BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) is once again rolling out its popular Parks Adventure Bus program, giving residents and visitors a free, convenient way to experience some of Western New York’s most scenic parks and outdoor destinations this summer.

Now entering its fifth season, the Parks Adventure Bus has a new design to highlight the natural beauty you can behold on your free ride! The program is supported through partnerships with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Erie County Parks, Recreation & Forestry, and the Department of Environmental Conservation. 

“Thank you to the NFTA for another year of supporting the Parks Adventure Bus. New York State Parks is proud to partner with Erie County, DEC, and NFTA to welcome everyone to our parks. The Adventure Bus is the perfect way to get offline and get outside. We look forward to another year of fun,” said Mark V. Mistretta, Niagara Region Director for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

From hiking wooded trails and relaxing on sandy beaches to discovering waterfalls and nature preserves, the service offers an easy day-trip option for families, students, seniors, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. 

“We’re happy to once again partner with the NFTA to bring the Parks Adventure Bus to some of our parks,” said Troy P. Schinzel, Commissioner of Erie County Parks, Recreation & Forestry. “This service opens the door for more residents to experience the incredible natural spaces we’re fortunate to have in Erie County. Whether you’re discovering a new park or returning to a longtime favorite, we’re excited to welcome everyone for another summer of outdoor adventure.”

Service operates on select Saturdays throughout the summer, departing from the Downtown Buffalo Bus Station, 181 Ellicott Street:

Park Destinations

• June 20 — Sprague Brook County Park (new destination added for 2026)
• June 27 — Beaver Island State Park
• July 11 — Chestnut Ridge County Park
• July 18 — Evangola State Park
• July 25 — Emery County Park
• August 1 — Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve
• August 8 — Akron Falls County Park
• August 15 — Fort Niagara State Park

Bus Departure Times from Buffalo

• 9:45 a.m.
• 11:30 a.m.
• 1:15 p.m.
• 3:10 p.m.

Return Trips to Buffalo

• 12:20 p.m.
• 2:10 p.m.
• 4:00 p.m.
• 6:00 p.m.

Eternal Flame at Chestnut Ridge will only be serviced by the first trip from Buffalo at 9:45 am. Riders can join a Park Ranger on a guided hike to the Eternal Flame upon arrival at the trailhead.

Additional seasonal programming includes:

• Rain date: August 22
• Reinstein Woods Fall Fest: September 19
• Como Lake Park Fall Fest: September 26
• Santa Land at Chesnut Ridge: December 12

The Parks Adventure Bus continues to grow in popularity as more riders discover a stress-free and environmentally friendly way to enjoy the outdoors without needing a car. The service also supports NFTA’s broader commitment to transportation accessibility, community wellness, and connecting residents with regional recreational opportunities.

For route details and accessibility information, visit:  https://metro.nfta.com/getting-around/special-services/parks-adventure-bus

06/17/2026