Buffalo Niagara's location across the Niagara River from Canada made it one of a handful of final destinations on the Underground Railroad and an important center of African American culture. Visitors to the region will find many vestiges of the Underground Railroad at sites such as the Michigan Street Baptist Church (Michigan Ave. near Broadway), the oldest structure in the area continuously occupied by African Americans; Murphy Orchards (2401 McClew Rd., Burt, NY), a farm that served as a safe house and remains virtually the same as it was 150 years ago; and Broderick Park (W. Ferry St. and Niagara St.) on the Niagara River which was a major crossing point into Canada.

Tours of the region's Underground Railroad sites may be arranged through Motherland Connextions.

Among the cultural institutions dedicated to African American culture and history are: the Langston Hughes Institute (25 High St.), including the Kush Museum of African and African-American heritage and antiquities; the African-American Cultural Center (350 Masten Ave.) which houses the Paul Robeson Theatre, an African World Studies Archives, The Paul Robeson Children's/Adult Theatre Workshop Ensemble, and three African Dance Performing Companies; and the Ujima Theatre Company (545 Elmwood Ave.), one of the oldest African-American theater companies in the country.

Also worth checking out is the legendary Colored Musician's Club (145 Broadway). Located on Broadway near Michigan downtown, the CMC has been a hangout for local and visiting jazz musicians since the time of Louis Armstrong. There's an open jam every Sunday night and the atmosphere exudes the smoke-filled history of America's classical music. Ring the bell and get buzzed up to the second floor for a truly original Buffalo nightlife experience.

Juneteenth, the annual celebration of African-American culture, takes place in June each year at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. You'll find ethic food, dance, music and more.

The Gospel Festival is held annually at Johnny B. Wiley Sports Pavilion at Jefferson and Best Streets. For information, call 716-855-1569

And for a taste of satisfying soul food, try GiGi's Restaurant at 257 E. Ferry Street.