By Kate Bartlett
This Saturday, September 20th marks the 6th annual Doors Open Buffalo from 10am-4pm. Organized by Explore Buffalo, this free, family-friendly event encourages the exploration of buildings and historic landmarks in and around the Queen City of Buffalo. The event grants the unique opportunity of access to buildings that are not typically open to the public, aiming to connect more people with Buffalo’s history and architecture.
This year, Explore Buffalo has 35 buildings with their doors open for public access for the event. While most buildings are self-guided, docent volunteers will be readily accessible at each location to answer any questions and help direct guests. “We’re thrilled to have so many wonderful participating locations this year,” remarks Brad Hahn, Executive Director of Explore Buffalo. “Every year we aim to change things up a bit and add more buildings, keeping the event new and exciting.”
Explore Buffalo is highlighting the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, including the commemorative replica Seneca Chief Boat that will embark on its journey across New York on the Erie Canal on September 24th, less than a week after the event. “We are excited to have a lot of participating buildings in and around Canalside this year, including Explore and More Children’s Museum, the 36th floor of Seneca One, the Waterways of Change exhibit at the Longshed Building, as well as the Seneca Chief boat itself.”
While most buildings are open all day, some do require timed and/or ticketed entry, in which online registration is required. These buildings include Explore and More, the 36th floor of Seneca One, and Nash House Museum. “We encourage guests to go online and do a little research into the buildings they’re interested in visiting in order to make the most of their day,” advises Brad. “We remind everyone that the goal isn’t to see all 35 buildings in one day, but rather to select a few and enjoy their time appreciating the space.” Most visitors average 5-8 buildings during Doors Open, but are advised to keep track of other buildings they’re interested in to visit at later date, or during next year’s event.
Some of the theatres in Buffalo will be open, a reminder that the beginning of theatre season is just around the corner. Many buildings will have opportunities to explore the many events and opportunities they host throughout the year, such as WNY Book Arts, which hosts many workshops and classes year-round.
Explore Buffalo has again organized suggested routes for convenience and interest purposes. These routes are designed to help visitors maximize their time and to help their day flow. Suggested routes include a family-friendly route, with many participating locations featuring kids activities, and the Erie Canal Trail. The routes are merely suggestions and not required. Anyone can visit anywhere at any point (unless tickets are required) during Doors Open between 10am-4pm.
Doors Open will again feature a dedicated quiet hour for visitors with sensory needs from 9-10am, inviting guests to enjoy a sensory-friendly environment before the crowds arrive. Locations include the Central Library, including the Buffalo Presidential Center, and the Hotel Lafayette.
Several restaurants will be open outside of normal business hours to accommodate visitors. “It’s a great opportunity to support local and check out a new restaurant, café, or coffee shop in our great city. Take advantage of the occasion and make a day of it; there’s an eclectic variety of establishments to choose from.” Explore Buffalo has comprised a map of nearby restaurants that will be open during the event.
Explore Buffalo is grateful for the support of event sponsors that allow them to keep the event free to the public. “We couldn’t do this without the support of our sponsors, as well as the community and participating buildings. It’s going to be another great year.”
Brad encourages everyone to come out and take advantage of this unique opportunity in downtown Buffalo. “Explore Buffalo is a great way to spend a beautiful fall day in Buffalo hopefully while discovering something new in our great city. Our mission is to inspire people Explore Buffalo, learn about our city, and take advantage of the many year-round events happening here.”
The event is rain or shine, and while the event is free, online registration is encouraged prior to the event. For more information visit https://explorebuffalo.org/doorsopenbuffalo/. Also follow Explore Buffalo and watch for upcoming events throughout the year as they offer a wide variety of tours year-round in Buffalo and its surrounding suburbs.