The Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER claims the top spot with a 9.4/10 score and a near-perfect 9.7 location rating. For boutique character and flawless cleanliness, the Buffalo Harmony House is the standout, scoring a perfect 10.0 in that category.
Buffalo’s hotel scene is stacked with places that get real right—from canalside modern to Victorian charm. Here’s the breakdown of where to actually stay.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties across Buffalo, sifting through 11,100+ total verified guest reviews to prioritize properties averaging 8.3/10 or higher, with a focus on location, cleanliness, and value scores.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Overall: #18 Buffalo Marriott at LECOM→ Rates
#20 Buffalo Harmony House→ Rates - Best Boutique Character: #7 The Edward Buffalo→ Rates
#19 Moreland Guesthouse→ Rates - Cleanest Rooms: #20 Buffalo Harmony House→ Rates
#7 The Edward Buffalo→ Rates - Canalside Location: #18 Buffalo Marriott at LECOM→ Rates
#15 Courtyard Canalside→ Rates - Best Value Extended Stay: #17 Cozy Updated 3-BR Apartment→ Rates
#16 Staybridge Suites Buffalo→ Rates - Highest Staff Scores: #18 Buffalo Marriott at LECOM→ Rates
#19 Moreland Guesthouse→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Garden Place Hotel | (1,350+ Reviews) |
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| 2. The Richardson Hotel | (1,100+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Lenox Hotel and Suites | (1,000+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Best Western Buffalo Inn & Suites | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hyatt Regency Buffalo | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Best Western On The Avenue | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Edward Buffalo | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Holiday Inn Express Downtown | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Comfort Inn & Suites Airport | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Embassy Suites Buffalo | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Baymont by Wyndham Buffalo | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Hilton Garden Inn Downtown | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 14. The Delavan Hotel | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Courtyard Marriott Canalside | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Staybridge Suites Buffalo | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Cozy Updated 3-BR Apt. | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Buffalo Marriott at LECOM | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Moreland Guesthouse | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Buffalo Harmony House | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: The Best Hotel in Buffalo New York, Ranked & Reviewed
1. Garden Place Hotel
The Vibe
A budget-friendly 3-star out on Transit Road in Williamsville, this spot leans hard into convenience over luxury. It has a full hot breakfast and a solid 8.4 location score, but its 7.4 cleanliness rating means you’re trading polish for price (and a working free shuttle).
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free WiFi (scoring a 6.6, so don’t plan on streaming 4K), plus you get a fitness center and an on-site restaurant. The free airport shuttle is a genuine perk for late arrivals since check-in runs until 12:30 AM. Parking is free, and breakfast runs about $9 if you want it. Some recent guests mention jacuzzi tubs in certain rooms, which isn’t something you usually see at this price point.
Choose this if: your priority is an affordable night near Buffalo Niagara International Airport with free parking and no frills.
2. The Richardson Hotel
The Vibe
A 4-star conversion of a historic building near Buffalo State College that scores an 8.9 for both cleanliness and comfort. The guests rave about the bar staff, the beautiful rooms, and the incredibly friendly bartender. It’s got history in the bones and staff that actually remembers your name.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.2 rating), a fitness center, and free private parking—which is a legitimate win in Buffalo. Breakfast is available for about $13. Not all rooms have a bathtub, so if that matters, call ahead. The hotel charges a $100 incidental hold at check-in. Upper floors are elevator-accessible. The bar serves dinner and cocktails, and breakfast runs from 6:30 AM.
Choose this if: you want 4-star comfort with genuine character and a staff that gets glowing praise in nearly every review.
3. Lenox Hotel and Suites
The Vibe
Dating back to 1896, the Lenox wears its history proudly. The staff score an 8.8—the standout of its ratings—though the facilities lag at 7.2. It’s a no-smoking, pet-friendly (on request) property with free off-street parking. Not walking distance to KeyBank Center, but a quick Uber ride.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (scoring 7.1) and free private parking included. Upper floors are elevator-accessible. Pets are allowed on request with possible charges—good to ask upfront. Check-in starts at 2:00 PM, which is earlier than many spots. The 7.2 facilities score suggests the rooms skew older; don’t expect modern fittings, but the character is there.
