Black Heritage Tour: Niagara and Buffalo NY

Visiting the Niagara Falls and Buffalo area offers a unique blend of natural wonder, rich history, and vibrant culture. Niagara Falls, with its breathtaking views and thrilling attractions like the Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds, provides an unforgettable experience of nature’s power and beauty. The area is also steeped in history, particularly related to the Underground Railroad, offering insightful tours and monuments. Buffalo complements this with its diverse cultural heritage, including the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor and the lively arts scene. These destinations provide a perfect mix of adventure, education, and relaxation, making it a must-visit for any group.

Black Heritage Tour: Niagara and Buffalo NY Itinerary

Day 1

Check in to the Seneca Niagara Casino, ideally located in downtown Niagara Falls, NY. This lovely hotel also offers vouchers for Casino play and dining.

Tonight’s dinner is a group buffet at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, with a glass of wine.

Day 2

Morning – Meet your local guide for a full day of Niagara touring.

Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
Standing on the border of freedom, Niagara Falls was one of the most important points on the Underground Railroad. For some people of African descent, it was home and a safe place to work and live. For others, the city was a crossing point over the last barrier to freedom – the Niagara River. Enjoy the Freedom Conversation Tour.

Late Morning: Freedom Crossing Monument in Lewiston
This monument is dedicated to Margaret Goff Clark, the book’s author of the same name.  It is a fictional story based on real people of Lewiston NY who smuggled thousands of slaves across the Niagara River.

Lunch on your own along the quaint streets of Lewiston.

Afternoon: Niagara Arts & Cultural Center
There is a wonderful exhibit here – Freedom Crossing. Your very knowledgeable guide will tour you through the museum and this exhibit.

Maid of the Mist Boat tour
Ride up close and feel the power of these amazing falls.  You’ll have ponchos, but you may still get wet!

The World Changed Here Pavillion
Before descending into the Niagara Gorge for your breathtaking one-of-a-kind adventure, learn how Nikola Tesla harnessed the power of the Falls to create alternating current, experience what Niagara Falls looked like before it was a park and witness why people from around the globe have been drawn to the edge of the Falls for hundreds of years.

Cave of the Winds
Prepare for the power of the Falls! You will be outfitted in a poncho before descending 175 feet into the awe-inspiring Niagara Gorge. Exit the elevator cave and find yourself on a series of wooden walkways that will bring you to the unbelievable “Hurricane Deck” where you are within feet of the crashing Bridal Veil Falls and surrounded by tropical storm-like conditions—even on the calmest of days. (You do not have to get that close if you do not want to!)

Dinner is on your own (you have the Casino food voucher).

Day 3

Morning: Meet your local guide for a full day of touring in Buffalo

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor
Anationally and internationally recognized Buffalo neighborhood that serves as the focal point of residents’ and visitors’ experience for learning about Buffalo’s rich African American history through its vibrant neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, unique structures, historical markers, people and institutions, as well as its significant impact on local, national and international history. There are 4 main icons to visit this morning – all with an experienced guide.

Michigan Street Baptist Church
Journey back in time to the days of the Abolitionist Movement and the Michigan Street Baptist Church. Experience the challenges along the last mile as freedom seekers travel on the Underground Railroad. You will meet Reverend Davis and Sister Emeline Coy who will assist in navigating the challenges of the last mile.

Colored Musicians Club
Discover the rich history and stories of Buffalo’s black musicians who formed the Colored Musicians Club to persevere in the face of prejudice. Learn how these remarkable musicians created an amazing black brain trust to improve the lives of their members and the community. The musicians will greet you and teach you about the power of jazz.

WUFO – Black Radio History Collective
The power and influence of Black Radio or Black Radio’s Influence on the community and popular culture. Learn about the rich history of WUFO and the Black History Collective. discover how Black Radio and its DJs in Buffalo impacted the social, cultural and political activities in the community from the 1960s to the present day.

Nash House
Step back in time to explore the home of Reverend and Mrs. J. Edward Nash to learn about the life and legacy of the Michigan Street Baptist Church’s longest-serving pastor. Discover the amazing contributions and impact of the Nash family on the neighborhood and community at large.

Lunch on your own in a variety of neighborhoods depending on the time of year.

Forest Lawn Cemetery
This magnificently designed 289-acre cemetery has some amazing architecture, rich African-American history of Civil War soldiers, Mary Talbert, and many local heroes. You’ll enjoy a curated tour here!

Near your hotel is the Hard Rock Café.  Enjoy a delicious dinner before heading over to the falls.

The Illumination
Each evening the Falls provide an amazing light show.  After dinner, stroll over to the falls to enjoy a wonderful display!

Day 4

Morning: Tour of Platter’s Chocolates.

Return home.

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