By Patrick J. Kaler
Copyright buffalonews
Buffalo has arrived as a leisure travel destination.
Years of investment and effort have paid off, from the restoration of our architectural treasures and the rebirth of our waterfront to the flourishing arts scene, acclaimed restaurants and exciting new attractions that now define our city.
The launch of our new multimillion-dollar leisure campaign, “That’s Buffalo For You,” is a celebration of that progress, a testament to the energy and creativity that have reshaped how visitors experience Buffalo.
But even as we celebrate, we must acknowledge the challenges our visitor economy still faces. Business travel is rebounding, with companies increasingly drawn to midsize cities like ours for their affordability, accessibility and cultural appeal.
Buffalo has many advantages, including direct air service to more than 30 U.S. destinations, world-class cultural institutions, and Niagara Falls just minutes away. Yet to fully compete, we must also confront the challenges that limit our ability to attract major corporate gatherings.
Buffalo lacks a critical mass of full-service, higher-end hotels that large groups expect. Our convention center, despite upgrades, does not offer the amenities meeting planners demand. And while our airport is efficient, we need more nonstop flights, particularly international, to compete with peer cities like Cleveland and Indianapolis.
The challenge before us is one we must embrace together. Hoteliers, restaurateurs, business leaders, elected officials and cultural partners all have a role to play in strengthening our visitor economy.
Business travel is not just about filling convention halls; it means hotels bustling with guests, restaurants and shops thriving, and first-time visitors returning with their families. Each meeting or convention ripples across our economy, creating jobs and generating revenue that benefits us all.
The recent USA TODAY article, “The top 10 business destination cities in the U.S., according to American Express,” is proof of what is possible among cities our size. Buffalo was not on that list – but there is no reason we shouldn’t strive to be.
The energy is here. We have the tools to tell our story to a wider audience and the opportunity is right in front of us. The only question is: Will we step up to claim it?
Patrick J. Kaler is president and CEO or Visit Buffalo.