Choose this if: you’re drawn to old-building charm, value lower rates, and want a staff that makes a genuine impression.
4. Best Western Buffalo Inn & Suites
The Vibe
A newer build (opened October 2022) that’s already racking up 8.1 scores across the board. Located off I-90, it’s 4 miles from the airport. Guests note the fridge, microwave, very clean rooms, and kind staff. It’s not downtown, but it’s a solid, modern base for a car-based trip.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.3), free parking, air conditioning, a fitness center, and an included American breakfast. This is a key card access property with a 24-hour front desk, so late check-in after midnight is fine—just let them know. Children over 16 are welcome, and those 18+ count as adults. No pets allowed. Groups booking 10+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you want a reliable, modern chain hotel near the airport with free breakfast and parking included.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western Buffalo Inn & Suites →
5. Hyatt Regency Buffalo
The Vibe
This downtown 4-star is right next to the Convention Center and scores an 8.8 on location. It’s a pet-friendly (on request) hotel with a 24-hour fitness center. The staff rate 8.6, but cleanliness sits at 8.1—not bad, but below the top-tier properties. It’s a solid business hotel with charm.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.3), air conditioning, a restaurant, breakfast available for $16, and pet-friendly with charges. No airport shuttle. Check-in requires a $100 per night incidentals hold on a credit card. Executive king suites sleep 2 people (no pullout bed). Check-out runs from 4:00 AM to 11:00 AM—early birds take note.
Choose this if: you’re in town for a conference or want a dependable downtown base with an 8.8 location.
6. Best Western On The Avenue
The Vibe
On Delaware Avenue near theaters and famous restaurants, this Best Western punches well above its 3-star badge. The staff hit 9.1—the kind of number that suggests the GM (named Troy in some reviews) actually cares. The cleanliness (8.8) and comfort (8.7) back it up. No pool, but free parking.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.0), free parking, a fitness center, and an excellent breakfast according to guest feedback. Pets allowed on request with charges. No adjoining rooms (they’ll try for neighboring rooms if asked). The hotel is close to the Peace Bridge for Canada day trips. Check-out is a generous noon.
Choose this if: friendly service and a solid, clean room are your top priorities—this staff is among the best in Buffalo.
7. The Edward Buffalo
The Vibe
A 3-star that refuses to act like one. The Edward Buffalo posts 9.4 across cleanliness, comfort, and WiFi—numbers that put it above many 4-star competitors. It’s on Delaware Avenue with free private parking. Guests describe it as comfortable, cozy, and decorated beautifully. No elevator, but there’s a handicap-accessible room (The Alexander) with a lift.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (9.4), free private parking, and free reservation access to local restaurants. A $100 damage deposit is required at check-in. Check-in runs 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, so if you’re arriving late, coordinate. The property has no elevator—if that’s an issue, request The Alexander room. It’s about 8 minutes from the Showplace Theatre by car.
Choose this if: you’re obsessive about room cleanliness and want top-tier WiFi with free parking downtown.
8. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Buffalo Downtown by IHG
The Vibe
Located on Main Street, this IHG property is 9 miles from the airport but right in the middle of downtown. The location (8.5) is its main draw: a free trolley outside takes you to KeyBank Center, which is 10 blocks away. No on-site parking—they recommend the city garage at 362 Pearl Street. Good breakfast included.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.3), air conditioning, a fitness center, and a good breakfast included. No pets. No on-site parking (use the Pearl Street garage). Elevator access to upper floors. Check-out is 11:00 AM. The hotel accepts Visa and Mastercard debit. Groups booking 7+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you’re downtown for an event at KeyBank Center and want included breakfast without parking expenses.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express & Suites Buffalo Downtown by IHG →
9. Comfort Inn & Suites Buffalo Airport
The Vibe
Across from Buffalo-Niagara International Airport, this 4-star (by rating) Comfort Inn scores an 8.9 location for travelers. It has a free airport shuttle (call to schedule, 15-minute intervals), an indoor swimming pool, and is pet-friendly. Guests praise the shuttle driver who returned a misplaced purse—genuine service.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (7.8), pet-friendly (charges apply), indoor pool, free airport shuttle, fitness center, and a very good breakfast. No laundry facilities. You can park your car for a fee while on vacation (park-and-fly). Groups booking 5+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you need a pet-friendly airport hotel with a pool and free shuttle—this is the top pick in that niche.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn & Suites Buffalo Airport →
10. Embassy Suites Buffalo
The Vibe
This all-suite hotel on Delaware Avenue offers a free daily hot breakfast and a complimentary evening reception with drinks and snacks—a real value add. It has an indoor swimming pool and an 8.9 location score. Guests mention the free drink hour as a standout bonus. Valet parking is $25/night.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.5), indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, and very good breakfast included. Pets allowed (charges apply). A $75 per night deposit is required (credit/debit only at check-in; cash accepted at checkout). Parking is valet-only at $25/night. Groups booking 10+ rooms have different policies.
Choose this if: you want a downtown all-suite with built-in meal perks that keep your spending down.
11. Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown
The Vibe
Situated on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, this Wyndham Garden is connected to Buffalo General Hospital and Roswell Park. The staff score 9.0 and guests consistently describe them as exceptional, friendly, and caring. Comfort and WiFi both hit 9.0. It’s a quiet, professional vibe near the medical district.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (9.0), airport shuttle, and a very good breakfast. No on-site self parking—valet parking costs $19.58 per night with unlimited in-out access in a secure lot. Credit card required at check-in (no cash). Check-out is noon. Pets not allowed. Groups booking 10+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you’re visiting the medical campus or want a hotel with a staff rating that rivals luxury properties.
12. Baymont by Wyndham Buffalo
The Vibe
A 2-star budget property on Union Road, within a 14-minute walk of Walden Galleria Mall. The WiFi scores an impressive 9.0—better than most luxury hotels on this list. It’s pet-friendly with a $20 per night non-refundable fee. Rooms have refrigerators, and the beds are double-sized in standard rooms.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (9.0), free private parking, air conditioning, and a fitness center. Pets allowed for $20/night. Check-in is 4:00 PM (later than some budget spots). Rooms include a refrigerator. Double beds are standard size—don’t expect a king. No elevator mentioned.
Choose this if: you’re on a tight budget, need pet-friendly accommodations, and want surprisingly fast internet.
13. The Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo-Downtown
The Vibe
In Lafayette Square, this Hilton Garden Inn checks all the downtown boxes: indoor pool, pet-friendly, and an 8.6 location. The staff score 8.9, and guests call the location central and the rooms clean. Valet parking runs $25/day (currently discounted to $18 due to COVID). Breakfast is $10 optional.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.2), indoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, and pet-friendly (charges apply). A $25/night hold is required at check-in (released at checkout within 5-10 business days). The Junior Suites have a sitting area attached to the living space. Elevator access. Groups booking 10+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: you want a Hilton brand with an indoor pool and pet-friendly policy right in downtown.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo-Downtown →
14. The Delavan Hotel
The Vibe
A 4-star on Transit Road that earns a 9.2 staff rating—one of the highest in this guide. Guests mention Nick by name for his outstanding service. The hotel has a nice cafe/bakery, a large comfy room, and an ample fitness room. It’s a chill, clean, professional vibe well away from downtown.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.0), free airport shuttle, fitness center, and free parking. Pets not allowed. Check-out is 9:00-11:00 AM. The hotel offers a park-and-fly package: add $25 to your room for parking up to 2 weeks while you travel. Breakfast is currently grab-and-go (bagels, yogurt, fruit) due to COVID. Elevator available.
Choose this if: you want exceptional staff service, a park-and-fly option, and a quiet stay near the airport.
15. Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside
The Vibe
At Canalside on Main Street, this Marriott property boasts a 9.3 location score—the second-highest in our guide. Guests highlight the clean facility, friendly staff, quiet rooms, and great location steps from the waterfront. Comfort scores 9.2, cleanliness 9.1. It’s the premier canalside choice.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.0), indoor swimming pool (open 6:00 AM-11:00 PM), fitness center, and private parking. Pet-friendly (charges apply). Rooms include a microwave and refrigerator. On-site restaurant and bar. Canalside is 0.6 miles away. Early check-in is subject to availability. Parking is in a secure lot—pull into the front brick driveway for assistance.
Choose this if: location is everything—this is the best-placed hotel for Canalside access and downtown convenience.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside →
16. Staybridge Suites Buffalo by IHG
The Vibe
In West Seneca, this IHG Suites property is built for extended stays. Guests rave about the breakfast (different each day), the spacious and comfortable suites, and the indoor pool. The staff score 8.9. It’s pet-friendly with a fee based on length of stay. No jacuzzi tubs, but the suites themselves are large.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.6), indoor swimming pool, fitness center, free parking, and a wonderful breakfast included. Pets allowed (fee based on length of stay). Check-in runs until midnight. No jacuzzi or hot tub rooms. Groups booking 7+ rooms face different policies. The property includes barbecue facilities.
Choose this if: you’re staying 3+ nights and need a full suite with kitchen amenities, a pool, and a pet-friendly policy.
Check Tonight’s Price for Staybridge Suites Buffalo by IHG →
17. Cozy Updated 3-BR apartment near Peace Bridge
The Vibe
A 3-bedroom apartment near the Peace Bridge that scores 9.1 overall with a 9.4 cleanliness and comfort rating. Guests love the spaciousness, the plants throughout, and that it has everything needed for a stay. There’s a small bedroom with a single XL bed on the ground floor plus a half bathroom—great for seniors.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (9.4), free on-site parking, and a full kitchen with washer and dryer. No pets. Languages spoken include English and Spanish. The ground floor bedroom (single XL bed) and half bathroom are accessible without stairs. Check-in runs until midnight. This is a whole apartment, not a hotel room.
Choose this if: you’re a group or family needing a home base with laundry, a kitchen, and space to spread out.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cozy Updated 3-BR apartment near Peace Bridge →
18. Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER
The Vibe
The highest-rated hotel in Buffalo, and it’s not close. The Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER posts a 9.7 location score and a 9.4 overall. Guests love that it’s connected to KeyBank Center, the parking garage, Southern Tier Brewery, and Tim Hortons—all without stepping outside. Walking distance to the casino and Buffalo Riverworks.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (not scored, but included), fitness center, on-site restaurant, parking available, and a good breakfast included. No pool. Pets are not allowed. Room service runs daily from 4 PM to 10 PM (QR code menu in rooms). Groups booking 10+ rooms have different policies. The staff score 9.6, facilities 9.5, cleanliness 9.5—near-perfect across the board.
Choose this if: you want the absolute best hotel in Buffalo with a 9.7 location, flawless scores, and direct arena access.
19. Moreland Guesthouse
The Vibe
A charming guesthouse with a 9.6 staff rating—tied for the highest in this guide. The host is described as incredibly kind, making the stay friendly and smooth. Rooms are old but charming, the bed is extremely comfy, and breakfast is decent. WiFi scores 9.5. It’s 3.7 miles from Lafayette Square and one block from public transit.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (9.5), free private parking, a kitchen, and breakfast included. No pets. Children over 10 welcome. Check-in is 1:00-9:00 PM—earlier than most hotels. The guesthouse typically hosts 6-7 guests during busy periods. You can have visitors (within reason), but only registered guests can stay overnight. One block to public transportation.
Choose this if: you want a personal, hosted guesthouse experience with excellent staff and free parking away from downtown.
