Kate Bartlett
Saturday, September 28th marks the 5th annual Doors Open Buffalo. 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 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. “We’re excited to showcase Downtown Buffalo, it’s rich history and impressive architecture.”
Four new buildings will be open to the public this year: The Statler, Guaranty Building, Buffalo School of Culinary Arts, Michigan Street Baptist Church, 50 Fountain Plaza, Five Points Framing, The Sinclair Apartments, and Starlight Studio. Explore Buffalo has partnered with Douglas Development to open the doors of The Statler (first floor ballrooms), a building that many people have a connection with. The Guaranty Building, located at 140 Pearl Street, offers an extraordinary look into Buffalo architecture and design, with their impressive lobby and Interpretive Center. The Buffalo School of Culinary Arts is a recent construction of an old stable house transformed into the culinary center for Buffalo Schools. This site will offer cookie decorating for kids, along with the rare chance to view this adapted and expanded space. The Michigan Street Baptist Church returns this year to showcase their recent construction towards stabilizing this great house of worship. “We’re so excited to have these buildings open to the public this year. They each offer something unique and historic to our great city of Buffalo,” says Brad.
Explore Buffalo is introducing Quieter Hours to better accommodate those with sensory sensitivity from 9-10am. Four buildings (WNY Book Arts, Central Library, Gold Dome Band, and Ciminelli Headquarters) will open early during quiet hours with anticipated lower crowds and less sensory stimulation.
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. “We’ve provided these routes in order to help people plan their day. It can be overwhelming to choose between the 35 sites, so we hope this makes it a bit easier.” The routes are merely suggestions, and not required. Anyone can visit anywhere at any point during Doors Open between 10am-4pm.
Suggested routes include the Family Friendly Trail, Classic Buffalo featuring well-known landmarks, House of Worship featuring churches and places of worship, and What’s New Downtown featuring recently renovated or rethought spaces in the city. Several buildings will have hands-on activities including the Central Library and the old-fashioned printing press at the WNY Book Arts Center.
Only two locations require timed ticket entry: The Nash Building and Big Ditch Brewing. “Both locations are limited on size,” says Brad. “The timed ticket entry allows for ideal flow of guests without overcrowding. Tours are guided and will offer an in-depth look into each location.” The Buffalo Convention Center will serve as the main hub, but guests are welcome to start at any location, with maps available at any participating building.
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 their sponsors, including presenting sponsor Ciminelli Real Estate, al-lowing 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.”