You might be surprised to learn that Rochester, New York, with a population of roughly 200,000, packs a significant punch when it comes to tourism. This city’s attractions are deeply rooted in its history, making for a unique experience.
As you explore Rochester, you’ll uncover a blend of historical significance, cultural institutions, and natural beauty. The city’s museums are a great place to start, offering insights into its rich heritage. With its nicknames “Flour City” and “Flower City,” Rochester is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
From world-class museums to outdoor adventures, there’s a lot to discover in this underrated city. Let’s dive into the top picks for things to do in Rochester, New York, and explore what makes this city a must-visit destination.
Discovering the Charm of Rochester, NY
As you step into Rochester, NY, you’ll uncover a blend of historical significance and modern charm. This city, nestled in New York State, has a rich history that is palpable as you explore its streets and attractions.
A Brief History of the Flour City and Flower City
Rochester’s history is fascinating, having evolved from one of America’s first “boom towns” to a culturally rich city it is today. Initially, it gained prominence as the “Flour City” due to its numerous flour mills along the Genesee River. Over time, it transformed into the “Flower City” as nurseries and seed companies became a major industry, a heritage still celebrated through the famous Lilac Festival and beautiful Highland Park.
The city’s industrial legacy is impressive, being the birthplace of iconic American companies like Eastman Kodak, Xerox, Bausch & Lomb, and Wegmans. These companies not only shaped Rochester but also played a significant role in American business history. Moreover, Rochester has a reputation for being a hub for social and political movements, particularly the women’s rights movement, with notable residents including Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.
| Era | Rochester’s Identity | Notable Developments |
|---|---|---|
| Early Years | Flour City | Flour mills along Genesee River |
| Late 19th Century | Flower City | Nurseries and seed companies |
| 20th Century | Industrial Hub | Eastman Kodak, Xerox, Bausch & Lomb |
When to Visit Rochester
The best time to visit Rochester is between May and October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s attractions.
In the spring, you can enjoy the blooming lilacs before the crowds arrive. Summer offers perfect weather for waterfront activities, while fall provides a stunning backdrop of colorful leaves for your explorations. Each season offers a unique experience, making Rochester a year-round destination.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Rochester has something for everyone. Plan your visit during the recommended period to make the most of your trip to this vibrant city in New York State.
The Strong National Museum of Play
As one of the largest and most interactive museums in the world, the Strong National Museum of Play is a treasure trove of fun and learning. Spanning an impressive 280,000 square feet, this Rochester institution is dedicated to the study and celebration of play.
The museum is divided into two main floors, each offering a unique experience. The first floor is designed for younger visitors, featuring immersive worlds such as Sesame Street, The Berenstain Bears, and Reading Adventureland. Kids can also enjoy a full-sized mock grocery store, where they can play and learn about shopping.
National Toy Hall of Fame
The National Toy Hall of Fame is a highlight of the Strong National Museum of Play, showcasing a vast collection of beloved toys from across the decades. From classic dolls and action figures to modern gaming consoles, the exhibit celebrates the toys that have shaped generations of children’s play.
Visitors can explore the fascinating history behind these toys and see some of the most iconic playthings up close. The Hall of Fame is a nostalgic treat for adults, while kids can enjoy discovering new favorites among the exhibits.
Interactive Exhibits for All Ages
The second floor of the museum is home to a range of interactive exhibits that cater to visitors of all ages. Here, you can explore the history of board games, video games, and classic toys, with plenty of hands-on activities to enjoy.
Recent expansions have added exciting new attractions, including a 20-foot-tall Donkey Kong arcade game and a life-sized Chutes and Ladders board. The Hasbro Game Park is another highlight, allowing visitors to step into larger-than-life versions of beloved games like Candyland and Monopoly.
Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden
A hidden gem within the museum is the breathtaking Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden. This tropical paradise is home to hundreds of butterflies flying freely among exotic plants, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
As you wander through the garden, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and marvel at the beauty of these delicate creatures. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that makes a visit to the Strong National Museum of Play even more special.
Plan your visit to the Strong National Museum of Play today and discover why it’s considered the play capital of the world. With its vast interactive exhibits, fascinating collections, and beautiful butterfly garden, it’s a must-visit destination for families and anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.
