Erie County, New York is a vibrant and diverse region known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and bustling city life. As an event planning expert, I have had the pleasure of exploring this county and discovering its hidden gems. Located in the western part of the state, this county is home to the city of Buffalo and several other charming towns and villages. While it may be best known for its famous Niagara Falls, Erie County also offers a plethora of unique and unconventional venues for events and gatherings.
The Traditional Venues
When it comes to hosting events, most people tend to think of traditional venues such as hotels, banquet halls, and conference centers.While these are certainly viable options, they may not always offer the most memorable or unique experience. However, in Erie County, even the traditional venues have a touch of uniqueness.
Hotels:
There are several hotels in Erie County that offer more than just a place to stay. For example, the Hotel Henry Urban Resort Conference Center is a historic building that was once a psychiatric hospital. It has now been transformed into a luxurious hotel with stunning architecture and modern amenities.The Mansion on Delaware Avenue is another popular choice for events, with its elegant Victorian-style rooms and personalized service.
Banquet Halls:
If you're looking for a more traditional banquet hall setting, there are still plenty of unique options in Erie County. The Avanti Mansion is a beautiful Italian-style villa that offers both indoor and outdoor event spaces. The Kloc's Grove is another popular choice, with its picturesque gardens and rustic barn setting.Conference Centers:
For larger events or conferences, there are several conference centers in Erie County that offer state-of-the-art facilities and services. The Buffalo Niagara Convention Center is the largest event space in the county, with over 110,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space.The Adam's Mark Hotel is another popular choice, with its convenient location and modern amenities.
Unique and Unconventional Venues
If you're looking for something truly out of the ordinary, Erie County has plenty of unique and unconventional venues to choose from. These venues offer a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.The Barrel Factory:
Located in Buffalo's Old First Ward, The Barrel Factory is a historic building that has been transformed into a multi-use event space. It features a brewery, distillery, winery, and several event spaces, including a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city.The Foundry Suites:
This boutique hotel in Buffalo offers a unique event space called The Foundry Suites Event Center. It features a mix of industrial and modern design elements, making it the perfect setting for a chic and unconventional event.The Roycroft Inn:
For a touch of history and charm, consider hosting your event at The Roycroft Inn.This historic inn was built in 1905 and has been beautifully restored to its original Arts and Crafts style. It offers several event spaces, including a beautiful outdoor courtyard.
The Buffalo Zoo:
If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, consider hosting your event at the Buffalo Zoo. This unique venue offers several event spaces, including the Rainforest Falls exhibit where guests can dine among exotic animals.Outdoor Venues
Erie County is also home to several stunning outdoor venues that are perfect for events and gatherings. These venues offer a beautiful backdrop for any occasion and allow you to take advantage of the county's natural beauty.The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens:
This 120-year-old conservatory is a popular choice for weddings and other events.It features several indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a beautiful rose garden and a tropical rainforest exhibit.
The Buffalo Outer Harbor:
For a waterfront event, consider the Buffalo Outer Harbor. This 200-acre park offers stunning views of Lake Erie and several event spaces, including a beachfront pavilion and a historic lighthouse.The Tifft Nature Preserve:
This 264-acre nature preserve in Buffalo offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for events. It features several outdoor event spaces, including a beautiful boardwalk that overlooks the preserve's ponds and wetlands.In Conclusion
From traditional venues with a unique twist to unconventional and outdoor spaces, Erie County, New York has something for every type of event. Whether you're planning a wedding, conference, or social gathering, these venues will provide an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.So why settle for the ordinary when you can host your next event in one of these unique and unconventional venues in Erie County?.
