Richardson Olmsted Campus
A National Historic Landmark, this former asylum is now a stunning architectural marvel with revitalized grounds and a boutique hotel.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Richardson Olmsted Campus
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A National Historic Landmark, this former asylum is now a stunning architectural marvel with revitalized grounds and a boutique hotel.
"Absolutely beautiful! Walk the grounds, have dinner, or listen to free outdoor music on the lawn. Something for everyone."
📸 Photography Rules
Be aware of photography policies; selfies are generally okay, but professional shoots may incur fees. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The Olmsted-designed grounds are perfect for a stroll and offer great exterior photo ops. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Richardson Hotel
Main building
Experience the stunning transformation of this historic asylum into a unique boutique hotel.

Olmsted-Designed Grounds
Exterior campus
Wander through beautifully restored landscapes that highlight the campus's original vision.

Architectural Grandeur
Exterior and public interior spaces
Marvel at the Romanesque Revival architecture by Henry Hobson Richardson.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Explore the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photography Rules
Be aware of photography policies; selfies are generally okay, but professional shoots may incur fees. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The Olmsted-designed grounds are perfect for a stroll and offer great exterior photo ops. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Events
Seasonal markets and festivals are common, adding a vibrant atmosphere. :calendar:
🏨 Stay at The Richardson
For a unique experience, consider booking a room at the hotel within the campus. :bed:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Rules
Be aware of photography policies; selfies are generally okay, but professional shoots may incur fees. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The Olmsted-designed grounds are perfect for a stroll and offer great exterior photo ops. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Events
Seasonal markets and festivals are common, adding a vibrant atmosphere. :calendar:
🏨 Stay at The Richardson
For a unique experience, consider booking a room at the hotel within the campus. :bed:
👻 Haunted History
Many visitors are drawn to the campus's past as an asylum; some even report paranormal activity. :ghost:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning architectural renovation and the beautifully restored grounds of the Richardson Olmsted Campus. The campus offers a unique blend of history, art, and community events, making it a captivating destination. Some guests have noted confusion regarding photography policies and the contrast between public access and restricted areas.
"Gorgeous renovation but still lots to do. The hotel looks amazing. Inside the ground floor, there is a large display and video highlighting the life of the buildings. Very interesting and informative."
Ann Green
"Absolutely beautiful ! Walk the grounds, have dinner, a drink at the bar, or listen to free outdoor music on the lawn. Something for everyone. You must visit!"
Lysa Brewster
"Beautiful architecture. Great photography inside of local landmarks. Such a shame, a male staff member “accused” me of doing a photoshoot (a selfie on the stairs on a cell phone, not with any professional equipment or lighting, and I made sure there were no hotel guests or visitors in the background out of respect for others). I was on the stairs less than a minute. I was told they charge $150 per hour for photoshoots and only photos of the outside of the building are allowed. A little concerned it was racist, as I saw other people taking photos inside as well and did not see them confronted. Signs should be posted clearly inside or a list of rules and expectations should be on their website. According to the website, the Richardson Olmsted Campus is listed as ‘open to the public’ but it seems there are ‘unwritten rules’ that are not clearly posted anywhere, very unprofessional."
Dominique Woods
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Richardson Olmsted Campus is located at 444 Forest Ave, Buffalo, NY. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also serve the area, though checking local bus routes is recommended.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors, making it convenient to access the campus and its amenities.
If you are staying nearby, particularly at Buffalo State College, walking is a viable option as the campus is adjacent.
The campus is quite large, so walking is the primary way to explore the grounds. For specific tours, follow your guide.
While specific routes can vary, Buffalo's public transit system generally serves major attractions. It's advisable to check the NFTA (Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority) website for the most current bus routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and public areas of the hotel is generally free. However, guided tours of specific historical sections or abandoned areas may require tickets. Check the official website for tour availability and booking.
The grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours. The hotel, restaurants, and any specific exhibits or tours will have their own operating hours, which are best checked on their official website.
Yes, guided tours are often available, offering insights into the history and architecture of the campus. These tours are a great way to see parts of the building not otherwise accessible.
Exploring abandoned sections is generally not permitted due to safety and preservation reasons. Stick to designated tour routes and public areas.
Access to the exterior grounds and public areas of the hotel is usually free. Special events or guided tours may have associated costs.
📸 📸 Photography
Personal photography, like selfies, is generally allowed in public areas. However, professional photoshoots or commercial photography may require permits and fees. Signs or staff can provide clarification.
