Silo City - Buffalo, New York

Introduction to Silo City: A Buffalo Landmark

Nestled in the heart of Buffalo, New York, at 85 Silo City Row, lies a unique and captivating attraction that has become a symbol of the city's industrial past and its ongoing revitalization. Silo City, as it is known, is a sprawling complex of grain elevators and silos that have been repurposed into a vibrant hub of cultural, recreational, and commercial activities. This article delves into the rich history, diverse services, and practical information about Silo City, providing an in-depth look at this iconic Buffalo destination.

Main Services at Silo City

• Grain Elevator Preservation and Operations: Silo City is home to several historic grain elevators, including the American Elevator, Perot Elevator, and Elevator B. These structures, once integral to Buffalo's flourishing grain industry, have been meticulously preserved and adapted for new purposes.
• Event Venue: The sprawling Silo City complex offers a unique and flexible event space, accommodating a wide range of functions from weddings and parties to corporate events and film shoots. Its industrial charm and expansive layout make it a sought-after destination for creative events.
• Art and Cultural Spaces: Silo City hosts various art installations, murals, and public art projects, transforming the industrial site into an open-air gallery. The complex has also become a hub for local artists, with several studios and workshops located on-site.
• Recreational Activities: Silo City offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including guided tours, kayaking on the nearby Buffalo River, and even high ropes courses and zip-lining within the grain elevators.
• Food and Beverage Service: Several food and beverage vendors have set up shop at Silo City, providing visitors with a range of dining options. The complex hosts periodic food truck rodeos and markets, further enhancing its appeal as a culinary destination.

Location and Access to Silo City

Silo City is located at 85 Silo City Row, Buffalo, NY 14203, on the shores of the Buffalo River in the city's Valley neighborhood. The complex is easily accessible from several major thoroughfares, including I-190 and Route 5. The following are some transportation and parking options:

• Public Transportation: Silo City is served by several Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) bus routes, including the #20, #25, and #35. The nearest Metro Rail station is the LaSalle Station, about a 15-minute walk from the complex.
• Parking: Silo City offers ample free parking on-site, with accessible parking spaces available. Additionally, there is street parking in the surrounding neighborhood.

Featured Characteristics of Silo City

• Historic Architecture: Silo City's grain elevators and silos are among the oldest and most well-preserved structures of their kind in the United States. These monumental structures, with their soaring concrete towers and intricate steelwork, offer a fascinating glimpse into Buffalo's industrial heritage.
• Waterfront Access: Silo City's location along the Buffalo River provides visitors with easy access to the waterfront, offering scenic views and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and other water-based activities.
• Sustainability and Adaptive Reuse: Silo City is a testament to the power of adaptive reuse, with its grain elevators and silos transformed into vibrant, sustainable spaces for art, culture, and commerce. The complex has been recognized for its innovative approach to preserving Buffalo's industrial past while fostering its revitalization.
• Community Engagement: Silo City plays host to a wide range of community events, including art exhibitions, concerts, and festivals. These events help to foster a sense of community and engagement among Buffalo residents and visitors alike.

Practical Information for Visiting Silo City

• Website and Social Media: For the most up-to-date information on events, hours of operation, and other details, visit the official Silo City website at silo.city. You can also follow Silo City on social media for news and announcements: Facebook (@SiloCityBuffalo) and Instagram (@SiloCityBuffalo).
• Tours and Admission: Guided tours of Silo City are offered periodically throughout the year, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the complex's history, architecture, and adaptive reuse. Admission to the complex is free, although there may be costs associated with specific events or activities.
• Accessibility: Silo City has made efforts to ensure that its facilities and events are accessible to all visitors. The complex offers wheelchair-accessible parking and pathways, and many of its events are designed with accessibility in mind.

Positive Aspects from Customer Reviews

With an average rating of 4.6/5 from 274 reviews on Google My Business, Silo City receives high praise from visitors for its unique atmosphere, historic significance, and diverse offerings:

• Industrial Charm: Many reviewers comment on the captivating industrial aesthetic of Silo City, with its towering grain elevators and gritty, urban feel.
• Cultural Programs and Events: Visitors laud the wide range of events and programs hosted at Silo City, from art exhibitions and concerts to food truck rodeos and holiday markets.
• Historic Preservation and Adaptive Reuse: Reviewers appreciate the effort put into preserving and repurposing the historic grain elevators and silos, as well as the innovative approach to revitalizing Buffalo's industrial past.
• Community Engagement: Silo City's role in fostering a sense of community and bringing people together is frequently praised by reviewers, who appreciate the complex's commitment to hosting diverse and inclusive events.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: Many visitors note the efforts made by Silo City to ensure that its facilities and events are accessible to all, making the complex a welcoming destination for people of all ages and abilities.

