2 days ago
NFTA's Parks Adventure Bus is back for free trips to popular parks this summer
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Western New Yorkers looking to escape the city and explore the outdoors won't have to spend a dime this summer.
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority's Parks Adventure Bus is back for its fourth season, offering free roundtrip rides to eight regional parks every Saturday through Aug. 9.
The service is part of a collaboration between the NFTA, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Erie County Parks Department, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and Congressman Tim Kennedy.
'It makes it very equitable for everyone to be able to see the great outdoors,' said Kelly Khatib, public information officer and communications manager for NFTA. 'It doesn't matter where you're from East Side, West Side, Cheektowaga, Hamburg, North Buffalo, South Buffalo, we want to make sure that everyone has the chance to enjoy these beautiful parks, and that it doesn't have to break the bank.'
Buses depart from 181 Ellicott St. in downtown Buffalo with multiple departure times throughout the day, 8:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. Return trips from each park are scheduled between 11:10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Destinations include:
Chestnut Ridge Park
Fort Niagara State Park
Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve
Como Lake Park
Beaver Island State Park
Akron Falls Park
Evangola State Park
Emery County Park
Each location offers something different from hiking and birdwatching to beaches and historic sites. Khatib said riders can 'choose their own adventure,' with new experiences every week.
'There's so much to explore at each park,' she said. 'If you go to Beaver Island, you're going to get a little bit of that sun and sand. If you go to Fort Niagara, you get a little history lesson with your park adventure.'
Park staff are stationed at each destination to help guests make the most of their visit.
'When you show up to one of your Erie County parks on the bus, you'll typically find a little canopy with a table and a park ranger,' said Chuck Bartlett, supervising park ranger. 'They'll have information on what's available to do in that park, where to go, and help you get started on your adventure.'
New this year is a ranger-led hike to the to one of the region's most iconic natural wonders.
'This year we've added an auxiliary stop at the Eternal Flame, and you'll be able to meet up with a ranger and do a guided hike,' Bartlett said.
Last summer, more than 700 riders used the Parks Adventure Bus, and officials expect that number to grow as more residents and visitors discover the free service.
'It's not just for families or kids,' Khatib added. 'It's a chance for everyone to enjoy the beautiful parks we have here in Western New York.'
More information and full schedules can be found here.
Gwyn Napier is a reporter who joined the News 4 team in 2025. See more of her work by clicking here.
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