Buffalo, New York’s second-largest city, transforms into a vibrant garden paradise during July. The annual self-guided Garden Walk (July 29-30) showcases more than 300 public and private gardens, including historic sites like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House. For a more relaxed experience, the Open Gardens event, held on Thursdays and Fridays throughout the month, offers visitors a chance to explore a hundred private gardens, ranging from whimsical backyard retreats to serene, zen-inspired spaces.
July also heralds the completion of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum, which has undergone a three-year, $200 million renovation and expansion. On July 20, the city’s oldest museum will unveil the Gundlach Building, featuring a new sculpture terrace, the Ronnen Glass Box Theater, and over a dozen galleries displaying works by artists such as Degas, Kahlo, and Van Gogh.
Responsible Travel Tip: Consider a return visit in August for Urban Farm Day, where you can tour local farms, learn about composting, and shop from farmers. Additionally, support Buffalo’s farm-to-table restaurants, including local favorites like Marble + Rye and Craving.
(These are the 10 best destinations for flower lovers.)
The South’s Must-Visit Museum Exhibit
On July 8, 1860, shipbuilder William Foster brought 110 men, women, and children from West Africa into Mobile Bay, Alabama, on the Clotilda, more than 50 years after the importation of enslaved people was banned in the United States. “Clotilda: The Exhibition,” opening July 8 at Africatown Heritage House, explores this tragic voyage. Curated by the History Museum of Mobile and Clotilda descendants, the exhibit uses documents and artifacts, including pieces of the ship recovered in 2019, to share the harrowing stories of those on board America’s last known slave ship.
Africatown Heritage House is located in Africatown, a self-governing refuge established by Clotilda survivors just north of downtown Mobile, Alabama. This unique community is listed on the World Monuments Fund’s 2022 Monuments Watch list, which highlights historically significant yet endangered sites around the world. Travelers can support the preservation of this important heritage site by contributing to organizations like the Africatown Heritage Preservation Foundation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund.
This July, whether you’re exploring Buffalo’s blossoming gardens or delving into the profound history of Africatown, there are unique and enriching travel experiences awaiting you across the United States. Embrace responsible travel practices by supporting local communities and preservation efforts, ensuring these incredible destinations remain cherished for future generations.