Silo City's commitment to historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and community engagement has transformed it into a beloved and iconic destination in Buffalo, drawing visitors from near and far with its unique atmosphere and diverse offerings. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, food enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable and captivating experience, Silo City has something to offer you.

👍 Reviews of Silo City

OK O.

5/5

I hadn’t been in a while and so much has been added and improved to the site. Love the chalk art. Lots of fun for the family in this area.

Justin R.

5/5

Strong shadows of concrete and industry tower over you, sounds and sights of renovations present and quit. Windows into routines of work fallen aside. A high repeating pride settles into monuments still sturdy in faded glory. I wish there had been an occasion to step inside a story told by one who knows.

Kevin T. J.

4/5

what an amazing hidden jem . you would never think of 1 turning down the road and 2 going all the way to the end. but when you do, there are so many hidden things to discover. they have a great walkway that guides you throughout the area. places you didn't think you could go to and see, but you can. along the way, you will find a great tree with a swing. a door that looks like something out of a stephen King movie. the food was great, and so was the service. what a great time .oh, they have indoor and outdoor stages for your music pleasure. It was our first time there, but we will definitely be back.

Empty N. F. T.

5/5

Very cool old place in Buffalo. They are building some apartments which is nice to see something being done here however it is sad to think the history and ghost town feel will go away.

John H.

5/5

Really cool site to see that is less popular with the typical tourist crowd. Old rusty silos for the various mills that is currently in operation or has long been abandoned. As with exploration of old abandoned industrial complexes, please be respectful of trespassing signage. The signs are there to keep you safe, as some of these large structures are quite old and may be not properly maintained. It's simply not worth it putting yourself in danger for the sake of a dark blurry photo that may or may not be viewed. For the complete shot of the area, you can either shoot from the actual river itself (boat required), or the Mutual Riverfront Park on the other side of the river with a telephoto lens.

Cathy B.

5/5

Duende is a hidden Gem, located in Silo City. It is a extraordinary bar filled with character. Although the menu is very small, the cocktails are fantastic, and the food is delicious. My favorite dish was the shrimp croquets. The grounds are nothing like I've seen before. I've been to Silo City for past events, but the addition of Duende adds to the uniqueness of Silo City! The walk from the parking lot down the path to the bar was just as cool as the bar itself! I will definitely be returning soon!

Peter M.

4/5

Silo City is a very cool post industrial landscape. It is begging for guided tours of even the outside of some of the silos, especially ones on the water, as well as thoughtful redevelopment.

Adina R. F.

5/5

Awesome little bar w some food. Silo City kayak and Sup rental. 8 person swing!

Justin R.

5/5

Strong shadows of concrete and industry tower over you, sounds and sights of renovations present and quit. Windows into routines of work fallen aside. A high repeating pride settles into monuments still sturdy in faded glory. I wish there had been an occasion to step inside a story told by one who knows.

Kevin T. J.

4/5

what an amazing hidden jem . you would never think of 1 turning down the road and 2 going all the way to the end. but when you do, there are so many hidden things to discover. they have a great walkway that guides you throughout the area. places you didn't think you could go to and see, but you can. along the way, you will find a great tree with a swing. a door that looks like something out of a stephen King movie. the food was great, and so was the service. what a great time .oh, they have indoor and outdoor stages for your music pleasure. It was our first time there, but we will definitely be back.

OK O.

5/5

I hadn’t been in a while and so much has been added and improved to the site. Love the chalk art. Lots of fun for the family in this area.

Empty N. F. T.

5/5

Very cool old place in Buffalo. They are building some apartments which is nice to see something being done here however it is sad to think the history and ghost town feel will go away.

John H.

5/5

Really cool site to see that is less popular with the typical tourist crowd. Old rusty silos for the various mills that is currently in operation or has long been abandoned. As with exploration of old abandoned industrial complexes, please be respectful of trespassing signage. The signs are there to keep you safe, as some of these large structures are quite old and may be not properly maintained. It's simply not worth it putting yourself in danger for the sake of a dark blurry photo that may or may not be viewed. For the complete shot of the area, you can either shoot from the actual river itself (boat required), or the Mutual Riverfront Park on the other side of the river with a telephoto lens.