Buffalo is growing and changing thanks to new people, new energy, and new opportunities around every corner. Whether you’ve lived nearby your whole life or are arriving from out of town, starting college here is exciting. Like other cities, Buffalo has its own personality. Knowing a little more about the area can help you feel more prepared and confident as you kick off your first semester.
What to Know About Buffalo Weather
Buffalo has a reputation for harsh weather, especially in winter. The city definitely sees its share of snow and cold, but it’s not always as extreme as people make it out to be. Buffalo experiences all four seasons. Winters are usually long, cold, and snowy (thanks in part to lake effect snow), and that wintry feel often stretches from November into early spring. On the flip side, spring and summer are quite nice, though humid. The best thing you can do when it comes to Buffalo weather is to stay prepared and flexible. Check the forecast before heading out for the day and give yourself extra time in the morning when snow is forecasted.
Student Housing for Villa Students
Students at Villa have the option to live at Collegiate Village. Located 2.5 miles from campus, this student housing complex also hosts students from other local colleges. CV apartments come furnished in a range of sizes, from studios up to four-bedroom units. Students can use financial aid to cover the cost of their rent, which includes utilities and parking. Residents have access to a fitness center, outdoor heated pool with a grilling and fire pit area, study lounges, and many more amenities. CV even provides shuttle transportation to Villa and other institutions. Buffalo’s housing market is more affordable than many other college towns, so some students choose to find their own apartment instead.
How to Get Around Buffalo
Buffalo is a car-centric city. Most locals rely on their own vehicles to get around. But if you don’t have a car, don’t worry. Villa students receive a CRAM Pass as part of their student ID, which gives you unlimited access (August through May) to the NFTA Metro Bus and Rail system. The Metro Rail runs between University Heights and Canalside downtown, and buses can take you just about anywhere else in the city as well as towns in the suburbs. Biking is another option during warmer months.
Buffalo Neighborhoods to Explore
Villa is located just outside Buffalo’s official city limits in Cheektowaga’s Pine Hill neighborhood. Nearby, you’ll find Schiller Park and Cleveland Hill, the latter of which is home to Collegiate Village. You’re also a quick drive from the Walden Galleria, one of the largest malls in the region.
As you explore more of Buffalo, you’ll get familiar with other neighborhoods:
Downtown
Buffalo’s downtown has undergone major redevelopment. The waterfront, in particular, received a massive facelift and now serves as one of the downtown area’s main attractions. From winter ice skating to summer concerts and hangouts, there’s always something happening. This area is also where you’ll find the city’s busiest nightlife.
North Park
This walkable neighborhood is full of character. Hertel Avenue is the district’s main corridor and is lined with vintage shops, independent boutiques and bookstores, diverse restaurants, and the historic North Park Theatre. Don’t miss the mural walk along Hertel’s back alley. Some of these masterpieces were created by Villa students!
Parkside
True to its name, Parkside borders Delaware Park. The neighborhood contains the Buffalo Zoo, Buffalo History Museum, and Darwin Martin House. It’s a peaceful, green neighborhood with a strong connection to the city’s cultural scene.
Elmwood Village
Consistently ranked as one of the best neighborhoods in Buffalo, EV is a hotspot for those looking for trendy coffee shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s also home to Buffalo’s AKG Art Museum and Bidwell Park, where you’ll find concerts and farmers markets.
Allentown
Known for its bohemian vibe, Allentown is filled with galleries, murals, festivals, and some of Buffalo’s most eclectic architecture. It’s the city’s unofficial arts district and a great place to experience local music and culture.
Ready to Start Your Journey at Villa?
Living and learning in Buffalo offers a one-of-a-kind college experience. Between Villa’s supportive campus community and the city’s cultural energy, you’ll have every opportunity to grow, both in the classroom and beyond. Want to learn more about student life at Villa Maria College? Reach out to us today to schedule a tour or to speak with an admissions counselor.
