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Rochester Prison Information

• Accommodation: The prison provides multiple residential units with individual cells or shared accommodation for inmates. The cells are equipped with basic amenities, including beds, personal storage, and sanitation facilities.
• Education and Vocational Training: Rochester Prison places a strong emphasis on education and vocational training. Inmates have access to a range of educational programs, including basic education, literacy, numeracy, and accredited courses. Vocational training opportunities are also available to develop employable skills and enhance prospects for successful reintegration into society.
• Work Opportunities: Inmates at Rochester Prison have access to various work activities within the prison, such as maintenance, cleaning, kitchen, and other designated roles. These work activities aim to develop skills, instill discipline, and promote a sense of responsibility.
• Healthcare: Rochester Prison has an on-site healthcare unit staffed with medical professionals who provide primary healthcare services to prisoners. Mental health support, substance abuse programs, and specialized medical care are also available.
• Family Contact: The prison recognizes the importance of maintaining family relationships and facilitates visits and contact with family members, subject to specific guidelines and regulations.
• Resettlement Support: Rochester Prison offers pre-release planning and support to help inmates prepare for their eventual release. This may include assistance with accommodation, employment, and access to community-based support services.

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Hotspots & BEST Things to do in Rochester, NY (Weekend Getaway Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Rochester, NY? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re already planning on spending a weekend in Rochester or looking for some inspiration for places to visit in the Finger Lakes region of New York, this guide will cover all of the exciting attractions in the city highlighting the great food, drink, arts and culture, and historic landmarks found in Rochester. 

Not to mention, you’re just a hop and skip away from many of the incredible places to visit in Upstate New York including the award-winning wine region of the Finger Lakes , some of New York’s most impressive waterfalls , and some of the most scenic drives the Northeast has to offer.

Better yet, Rochester is packed with incredible things to do, history, and cultural landmarks, and is known for quite a few things!

Interesting Facts about Rochester

Known as both the Flower City and Flour City , Rochester was one of America’s first ‘boomtowns’ famous for its flour mills along the Genesee River. In the middle of the 19th century, Rochester’s nickname changed from Flour City to Flower City as at the time it had the world’s largest seed company.

In recent years, the nickname rings true as the other flower reference has to do with the parks by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame in NYC) who helped with Rochester’s ‘legacy of beauty’ in particular Highland Park where you can find North America’s largest display of lilacs. Each year for over a century, Rochester also hosts its annual Lilac Festival to celebrate its ‘flower’ heritage!

Rochester, NY is also known as The World’s Image Center for not only being the birthplace of amateur photography thanks to Rochester resident George Eastman for inventing and marketing the Kodak #1 camera in 1888 whose factory was here in Rochester.

In addition to Kodak’s whopping success and making photography accessible to just about anyone, Rochester also gets their ‘image center’ reputation for being home to Xerox and Bausch and Lomb optics company.

New York State is well known for women’s historical figures including Rochester resident Susan B. Anthony , the most famous suffragist whose life was dedicated to social reform.

And Rochester was also home to the Father of the Civil Rights movement, Frederick Douglass , the famed abolitionist orator who called Rochester home from 1847-1872, the longest he’d resided anywhere during his lifetime as well as being interred at Mt. Hope Cemetery along with Susan B. Anthony.

And Rochester’s history of course was heavily influenced by its famous waterways including the Genesee River which runs directly through the city with three colossal and dramatic waterfalls, Lake Ontario just to the north, the Erie Canal running along the city’s borders connecting Rochester to the booming commercial agriculture history in the Midwest, to the nearby Finger Lakes.

As you can see, historically and culturally, Rochester has been a significant city in the United States’ development and continues to be an incredible destination to visit to this day offering a plethora of activities, museums, and a great dining scene to check out.

So without further ado, here’s how to spend an ultimate weekend in Rochester hitting up some of the city’s best attractions and everything that makes Rochester one of our favorite getaways in Upstate New York!

Things to do During a Weekend in Rochester

Museums in rochester.

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Rochester, NY is to visit some of the impressive (if not all) museums the city has to offer. With so much history and being a cultural hub. The arts and culture scene here is a part of the city’s DNA.

Rochester is home to multiple great museums and institutions to check out in addition to being named one of the most arts vibrant communities in the country by the National Center for Arts Research !

