Stephen Development announces grand-opening of 205-room Buffalo Airport Hotel

Says property is one of the largest hotels in the region, closest to the airport, and boasts unparalleled outdoor amenities and entertainment.

Stephen Hospitality LLC, a subsidiary of Clarence-based Stephen Development LLC, announced the grand-opening of its new flagship hotel property, the Buffalo Airport Hotel, formally a Holiday Inn, located at the corner of Holtz Road and Genesee Street.

A press release stated, “The property was acquired in January 2021. Since acquisition, extensive renovations have been done to the hotel, including the lobby area, banquet facilities, courtyard, guest rooms and restaurant. Owners Paul S. Stephen and James J. Stephen made the decision to make the property an independent full-service hotel offering a range of amenities.

“About one-third of the hotel’s 205 guest rooms have already been renovated. The goal is to have the remaining rooms completed by spring 2024. The property has 141 standard rooms and 64 larger suite rooms, which blend contemporary aesthetics with unparalleled comfort and style.”

A highlight of the property is "The Yard,” where the existing pool has been replaced by a 3,000-square-foot pavilion filled with radiant heaters, fans, a custom sound system, and large-screen TVs. Surrounding the Pavilion is a courtyard, sprawling to just over 68,000 square-feet and featuring more than 10,000 square-feet of decorative concrete and walks weaving past five custom firepits, as well as yard games, leading to a patio bar.

The press release added, “On the walk, you can enjoy the beauty of our natural waterfall stone garden. Whether relaxing with some friends or enjoying a family party or corporate outing, ‘The Yard’ provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments and memories.”

An indoor banquet area includes 3,000 square-feet of renovated space with flexible configurations that can accommodate parties as large as 300, as well as smaller functions such as business conferences, weddings and family gatherings.

Guest can also sample local Buffalo cuisine and drinks while they unwind at the Sports 365 Bar & Grill. This space features seating for 213 patrons, a back area available for private party rental, and live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

To celebrate its grand-opening, Buffalo Airport Hotel invites the community to join in from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 21, for an event that will feature property tours, live entertainment, and refreshments. A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce is scheduled to begin promptly at 5 p.m.