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Top 24 Hotels Near Northtown Center at Amherst
1615 Amherst Manor Dr Buffalo, NY 14221
Hampton Inn Buffalo - Amherst NY
Within Buffalo, Hampton Inn Buffalo - Amherst NY is an easy walk from Northtown Center at Amherst, which provides a sense of connection to the place.
Casual décor with regional accents inside Hampton Inn receptions delivers polished impressions, reinforcing authenticity and consistency. Guest rooms provide sofa beds, televisions, and comfortable chairs, giving families shared spaces for evening relaxation and downtime. Pavilion-style lobby markets with frozen meals, bottled drinks, and snacks deliver convenience, reducing travel stress immediately.
Self-parking, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi connectivity, fitness centers, and business rooms provide reliable amenities for all guests.
Comfort Inn University
The hotel offers a strategic position, with Northtown Center at Amherst a brief ride away, allowing guests to be near the action without being in it.
Comfort Inn entry zones often include seasonal floral or decor touches near the desk to give a subtle welcome without overwhelming flow. Each guest room provides a flat-screen TV with casting or streaming plus complimentary Wi-Fi, letting entertainment and remote meetings start without delay. The bar area anchors casual social time with seating clusters and small plates, letting groups decompress after meetings or travel.
With meeting rooms, AV support, free Wi-Fi, and event parking, small conferences and sessions wrap efficiently and without surprises.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Buffalo - Amherst
For a trip to Buffalo, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Buffalo - Amherst's location a brief trip from Northtown Center at Amherst provides a convenient and time-saving travel option.
By using mobile check-in and digital key, DoubleTree reduces front-desk wait times, helping jet-lagged travelers access rooms sooner. Ample outlets and bedside USB ports ensure devices remain charged, giving guests convenience and peace of mind in maintaining connectivity. Breakfast areas supply fruit, pastries, and coffee service, giving clarity and dependable nutrition for both leisure and work trips.
Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, business center, pet-friendly rooms, and valet service combine categories, sustaining daily productivity and inclusivity.
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ University at Buffalo - Amherst
For a stay that provides travel flexibility, Red Roof Inn PLUS+ University at Buffalo - Amherst is a brief ride from Northtown Center at Amherst, making it a versatile option for travelers.
The pet-friendly atmosphere at Red Roof Inn is apparent upon arrival, making it a reliable and stress-free stop for guests with animals. The updated bathrooms in NextGen properties include modern fixtures and bright lighting, making the morning routine more pleasant and efficient. A well-kept pet relief area is an important functional space, making the hotel a truly practical and comfortable choice for pet owners.
A focus on family value is shown with a kids-stay-free policy, a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and premium channels for entertainment.
Candlewood Suites Buffalo - Amherst by IHG
Within Buffalo, Candlewood Suites Buffalo - Amherst by IHG is a brief trip from Northtown Center at Amherst, a detail that allows the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Sliding doors and level thresholds at Candlewood Suites keep carts moving smoothly through the vestibule during busy arrival windows. Guest rooms provide an iron, ironing board, and hair dryer, keeping outfits presentable and mornings unhurried before departures or plans. Meeting rooms accept movable seating, AV hookups, and sign-in tables, keeping briefings and small gatherings straightforward to stage.
Lending Locker items, a 24/7 market, and free Wi-Fi combine with complimentary laundry, reducing errands while plans stay flexible.
Buffalo Marriott Niagara
Northtown Center at Amherst is a quick drive from Buffalo Marriott Niagara, a feature that allows for a thought-free and simple part of the day.
Bonvoy elite lines at Marriott provide loyalty guests recognition and speed, ensuring smoother arrivals during busy periods or events. Every guest room includes plush mattresses, crisp linens, and blackout drapes, promoting deep, uninterrupted rest for weary travelers. The business lounge provides workstations, seating clusters, and reliable Wi-Fi, supporting tasks away from the guest room desk.
Pet policies, indoor pools, and laundry service combine with breakfast and Wi-Fi, providing care details that simplify family travel.
Staybridge Suites Buffalo-Amherst by IHG
Reaching Northtown Center at Amherst from Staybridge Suites Buffalo-Amherst by IHG is a simple drive, a feature that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
Where meeting rooms are adjacent, Staybridge Suites positions a registration table near the lobby, keeping sign-ins and directions concise. Suites often add a separate bedroom door and a second TV, improving privacy and keeping wind-down flexible when schedules differ. Fire-pit patios frame sturdy chairs and side tables, creating a relaxed finish to the day without adding another trip across town.