So let’s dive into a few of the top Rochester attractions and museums to check out that gives this city the cultural recognition it deserves.

Memorial Art Gallery

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Rochester is spend a few hours admiring the collection of artwork at The Memorial Art Gallery , also known as MAG. The museum is a part of the University of Rochester displaying a collection of artwork that spans thousands of years of history and creativity.

You can find local and contemporary artwork including works by world-renowned artists like Yayoi Kusama, Andy Warhol, and local artist and activist Shawn Dunwoody. There’s also a dynamic collection of antiquities and masterworks from nearly every significant period of art history.

Some of the most famous artists’ work you can find on display here include Rembrandt, Cézanne, Monet, Matisse, Homer Winslow, Norman Rockwell, and Georgia O’Keeffe to name a few of our favorites that we saw while exploring the collection of more than 12,000 works on display.

Don’t miss the sculptures outside of the museum too. What we particularly loved about this museum was its dense collection of great works throughout history while also not being overwhelming like other huge museums.

What I mean is that of course the MET in NYC is one of the best museums in the world, but you can’t exactly see it all in one visit. By spending a few hours you can really experience the impressive collection here without walking away regretting you didn’t have enough time to properly explore.

If you’re feeling hungry during your visit, be sure to enjoy a meal at the Brown Hound Downtown on-site! They have more of a grab and go take out section or a sitdown restaurant offering a full menu.

George Eastman Museum

For all the photographers out there, this is one of the best things to do in Rochester! The impressive mansion that houses the George Eastman Museum is the world’s oldest museum dedicated to photography and one of the oldest film archives on the planet.

Set in the former mansion of the father of the “Kodak Moment,” George Eastman, who was also a well-known philanthropist, inventor, and marketing genius behind the Kodak camera that made photography accessible to the general public as well as being the founder of the Eastman Kodak Company.

The mansion itself is an impressive National Historic Landmark. The Colonial Revival home was built from 1902-1905 and was Eastman’s primary residence up until his passing in 1932. Visitors can visit and tour sections of the original home as well as visit the galleries and displays here as well.

The Eastman Museum houses a collection of over 400,000 photographs and negatives that date back to the invention of photography to modern times. In addition to nearly 30,000 motion picture films that make up one of the best film and photography archives and conservation in the world. 

Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy a mansion tour of the home whether you do it in person or virtually as well as the outdoor terrace and gardens.

Even though we don’t have children, we actually really enjoyed the hands-on, children’s exhibits in the museum too where young ones and curious minds can make their own moving pictures! There’s also a cool camera obscura you can walk into and visit connected to the kids section as well.

The museum and grounds of the mansion are without a doubt one of the most iconic Rochester attractions worth spending time enjoying and learning about not only the history of film and cinema but also about George Eastman himself, the man who historically changed and impacted the landscape of photography all across the globe.

We’d say you need a minimum of 2 hours here, if not more.

ARTISANworks

One of the most unique things to do in Rochester is spending time exploring the hidden rooms, nooks, crannies, and endless spaces in this 40,000-square-foot warehouse turned art-gallery.

ARTISANworks uses every single square inch of this giant space, from floor to ceiling, to display its eclectic collection of artwork in themed rooms and areas.

Beyond being a place you can get lost in for hours just looking at every interesting artifact, artwork, gizmos, and gadgets on display here you can also attend one of their many events they host including drag brunch shows! Or if you’re looking for a unique venue for an event, they rent the space out.

The Strong Museum of Play

For families and kids at heart, one of the most fun things to do in Rochester is spend hours at the Museum of Play! One of the largest museums of its kind, the Strong Museum of Play has collections and interactive exhibits devoted to the study of play, toys, and games!

Any explanation of this place won’t be able to portray how expansive and FUN this museum is for all ages!

Exhibits and collections include a life size Sesame Street, Toy Hall of Fame, full arcade, kid-sized Wegman’s supermarket they can play in, a giant jungle gym, games, and just about every famous toy that ever existed.

The best part though, would be the Video Game Hall of Fame where you can find the world’s largest Donkey Kong arcade game, a giant game of Pong, Super Mario, and other games including indie arcade games! In this section alone we spent well over an hour and could have spent more!

There’s also a section where you get your own wristband to create an avatar. Within this section of the museum, you use your wristband to accomplish goals and tasks for your avatar through playing games, voting for your favorite toys, and other fun activities!

