Last updated: 7/10/2013
Buffalo, New York
Address
1 Museum Court
Buffalo, NY 14216

Hours

Museum and Museum Shop Hours
Monday
closed
Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday
10 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday
10 AM - 8 PM
Sunday
12 PM - 5 PM
Free Parking adjacent to the museum, handicapped accessible. Museum admission is not required to shop in the Museum Shop.
Resource Center - Open by appointment only during business hours
Spirit of the City, the History Museum’s 3000 square foot feature exhibit showcasing the Pan-American Exposition, and our Collection’s Storage areas populate the Resource Center. In the 1990s, the History Museum acquired and renovated the streetcar repair barn (circa 1895) located at 459 Forest Avenue.
Monday - Friday
10 AM - 5 PM
Call 716.873.9695 ext. 302.
Research Library Hours
Wednesday - Saturday
1 AM - 5 PM
Sunday - Tuesday
closed
Treasures abound in our Research Library - a leading destination for Buffalo history researchers.

Admissions

Adults: $7
Seniors (over 60): $5
Members: free
Children (7 - 12): $2.50
Children under 7: Free
Students (13 - 21): $5

Museum Type(s)

Staff

Melissa Brown
phone:
Cynthia Van Ness
phone: 716-873-9644 x306
Description

The Buffalo History Museum annually presents a wide array of programs, exhibits, tours, outdoor events, and activities for all ages that utilize many of these resources to tell the stories of both ordinary and extraordinary people of Western New York.

The Buffalo History Museum is a private not-for-profit organization tax exempt under Sec. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. It receives operating support from the County of Erie, the City of Buffalo, the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA, a state agency), and from members and friends. The Buffalo History Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

Mission

To maximize the educational potential for our community's vast resources and abundant narratives through innovative programming, partnerships and collaborations; to share, preserve and add to our outstanding collections to tell the stories of Western New York, from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

History

Since 1862, The Buffalo History Museum (formerly known as the Buffalo and County Historical Society) has been Western New York's premier historical organization, serving to collect, research, interpret, and share the Niagara Frontier's rich history. Its collections include more than 100,000 artifacts, 200,000 photographs, and 20,000 books.

Facilities
Museum Grounds

From the Museum's expansive portico behold the stunning views of Delaware Park, Mirror Lake, and the Japanese Peace Garden. The tranquil, flowing, natural design makes it a haven for visitors from all over and Buffalo residents who want to take a break from city life. The picturesque park land is freely accessible to the public.

Governance

The Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society (BECHS) is a private not-for-profit organization tax exempt under Sec. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. It receives operating support from the County of Erie, the City of Buffalo, the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA, a state agency), and from members and friends. BECHS is accredited by the American Association of Museums.

Library
Access: General Public, Students, Scholars, Members
Appointment required: No
Services
Group and Educational Tour Information

Docent-led and self-guided tours of permanent and special exhibits are available to groups of all ages and abilities. Fees do apply and reservations are required. please see our website for details.

Wedding Receptions and Other Special Events

The History Museum may be used for weddings and other special occasions. Oliver's is the exclusive caterer at The History Museum. With a rich local history, Oliver's is widely regarded for delivering the highest quality in food and service in the Buffalo Niagara region. Your memorable event will be tailored to your individual needs and budget. Personal attention to detail will ensure that your reception is a true success

The Museum Shop

The Museum Shop offers a selection of quality items related to the history of Western New York and its people. The shop carries postcards, posters, fine gift items, children's books, and a wide selection of publications about Buffalo architecture, ethnic heritage, genealogy, the Arts & Crafts movement, and Frank Lloyd Wright. All purchases help support the museum's mission. Museum admission is not required for entry to the Museum Shop.

Gift Shop
Online Gift Shop
Special Event Rental
Group Tours
ADA

Wheelchair entrance is at the museum's side door adjacent to the parking lot. There is a push-pad to be buzzed in.

Wheelchair Accessible
Parking
Restrooms
Exhibitions
Museum Events
DISCLAIMER
This information, including business hours, addresses and contact information is provided for general reference purposes only. No representation is made or warranty is given as to its content or the reliability thereof. User assumes all risk of use. Stories USA, Inc. and its content suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use. Please call ahead to verify the dates, the location and directions.

MUSEUM CONFERENCES

Georgia Association of Museums 2025 Conference

February 5 - 7, 2025

Milledgeville, Georgia

Small Museum Association 41st Annual Conference 2025

February 17 - 19, 2025

Gaithersburg, Maryland

2025 California Association of Museums Conference

February 18 - 22, 2025

San Fransico, California

Virginia Association of Museum's 2025 Annual Conference!

March 15 - 18, 2025

Blacksburg, Virginia

2025 Am Assoc for State and Local History Annual Conference

September 10 - 13, 2025

Cincinnati, Ohio

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