Summer’s here! Sure, we’ve got a week left and finals to study for, but let’s be honest: mentally we’ve already clocked out. As far as I’m concerned, summer starts May 6 at 5 p.m. sharp. So, what now? It's time for freedom, fun, and maybe a bit of degeneracy. We’ve got to make the most of it, so if you’re hanging around town, here’s a list of local spots that’ll help you soak it all in.
Electric City
What screams summer more than live music? Sitting on the lawn with good friends, hot sun and a refreshing drink in hand listening to your favorite artists filling the air with the soundtrack of the season. Electric City is a local concert venue in the downtown theatre district. Since opening in February of 2024, it has hosted everyone from rising local talent to nationally recognized acts. The venue offers a mix of all-age shows perfect for families, as well as 18+ events for an older crowd. With a beautiful performance hall and plenty of room to bring the whole crew, Electric City is the perfect place to catch your next concert.
Albright-Knox Art Gallery (AKG)
If you’ve spent any time in Buffalo chances are you’ve heard of the AKG Art Gallery. It’s one of the city’s top must-see spots–and for good reason. Originally founded in 1862 and expanded in 2021, this museum sits right next to Delaware Park, across from a scenic pond and trail. Inside, The AKG offers something for every kind of art lover, from Renaissance paintings and sculptures to modern installations, and even occasional visual media exhibits. There’s also the Creative Commons, an interactive space for kids to express their creativity. Whether you’re an art newbie or an enthusiast, the AKG is worth the visit.
Fitz Books
If you really thought you were getting through this list without at least one bookstore–what's wrong with you? Fitz Books is a charming shop located on Main Street, now in a fresh, new location replacing the old one. With its cozy-chic aesthetic and shelves filled with everything from new releases to well-loved finds, it's a dream for any book lover. Their frequent sales make finding your next obsession affordable, and the store also hosts readings featuring local authors, poets, and speakers—giving you the chance to connect with creative voices in the community. Fitz. It's a great spot for a laidback weekend afternoon with friends. Support your local bookstores, you never know what hidden gem you’ll find.
Transit Drive-In Theatre
The Transit Drive-In Theatre, while not technically located in Buffalo, is only a short drive away in Lockport. This is a great spot for a warm summer night to catch up on your favorite flicks. It also makes a nice date spot to take someone special, it provides the safety of the movie to cut out some of those first date jitters, but also allows for a little more freedom to get to know your date outside of a stuffy theatre. Transit Drive-In hosts double features, so you can get two for the price of one, see a new popular movie and maybe discover a lesser known one that may just become a household favorite.
Terra Clay Studio
Last but certainly not least is Terra Clay Studio, offering pottery classes for all ages and skill levels for those who like to get their hands a little dirty. Terra Clay Studio offers everything from one time classes to six week courses, they also do private parties all at affordable prices. If you’re looking for the next place to hold a party for a close friend or family member this would be an absolute great start. Spend some quality time around the people you love, with more personalized attention to make sure you’re creating to the best of your abilities. This could be your new favorite hobby or just a one time adventure to help make new memories. The possibilities are endless.
Marina Noack is an assistant arts editor and can be reached at marina.noack@ubspectrum.com
