If you’re considering a move to Buffalo, NY, Parkside is a neighborhood that always comes up in the conversation—and for good reason. Nestled against the city’s crown jewel, Delaware Park, and brimming with historic character, Parkside offers a unique blend of urban convenience and small-town charm. Here’s an insider’s look at what it’s like to call Parkside home.
A Welcoming, Close-Knit Community
One of the first things people notice about Parkside is its sense of community. Neighbors know each other's names, and it’s not unusual to see block parties, garden tours, or children riding their bikes down the quiet streets. The Parkside Community Association is an active presence, organizing everything from seasonal events to neighborhood clean-ups.
Residents describe Parkside as diverse and inclusive, with families, young professionals, and retirees all sharing the same blocks. There’s a shared pride in maintaining beautiful homes and fostering a welcoming environment—whether you’ve lived here for a month or a decade.
Historic Homes and Unique Architecture
Parkside is famous for its architecture, featuring grand American Foursquares, Craftsman bungalows, Victorians, and classic Arts & Crafts-style houses. Legend has it that famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s nearby Darwin D. Martin House, located on Jewett Parkway, set the tone for the neighborhood’s unique style.
Most homes were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tree-lined streets like Summit Avenue, Crescent Avenue, and Woodward Avenue are a showcase of lovingly maintained porches, original woodwork, and stained glass. You’ll even spot the occasional turret or carriage house.
While Parkside is primarily single-family homes, there are also a handful of well-kept duplexes and small apartment buildings, making it possible for renters or buyers with different needs to find a home here.
Walkability and Convenience
One of Parkside’s major draws is its walkability. Delaware Park, with its meandering paths and wide open spaces, forms the western border of the neighborhood, giving residents instant access to one of Buffalo’s largest green spaces. Walking to the Parkside Farmers Market at Church of the Good Shepherd, grabbing a cone at Parkside Candy (the iconic sweet shop on Main Street), or picking up takeout from neighborhood favorites like Daisy’s or Joe’s Deli is all part of daily life.
Main Street forms the neighborhood’s eastern edge, offering Metro Rail stops (Amherst Street and Humboldt-Hospital stations) for an easy commute downtown. Streets like Russell, Crescent, and Florence provide peaceful alternatives for evening strolls or dog walks.
Top-Notch Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families in Parkside have several educational options. Both public and private schools are easily accessible. Many neighborhood children attend PS 54 Dr. George E. Blackman School of Excellence or the highly regarded Olmsted School.
Nearby, North Park Community School and Nichols School (a private, college-prep institution) provide additional choices. The strong sense of safety and community support means children walk or bike to school, and there’s always a friendly face around the corner.
Parkside is particularly attractive to families thanks to its playgrounds, tree-shaded sidewalks, and low traffic on its residential streets. The Parkside Community Association even runs annual events like the Halloween Parade, which draws families from across the city.
Parks and Green Spaces
Delaware Park is the heart and soul of Parkside. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame), the 350-acre park offers something for everyone:
- Jogging and biking paths
- The Buffalo Zoo, one of the country’s oldest
- Shakespeare in Delaware Park performances every summer
- Rose gardens, tennis courts, and basketball courts
Little ones adore the playgrounds, while adults enjoy the tranquility of Hoyt Lake or a round of golf at Delaware Park Golf Course. The Japanese Garden and the Marcy Casino, with its scenic views, are favorite spots to spend an afternoon.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Parkside has a well-deserved reputation for being one of Buffalo’s safer neighborhoods. Residents watch out for one another, and active neighborhood associations keep an eye on local issues. Crime is relatively low, particularly compared to nearby city neighborhoods, and most blocks have active “Eyes on the Street.”
You’ll often see neighbors chatting on front porches, kids riding scooters, or friends walking dogs late into the evening, not just because it’s safe, but because it’s truly a neighborhood where people care.
Access to Downtown Buffalo and Major Employers
Location is another strong suit for Parkside. Situated just a 10-minute drive from downtown Buffalo, residents are within an easy commute to the city’s business district, the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, and local hospitals like Sisters of Charity Hospital.
The Metro Rail connects Parkside quickly to downtown via the Amherst and Humboldt-Hospital stops, making it a great choice for professionals. Plus, the neighborhood enjoys proximity to the I-198 and Main Street, providing easy access for those who work outside of the city.
What Residents Love Most
Ask Parkside residents what they love most, and you’ll hear some recurring themes:
- The striking mix of architecture and history
- The walkability and abundance of green space
- A friendly, welcoming atmosphere
- Events like the Annual Parkside Tour of Homes or neighborhood yard sales
- Proximity to top-tier cultural attractions: The Buffalo Zoo, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, and Burchfield Penney Art Center are all close by
Ultimately, living in Parkside feels like being part of something special—a community that honors its history while remaining vibrant and inclusive. For anyone considering a move to Buffalo, Parkside stands out as a neighborhood where you can put down roots, make lifelong friends, and genuinely feel at home.