Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, field trips through Explore Buffalo to some incredible Western New York landmarks just became much more affordable for schools and students.
A $15,000 donation to Explore Buffalo’s Education Program will increase opportunities for students at Title 1 schools to schedule tours over the next three years at greatly reduced prices.
“We are grateful for this generous support, which helps remove financial barriers and allows more students to experience the educational opportunities Buffalo has to offer,” said Lori DeMaria, education director at Explore Buffalo.
The following Explore Buffalo field trips provide exciting opportunities for students of all ages:
Delaware Park: Explore History, Landmarks and Art
Available May-October
Students will enjoy Buffalo’s beautiful Delaware Park while experiencing its natural beauty, architectural landmarks and captivating art. Students will hear about the park’s history, the exterior art installations, as well as the architectural significance and history of the Buffalo History Museum and the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. Get an up-close look at nature as you walk along the Japanese Garden, cross the Bridge of the Three Americas, and view Hoyt Lake. Groups can take advantage of the playground and picnic tables and have lunch in the park after their tour has finished.
Cost: $8 per student
Tour is appropriate for grades 1-12.
60-minute tours available on Monday, Thursday and Friday.
Maximum group size: 60 students.
Canalside with a Ride on the Solar-powered Buffalo Heritage Carousel
Available May-October
Solar-powered Buffalo Heritage Carousel
This tour takes students through the vibrant Canalside area to discuss the history of the Erie Canal and see some additional important sights including the exterior of Naval ships, Memorial Park, the Commercial Slip, Shark Girl and the Replica Canals. Please note that during fall tours, carousel rides are only available on Fridays.
Cost: $9 per student
60-minute tours: Recommended for K-2nd grade and special needs classes.
75-minute tours: All groups.
Groups of 60 students and above can schedule Monday through Friday.
Groups smaller than 60 can schedule Wednesday through Friday.
Maximum group size: 120 students.
This tour and the carousel are fully wheelchair accessible.
Hertel Avenue Murals
Explore the creativity and culture of Buffalo through a vibrant, welcoming experience in Hertel’s Mural Alley. This inclusive tour highlights the colorful public art tucked just off Hertel Avenue, where murals transform everyday spaces into powerful storytelling canvases.
Cost: $8 per student
Groups can schedule Monday through Friday.
Buffalo City Hall
Available year-round, this interior walking tour introduces students to Buffalo’s beautiful Art Deco masterpiece. Students learn about different levels and responsibilities of government with visits to Council Chambers, the Mayor’s office, the Treasury Room and the lobby with it’s amazing art. The beautiful Observation Deck with a 360-degree view of Buffalo is included. Please note that Observation Deck access is at the discretion of City Hall. The Observation Deck requires three flights of stairs and is not handicapped accessible.
Cost: $8 per student
Limited to grades 3 and above.
This is a 60-minute tour.
Group size limited to 50 students – no exceptions.
Silo City Ground
Available May-October
Students will experience the monumental scale of the grain elevators constructed in Buffalo in the first half of the 20th century and see how they are now being repurposed. On this guided walk around the grounds of Silo City, students will learn about the history of the grain trade in Buffalo and the development of the grain elevator, including the construction methods used to build such massive structures. Students will learn about how the Silo City campus is being creatively used for arts and culture today and see the redevelopment of some of the historic buildings currently in progress.
Cost: $10 per student
This walking tour is 90 minutes.
Limited to grades 10-12 – no exceptions.
Group size limited to 50 students – no exceptions.
For more information, please visit https://explorebuffalo.org/school-tours/ or contact Education Director Lori DeMaria at (716) 245-3032, ext. 204 or ed************@************lo.org.
Explore Buffalo is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization with a mission of promoting Buffalo and Western New York history, architecture and neighborhoods. Through docent-led tours, speaker programs and events, Explore Buffalo inspires greater appreciation and understanding of our community’s heritage and sense of place for thousands of students, visitors and residents each year.