With a complimentary evening social Mon–Wed where offered, plus breakfast, a market, Wi-Fi, and seating, evenings stay easy on site.
Motel 6 Amherst NY - Buffalo
When visiting Buffalo, Motel 6 Amherst NY - Buffalo is located an easy drive from Northtown Center at Amherst, which keeps the main event well within reach by car.
Motel 6 places ice and vending close to the desk, enabling quick grab-and-go moments that fit neatly into the arrival sequence. Every guest room maintains adjustable heating and cooling, preserving comfort during both summer heatwaves and cooler seasonal nights. Lobby seating zones mix high-top tables with lounge chairs, giving options for quick laptop work or relaxed conversation between outings.
With pools at many locations, guest laundry, vending, and Wi-Fi, amenities deliver core essentials and relaxation in one straightforward mix.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Buffalo Amherst / University
Guests at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Buffalo Amherst / University can rely on the easy drive to Northtown Center at Amherst to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
To aid accessibility, Fairfield Inn provides level routes and seating clusters at entry so guests with mobility needs can regroup easily. Guest rooms include ergonomic workstations, charging hubs, and bright lighting, making it easy for professionals to manage tasks efficiently. Lobby lounges provide couches, group tables, and open sightlines, creating central hubs that support relaxed planning and social connection.
Guests benefit from market pantries, breakfast service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor pool access, enjoying convenient options every day.
Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Amherst / University
This adaptable location means Northtown Center at Amherst is an easy drive from Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Amherst / University, letting guests travel with ease.
Guests entering Courtyard encounter bold finishes, modular seating, and open layouts, details that produce modern and practical cues. Each guest room includes large TVs, bedside outlets, and ergonomic chairs, blending relaxation, convenience, and productivity daily. At the fitness area, ellipticals, mats, and weights create reliable setups for wellness routines across every property.
With self-parking, 24/7 markets, indoor pools, and fitness centers, travelers keep routines smooth and reliable during each stay.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Buffalo Amherst
This convenient commute to Northtown Center at Amherst enables La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Buffalo Amherst to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
Seating zones at La Quinta lobbies combine communal tables and lounge chairs, fostering both regrouping and casual social connection. Guest rooms highlight comfortable mattresses, blackout shades, and HVAC systems, offering reliable comfort across all properties. Breakfast setups featuring buffets, cereals, and coffee machines maintain clarity and predictability across all La Quinta properties.
Pet-friendly stays, Wi-Fi, and breakfast counters pair with vending and parking, simplifying daily family travel routines.
Extended Stay America Suites Buffalo Amherst
Guests at Extended Stay America Suites Buffalo Amherst can utilize the quick drive to Northtown Center at Amherst as a defining feature of a well-located stay.
The clean and functional design of the Extended Stay America lobby provides a no-nonsense first impression for practical-minded travelers. Guest rooms combine a comfortable bed with ample storage, ensuring hotel guests have a restful and organized space for longer stays. Vending machines and ice dispensers are always available, providing simple, self-service options for snacks and cold drinks.
A thoughtful mix of a full kitchen, a grab-and-go breakfast, a fitness center, and a pet-friendly policy enhances the comfort of any visit.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Amherst Buffalo
The value of being an easy drive from Northtown Center at Amherst makes Home2 Suites by Hilton Amherst Buffalo a practical base of operations before the experience.
In Home2 Suites spaces, bright finishes, playful décor, and flexible seating establish a welcoming environment that feels consistent. Suites provide walk-in showers, stocked toiletries, and plush towels, refreshing guests with comfort and practicality every evening. In the fitness center, ellipticals, weights, and stretching mats create opportunities to sustain balance between health and travel.
Amenities include outdoor patios, grills, pet-friendly rooms, and laundry access, providing flexibility for longer family visits.
Sleep Inn Amherst - Buffalo North near University
From Sleep Inn Amherst - Buffalo North near University, Northtown Center at Amherst is a straightforward drive, a detail that makes for an uncomplicated and well-placed stay.
