In short
- Elevators stop at the 25th floor of the 32-story building.
- Visitors must walk up 3 steep flights of stairs to the deck.
- The observation deck sits on the 28th floor.
In this article
Reaching the top of Buffalo City Hall requires some physical effort. Public elevators transport visitors most of the way up the 398-foot (121.3-meter) building. However, they do not reach the very top. You need to use the stairs for the final stretch to access the panoramic views of Lake Erie.
How many stairs to the observation deck?
You must climb three flights of steep stairs.
The public elevators stop on the 25th floor. From there, visitors walk up the remaining levels to the 28th-floor enclosed deck. There is no elevator access for these final three floors.
Is the Buffalo City Hall observation deck wheelchair accessible?
No, the 28th-floor observation deck is not accessible to wheelchair users.
The only way up from the 25th floor is a steep stairwell. Visitors unable to climb stairs cannot reach the deck. Wheelchair users can still access the lobby and the Common Council Chambers on the 13th floor via elevators.
What should I wear for the stair climb?
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the steps and bring a light jacket.
The stairs are steep and require proper footwear. Once you reach the top, the outer walkway encircling the tower can be extremely windy. A sweater or jacket will keep you warm if you step outside the enclosed "Windows on Buffalo" viewing area.
What can I see on the lower floors?
The ground-floor lobby and the 13th-floor council chambers are fully accessible.
In the lobby, you can view large historical murals painted by William de Leftwich Dodge. Take the elevator to the 13th floor to see the Common Council Chambers. It features intricate woodwork and a stained-glass sunburst skylight.
| Area | Floor | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|
| Lobby & Murals | Ground | Full elevator access |
| Council Chambers | 13th Floor | Full elevator access |
| Observation Deck | 28th Floor | Stairs only from 25th floor |
When can I visit the observation deck?
The building is open on weekdays only.
Buffalo City Hall is completely closed on weekends and government holidays. Explore Buffalo runs free tours on weekdays at noon. You must register online in advance for these guided tours. The maximum group size for the public noon tour is 8 people.
How does security work when visiting?
Everyone must pass through a metal detector at the entrance.
Security staff will search your bags. Bring a government-issued photo ID. To speed up the screening, carry only a small daypack or purse. Weapons, including knives and mace, are strictly prohibited inside the building.
Questions travellers ask
Is there an elevator to the top of Buffalo City Hall?
No. Public elevators only travel as high as the 25th floor. You must use the stairs to reach the 28th-floor observation deck.
How much does it cost to visit the Buffalo City Hall observation deck?
Access to the lobby, the 13th floor, and the observation deck is completely free. Guided noon tours by Explore Buffalo are also free but require online registration.
How tall is Buffalo City Hall?
The Art Deco skyscraper stands 398 feet (121.3 meters) tall from street level to the tip of the tower. It has 32 stories in total.
