September 2024
Our adventure to Buffalo, New York, to see the Arizona Cardinals take on the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium started with an unforgettable stop at Niagara Falls, on both the U.S. and Canadian sides!
Since we had already experienced the famous Maid of the Mist Boat Ride on a previous trip (see our October 2018 blog for that experience), we wanted to see the Falls from a new perspective this time. We headed to Niagara Falls State Park and followed the scenic Goat Island Trail, which took us to Goat Island, Cave of the Winds, Terrapin Point, and Three Sisters Island.
At Cave of the Winds, we got very up close and personal with the Falls on the Hurricane Deck, where we were misted by the roaring water, an exhilarating and refreshing experience! It was incredible to see the raw power of the Falls from right beneath them.
After exploring the U.S. side, we crossed the border into Canada, where the views somehow got even better. To top off the experience, we decided to zipline across the Falls and it was absolutely amazing! The feeling of soaring beside one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders was pure adrenaline and beauty combined. I’d do it again in a heartbeat. The Canadian side also has a fun amusement park right next to the zipline area, perfect for families or anyone looking to make a full day of it.
Game Day – Cardinals vs. Bills at Highmark Stadium
Game Day in Orchard Park was one for the books. We were lucky enough to have friends who live just a few miles from Highmark Stadium, and they hosted us for one of the best tailgating experiences we’ve ever had.
As we drove toward their home that morning, we were shocked to see tailgaters lined up for miles, grilling breakfast burritos, serving drinks, and showing their Bills pride. The entire town of Orchard Park seemed to come alive – the energy was incredible, and the hospitality was genuine.
We spent several hours tailgating at our friends’ house before walking toward the stadium, stopping along the way to check out other famous Bills Mafia tailgates. A few absolute must-sees:
- Pinto Ron’s Tailgate (Bills Superfan) – You can’t miss his red Ford Pinto, where he cooks food right on the hood and keeps the long-standing tradition of getting doused in ketchup and mustard. Plus, his flaming bowling ball shots are legendary.
- Bills Mafia House on Big Tree Road – Painted and decorated completely in blue and red, this spot is a Bills fan landmark.
- Local Tailgate Vendors – Even if you don’t pack your own cooler, you’ll find plenty of local vendors along the walk to the stadium selling food, drinks, and Bills-themed gear.
The game itself was thrilling, even though the Cardinals didn’t bring home the win. The Bills fans were incredibly friendly and welcoming – proof that the Buffalo fan base is one of the best in the NFL.
We voted the Buffalo Bills the best tailgate experience by far!
We may not have left with a “W,” but we left with amazing memories, new friends, and a true appreciation for Buffalo’s football culture and hospitality. Between the breathtaking Niagara Falls adventures and the unmatched tailgating scene at Highmark Stadium (#6), this trip was one for the books.
If you’re planning a trip to Buffalo, make sure to bring your team spirit, your appetite, and your sense of adventure – Buffalo will not disappoint! Reach out to me and I’d be happy to share more tips to help you plan your own amazing Buffalo Bills football weekend.
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