Buffalo's Arts and Entertainment Scene Centers on Expanded Museums and Theaters

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum, formerly known as the Albright-Knox, recently completed an expansion that now displays its collection of modern and contemporary works by artists including Pollock, Picasso, Warhol and Monet.

This development strengthens Buffalo's standing as a destination for visual and performing arts at a time when the city already supports dozens of galleries and multiple theater companies. The expansion positions the museum alongside longstanding institutions that draw regional visitors year-round.

Visual Arts Options

Buffalo maintains more than 50 public and private galleries. The Burchfield Penney Art Center holds the primary collection of Charles Burchfield watercolors, while Revolution Gallery and TENfold Gallery operate as active community exhibition spaces. These venues sit within a network that includes both established museums and smaller storefront operations.

Performing Arts Venues

The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performs regularly, and Shea's Performing Arts Center serves as the anchor for the Theater District, which holds one of the largest concentrations of theater companies in the United States with over 20 groups. Shakespeare in Delaware Park ranks as the nation's second-largest free outdoor Shakespeare festival and attracts more visitors than any other free festival except the one in New York City. The district contains more theater, live music, nightlife and dining options than anywhere else in Western New York.

Residents and visitors can check current schedules directly through the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Shakespeare in Delaware Park websites for exhibition dates and performance listings.