At check-in, Sleep Inn positions seating near reception and visible elevators, so companions can wait comfortably while keys are prepared. Suites provide separate living space, a mini-fridge, a microwave and a desk, allowing families or colleagues to spread out. Breakfast dining areas include mixed seating, grab-and-go packs and clear signage so early travelers can collect food and leave promptly.
From free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast to pool access, business services, EV charging at participating hotels and laundry, trips stay organized.
Royal Inn
The quick drive from Royal Inn to Northtown Center at Amherst in Buffalo renders the connection between the two uncomplicated and fast.
Arrivals at Royal Inn may include efficient desk service, self-serve beverages, and on-site parking to simplify travel routines. Accommodations may feature plush bedding, modest seating, and climate control, helping ensure rest and comfort during overnight stays. Shared spaces may highlight vending machines, modest seating, and breakfast rooms that provide practical balance during travel stays.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, parking, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, reinforcing functional balance in budget accommodations.
Days Inn by Wyndham Tonawanda / Buffalo
In Buffalo, Days Inn by Wyndham Tonawanda / Buffalo offers an accessible location to Northtown Center at Amherst, letting guests move with a sense of freedom and ease.
Days Inn often maintains a 24/7 front desk, keeping late arrivals straightforward and questions answered without off-site calls each night. King rooms emphasize open floor area and a luggage bench, keeping walkways clear while day bags and outfits stay within easy reach. Wayfinding boards combine arrows, color cues, and floor directories near elevators so first walks to amenities feel direct and clear.
Fitness gear, posted pool hours where offered, towel bins, and Wi-Fi balance movement and recovery with minimal setup each day indoors.
Blue Falls Motel
Reaching Northtown Center at Amherst from Blue Falls Motel is an easy drive, a quality that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
At Blue Falls Motel, arrivals may include modest desk service, vending access, and exterior parking that support daily guest practicality. Accommodations often include compact bathrooms, modest desks, and Wi-Fi, maintaining practical clarity across guest visits daily. Shared spaces typically provide vending machines, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that sustain functional clarity across visits.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, vending machines, modest coffee stations, and parking, maintaining straightforward clarity for guests.
Hyatt Place Buffalo / Amherst
In Buffalo, Hyatt Place Buffalo / Amherst's accessible location to Northtown Center at Amherst lets guests commute with a sense of freedom.
Hyatt Place mobile check-in through the World of Hyatt app lets travelers bypass lines, starting their stay with speed and efficiency. All guest rooms provide plush mattresses, branded bath products, and digital thermostats, keeping comfort predictable throughout stays. Bars with visible counters, comfortable seating, and table service provide relaxed hubs where travelers can unwind and recharge.
Free breakfast, strong Wi-Fi, and meeting spaces connect with pools and self-parking, balancing work duties and leisure downtime.
The Mosey Buffalo Williamsville Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The quick drive from The Mosey Buffalo Williamsville Tapestry Collection by Hilton to Northtown Center at Amherst in Buffalo means guests have a reliable way to arrive without confusion.
Comfortable armchairs positioned near reception at Tapestry hotels provide rest points that soften the move from travel to check-in. Rooms include noise-reducing design elements, such as heavy drapes and soundproofing, promoting restful comfort even in urban settings. Communal lounges styled with local textiles invite lingering conversation and cultural connection in shared space backdrops.
Rooftop pools, hot breakfast, Wi-Fi, on-site dining, flexible meeting rooms, and pet-friendly policies suit varied travel patterns.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tonawanda - Buffalo Area by IHG
This useful location makes Northtown Center at Amherst just an easy drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tonawanda - Buffalo Area by IHG, ensuring a simple start.
Holiday Inn Express lobby seating areas include charging hubs, giving guests practical comfort while waiting or regrouping with others. Each guest room offers ergonomic desks, supportive chairs, and Wi-Fi, ensuring professionals can keep up with tasks effectively. Business centers with computer terminals, printers, and Wi-Fi access support productivity for travelers needing quick task completion.
Meeting facilities, Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets pair with self-parking and laundry, making it simple to balance daily needs while away.
Hampton Inn Buffalo-Williamsville
For a visit where a low-stress drive is a priority, Hampton Inn Buffalo-Williamsville is a straightforward drive from Northtown Center at Amherst, turning the trip into a simple task.
Hampton Inn breakfasts with hot entrees, fruit, and pastries establish reliable morning clarity, supporting routines across every stay. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh comfortably after a day of activities. Breakfast rooms with hot items, pastries, and coffee stations supply reliable structure, giving guests dependable clarity every morning.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast buffets, meeting spaces, indoor pools, and laundry service deliver dependable support during every stay.
Eva Hotel Buffalo Airport Best Western Signature Collection
Northtown Center at Amherst is a simple drive of Eva Hotel Buffalo Airport Best Western Signature Collection, a convenience that allows for easy travel to other local points.
With labeled meeting points and corridor arrows, Best Western helps groups reunite after check-in, keeping movement organized and predictable. Every guest room places a multi-device charging zone near seating, letting companions sync phones while reviewing routes and reservations. Meeting rooms add projection, sound, and configurable seating, supporting brief huddles or small events without complex coordination.
Between fitness rooms, pools where available, Wi-Fi, and lounge seating, travelers match workouts and resets to the day’s pace without detours.
CenterWay Hotel Tonawanda
From the moment you check in at CenterWay Hotel Tonawanda, Northtown Center at Amherst is a direct run for a simple start, simplifying your itinerary.
CenterWay Hotel Tonawanda often presents modest reception counters, vending machines, and available parking that emphasize budget practicality. Rooms typically highlight compact layouts, premium bedding, and coffee stations, maintaining balance and convenience across guest visits. Facilities often showcase compact lobbies, vending areas, and coin-operated laundry that emphasize functional routines for guests.
Accommodations may provide Wi-Fi, vending access, laundry support, and compact breakfast rooms, helping guests maintain consistency daily.
Staybridge Suites Williamsville Buffalo by IHG
From Staybridge Suites Williamsville Buffalo by IHG, the easy drive to Northtown Center at Amherst is a core principle of accessibility straightforward that defines the beginning of the stay.
Staybridge Suites routes arriving guests past The Pantry shelves, making last-minute toiletries and snacks easy to resolve. All suites supply cookware and measuring basics, making recipe prep manageable and the kitchen genuinely functional day to day. Grill stations organize gas grills, tools, and prep counters, making simple dinners practical in shared outdoor spaces near seating.
From meeting rooms with AV carts to a 24-hour business center and Wi-Fi plus coffee, handouts and sign-ins come together on schedule.
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Northtown Center at Amherst Local Area Guide
The Northtown Center at Amherst is the premier ice facility in Western New York and a bustling hub for the region's intense hockey culture. Formerly known as the Amherst Audubon Recreation Center, this massive complex features four ice sheets—three NHL-sized and one Olympic-sized—making it the first facility in the state to house such a configuration under one roof. It serves as the home ice for the University at Buffalo men’s club hockey team, the Amherst Youth Hockey Association (one of the largest in the country), and numerous high school varsity squads. The venue is designed for high-volume tournament play, featuring a central atrium that connects the rinks, a full-service pro shop, and the distinctive "Skybox" restaurant that allows spectators to watch games on the Olympic rink from a warm, glass-enclosed vantage point. For visiting teams, the experience is defined by the "Buffalo chill"—both inside the notoriously cold rinks and outside in the parking lot. This guide is designed for the hockey parents and managers navigating a trip to the suburbs of Buffalo. You will learn how to handle the lake-effect snow commutes, where to find the absolute best chicken wings within a five-minute drive, and how to utilize the connected athletic facilities for dryland training.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Northtown Center at Amherst (Buffalo, NY)
The complex is located on Amherst Manor Drive in the quiet, safe suburb of Amherst, situated just north of the University at Buffalo (UB) North Campus. The "neighborhood" is a mix of university buildings, quiet residential streets, and the sprawling Audubon Golf Course that borders the facility. Access is exceptionally convenient via the I-990 and I-290 expressways, which intersect just moments from the rink, allowing for quick travel throughout the Niagara region. The nearest major travel hub is Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), located just 15 minutes south, making this an easy destination for fly-in tournaments. While the immediate area surrounding the rink is dominated by green space and athletic fields, the bustling commercial corridors of Niagara Falls Boulevard and Sheridan Drive are just minutes away, offering endless retail and dining options. Parking at the facility is abundant and free, with large lots serving the multiple rinks, though snow pile-up in the winter can slightly reduce capacity. The area feels exceptionally safe—Amherst is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in America—but it is strictly car-dependent for getting to hotels and restaurants.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Northtown Center at Amherst
Accommodation strategy here revolves around the hotels serving the University at Buffalo. The Buffalo Marriott Niagara and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Buffalo-Amherst are the clear favorites, located on Millersport Highway directly across from the university and just a two-minute drive (or a very cold walk) from the rink. These properties are built for hockey teams, offering large lobbies, breakfast buffets, and easy highway access. For a wider range of options, the hotels along Transit Road or Sheridan Drive, such as the Hyatt Place Buffalo/Amherst, provide modern amenities and are often closer to the major shopping centers. Staying in downtown Buffalo is an option if you want to be near Canalside, but be prepared for a 20-minute commute that can double during a snowstorm.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Buffalo Niagara Intl (BUF) · 15 min drive.
- Parking is free; watch for ice in the lots.
- Niagara Falls · 20 min drive.
- Boulevard Mall or Lasertron.
- Washington Square (The Skybox).
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Arrive at least 60 minutes before puck drop. The parking lots are large but can become congested during shift changes, especially if snow plows are active. Enter through the main automatic doors into the central lobby; digital screens or a whiteboard will list locker room assignments for the four rinks (Olympic, Feature, and Rinks 1 & 2). Teams typically warm up in the long corridors connecting the rinks or outside on the sidewalks if the weather cooperates, though winter often forces everyone indoors.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games, the Washington Square Bar & Grill (The Skybox) on the second level is the essential refuge. It offers a full menu and a bar with a direct view of the Olympic rink, allowing parents to stay warm and fed without leaving the building. For quick snacks, the concession stand on the main level serves local favorites like "pizza logs" and Perry's ice cream. If you have a longer break, the Boulevard Mall area is just 5-10 minutes away, offering a warm place to walk around and grab food from a wider variety of restaurants.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Exiting the facility is straightforward, with traffic flowing back onto Amherst Manor Drive. If you are heading to a team dinner, the restaurants on Sheridan Drive (like Duff's) are legendary but require navigating busy commercial traffic. Ensure you check the locker room thoroughly for lost gear, as the facility moves quickly to accommodate the next teams. If the weather is snowy, allow extra time to scrape off your car and warm it up before loading the players.
Things to Do Near Northtown Center
Walkable
Audubon Golf Course & Nature
While mostly a summer attraction, the Audubon Golf Course grounds surrounding the rink offer open space that is sometimes used for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter. In the warmer months, the walking paths connect to the town's nature trails, providing a peaceful escape for parents needing fresh air. It creates a park-like setting that separates the rink from the suburban sprawl.
On site · AdjacentUniversity at Buffalo (North Campus)
Located just across the street, the massive UB campus is accessible for a quick drive or walk (in good weather). The Center for the Arts often hosts shows, and the Alumni Arena is home to Division I basketball and wrestling. It is a great place to walk around and see a major university environment, or to grab a coffee at the Student Union if you have downtime during the semester.
Millersport Hwy · 0.5 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Niagara Falls State Park
No trip to Buffalo is complete without seeing the Falls, and the Northtown Center is perfectly positioned for a quick trip. A 20-minute drive north on I-190 brings you to the American side of the falls, where you can view the Horseshoe Falls and walk the park grounds. Even in winter, the frozen mist and ice formations are spectacular to witness. It is a bucket-list experience that can easily be squeezed between morning and evening games.
Niagara Falls, NY · 20 min driveLasertron
Located just a few minutes away, Lasertron is a premier entertainment center featuring a high-tech laser tag arena, cyber sport (a combination of lacrosse and bumper cars), and an arcade. It is the go-to destination for team parties and bonding events, offering packages that include food and drinks. The venue also features an outdoor patio with cornhole and axe throwing for the adults. It is a reliable, high-energy option for killing time indoors.