George Eastman Museum: A Photography Pioneer’s Legacy
As the world’s oldest photography museum, the George Eastman Museum offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of photography. Located on the estate of George Eastman, the founder of Kodak, this museum is not just about photography; it’s an immersive experience into the life and times of a true visionary.
The museum is split into two main parts: the photography museum and the historic mansion. The photography museum houses an extensive collection of cameras, photographs, and works by contemporary artists, showcasing the development of photography from its earliest days to the digital age. On the other hand, the historic mansion provides a fascinating look into George Eastman’s life, with its grand rooms, unique features like the elephant head in the foyer, and beautifully maintained gardens.
Exploring the Historic Mansion
Touring the historic mansion is like stepping into a different era. The mansion, with its impressive Colonial Revival architecture, was the home of George Eastman, and it reflects his personality and lifestyle. As you walk through the grand rooms, you’ll notice unique features such as the music room with a pipe organ and the conservatory filled with exotic plants. These elements not only showcase Eastman’s love for music and nature but also give insight into his life as one of America’s most influential innovators.
The mansion is a testament to Eastman’s legacy, offering visitors a chance to understand the man behind the innovation. From the intricate details of the house to the serene beauty of the gardens, every aspect of the estate tells a story of Eastman’s life and contributions to photography and beyond.
Photography Collections and Exhibits
The George Eastman Museum is renowned for its extensive photography collections, featuring works by pioneers such as Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange, alongside contemporary photographers. The museum’s exhibits trace the evolution of photography, from its earliest days to contemporary digital works, providing a comprehensive understanding of the medium that George Eastman helped democratize.
In addition to its photography collections, the museum is also recognized for its film preservation efforts and the Dryden Theater, which screens classic films and rare nitrate prints. This commitment to preserving and showcasing the history of photography and film continues Eastman’s legacy, making the George Eastman Museum a pivotal place for anyone interested in the art and history of photography.
Plan your visit to the George Eastman Museum, open Tuesday through Sunday, with admission priced at $20. The museum offers free parking for visitors entering from East Avenue. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique experience, the George Eastman Museum is a must-visit destination in Rochester, New York.
Highland Park and Lamberton Conservatory
Discover the natural beauty of Highland Park, a 150-acre oasis in the heart of Rochester. This park is one of the city’s jewels, offering a serene escape from the urban landscape. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect who designed Central Park in New York City, Highland Park is a masterpiece of urban planning and natural beauty.
The Famous Lilac Festival
Highland Park is renowned for its annual Lilac Festival, held in May when over 1,200 lilac bushes burst into bloom. This spectacular display attracts visitors from around the world, making it a must-visit event for nature lovers and those looking for a unique experience.
The festival celebrates the beauty of lilacs with various activities and events. You can stroll through the park, taking in the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of the lilacs. It’s a perfect time to visit Rochester and enjoy the city’s natural charm.
Year-Round Beauty at Lamberton Conservatory
While Highland Park is a treat during the Lilac Festival, the Lamberton Conservatory offers year-round beauty. This glass-walled tropical paradise is home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers, providing a warm escape from Rochester’s cold winters.
The conservatory features themed rooms, including desert and tropical gardens, ensuring that each visit is a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a chance to explore exotic flora, Lamberton Conservatory is a great place to visit.
In addition to its natural beauty, Highland Park is also home to several memorials and walking paths. You can visit the Frederick Douglass Memorial Plaza and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, adding a layer of historical significance to your visit.
With its proximity to Mt. Hope Cemetery, where Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony are buried, Highland Park is part of a larger historical and cultural landscape. This makes it an ideal destination for those interested in history, nature, and culture.
Rochester’s Waterfront Attractions
Rochester’s waterfront is a treasure trove of natural beauty and urban charm. The city’s unique blend of natural features and urban landscapes makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of both worlds.
High Falls and the Genesee River
High Falls is one of Rochester’s most iconic attractions, and for good reason. The 96-foot waterfall is a breathtaking sight, and its location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible. You can view the falls from multiple vantage points, including the High Falls Terrace Platform, where you can feel the spray of the waterfall, and the Pont de Rennes Bridge, which offers panoramic views of both the falls and the city skyline.
The Genesee River, which flows northward through Rochester, is another unique feature of the city’s waterfront. It’s one of only a few rivers in the United States to flow north, and its path through the city creates a beautiful and interesting landscape.
