Architect Richard Upjohn, the first President of the American Institute of Architects and designer of New York City's Trinity Episcopal Church, considered St. Paul's Cathedral to be his finest work. Built of Medina sandstone, St. Paul's contains elements from the Early English Gothic style of the 13th century. The 270-foot tower is located on the southwest corner of the building and a two-story chapel sits on the north side of what was originally Shelton Square.

The Square was a hub of activity that included the Erie County Savings Bank, a Harvey & Carey drugstore, and the last of Buffalo's burlesque houses, the Palace. The interior features an open expanse and flanking aisles reaching almost to the height of the nave. Twelve celestory windows honor 7 men and 5 women saints. In 1888, a gas explosion and the resulting fire destroyed much of the interior. Black marks on both the large and small towers and spires remain visible, illustrating the height and ferocity of the flames. St. Paul's re-opened in 1890 after a renovation with a more substantial, and ornamental décor.

In 1886, St. Paul's was chosen as the Episcopal Cathedral for the Diocese of Western New York, a role it continues to fill today. The chimes, heard daily for decades, were installed in 1857. The funeral of President Millard Fillmore was held at St. Paul's in 1874. The Cathedral was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1973.

Continue South on Main to Swan Street at the end of the block.