While general photos are often permitted, it's best to be respectful of hotel guests. Professional equipment or extensive setups might be restricted without prior arrangement.
The exterior architecture, especially during golden hour, and the restored grounds offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Public interior spaces like the hotel lobby also provide great backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic and populated areas. It's advisable to check with campus management or local regulations before flying a drone.
Information regarding permits and fees for professional photoshoots should be available on the official Richardson Olmsted Campus website or by contacting their administration.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the campus features dining options, including a cafe and a more formal restaurant within The Richardson Hotel, offering a place to eat and drink.
Dining options typically include contemporary American cuisine, with cafes offering lighter fare and restaurants providing a more extensive menu.
While picnicking on the grounds might be permissible in designated areas, consuming outside food inside the hotel or restaurant spaces is generally not allowed.
The campus is located near Elmwood Village, a vibrant neighborhood with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a wide variety of culinary choices.
The Richardson Hotel typically has a bar or lounge area where visitors can enjoy drinks.
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
Yes, a portion of the historic campus has been transformed into The Richardson Hotel, offering overnight accommodations.
The Richardson Hotel is a boutique hotel that blends historic architecture with modern amenities, providing a unique lodging experience.
Rooms can be booked directly through The Richardson Hotel's official website or through major online travel agencies.
While the hotel occupies a renovated section, historical tours often focus on other parts of the campus, including areas not accessible to guests.
Amenities typically include comfortable rooms, dining options, and access to the historic campus grounds. Specific amenities can be found on the hotel's booking page.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the architectural marvels and the beautiful park-like setting. If taking a guided tour, inquire if it's suitable for younger audiences, as some historical details might be more mature. The hotel's public spaces offer a glimpse into the renovation, which can be fascinating for all ages. Remember to check the campus's event calendar for family-friendly activities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the Olmsted-designed landscape, which adds a layer of natural beauty and symmetry to your shots. While personal photography is generally allowed, be mindful of the campus's policies regarding professional shoots, which may require permits and fees. Exploring the public interior spaces of The Richardson Hotel can also yield stunning architectural photos, but always be respectful of guests.
👻 Paranormal Investigators & History Buffs
While direct access to abandoned areas is restricted for safety, guided tours often touch upon the darker aspects of the asylum's history. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at The Richardson Hotel, which is situated within the historic structure. Many guests report a unique atmosphere, and the campus's extensive grounds offer ample space for contemplation and exploration of its storied past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Architecture and Healing
The campus's original layout was revolutionary for its time, featuring a Kirkbride Plan design that aimed to provide patients with light, air, and views, fostering a more humane approach to mental health treatment. This innovative design, combined with Richardson's imposing yet elegant structures, made it a landmark institution. After nearly a century of operation, the asylum closed, and the campus faced a period of uncertainty before embarking on a significant revitalization.
Today, the Richardson Olmsted Campus is a National Historic Landmark undergoing a phased restoration. While parts have been transformed into The Richardson Hotel and event spaces, a significant portion remains a poignant reminder of its past, with ongoing efforts to preserve its historical integrity and reimagine its future use. This duality of preservation and adaptive reuse makes it a compelling destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the Campus: Tours and Events
Beyond historical tours, the campus frequently hosts public events, particularly during the holiday seasons. Visitors can enjoy holiday markets, fall festivals, and other community gatherings held on the grounds, offering a chance to experience the campus in a lively, festive atmosphere. These events often feature local artisans, food vendors, and entertainment, drawing significant crowds and showcasing the campus as a vibrant community hub.
For those interested in photography, the Richardson Olmsted Campus is a dream. The striking architecture and the juxtaposition of restored and untouched areas provide endless visual narratives. However, it's important to be aware of the campus's photography policy, as commercial or professional shoots may require permits and fees, while personal photography in public areas is generally permitted.
The Haunted History and Modern Transformation
Despite its dark past, the campus has undergone a remarkable transformation. The development of The Richardson Hotel has breathed new life into a portion of the historic structure, offering a luxurious and unique lodging experience that allows guests to stay within the walls of this iconic landmark. This adaptive reuse project is a key part of the campus's revitalization, demonstrating how historic buildings can be preserved and repurposed for modern use.
The ongoing preservation and development of the Richardson Olmsted Campus aim to balance its historical significance with contemporary needs. While the 'haunted' aspect adds a layer of intrigue for some, the primary focus is on celebrating its architectural heritage and its role as a community gathering space and a symbol of Buffalo's rich history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit