For the past few decades, Buffalo has been the punch line of far too many jokes. Toss out a rustbelt quip and you\u2019ll quickly see locals bristle because they know what you don\u2019t: Buffalo has seen an unprecedented resurgence in recent years. Where there were once desolate districts, Buffalo is now bursting with restaurants, cafes, and clever start-ups revolving around food and wine. Yes \u2013 you read that correctly: wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As it turns out, Buffalo is just south of an up-and-coming wine region, the Niagara Escarpment AVA<\/strong>. Only an AVA since 2005, the Escarpment has very similar soil and climatic conditions as those of its Canadian neighbor to the north (the Niagara Peninsula within Ontario).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Niagara Escarpment, however, is slightly warmer with more moderate growing conditions and that allows a variety of vinifera grapes to thrive. Add in dedicated and innovative winemakers and we have an area that is too interesting to be ignored. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the top Niagara Escarpment wineries located relatively close to Buffalo, including some of the top hotels and restaurants that cater to wine enthusiasts and adventure travelers. This is the perfect day trip to take to try some wineries near you in Buffalo and explore a stunning scenic route and emerging wine trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t\t\t Buffalo, worth exploring on its own, is the best starting to point for your Niagara Escarpment excursion. Head north towards Niagara Falls, but veer east on state routes 31 or 104. From Toronto, the Escarpment is about an hour and a half south, and it\u2019s about seven hours north and west from New York City.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Any way you look at it, it\u2019s a good idea to make a vacation out of it and give yourself time to check out the wondrous Niagara Falls<\/strong><\/a>, quaint Olcott<\/strong>, stately Lewiston<\/strong>, and historic Youngstown<\/strong> while you\u2019re there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re flying in, take a look at some of the best flight deals into Buffalo or Toronto<\/strong><\/a> right here. Private transfers are available<\/a><\/strong> with Giorgios Limousine<\/strong> or you can rent a car<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you’re in the area, and if you’d prefer to explore the Escarpment in a locally guided fashion, private transportation along the wine trail<\/a><\/strong> is offered by Giorgios as well, and they’re super friendly and knowledgeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n There are plenty of cozy Airbnbs around Western New York, but we\u2019re focusing on the interesting architectural gems throughout Western New York that have recently undergone renovations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Mansion on Delaware<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a full-on luxury stay, this is it. The Mansion is plush, lush, and has a Victorian-vibe without being cloying. The Mansion offers shuttles to local restaurants to ensure everyone arrives to and fro safely, and you\u2019ll definitely want to take advantage of that since there is a free cocktail hour!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hotel Henry Urban Resort<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Staying in a former psychiatric hospital may not be the first thing that leaps to mind, but this is a stand-out. The Olmstead Richardson Campus is a Buffalo icon and was empty for far too many years before being revamped into the gorgeous urban resort it is today. Modern d\u00e9cor provides the perfect foil to the classic exterior, and the bonus is that it\u2019s walking distance to a range of museums and restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reikart House<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Another refurbish, the Reikart House is a boutique hotel located in Amherst about 15 minutes from Buffalo. The once motel staple Lord Amherst, it recently re-opened to be a catch-all: you can host a wedding reception, enjoy a quick weekend away, or snuggle in for a cocktail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Giacomo Hotel<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For a step back in time, plan your stay at the Giacomo Hotel in Niagara Falls. This art deco-styled boutique hotel will have you wanting a martini or two \u2013 which can be ready at the first-floor bar in seconds! Take the elevator up to the observation floor and see the glories of the Falls from high above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<\/a>How To Get to the Niagara Escarpment<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a>Hotels Near the Niagara Escarpment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a>Best Niagara Escarpment Wineries near Buffalo, NY<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Arrowhead Spring Vineyards<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n