Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Bike Tour

The "Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Bike Tour" in Buffalo, New York offers a unique blend of culinary exploration and outdoor adventure. Participants pedal through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods on electric bikes, uncovering the rich heritage behind the iconic Buffalo wings. From scenic river views to sampling local craft beers, this tour promises an engaging experience that may just leave you craving more.

This experience made our article of The Top 5 Buffalo Bike Tours.

Key Points

• Discover the origins of the iconic Buffalo chicken wings at the birthplace, the Anchor Bar, during a scenic bike tour of Buffalo’s industrial heritage.

• Explore the repurposed grain elevator complex of Silo City, a hub for Buffalo’s vibrant arts and culture scene, and sample unique wing dishes.

• Taste local culinary gems, including the renowned Anchor Bar’s wings and the creative offerings of the Tiny Thai food truck, to explore Buffalo’s rich culinary history.

• Experience the city’s landmarks and waterfront views effortlessly on electric bikes, with a guide providing lively musical accompaniment to enhance the relaxed atmosphere.

• Gain insights into the historical significance of Buffalo’s industrial past, from towering grain silos to historic factories, during the Riverbend Ride along the Buffalo and Niagara Rivers.

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The Origin of Buffalo Chicken Wings

Although the exact origins of the Buffalo chicken wing remain a point of debate, the dish is widely accepted to have been first served at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York in the 1960s.

Dominic Bellissimo, a bartender at the Anchor Bar, is often credited as the creator of the now-iconic wings.

Legend has it he whipped up a batch of wings one night when the bar ran out of hors d’oeuvres, tossing them in a mixture of hot sauce and melted butter.

The dish proved an instant hit, kickstarting the rise of Buffalo wings as a beloved American classic.

The Riverbend Ride Along the Buffalo and Niagara Rivers

The Riverbend Ride along the Buffalo and Niagara Rivers takes cyclists on a scenic journey through the heart of Buffalo’s industrial past. Along the way, riders will encounter towering grain silos, historic factories, and breathtaking views of the waterfront. The tour includes a stop at Silo City, an artist-inspired bar and event space housed in a former grain elevator. Here, participants can sample local craft beer and learn about the site’s rich history.

| Landmark | Description |

| — | — |

| Buffalo River | The Buffalo River winds through the city, once a hub for shipping and manufacturing. |

| Silo City | A repurposed grain elevator complex that now hosts art exhibits, performances, and dining. |

| Canalside | The vibrant waterfront district along the Erie Canal, featuring parks, museums, and restaurants. |

| Niagara River | The Niagara River flows from Lake Erie to Niagara Falls, offering stunning views throughout the tour. |

| Grain Elevators | Towering industrial structures that dominated the skyline and fueled Buffalo’s economy for decades. |

Silo City: An Artsy Watering Hole

As the tour winds its way along the Buffalo River, riders soon arrive at Silo City, a repurposed grain elevator complex that has been transformed into an artsy watering hole.

This unique space features:

• Towering concrete silos now housing art exhibits, music venues, and a cozy bar serving local brews.

• Murals and sculptures adorning the exterior, blending industrial grit with creative expression.

• A chance to step back in time and imagine the bustling activity that once filled these cavernous structures, now reimagined as a hub for the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Lina Brown Young: Carrying on the Legacy

One of the highlights of the Wing Ride tour is the opportunity to meet Lina Brown Young, the daughter of Buffalo’s original "King of Wings".

Lina shares personal stories and recipes passed down from her father, the founder of the iconic Anchor Bar where the buffalo wing was invented.

Visitors are captivated by Lina’s engaging storytelling and her passion for preserving her family’s culinary legacy.

Through Lina, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history behind the beloved buffalo wing and the pioneering spirit of the Brown family that helped launch this iconic dish onto the global stage.

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Tasting the Culinary Gems

Visitors on the Wing Ride tour are in for a culinary treat as they make their way through the streets of Buffalo.

Along the route, they’ll sample wings and other delights from several renowned local eateries.

The tour includes stops at:

• The iconic Anchor Bar, where the original Buffalo-style chicken wings were born

• The Tiny Thai food truck, known for its creative wing flavors

• Silo City, an artist-inspired bar featuring unique wing dishes

These tastings provide a delectable exploration of Buffalo’s rich culinary heritage and the diverse flavors that have made the city famous for its iconic chicken wings.

Exploring the Electric Bike Experience

For the Wing Ride tour, visitors can explore the city of Buffalo on electric bikes, which enhance the overall experience.

These pedal-assisted bikes make it easy to cover more ground without getting tired. Riders can glide effortlessly along the Buffalo and Niagara Rivers, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

The electric boost provides a fun and engaging way to learn about the history of chicken wings. Tour-goers can focus on the stories and samples rather than the physical effort, making this a truly unique and memorable way to discover Buffalo’s culinary heritage.

The Musical Accompaniment

Adding to the engaging bike tour experience, the Wing Ride tour features a lively musical accompaniment provided by the knowledgeable guide. As the group cycles along the Buffalo and Niagara Rivers, the guide’s ukulele performance adds an extra layer of entertainment and immersion:

• The guide’s skilled ukulele playing complements the tour’s storytelling, providing musical punctuation to key moments in the history of Buffalo’s famous chicken wings.

• The ukulele’s mellow tones create a relaxed, festive atmosphere, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the bike ride and wing tasting.

• The musical element encourages a sense of camaraderie among tour participants, fostering a shared experience that goes beyond just sightseeing.

Booking and Logistics

Booking the Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Bike Tour is a straightforward process.

Customers can check the tour’s availability for various start times. They’ll need to select the desired date and number of participants.

The tour departs from Canalside, next to the Buffalo Heritage Carousel, in downtown Buffalo. It’s not suitable for individuals who can’t ride a bike, as the tour involves about an hour of leisurely biking along the Buffalo and Niagara Rivers.

The menu is subject to change based on restaurant hours. Guests can book their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Electric Bikes Available for Those Unable to Pedal?

Yes, the tour offers electric bikes for those who prefer not to pedal. The electric bikes enhance the experience, allowing participants to explore the area without exerting too much physical effort, according to customer reviews.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences with advance notice. Participants should notify the tour operator of any special needs when booking so they can ensure the appropriate food options are provided during the wing tastings.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Mobility Scooter Accessible?

The tour doesn’t appear to be wheelchair or mobility scooter accessible. It involves approximately 1 hour of leisurely biking, which may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges. Customers should contact the tour operator if they have any accessibility requirements.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

The tour’s duration and itinerary can’t be extended or customized. It’s a set 3-hour experience focused on exploring Buffalo’s chicken wing history through tastings and bike rides. Customers must take the tour as described unless they book a private tour.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives customers flexibility to change their plans without penalty. The tour also allows customers to reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The Sum Up

The Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Bike Tour offers a unique and engaging way to explore Buffalo’s culinary heritage. Participants can enjoy scenic river views, discover the origins of the iconic Buffalo wing, and savor local craft beers and artisanal fare, all while experiencing the thrill of an electric bike ride through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a must-try experience for food and history enthusiasts alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: