season with simultaneous openings and a giant street party on Main Street between Tupper and Chippewa.

Nightlife

The majority of Buffalo’s gay and lesbian bars are within a few blocks of the intersection of Main and Allen streets. Each has its own distinct flavor, drink specials, and specialty nights, but they all help to demonstrate why Buffalo is often called “The City of Good Neighbors.” For regularly updated reports of what’s going on where, check the Buffalo Gay Bars website.

Adonia’s

20 Allen St. 332-1205
Mostly women. Great back patio.
M-SA 3pm-4am SU 12pm-2am

Cathode Ray

26 Allen St. near North Pearl
884-3615
www.cathoderaybuffalo.com
Mostly men. Popular sidewalk patio.
M-SU 1pm-4am

Fugazi

503 Franklin St. near Allen
881-3588
Mostly men. Martinis, billiards, music videos.
M 5:30pm-2am TU-F 5pm-2am SA 8pm-2am SU 5pm-2am

Marcella Showclub & Lounge

622 Main St./150 Theater Place
847-6850
wwww.marcellashowclub.com
Mostly men. Dance music. Popular drag shows every Sunday.
W-SU 9pm-4am

Ms. Kitty’s

948 Main St.

332-0510
www.mskittysbuffalo.com
Mostly women. Drag kings, live music, specialty martinis.
TH 9:30pm-4am F 6pm-4am SA 9pm-4am

Q

44 Allen St. near Franklin
332-2223
Mostly men. Intimate space with a small stage.
M-F 3pm-4am SA-SUN 12pm-4am

Roxy’s

884 Main St.
885-3464
www.roxygirlsrock.com
Mostly women. Burlesque shows Thursday nights.
W-SA 6pm-4am

TABU ULTRA GAY LOUNGE

777 Main Street

(Sidway Building)

854-1942

Mostly men.  Dance floor. 

Underground

274 Delaware Ave.
853-0092
Mostly men. Dance floor.
M-SU 12pm-4am

Shopping

Whether you consider yourself a bargain-hunter, a trend-spotter, or an all-out shopaholic, we can keep you busy for days. For a more extensive guide to shopping in Western New York, click here—but just to whet your appetite, here’s a small sample of what the area has to offer.

Antiques

Buffalo is the kind of town antique hunters dream of: three distinct districts (Allentown, Hertel Avenue, and Clarence), an unending supply of vintage artifacts, and prices you would never find anywhere else.

Antique World & Market Place

10995 Main St., Clarence
716-759-8483
www.antiqueworldmarket.com
While it’s a good half-hour drive from the mostly downtown establishments mentioned here, this multi-vendor extravaganza is a must for antique hunters of every stripe. A few shops (and many others in the neighborhood) are open daily, but the full Antique World experience unfolds Sundays from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Coo Coo U.

1478 Hertel Ave.
716-837-3385
This longstanding shop—one of several along ever-growing Hertel Avenue—specializes in fun retro treasures.

Books

Talking Leaves

3158 Main St.
716-837-8554
951 Elmwood Ave.
716-884-9524
www.tleavesbooks.com
This independent bookstore, now in its third decade and encompassing two locations, has an extensive selection of gay/lesbian fiction and non-fiction, as well as poetry, literary criticism, political analysis, women’s studies, children’s books, magazines, and much, much more. (It’s also a great place to find out about events throughout the community.) The Elmwood location adjoins Caffe Aroma, a great spot for coffee, tasty treats, and people-watching.

Rust Belt Books

202 Allen St.
716-885-9535
This small, charmingly funky used bookstore on the main drag of Allentown boasts fresh stock on a regular basis. There’s a sizable gay/lesbian section, along with fiction, poetry, history, philosophy, and first editions, among others. Every bit as valuable as its contents, however, is the role the shop plays in the community; the tiny back room serves as a regular venue for live theater (including many works by queer playwrights and companies), readings, and activist organizations. Meanwhile, the front windows function as a one-stop way to find out what’s going on all over the neighborhood.

Old Editions Book Shop & Café

74 E. Huron
716-842-1734
www.oldedition.com
As the name suggests, the focus here is on collectible volumes, although the selection of used books is also extensive. Located near the southern edge of downtown, it’s a bit removed from the heart of the action, but book-lovers won’t mind the short trip (and the on-site café will provide a handy diversion for any non-bibliophiles tagging along).

Gifts (for others and/or yourself)

Neo

512 Elmwood Ave.
716-884-1119
After two decades as an Allentown mainstay, this highly regarded gift and contemporary home furnishings shop has recently relocated on the Elmwood Strip.

Positively Main Street

773 Elmwood Ave.
716-882-5858
Every square inch of this longtime Elmwood gift shop is packed with distinctive goodies you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.

Steel Crazy

191 Allen St.
716-885-6125
There’s no end to what the craftspeople here can do with metal. And iron art is only the beginning—there’s also a café with a wonderful courtyard and live music.

Music

New World Record

2304 Delaware Ave.
716-883-3472
www.newworldrecord.com
More than just CDs, this beloved independent music store offers knowledgeable (if not obsessive) staff, in-store concerts, and a wide selection of campy pop-culture-themed gifts.

Thrift Stores

If you’re a bargain hunter, Buffalo will prove a dream come true. Unlike other, larger cities where the best goods get cherrypicked before they even hit the racks (or you end up paying boutique prices for them), the plentiful thrift stores here offer true finds, often at rock-bottom prices. Bonus: If you visit in warmer months, every weekend offers an unending parade of yard sales, which you can identify either by scouring the classifieds in the Buffalo News or simply by hitting the side streets between Elmwood and Richmond Avenue.

Amvets

1833 Elmwood Ave.
716-873-7900
The yellow pages can steer you to nearly two dozen more, but if you’ve only got time for one thrift shop during your stay, this is your easiest and best bet. It’s huge, new stock arrives regularly, and the prices are terrific. (Lord knows how many local drag acts are repeat customers.)

Arts & Culture

Buffalo and its surrounding communities are blessed with a profusion of cultural and entertainment attractions of every sort. No matter what floats your boat, you’ll find it here. What follows is a mere sampling, highlighting institutions that frequently feature gay/lesbian content or are likely to be of interest to LGBT visitors. For a much more detailed exploration of the subject, click here.

Some of the highlights include CEPA Gallery (617 Main St., 856-2717). Photography and related media are front and center at this artist-run gallery. Queer artists and subjects have been featured many times over its three-decade history, with past shows examining such topics as bear culture and the lives of transgender people.

Contemporary visual art, literature, music, and media all have a dazzling home at Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center (341 Delaware Ave., 716-854-1694). This multi-arts center established in the mid-1970s and now based in Ani DiFranco’s Babeville features work by and about LGBT people. It is also notable for its long-running “Ways In Being Gay” biannual festival, a more recent transgender film series and far too many screenings, readings, performances, and exhibitions to list.

Squeaky Wheel/Buffalo Media Resources (712 Main St., 716-884-7172) is dedicated to grassroots film, video, and digital arts, “Squeaky” sponsors screenings and residencies by both local and visiting media artists, including many LGBT filmmakers from around the world. The organization also has a longstanding relationship with Gay and Lesbian Youth Services of WNY, teaching young people to tell their own stories with a camera.

Founded in 1975 and eventually evolving into one of the 10 largest literary centers in the country, Just Buffalo Literary Center (617 Main St., 832-5400) has played host to some of the most acclaimed authors in the world, in addition to nurturing the careers of Buffalo-based writers through numerous monthly reading series and workshops. LGBT writers have been part of the programming since the organization’s inception.

No account of Buffalo’s performing arts scene would be complete without mention of the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus. This extremely popular 90-member vocal ensemble, founded in 2001, takes its repertoire from classical, contemporary, pop, Broadway, and multi-cultural music. Shows are sporadic, so check the site for their schedule.

