Hundreds of people attended the Polish Tavern Christmas tours throughout Buffalo’s Historic Polonia, so don’t miss out on the upcoming winter outings that Forgotten Buffalo has planned for 2012.

Two different tours will be offered this winter, allowing visitors the chance to check out some off the beaten path establishments that hold some serious Buffalo history. “Places to go… not to be seen” is an all new Forgotten Buffalo tour that will explore some of the most “out of the way” taverns in the city. From dirty dives to private clubs, participants will get a chance to check out a handful of eclectic spots worth visiting at least once.

Another tour, “Jim & Tim’s Irish Buffalo” takes a look at the history of the Irish in Buffalo. One of Forgotten Buffalo’s most popular tours, participants will celebrate the lives of two of South Buffalo’s most famous sons, NBC “Meet the Press” host Tim Russert and former mayor Jimmy Griffin. Stops at some of the most colorful Irish pubs are a favorite part of this tour.

Some of the tours have already sold out, but here is the complete list of the 2012 winter tours.

01/14/12—Jim & Tim’s Irish Buffalo, 5:30 p.m.—SOLD OUT
02/18/12—Places to go, not to be seen, 5:30 p.m—ON SALE NOW
02/25/12—TBA, 5:30 p.m.
03/09/12—Jim & Tim’s Irish Buffalo, 5:30 p.m.—ON SALE NOW
03/10/12—Jim & Tim’s Irish Buffalo, 5:30 p.m.—SOLD OUT
03/16/12—Jim & Tim’s Irish Buffalo, 5:30 p.m.—ON SALE NOW

You must be 21 years to older to participate and tours are subject to sell out without notice. Currently, tours cost $45 per person and include meal, bus transportation, docent led guided tour, prizes and giveaways. Confirmed reservations are recommended and you can read all about the rules and regulations for the tours at the Forgotten Buffalo website. 

Here is a sneak peak of previous Forgotten Buffalo tours. This video features the “Ballad of Buffalo”, produced by WKBW Radio in the early 1960s—awesome vintage Buffalo song!