Ontario Beach Park on Lake Ontario
If you’re looking for a beach day in Rochester, Ontario Beach Park is the place to go. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, this park offers swimming, volleyball, a historic carousel, and plenty of sandy shoreline to relax on. It’s a great spot to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful scenery during the summer months.
Turning Point Park’s Scenic Boardwalk
Turning Point Park is a hidden gem along Rochester’s waterfront. This former industrial area was transformed in the 1970s and now features a stunning 3,572-foot elevated boardwalk that extends over the Genesee River. The boardwalk offers Instagrammable views of the city skyline and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
The park trails also connect to the Genesee Riverway Trail, allowing hikers and cyclists to access over 16 miles of Rochester’s waterfront from downtown to Ontario Beach Park.
Rochester, New York: Best Things to Do for History Buffs
History enthusiasts will find Rochester, New York, to be a treasure trove of significant landmarks and museums. The city’s rich history is palpable as you explore its various historical sites.
Susan B. Anthony Museum and House
The Susan B. Anthony Museum and House is dedicated to the history of the women’s rights movement and the life of this legendary American women’s rights leader. The beautiful 19th-century brick house was Anthony’s home during the most politically active part of her life. As president, Anthony hosted the National American Women Suffrage Association here, and this was the site of her famous arrest for voting in 1872.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, enjoying a multitude of exhibits related to Anthony’s life and work. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and panel discussions.
Key Highlights:
- Step back in time at the Susan B. Anthony Museum and House, where this legendary women’s rights leader lived during the most politically active period of her life.
- Explore the well-preserved 19th-century brick house that served as both Anthony’s home and the headquarters for the National American Women Suffrage Association.
- Learn through guided tours about Anthony’s tireless work for women’s suffrage, abolition, and educational reform.
Mount Hope Cemetery
Mount Hope Cemetery is one of the nation’s first municipal Victorian cemeteries, where you can pay respects at the graves of both Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, two of America’s most important civil rights pioneers who called Rochester home.
This historic cemetery is not only the final resting place of these notable figures but also a place of serene beauty, with its winding paths and monumental graves.
Frederick Douglass Memorials
Rochester is also home to several memorials honoring Frederick Douglass, the famed abolitionist, orator, and statesman who lived in the city for 25 years and published his influential anti-slavery newspaper “The North Star” here.
These memorials serve as a reminder of Rochester’s significant role in both the women’s rights movement and the Underground Railroad, with Douglass helping many escaped slaves reach freedom in Canada via the northward-flowing Genesee River.
In conclusion, Rochester, New York, offers a wealth of historical attractions that are sure to captivate history buffs. From the Susan B. Anthony Museum and House to Mount Hope Cemetery and the Frederick Douglass Memorials, there’s much to explore and learn about the city’s rich history.
Exploring the Erie Canal
Discover the historic Erie Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering that transformed American commerce. The Erie Canal is a significant part of Rochester’s history and a must-visit attraction.
Sam Patch Erie Canal Cruises
The Sam Patch Erie Canal cruise offers a unique experience, allowing you to relive the history of the canal. Aboard the Sam Patch, a replica of a 1800s packet boat, you’ll enjoy a 90-minute cruise through the original lock system. This experience is not just fun but also educational, as knowledgeable guides share the rich history of the waterway.
You’ll have the opportunity to see the canal’s historic significance firsthand and understand its role in America’s westward expansion and industrial development. The cruise departs daily from Schoen Place in Pittsford, NY, at 12 noon, 2 PM, and 4 PM.
Canal Path Walking and Biking
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Canal Path is perfect for walking or biking. This scenic path offers miles of flat, easy trails with beautiful views of the water and passing boats. It’s an ideal activity for families and casual cyclists.
The Canal Path is part of the larger Erie Canalway Trail, a 524-mile trail that follows the Erie Canal. In the Pittsford area, you can enjoy the charming village atmosphere, visit historic buildings, and dine at canal-side restaurants. Free parking is available at Schoen Place, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure.
Whether you choose to take a cruise or explore on foot or by bike, the Erie Canal area offers a lot to see and do. With its rich history, scenic beauty, and charming surroundings, it’s a great place to spend the day.
Rochester Public Market: A Local Favorite
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Rochester Public Market, a local favorite. Since 1905, this market has been a mainstay on the calendar of both citizens and visitors alike. It’s the spot to go if you’re looking to nab some fresh produce, a variety of meats, intriguing specialty items, and just generally interesting products.
Shopping for Fresh Produce and Specialty Items
The Rochester Public Market is a shopper’s paradise, offering over 300 vending stalls with a wide range of products. You can find farm-fresh produce, specialty foods, unique crafts, and antiques. The market operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6am-1pm and Saturdays from 5am-3pm year-round, minus holidays. Much of the market is covered or indoors, making it a great place to visit regardless of the weather.
As you wander through the market’s bustling aisles, you’ll discover a diverse mix of vendors selling everything from fresh flowers to artisanal cheeses. Be sure to explore the various stalls and sample some of the local flavors.
Food Vendors and Eateries
When it comes to food, the Rochester Public Market has something for everyone. You can sample delicious empanadas from Juan & Maria’s Empanada Shop or grab a breakfast sandwich from Scott’s II. Other options include Provisions, Cherry’s European, and MRKT Squeeze Fresh Pressed Juice. With so many food vendors to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or just looking for a unique experience, the Rochester Public Market is a must-visit destination in Rochester. So why not plan your visit today and see what this local favorite has to offer?
Art and Culture in Rochester
As you explore Rochester, you’ll discover a plethora of art and cultural attractions that make the city a fascinating place to visit. The city’s cultural landscape is characterized by its numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues, offering something for everyone.
Memorial Art Gallery
The Memorial Art Gallery, founded in 1913, is Rochester’s premier art institution. It houses an impressive permanent collection spanning 5,000 years of art history, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. You can discover works by renowned artists like Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, and Georgia O’Keeffe alongside significant pieces by regional artists.
One of the unique experiences at the Memorial Art Gallery is the Baroque organ concerts held in the Fountain Court on Sundays at 1 pm and 3 pm. These concerts are included with your admission price, offering a rich cultural experience.
Rochester Museum and Science Center
The Rochester Museum and Science Center is a fun, hands-on destination that makes science accessible and exciting for visitors of all ages. Highlights include the Electricity Theater demonstration, Native Peoples exhibition, and hands-on STEM activities. You can explore the world around you through interactive exhibits.
Strasenburgh Planetarium
The Strasenburgh Planetarium, connected to the Rochester Museum and Science Center, offers immersive star shows and special laser light performances in the recently renovated Star Theater. You can gaze at the stars and enjoy the night sky in a unique and engaging way.
Rochester’s art and cultural scene is not limited to its institutions; the city itself is a cultural attraction. The Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) surrounding the Memorial Art Gallery is a creative district that showcases Rochester’s vibrant contemporary art scene through galleries, studios, unique shops, and restaurants. You can take advantage of the ARTWalk, an urban art trail that connects cultural institutions throughout NOTA, featuring outdoor sculptures, artistic crosswalks, and installations.
Family-Friendly Activities in Rochester
With its rich offerings, Rochester is an ideal location for a family vacation, providing something for everyone. You can enjoy a variety of fun activities with your kids, making it a great place to visit.
Seneca Park Zoo
The Seneca Park Zoo is a must-visit attraction for families. It’s a constantly evolving family attraction where kids can get up-close with animals from around the world. The zoo offers an amazing playground for kids to explore and a newest exhibit that allows guests to feed the giraffes.
The zoo is home to over 90 species, featuring diverse habitats such as the Cold Asia Trail with snow leopards and red pandas, and the Rocky Coasts exhibit with sea lions and polar bears. You can plan your visit and enjoy a fun day out with your family.
Whispering Pines Mini Golf
Challenge your family to a round at Whispering Pines Mini Golf, proudly holding the title of oldest continuously operating mini-golf course in America since its opening in 1930. This great place offers a blend of nostalgic charm and family-friendly competition.
Seabreeze Amusement Park
Experience the historic Seabreeze Amusement Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, operating since 1879. You can enjoy vintage rides like the Jack Rabbit wooden roller coaster alongside modern attractions. During hot summer days, cool off at Seabreeze’s water park area with water slides, a wave pool, and splash zones.
Rochester’s family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by numerous playgrounds throughout the city, including the innovative Lilac Adventure Zone at Highland Park. You can plan your family activities strategically, as many of Rochester’s family attractions are seasonal.
Unique Rochester Attractions
Rochester is home to some truly one-of-a-kind attractions that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. From historic landmarks to artistic districts, the city offers a diverse range of experiences that showcase its character.
Warner Castle and Sunken Gardens
Hidden within Highland Park is Warner Castle, a Scottish-style castle built in 1854 by Horatio Gates Warner. Although the interior is not open to the public, visitors can explore the exterior and the beautiful sunken gardens.
The sunken gardens, designed by Alling DeForest in the 1930s, feature terraced beds, stone pathways, and a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for photography or quiet contemplation.
- Discover Warner Castle, a hidden gem in Highland Park that brings a touch of Scotland to Rochester.
- Explore the castle’s beautiful sunken gardens, featuring terraced beds and stone pathways.
Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA)
The Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) is a vibrant area adjacent to the George Eastman Museum, featuring converted factories and historic buildings now housing galleries, studios, performance spaces, and unique shops.
Visitors can experience ARTWalk, an urban trail connecting cultural institutions with artistic sidewalks, sculptures, and installations, transforming ordinary streets into an outdoor gallery.
- Wander through NOTA, Rochester’s creative district with galleries, studios, and performance spaces.
- Visit the Rochester Contemporary Art Center, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions by emerging and established artists.
- Explore unique shops like Shop Peppermint, Stacy K Floral, and Axom Gallery, all within walking distance of each other.
Rochester’s Culinary Scene
When visiting Rochester, New York, one of the top things to explore is its vibrant culinary scene. The city offers a diverse range of dining experiences that reflect its rich history and cultural heritage.
The Famous Garbage Plate
A must-try when in Rochester is the iconic “Garbage Plate,” a hearty dish consisting of meat (hamburger, hot dogs, or sausage), topped with home fries, macaroni salad, baked beans, and a spicy meat sauce. This signature dish was created in the 1930s at Nick Tahou Hots, the birthplace of the Garbage Plate, to feed hungry workers during the Great Depression.
You can still enjoy the original Garbage Plate at Nick Tahou Hots or try modern interpretations at other popular spots like Dogtown, Mark’s Texas Hots, or Charlie’s Restaurant.
Top Restaurants in Rochester
Rochester is home to a variety of excellent restaurants serving different cuisines. One of the beloved institutions is Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, known for its award-winning barbecue and lively atmosphere. The Genesee Brew House is another great place to eat, offering craft beers and elevated pub fare with spectacular views of High Falls.
The city’s diverse international food scene is also worth exploring, with standout restaurants like Ox and Stone (Latin-inspired), Voula’s Greek Sweets, and Abyssinia Ethiopian Restaurant.
Wegmans: More Than Just a Grocery Store
Wegmans is a point of pride for Rochester residents and is considered the “Disneyland of grocery stores.” The flagship Pittsford location offers a wide range of dining options, including sushi bars, burger stations, and full-service restaurants within the store.
Whether you’re looking for grab-and-go meals, specialty items, or simply a great place to eat, Wegmans is an excellent choice.
Breweries and Nightlife in Rochester
As you explore Rochester, you’ll discover that its brewing scene is as rich as its history, with a plethora of breweries and nightlife spots to enjoy. The city’s beer culture is a blend of traditional and modern, offering something for every beer enthusiast.
Genesee Brew House
The Genesee Brew House is a must-visit destination, located by the Genesee River with a stunning view of High Falls. This 9,000-square-foot beer destination is housed in a converted old packaging center, where you can tour the brewery museum, sample flights of classic and innovative Genesee beers, and enjoy the spectacular views from the rooftop patio.
Craft Brewery Tour
Rochester’s craft brewery scene is thriving, with local favorites like ROC Brewing Co., Rohrbach Brewing, and Three Heads Brewing offering unique experiences. ROC Brewing Co. is known for its ever-changing tap list and floor-to-ceiling windows, while Rohrbach Brewing, Rochester’s first craft brewery, provides a cozy atmosphere. Three Heads Brewing boasts a spacious tasting room and beer garden, perfect for a relaxing evening.
