Buffalo has quietly built one of the best animal-lover lineups in the region this summer, including a prehistoric takeover at the zoo, a capacity crisis at the SPCA that means they need adopters more than ever (your furever pet is waiting!), and a drive-through safari that’s only 40 minutes away. Here’s where to go this week.
1. Buffalo Zoo: Still Roaming with Dinosaurs
The zoo’s Destination Dinosaur exhibit, which we first introduced back in the spring, is still running strong through October 31, so if you haven’t made it out yet, this is your reminder. More than a dozen life-size animatronic dinosaurs are scattered through the grounds, alongside a fossil dig pit and a daily dino show at Center Stage.
Zoo President and CEO Lisa Smith said the goal was to give visitors “an up-close and personal encounter with giant creatures that roamed the Earth more than 100 million years ago.”
- When: Open daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (last entry 4 p.m.), through Oct. 31
- Good for: families, first dates, a full day out
- Know before you go: Add-on Ultimate Ride Pass is $20; members get free repeat entry
2. SPCA Serving Erie County: They Need You (More than Usual)
This one has real stakes behind it. Earlier this year, the SPCA’s West Seneca shelter temporarily closed dog admissions after hitting capacity, citing multiple animal cruelty cases and a shortage of space, including a rescue of more than 30 Newfoundland mixes from a single Hamburg residence. Translation: adoptions right now aren’t just a feel-good errand; they’re actively making room for the next animal that needs help.
Walk-ins are welcome to meet adoptable dogs and cats, and staff will walk you through the process — no pressure, no obligation.
- Where: 300 Harlem Road, West Seneca
- Good for: Anyone pet-curious, or just needing a cuddle fix
- Action: Check yourspca.org for current adoption hours and available pets before heading over — capacity has fluctuated this year
3. Hidden Valley Animal Adventure: A Real Safari, 40 Minutes Away…