20. Buffalo Harmony House
The Vibe
A 4-star B&B with a perfect 10.0 in both cleanliness and WiFi—a feat almost unheard of. Guests describe the house as amazing, well-maintained, and full of details. It’s near Allentown and most points of interest by car. The host is welcoming, and the breakfast is wonderful. Free street parking available.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (10.0), free parking (street and nearby lots), garden view, and a wonderful breakfast included. No pets. No smoking/tobacco of any kind on the property. Check-in is 4:00-9:00 PM, checkout 8:00-11:00 AM. Inform the host of any dietary restrictions before arrival. Busing to Niagara Falls is available from downtown.
Choose this if: you value pristine cleanliness, a gourmet breakfast, and a boutique B&B experience over a standard hotel.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#18 Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER
A 9.4 overall rating with a 9.7 location score, direct arena access, and near-perfect staff and cleanliness scores make this the clear winner for any Buffalo trip.
💰 Best Value
#7 The Edward Buffalo
An 8.9 overall rating with 9.4 scores for cleanliness, comfort, and WiFi—at a 3-star price. Free parking included seals the deal for budget-conscious travelers.
🏖️ Best Boutique Stay
#20 Buffalo Harmony House
A perfect 10.0 in cleanliness and WiFi, a 9.7 value score, and a wonderful breakfast make this B&B the choice for travelers who want something special.
How We Ranked These Buffalo Hotels
To find the best hotel in Buffalo New York, I evaluated 20 properties across 11,100+ verified guest reviews, focusing on properties with an average score of 8.3/10 or higher. Each hotel was assessed across five key criteria that matter most to travelers.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews were considered for top rankings
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value—the categories that drive repeat bookings in Buffalo
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, shuttles, parking) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to KeyBank Center, Canalside, Buffalo Niagara International Airport, and downtown dining districts
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotel in Buffalo has the best location score?
The Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER holds the highest location score at 9.7/10, followed closely by the Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside at 9.3/10. Both properties sit on Main Street near Canalside and KeyBank Center, putting you steps from the waterfront, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Are pets allowed at any of these Buffalo hotels?
Yes, several properties in this guide welcome pets. The Comfort Inn & Suites Buffalo Airport (#9), Embassy Suites Buffalo (#10), Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo-Downtown (#13), Baymont by Wyndham Buffalo (#12), and Staybridge Suites Buffalo by IHG (#16) all allow pets with applicable charges. The Baymont charges a flat $20 per night non-refundable fee, while Staybridge calculates fees based on length of stay. Always confirm pet policies directly with the hotel when booking.
Which Buffalo hotels offer free parking?
Several properties include free parking in their rates. The Garden Place Hotel (#1), The Richardson Hotel (#2), Lenox Hotel and Suites (#3), Best Western Buffalo Inn & Suites (#4), Best Western On The Avenue (#6), The Edward Buffalo (#7), Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown (#11) offers valet parking for $19.58/day, and The Delavan Hotel (#14) has free parking with a park-and-fly option for $25 extra.
What’s the most walkable area in Buffalo for tourists?
Canalside and the downtown Main Street corridor are the most walkable areas for tourists. Hotels like the Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER (#18), Courtyard by Marriott Canalside (#15), and Holiday Inn Express Downtown (#8) put you within walking distance of KeyBank Center, the Buffalo Riverworks, restaurants, and the Buffalo Convention Center. The free trolley along Main Street connects many of these landmarks.
Which hotels near Buffalo Airport have a free shuttle?
The Comfort Inn & Suites Buffalo Airport (#9) and The Delavan Hotel (#14) both offer free airport shuttles. The Comfort Inn runs on 15-minute intervals (schedule at check-in), while The Delavan includes it as part of their service. The Garden Place Hotel (#1) also offers a free airport shuttle, though it’s located further from the terminal on Transit Road.
What credit card holds are required at check-in?
Holds vary by property. The Hyatt Regency Buffalo (#5) places a $100 per night hold for incidentals. The Embassy Suites Buffalo (#10) requires a $75 per night deposit. The Hilton Garden Inn Downtown (#13) holds $25/night. The Edward Buffalo (#7) requires a $100 damage deposit. These holds are typically released at checkout, though refunds may take 5-10 business days to appear on your statement.