Buffalo’s vibrant and diverse theater community is also notable for the productions of Buffalo United Artists. Founded in 1992, this self-supporting collective has developed a devoted following for its productions of new and classic works by gay and lesbian playwrights, along with inventive re-workings of well-known shows, in various locations. In addition, New Phoenix Theatre on the Park (95 Johnson Park, 716-853-1334) features plays by gay writers as a regular component of its highly regarded seasons.

ALBRIGHT KNOX ART GALLERY

An outstanding center of modern and contemporary art, the Albright-Knox collection belongs among the world's top international surveys of 20th century painting and sculpture. Exhibitions and installations subject to change.
HOURS
Mon: Closed | Tues: Closed | Wed: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Thur: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Fri: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (Free 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.) | Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
ADDRESS
1285 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14222
(716) 882-8700
Website: http://www.albrightknox.org

BABEVILLE

Buffalo's already vibrant theater and performing arts scene received an infusion of new energy in 2006 when Ani DiFranco's Righteous Babe Records opened a state-of-the-art performance space in the former Asbury Delaware Church. Re-christened The Church (and now known as Babeville), this remarkable adaptive re-use of a Buffalo landmark dating from 1871 plays host to an eclectic array of performers and styles and provides another anchor to the city's burgeoning entertainment district. Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center shares the space and continues its tradition of presenting exhibits, film screenings and musical performances by the most adventurous and provocative artists working today.
ADDRESS
341 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 852-8020
Website: http://www.babevillebuffalo.com

BIG ORBIT SOUNDLAB

Big Orbit Soundlab is dedicated to the music, media and performance of Big Orbit Gallery. Presenting over 75 events per year, many utilizing non-traditional presentation methods, Soundlab challenges the status quo through its dedication to unconventional, genre-elusive and avant-garde work. Open for events only.
ADDRESS
110 Pearl Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 883-3209
Website: http://www.bigorbitgallery.org/soundlab

BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY BOTANICAL GARDENS (South Park Conservatory)

The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is the product of three extraordinary visionaries: landscaping architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, architects Lord & Burnham and botanist / plant-explorer John F. Cowell. The tri-domed glass, wood and steel building was designed by the premier conservatory designers of the time: Lord & Burnham, Co. from New York's Hudson Valley. When it was built in 1897-1899, it was one of the largest public greenhouses in the country.
HOURS
Mon: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Tues: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Wed: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Thur: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Fri: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
ADDRESS
2655 South Park Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14218
(716) 827-1584
Admission: Adults $6, students (with ID) and seniors (55+) $5, Children(6-13) - $3.00, Children under 6 and Garden Members are free.
Website: http://www.buffalogardens.com

BUFFALO GAY MEN'S CHORUS

The Buffalo Gay Men's Chorus is dedicated to producing vocal music of high quality in the rich tradition of men's choral singing. We sing to create harmony as we celebrate pride in the community and in ourselves. We seek through song not only to entertain, but to enlighten. Many concerts are presented throughout the year in various locations. Please visit the website for details.
ADDRESS
695 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14222
(716) 883-1277
Website: http://www.buffalogaymenschorus.com

BUFFALO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra enjoys a fine reputation around the world, especially among experienced musicians, composers and conductors. One will be hard pressed to find a major soloist who has not performed with the Philharmonic - from Jascha Heifetz to Itzhak Perlman, from Jennie Tourel to Jessye Norman, from Artur Rubinstein to Van Cliburn, from Danny Kaye to Yo-Yo Ma. The list of conductors is likewise impressive with names like Leonard Bernstein, Igor Stravinsky, Neville Marriner, Henry Mancini, Marvin Hamlisch and a host of others. Perhaps the Orchestra's greatest accomplishment is its contribution to the artistic life of Western New York, made possible by more than six decades of support from its dedicated patrons. The Orchestra has performed over a thousand Youth Concerts for more than two million students on the Niagara Frontier as well as many concerts at campuses across the United States. The Philharmonic averages more than 100 community performances each year bringing orchestral music to audiences throughout the region. The new season is filled with fascinating programs and performances designed to take you on a journey through time with music originating and inspired by locations throughout the world, including our own beloved Buffalo. All programming subject to revision. Please visit the BPO website for other exciting concerts and events.
ADDRESS
71 Symphony Circle
Kleinhans Music Hall
Buffalo, NY 14201
(716) 885-5000
(800) 699-3168
Website: http://www.bpo.org

