Less than two hours from Toronto, Buffalo has long been a popular U.S. shopping destination for Canadians in the GTA and Southwestern Ontario. Offering a great mix of bargains, big box favourites and independent boutiques, Buffalo has something for every shopper — not to mention some tasty pit stops for re-fueling after a long day at the mall.
The malls
Walden Galleria is Buffalo’s biggest shopping destination, just 10 minutes from the Peace Bridge. With over 200 stores — including department stores like Macy’s, JCPenney and PRIMARK — it’s a paradise for fashion lovers and bargain hunters alike. Whether you’re planning a full-day spree or just popping in for some legendary U.S. retail therapy, the Galleria’s got you covered.
Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, USA is just minutes from the border and offers roughly 120 brands at outlet pricing. It’s one of the country’s largest indoor outlet malls, perfect for snagging finds you won’t see elsewhere in Western New York.
Boulevard Mall is a must-visit for Canadians craving U.S.-only stores like Target, Trader Joe’s and Nordstrom Rack. This large outdoor mall has all three … plus much more, if you have the time and energy after grabbing bargains at Bullseye’s Playground or stocking up on iconic salad dressing, hair masks or Everything But The Bagel Seasoning.
The community shopping
Buffalo shopping trips usually revolve around malls and not-in-Canada chains. But if you’re up for something different, there are several neighbourhoods with unique, independent boutiques – along with galleries, cafes and restaurants – worth checking out.
Elmwood Villagehas been named as one of the country’s best neighbourhoods, thanks to its range of local shops, vibrant cafés and an open-air farmers market that’s a 20+ year Western New York tradition. Located in central Buffalo and considered one of the area’s best-kept secrets, Elmwood Village is a recommended stop if you’re in the market for something unique and a cool vibe.
Hertel Avenue is a great example of Buffalo’s comeback, blending new stores and restaurants with the neighbourhood’s established businesses. Featuring luxury department stores, cool record shops and handmade jewelry, a walk along Hertel Avenue is a stimulating shopping experience.
Allentownis the spot for artisanal treasures, street fashion, and a dose of Bohemian vibe — plus a gallery visit or two along the way. With its artistic flair and creative buzz, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to take your time exploring.
The food
Buffalo has a few famous culinary classics you won’t want to miss on your shopping trip across the border. From wings to hotdogs to pizza, it’s not hard to find regional specialties to fill you up after a long day on your feet.
Wings are serious business in Buffalo, and there are some rules to follow. First, and most importantly, don’t call them Buffalo Wings (they’re just “wings” here); request blue cheese instead of ranch, and order them medium. The Anchor Bar is known to have served the first batch and is still a favourite among locals, as is Gabriel’s Gate in Allentown, Nine-Eleven Tavern and Duff’s Famous Wings.
Beef on Weck is Buffalo’s longtime favourite sandwich. This carved roast beef delight on a salted hard roll with caraway seeds is rumoured to be only found in Buffalo. Some of the most popular spots to grab one include Schwabl’s, Bar-Bill Tavern and Charlie The Butcher.
Buffalo Style Pizza is a cross between Chicago deep dish and New York thin slice. You can find floppy, two-handed slices at renowned pizza joints Bob and John’s La Hacienda, Bocce Club Pizza and Imperial Pizza, to name a few.
Hot Dogs in Buffalo are grilled on an open bed on charcoal. Ted’s Hot Dogs, with eight locations in the Buffalo area and serving dogs since 1927, is the go-to spot! But plenty of stands crank out classic hot dogs, fries and shakes to satisfy your craving.
From glossy malls to creative neighbourhoods, Buffalo doesn’t disappoint as a U.S. shopping destination. Just a hop across the border and a reasonable drive from Toronto, it’s no wonder Buffalo remains a shopping hot spot for Canadians looking for deals — or just something different.
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