Buffalo Niagara International Airport
Buffalo, US · Approximately 11 km (7 mi) east of downtown Buffalo
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Limousine Private car service · /X | /X | /X |
| Buffalo Niagara International Airport Taxi Stand Taxi · On demand | 20-25 min to downtown Buffalo | $30-40 |
| Greyhound Downtown Buffalo Station connection Intercity bus via local transi · /X | /X | /X |
| Hotel Courtesy Shuttles Shuttle · Every 20-60 min (varies by hotel) | 5-15 min to nearby airport hotels | Free |
Insider notes
You can often breeze from curb to gate in under 20 minutes outside peak early-morning and Sunday evening periods.
Favor BUF as a connection point during snow season; its ops team often handles snow better than larger NE airports.
Meet for meals pre-security at Lake Erie Grill; it's a regular meetup spot given the airport's layout and ease of parking.
Welcome
Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) stands out as more than just a local hub; it's a savvy cross-border option for many Canadian travelers. With numerous passengers driving down from Southern Ontario, BUF caters to road-trippers with easily accessible parking, a straightforward layout, and notably quick curb-to-gate times. When winter storms hit the Northeast, BUF's snow operations keep it running smoothly, often maintaining schedules when larger airports falter.
At a glance
Handling approximately 3.95 million passengers annually, BUF operates with a single terminal, making navigation simple for travelers. Located just 11 km (7 mi) east of downtown Buffalo, it serves as a strategic point for flights with airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. The airport is well-equipped for its size, with a range of dining, shopping, and transport options.
Terminals & layout
Located in the Buffalo Niagara International Airport Terminal, you'll find all the necessary amenities within a compact space. Airlines operating here include major carriers like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. The terminal's design supports quick transitions with minimal hassle, a feature frequently appreciated by frequent flyers. The proximity of parking facilities and efficient security screenings make for an easy arrival and departure experience.
Getting to and from the city
The airport's proximity to downtown Buffalo ensures transport options are varied and accessible. Local buses like the NFTA Metro Bus Route 24 Genesee provide a longer but economical ride to the city, with journeys taking 45-60 minutes. For quicker trips, taxi services typically cost $10-15, while rideshares such as Uber and Lyft often complete the journey in about 20 minutes. If you’re looking for convenience at a slightly higher fare, a private car service like Buffalo Limousine can be pre-arranged.
Traveller essentials
Parking at BUF is tailored to accommodate various traveler needs, with the Daily/Hourly Garage at $23/day for quick visits, and Long-Term Parking at an economical $9/day for extended stays. Preferred Parking and the Economy Lot provide further options, and a Cell Phone Lot exists for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers. For a quick travel fix, vending machines are scattered throughout, ensuring 24/7 access to snacks and drinks.
Dining & shopping highlights
Pre-security, dining options include Buf Bar and Lake Erie Grill, offering a taste of local favorites before passing through TSA. Post-security, travelers can enjoy Tim Hortons Cafe and Bake Shop, a hit especially with the Canadian crowd for a quick breakfast option. For shopping, The Market on Elmwood is a standout for its local-leaning selection of snacks and souvenirs. If you crave something more typical, visit Hudson for essentials, or explore Anchor Bar for a genuine Buffalo vibe.
Lounges
The Club BUF, situated in the Main Terminal, offers a respite for travelers seeking comfort away from the bustling gates. At an entry fee of $40, it provides a calming environment with complimentary snacks, drinks, and internet access, making it a worthwhile stop for those with longer layovers.
Insider tips
- Time: You can often breeze from curb to gate in under 20 minutes outside peak early-morning and Sunday evening periods.
- Winter: Favor BUF as a connection point during snow season; its ops team often handles snow better than larger NE airports.
- Local: Meet for meals pre-security at Lake Erie Grill; it's a regular meetup spot given the airport's layout and ease of parking.
- Money: BUF, with its lower fares and Southwest/JetBlue flights, is a cost-efficient option versus YYZ for Canadians.
- Avoid: Early morning and Sunday evening lines; these are the bottlenecks for security, not check-in.
- Quiet: Relax at Satterfield's Bar & Lounge; it's usually less crowded and offers more seating than other spots.
- Insider: Remember, border traffic can be worse than airport lines during U.S. holidays or game days—plan ahead.