BUFFALO UNITED ARTISTS

Since the Buffalo United Artists' first production in 1992, they have been making noise and setting precedents. Buffalo United Artists is a self-supporting collective of professional theater artists working constantly to create accessible, professional-quality theater consistent with the great passion we feel for our art. We do not shy away from controversy, nor do we direct our production choices towards mass appeal or popular opinion. We believe one of the greatest endeavors we can pursue is to use our craft to play an active and visible role in the service of our community. We aspire to present theater that entertains, enlightens, and captures the imagination.
HOURS
Mon: | Tues: | Wed: | Thur: | Fri: 8 p.m. | Sat: 8 p.m. | Sun: 7 p.m.
ADDRESS
All performances at Main Street Cabaret
672 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 886-9239
Website: http://www.buffalobua.org

BURCHFIELD-PENNEY ART CENTER

The Burchfield-Penney Art Center is a museum dedicated to the art and culture of Western New York, including the world's largest collection of works by Charles E. Burchfield. Exhibitions and programs include art and design from the Buffalo Niagara region, historic and contemporary. The new museum will open in November 2008.
HOURS
Mon: Closed | Tues: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Wed: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Thur: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Fri: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sun: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
ADDRESS
1300 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo State College
Buffalo, NY 14222
(716) 878-6011
Website: http://www.burchfield-penney.org

CEPA GALLERY

An internationally recognized arts center with eight galleries, an open access darkroom and state-of-the-art computer imaging facilities. CEPA curates exhibitions of contemporary photo-related art, commissions artists to produce new work, offers youth and adult workshops in photography and digital imaging, and changing exhibitions and multi-media public art installations.
HOURS
Mon: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Tues: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Wed: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Thur: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Fri: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sat: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Sun:
ADDRESS
617 Main Street, Suite 201
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 856-2717
Admission: Free admission
Website: http://www.cepagallery.org

DARWIN D. MARTIN HOUSE COMPLEX

Constructed between 1903 and 1905 as the home of Darwin and Isabelle Martin, the Martin House exemplifies Frank Lloyd Wright's "Prairie House" ideal and ranks as one of his finest residential works. Tours at the Martin House underscore how Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural genius is illustrated in timeless themes evident in his remarkable design: family, friendship, the meaning of home, and the American spirit as told through the story of Darwin D. Martin's patronage of America's greatest architect.
ADDRESS
125 Jewett Parkway
Buffalo, NY 14214
(716) 856-3858
Website: http://www.darwinmartinhouse.org

GRAYCLIFF ESTATE

Wright's masterpiece built between 1926-1927. Known as the "Jewel on the Lake," Graycliff was the summer residence of Isabelle and Darwin Martin from 1927 to the mid-40s. .With a complex of three buildings and lovely grounds designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, tours of the Graycliff Estate focus on the architectural innovations explored by Wright during the period of his most innovative work, and the friendship that arose between Wright and his clients. Set on a bluff overlooking Lake Erie, Graycliff is light, inviting and welcoming.
ADDRESS
6472 Old Lake Shore Road
Derby, NY 14047
(716) 947-9217
Website: http://www.graycliff.bfn.org

HALLWALLS CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER

Established in 1975, Hallwalls is renowned for its exhibitions of contemporary art, film and video screenings, live jazz, new music and performances. Hours also available by appointment.
HOURS
Mon: Closed | Tues: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Wed: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Thur: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Fri: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Sat: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Sun: Closed
ADDRESS
341 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 854-1694
Website: http://www.hallwalls.org

JUST BUFFALO LITERARY CENTER

Just Buffalo Literary Center's mission is to create and strengthen communities through the literary arts. Writing workshops, readings and guest speakers are just some of the events sponsored by the center.
ADDRESS
Market Arcade Building
617 Main Street, Suite 202A
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 832-5400
Website: http://www.justbuffalo.org/index.shtml

MARKET ARCADE FILM & ARTS CENTER

The Market Arcade Film and Arts Center is America's only publicly-owned eight-screen cinema and performance venue. We regularly show first-run and independent features, but our primary purpose is to provide our audiences with high-quality film series, screenings, festivals, and live theater. Regular series include the Buffalo Film Seminars, International Women's Film Festival, and the Western New York Black Film Festival.
HOURS
Mon: 4 p.m. -10 p.m. | Tues: 4 p.m. -10 p.m. | Wed: 4 p.m. -10 p.m. | Thur: 4 p.m. -10 p.m. | Fri: 4 p.m. -10 p.m. | Sat: 12 p.m. -10 p.m. | Sun: 12 p.m. -10 p.m.
ADDRESS
639 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14203
7168553022
Website: http://www.mafac.org

NEW PHOENIX THEATRE ON THE PARK

Founded in 1996, The New Phoenix Theatre On The Park has built its reputation on bold productions of new titles fresh from Off-Broadway and London, cutting-edge interpretations of the classics, and multi-disciplinary work. The mission is to present both classical and contemporary plays in ways that speak to the community, and to revitalize the neighborhood in which our historic theatre stands. Where else can you expect giant puppets, adult fare, modern classics, daring writing, bold off-Broadway plays or the London Fringe...and enjoy a glass of wine in an art gallery? Experience alternative, provocative theatre and our unique, shabby but chic hospitality.
ADDRESS
95 Johnson Park
Buffalo, NY 14201
(716) 853-1334
Email: newphnxtheatre@aol.com
Website: http://www.newphoenixtheatre.com

SHEA'S PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Located in the heart of downtown's Theater District, Shea's Performing Arts Center presents world-class Broadway productions featuring the best in music, dance, comedy, staging, costumes and special effects. Built in 1926 in the style of a European opera house, Shea's continues to entertain audiences with touring shows, concerts, opera, dance, organ concerts and children's shows. Tours also available by calling (716) 829-1166.
ADDRESS
646 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 847-0850
Website: http://www.sheas.org

SQUEAKY WHEEL

Media arts access center with micro-cinema for film and video screenings.
HOURS
Mon: | Tues: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Wed: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Thur: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. | Fri: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. | Sat: | Sun:
ADDRESS
712 Main Street
Lower Level
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 884-7172
Website: http://www.squeaky.org

Sports/Outdoors

Gay jocks and girljocks, take note: there’s no getting around the fact this is a football town. And a hockey town. And a town with a minor-league baseball team, and so on. But it’s not just spectator sports; there are plenty of opportunities to get down and dirty on the field of your choice—or ski the slopes, hike the Niagara Gorge, or try just about anything else you can think of. Click here to learn about the many ways Western New Yorkers make the most of the great outdoors (and the equally great indoors) during all four seasons.

If you’re willing to do a little advance work, take a quick gander at the listings here and you’ll find contacts for local gay/lesbian organizations devoted to softball, rugby, tennis, bowling, and volleyball, among many other sports. If you’re lucky, you may find a game during your visit.

Where to stay

You can find a much more extensive list of lodging options here, but the following hotels are centrally located in or near the heart of gay/lesbian Buffalo.

