Cheap Car Hire Buffalo International Airport New York State
Welcome to Buffalo Niagara International Airport!
Planning a trip to Buffalo or the surrounding Niagara region? Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is your gateway to exploring this vibrant city and nearby attractions like Niagara Falls, just 30 minutes away. Located 10 miles east of downtown of the city of Buffalo in Cheektowaga, Buffalo Niagara International Airport is the main airport for Western New York and a convenient arrival point for travelers heading to the border with the vast landscape of Canada. Buffalo Niagara International Airport has served the region since 1926, growing into one of the busiest airports in the whole of New York State, handling over 4 million passengers annually. The airport features a single terminal with 24 gates across two concourses (A and B), offering domestic flights through major carriers like Southwest, Delta, American Airlines, United, and JetBlue. While it doesn’t have direct international flights, travellers can connect easily to the nearby Canadian Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) for global destinations. The airport offers a range of services to ensure a comfortable experience.Â
Food options include local favourites like the Anchor Bar (home of Buffalo wings) and national brands like Starbucks and Subway. Free high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and business services are available throughout the terminal. Families can make use of the designated kids’ play area. A car rental facility is conveniently located on-site, with counters for top companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget. A rental car is the best option for exploring Buffalo and beyond, with easy access to major highways like I-90, I-190, and Route 33. A car opens up endless possibilities in Buffalo and the Niagara region. In downtown Buffalo, explore landmarks like Canalside, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, and the revitalised waterfront. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House is a masterpiece of architecture not to be missed. At the Albright-Knox Art Museum, enjoy world-class collections of modern and contemporary art. The stunning pounding cascades of the Niagara Falls - one of the most jaw-dropping natural spectacles in the whole of the USA - is just a short drive north. For Canadian visitors, the nearby Rainbow Bridge provides easy access to the attractions of Ontario.
Driving in Buffalo
Driving through Buffalo offers a captivating mix of urban landscapes coupled with the natural beauty of rugged New York State. From the window of your hire car, you’ll see the city’s historic architecture, such as the Art Deco Buffalo City Hall and the intricate designs of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House. Along Delaware Avenue, stately mansions and tree-lined streets showcase Buffalo’s rich history and charm. Heading towards the waterfront, the sparkling expanse of Lake Erie comes into view. The revitalised Canalside district features parks, walking trails, and public art installations. Further along the shore, the Niagara River flows with a tranquil yet powerful presence, offering glimpses of Canada on the opposite bank. Driving the Niagara Scenic Parkway towards Niagara Falls, you’re surrounded by lush greenery and open vistas that hint at the thundering falls ahead. Buffalo’s proximity to nature means you’ll often spot wildlife during your drive. Along forested routes, white-tailed deer may graze near the roadside. Eastern grey squirrels dart across parkways, while red-tailed hawks circle above. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate sightings of the great blue heron and the occasional bald eagle, particularly in the wetlands near Tifft Nature Preserve and Beaver Island State Park. As you explore South Buffalo, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and farmland, with colorful wildflowers in the warmer months. During fall, the city’s parks, including Delaware Park and Chestnut Ridge, come alive with vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Winter drives showcase snow-draped scenery, with frozen rivers and icicle-adorned trees creating a magical tableau.
Driving through Buffalo provides a unique opportunity to witness the harmony of an urban environment deeply connected to its natural surroundings, offering unforgettable views in every season. Don’t miss Letchworth State Park (1.5 hours), known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” or Finger Lakes (2 hours), famous for its scenic wineries and glacial lakes. Canada’s buzzing city of Toronto (2 hours), is perfect for a day of international exploration. The airport connects seamlessly to I-90 (New York State Thruway) and I-190. Winter driving conditions can be challenging; check weather forecasts and drive cautiously. Parking in Buffalo is affordable, with ample options downtown and at major attractions. Enjoy the ride!
Tips and FAQs
Buffalo’s peak travel times coincide with events like the National Buffalo Wing Festival and summer visits to Niagara Falls. Book your rental car early to ensure availability and the best rates. Most car hire companies operate on a full-to-full fuel policy. Refuel at nearby stations like Sunoco on Aero Drive before returning your car. Inspect your car for damages before leaving the lot and keep the car hire company’s roadside assistance contact handy. Many routes use EZ-Pass for tolls. Check if your rental car includes an EZ-Pass transponder or pay tolls manually.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
Location: Cheektowaga (10 miles east of Buffalo)
Terminals: One terminal with two concourses (A & B)
Annual Passengers: Over 4 million
Car Rental Facility: On-site, near the baggage claim area
Nearest Gas Station: Sunoco on Aero Drive, less than 2 miles from the airport
Major Highways: I-90, I-190, Route 33
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