N Bailey Ave · 2.5 miBeyond the Event: If you have a free evening, Canalside in downtown Buffalo offers ice skating, curling, and the Buffalo Naval & Military Park about 20 minutes south. The Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls provide massive retail shopping options just 15 minutes north. For sports fans, Highmark Stadium (Bills) and KeyBank Center (Sabres) are major draws depending on the season.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Northtown Center
Inside & Adjacent
Washington Square (The Skybox)
Located on the second floor of the Northtown Center, this full-service restaurant and bar is a massive perk for tournament families. It offers a menu of Buffalo staples like beef on weck, wings, and fingers, all served with a view of the Olympic rink action below. Parents can enjoy a beer and a meal in a warm environment while still keeping tabs on the game. It saves you from having to drive out into the snow for dinner.
On site · Level 2Santora's Pizza Pub & Grill
Located nearby on Millersport Highway, Santora's is a large, family-friendly sports bar famous for its pizza and wings. It features plenty of televisions, large booths, and a menu that caters to large groups and hungry athletes. They are known for their "pizza wings" and hearty pasta dishes. It is a convenient and reliable spot for a team lunch just minutes from the rink.
Millersport Hwy · 1.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Duff's Famous Wings
You cannot visit Buffalo without eating wings, and Duff's on Sheridan Drive is widely considered the local favorite over the more touristy Anchor Bar. Be warned: their sauce is hotter than average, so "medium" is actually quite spicy. The atmosphere is casual, loud, and messy—perfect for a hockey team. Expect a wait on weekends, but it is worth it for the authentic experience.
Sheridan Dr · 2.5 miAnderson's Frozen Custard
A Buffalo institution, Anderson's serves the holy trinity of Western New York fast food: roast beef on weck, curly fries, and frozen custard. It is a fast-casual spot where you can get a high-quality, regionally specific meal quickly and affordably. The roast beef sandwiches are piled high and served on a salt-and-caraway "weck" roll. It is a mandatory stop for anyone wanting to taste the real Buffalo.
N Bailey Ave · 2.0 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Giancarlo’s Sicilian Steakhouse
For a celebratory parents' dinner or a sophisticated coaches' meal, Giancarlo’s offers upscale Italian cuisine and steaks. Located in the Walker Center, it features a polished, modern atmosphere with an excellent wine list and craft cocktails. The menu highlights fresh pastas, prime steaks, and seafood. It is a great place to escape the rink noise and enjoy a refined dining experience.
Main St · 3.5 miDandelions Restaurant
Dandelions is a cozy, slightly upscale neighborhood spot that has been serving Amherst for decades. It offers a diverse menu ranging from burgers and salads to filet mignon and fresh fish. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, often featuring live music on weekends. It is a local favorite that provides a nice balance between casual and fine dining.
N Forest Rd · 2.0 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Rinks are exceptionally cold; bring heavy winter coats and blankets.
- Try "Pizza Logs" at the concession stand—a local specialty.
- Driving in lake-effect snow requires caution; allow extra travel time.
- Pro shop on-site is well-stocked for emergency gear repairs.
- Parking is free, but lots can be icy; watch your step.
Weather & Seasons at Northtown Center
- Winter: December through March is serious winter, with significant snowfall and temperatures often in the teens or 20s. Lake-effect snow bands can drop inches per hour, so monitor forecasts closely. The rink interior is freezing, so dress for the outdoors even when inside.
- Spring & early summer: April through June brings a thaw, but temperatures remain cool in the 50s and 60s. Rain is common, making the parking lots slushy or wet. It is the end of the traditional season, but tournament play continues.
- Mid-summer: July and August are warm and humid, with highs in the 80s. The facility is a great place to cool off, but the temperature shock when walking outside is real. It is a quieter time at the rink, with camps dominating the schedule.
- Fall season: September through November offers the best weather, with cool, crisp air and clear roads. Highs in the 50s and 60s make travel easy. It is the start of the season, and the energy in the building ramps up.
- Rain & snow: Snow is the primary factor. Buffalo knows how to handle snow, so roads are cleared quickly, but visibility can be poor. Always clear the snow off your car roof before driving to avoid blinding other drivers.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: UB Hockey / Amherst Youth.
- Neighborhood: Amherst / UB North.
- Nearest airport: Buffalo Niagara (BUF).
- Parking: Free Surface Lots.
- Walkable district: No (Car required).
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Wegmans (Alberta Dr).
- Pharmacy: Walgreens (N Bailey Ave).
- Urgent care: WellNow Urgent Care.
- Downtime: Niagara Falls.
- Pro tip: Eat Wings at Duff's.