BEST WESTERN INN ON THE AVENUE

61 rooms; Rates $76-$150+
ADDRESS
510 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 886-8333
(888) 868-3033
Website: http://www.innontheavenue.com/

HAMPTON INN & SUITES

137 rooms; Rates $76-$125+
ADDRESS
220 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 855-2223
(800) 426-7866
Website: http://www.hamptoninnbuffalo.com/

HOLIDAY INN BUFFALO DOWNTOWN

167 rooms; Rates $76-$150+
ADDRESS
620 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 886-2121
(800) 465-4329

Where to Eat

You could easily devote a solid week to exploring the vast range of Buffalo eateries, from terrific hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurants and Greek diners to chic white-tablecloth bistros. Sure, you know about chicken wings, but how about our other regional specialties, like beef on weck or pierogi? How about “Texas hots” unlike anything you’re likely to find in the great state of Texas? Ever enjoyed a traditional Friday night fish fry? Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, Mexican, downhome barbecue, vegetarian—we’ve got ’em all, and then some. What follows is an extremely selective collection of popular gay-friendly favorites in the neighborhood. You’ll find lots more establishments throughout the city here. (FYI, there’s also a terrific user-driven, easily searchable site devoted to reviews of local restaurants; just click here to find establishments by neighborhood, name, or cuisine.) Bon appetit!

ALLENTOWN

Same-sex couples will surely feel comfortable in any of these establishments—although it should be noted that’s the case in just about any restaurant in the neighborhood.

Betty's

370 Virginia St.
716-362-0633
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a colorful neighborhood stop. Plenty of meatless options, lots of art on the walls, and a lovely patio.
TU 8am-9pm W-F 8am-10pm SA 9am-10pm SU 9am-3pm (brunch only)

Fiddle Heads

62 Allen St.
716-883-4166
www.fiddleheads.us
An intimate perennial favorite for creative American dinner entrees and fine wines.
TU-SA 5-10pm F-SA bar open until 2am

Mother's

33 Virginia Pl.
716-882-2989
You can’t go wrong with this combination of elegantly presented food and casual atmosphere—and when you’re looking for a bite after midnight, Mother’s is unparalleled.
M 12-3pm/5pm-3am TU-SA 5pm-3am SU 5pm-12am

North

140 North St.
716-884-3106
This new addition to the Allentown scene, located in the basement of the Lenox Hotel, has quickly become a gay favorite, both for drinks and full meals.
Reservations are recommended on weekends.
SU-TH 11am-10pm F-SA 11am-11pm

Sample

242 Allen St.
716-883-1675
As the name suggests, the portions are intentionally tiny ($2-4 for a bite-sized serving of some ingeniously miniaturized gourmet treats); the mixed drinks are equally innovative and fun.

Scarlet

26 Virginia Pl.
716-884-2630
www.scarletonvirginia.com
Unleash your inner O’Hara at this beautifully designed restaurant and wine bar.
M-SU 4pm-1am (bar open later)

THEATER DISTRICT

There’s no shortage of dining options downtown; the following suggestions will all make perfect complements to an evening of theater or live music. Most also include private rooms for parties and meetings.

Bijou Grille

643 Main St.
716-847-1512
www.bijougrille.com
An old standby for upscale casual dining just across the street from Shea’s Performing Arts Center.
M 11am-3pm TU-SU 11am-11pm

Buffalo Chop House

282 Franklin
716-842-6900
www.buffalochophouse.com
Prime steaks and fine wines in a classic downtown building.
M-SU 4-11pm

The Chocolate Bar

114 West Chippewa St.
716-332-0484
www.buffalochocolatebar.com
Chocolate’s the theme here, incorporated in everything from fondue to martinis, but you’ll also find (cocoa-free) salads, panini, and other light fare.
M-W 11am-12am TH-SA 11am-3am SU 3-10pm

Laughlin's

333 Franklin St.
716-842-6700
www.laughlinsrestaurant.com
Three floors of dining with the flavor of New Orleans.
SU-TH 11am-11pm F-SA 11am-1am

Spot Coffee

227 Delaware Ave.
716-332-2299
www.spotcoffee.com
This popular coffeehouse and a second location at 752 Elmwood Ave. offer light fare and terrific people-watching.
M-TH 6am-11pm F 6am-12am SA 7am-12am SUN 7am-11pm
(Elmwood hours are similar; open an hour later on weekends)