Radio Social and Entertainment Venues
For a unique nightlife experience, head to Radio Social, located in the former Stromberg-Carlson warehouse. This 42,000-square-foot venue combines bowling lanes, ping pong tables, and other games with craft cocktails and Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine, all presented with a hip, Wes Anderson-esque aesthetic. Rochester’s entertainment scene also includes venues like Anthology and the Bug Jar, offering live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to its breweries and nightlife, Rochester’s East End District is a walkable area filled with popular bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it easy to experience multiple spots in one evening. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, Rochester has something to offer.
Seasonal Activities and Events
From spring to winter, Rochester hosts various festivals and events that showcase its vibrant culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something to do in this exciting city.
Spring: Lilac Festival and Garden Tours
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Rochester, with the Lilac Festival being a major highlight. Held in May, this festival celebrates the blooming of over 1,200 lilac bushes in Highland Park. You can enjoy:
- The world-famous Lilac Festival, featuring music, art shows, and food vendors
- Garden tours beyond just lilacs, including the Magnolia Garden and Rhododendron Garden in Highland Park
- The Spring Flower Show at Lamberton Conservatory, showcasing seasonal blooms in a controlled environment
Summer: Outdoor Concerts and Festivals
Summer in Rochester is filled with outdoor concerts and music festivals. You can experience:
- The CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival in June, attracting world-class musicians and over 200,000 attendees
- The Park Avenue Summer Art Festival in August, featuring hundreds of artists, craftspeople, and food vendors
These events make summer an ideal time to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and community.
Fall and Winter Activities
As the seasons change, Rochester continues to offer a range of activities. In the fall, you can:
- Discover the city’s fall foliage displays at Highland Park, Mount Hope Cemetery, and Mendon Ponds Park
- Participate in fall harvest activities at nearby farms and orchards, including apple picking and pumpkin patches
In the winter, enjoy:
- Ice skating at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park
- Cross-country skiing in Mendon Ponds Park
- The annual Winterfest celebration, featuring ice sculptures and winter sports demonstrations
- ROC Holiday Village in December, with free ice skating, holiday shopping, and festive food and drinks
Day Trips from Rochester
If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Rochester is the perfect starting point for a day trip to some of New York State’s most beautiful destinations. The surrounding region is rich in natural beauty, history, and culture, making it an ideal location for exploring.
Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes Region is a must-visit destination, just a short drive from Rochester. This picturesque landscape is home to eleven long, narrow lakes carved by glaciers, creating a world-renowned wine country. You can visit Geneva on Seneca Lake, less than an hour from Rochester, and enjoy lakeside dining, tour historic architecture, and access numerous award-winning wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
Letchworth State Park
Letchworth State Park, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is another great day trip option. Voted the #1 state park in America, it features a dramatic gorge with three major waterfalls surrounded by forests that are particularly spectacular during fall foliage season. The northernmost entrance to the park is only 45 minutes from Rochester.
Niagara Falls
No trip to Western New York would be complete without a visit to Niagara Falls, one of the world’s natural wonders and the oldest state park in America. Located just 90 minutes from Rochester, you can experience the thundering falls up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour or Cave of the Winds walkway.
In addition to these top destinations, you can also explore Watkins Glen State Park, visit Corning and the Corning Museum of Glass, enjoy a summer day trip to Sodus Point on Lake Ontario, or explore the charming village of Canandaigua on its namesake lake. With so many exciting options, you’re sure to find the perfect day trip from Rochester to suit your interests.
Planning Your Visit to Rochester
When planning your trip to Rochester, New York, consider the time of year to make the most of your visit. The city is agreat placeto explore between May and October, with each season offering unique experiences. In the spring, the famous lilacs start to bloom, making May an ideal time to visit before the Lilac Festival crowds arrive.
To make the most of yourtime visiting Rochester, consider staying in downtown accommodations like the Courtyard by Marriott or The Strathallan boutique hotel, which offer convenient access to major attractions. Renting a car will give you the flexibility to explore the city’sthingsto do, including the George Eastman Museum and the Strong National Museum of Play.
Rochester is acitythat hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival and the Rochester Fringe Festival. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to allocate at least 2-3 days for yourtrip. Be sure to pack for variable weather conditions and take advantage of the Rochester City Pass or museum reciprocal memberships to save on admission fees. With its central location and excellent dining options, Rochester is agreat placeto use as a base for exploring Western New York.
