I hope you realize that is quite a distance from Buffalo, close to 300mi.
From LA I would take a southern route (I40-I44-I70-I71-I90-I86-I88) I would avoid Chicago if at all possible.
If you are planning on I90 in New York be aware that the tolls can add up.
I never spent much time in that exact area, you are in between the Catskills and Adirondacks, Very close to Western MA, CT and VT.
All of these are beautiful country, it is in no way comparable to what everybody thinks of as New York (mainly the city).
There is a lot of interesting early american history that took place in the Hudson Valley, The Dutch founded Albany (Fort Nassau) in 1614.
I would recommend visiting Lake Placid, take a loop up thru Saranac Lake. Visit Fort Ticonderoga, If you have time go up to the Thousand Islands (St Lawrence river), Drive down to Hyde Park, visit the FDR estate, and one of the Vanderbuilt Mansions.
try to take some time to go through the Finger Lake Region, Lots of winery's and Watkins Glen (interesting state park and hike up a gorge with lots of waterfalls, and a famous racetrack nearby).
You will be going through a huge portion of the US, Stop at some of the small places in the middle of nowhere, it will be more enjoyable.
Disclaimer.....I grew up near Buffalo, and lived near Poughkeepsie for a number of years.