Getting Around Buffalo
Buffalo is accessible from throughout the United States via the New York State Thruway (I-90), from Canada via the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and by railroad via Amtrak from Chicago and New York City.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport is located just ten minutes east of downtown Buffalo. Averaging 126 daily flights with nonstop service to 18 cities, the BNIA serve 4.25 million passengers annually from a state-of-the-art terminal constructed in 1998. Major carriers are US Airways, Continental, American, Northwest, United jetBlue, Southwest and Delta.
Getting around Buffalo and its suburbs is easy using the Metro Bus and Rail system. The Metro Rail runs along Main Street from HSBC Arena to the South Campus of the University at Buffalo, with several stops in between. The train is free while traveling above ground. However, if your ride takes you past the Theatre District, down into the subway, there is a charge. Bus stops are found on almost every City of Buffalo street corner and many other spots throughout the region.
Virtually all of the major car rental companies operate at or near the airport as well as throughout the city itself.
One of Buffalo's greatest assets is its proximity to Canada. Travel between the U.S. and Canada is quick and convenient via the Peace Bridge, the Rainbow Bridge, Queenston-Lewiston Bridge or Whirlpool Bridge. (Whirlpool Bridge into Canada is restricted to CanPass holders only.) A nominal fee is charged per automobile while individuals can choose to walk or ride a bicycle for a lesser charge. Before traveling, check with your auto insurance carrier to be certain you are properly covered for travel within a foreign country.
Before crossing any of the four international bridges, a few procedures must be followed by each individual. Upon crossing, you may be asked to show proof of citizenship. A birth certificate or passport are the only forms of identification accepted (a driver's license is not acceptable). The agent will then ask what your destination is and expected length of stay. Upon returning, you will be asked to describe any goods purchased during your visit. Both the U.S. and Canada have specific guidelines on the type and amount of goods that can be back into the country of origin.