The museum suggests you have at least three hours to thoroughly enjoy and explore the museum, although you could easily spend more time during your weekend in Rochester!

Keep in mind there is a paid parking lot too. Museum guests will want to bring their parking ticket with them so they can get it validated and pay the museum visitor rate for parking. Both times we parked at the museum the parking lot got full, we recommend coming early to get a spot! This is a very popular attraction in Rochester!

Historic Sites in Rochester

Rochester is steeped with history and historic figures. While a few of the things to do in Rochester mentioned throughout this guide could definitely fit in this section, these are a few historic Rochester attractions specifically around the Women’s Rights and Civil Rights movements tied to the city.

Susan B. Anthony House & Museum

Located at 17 Madison Street in Rochester, NY is the home of one of the most, if not the most, famous figure in the women’s suffrage movement in the United States. Susan B. Anthony called this brick house her home for 40 years of her life until her passing in 1906 and was where she was arrested in the front parlor after voting in the 1872 Presidential election.

Her home was the National American Woman Suffrage Association headquarters where she served as president. This is also where she passed away at the age of 86 after giving her legendary speech in Baltimore, Maryland, “Failure is Impossible.”

Visitors can enter the home during open hours by booking online in advance (11 AM – 5 PM Tuesdays – Sundays) through the Susan B. Anthony Museum next door at 19 Madison Street on a docent-led tour.

Susan B. Anthony Square & Park

Just around the corner from her home and the site of her arrest is Susan B. Anthony Square and Park where visitors can find the centerpiece of the park and square, a bronze statue called “Let’s Have Tea,” portraying the friendship and allyship between both civil rights activists Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.

The two activists who both were abolitionists and suffragists both shared common goals on social reform and civil liberties and rights, even though they famously butted heads a few times .

Taking a stroll or break in the park is one of the best things to do in Rochester after visiting the Susan B. Anthony House and Museum, or if you walk to the 1872 Monument this is also a great break before continuing exploring the historic Rochester attractions mentioned in this section.

1872 Monument

The 1872 Monument marks the location of the 8th Ward polling station in a general store where Susan B. Anthony and 14 other women expressed their right to vote as citizens under the 14th and 15th Amendments in the United States Constitution.

Located a few minutes walk from Susan B. Anthony’s home, where she would later be arrested in her parlor for illegal voting is a bronze ballot box and monument that marks her legacy in the women’s suffrage movement and this pivotal historic event.

Susan passed away in 1906, 14 years before the 19th Amendment was ratified giving women the right to vote. Her years of activism and fighting alongside the other suffragettes including other New York women’s rights advocates Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott did not live see women get the right to vote, their work paved the way for future suffragists.

While here you can stop for a refreshment or snack at the 1872 Cafe , which is the site of the actual polling station.

Frederick Douglass Monument

Considered the Father of Civil Rights, Frederick Douglass called Rochester, NY home for around three decades (1847-1872) after escaping slavery in Maryland in 1838. Douglass was an abolitionist, orator, and publisher as well as a conductor on the Underground Railroad who hosted and housed runaway slaves in his own home and supported the women’s suffrage movement alongside Susan B. Anthony.

Near Mt Hope Cemetery, where he is interred along with other Rochester residents like Susan B. Anthony is the Frederick Douglass Monument in Highland Park honoring Douglass’ life and work near the former site of his home.

After his passing, he was the first Black person in the country to have a public statue to memorialize his life and accomplishments. 

Visitors can take a self-guided Frederick Douglass walking tour through Rochester tracing significant sites to his life and work around the city marked by 13 replica statues as well as visiting the site of his home on Alexander Street near East Ave.

Mt. Hope Cemetery

Another historic Rochester attraction and landmark is the Mt. Hope Cemetery, the first municipal cemetery in the United States founded in 1838 located near Highland Park.

The 196-acre cemetery is also a beautiful example of Victorian-era cemeteries of the US and home to the final resting location of both Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, the two most visited sites in the cemetery.

More Rochester Attractions

Rochester waterfalls.

You can’t cover all the things to do in Rochester without mentioning the grand waterfalls of the Genesee River! Rochester is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the Finger Lakes , and that is saying something because the region is full of hidden waterfalls in the glens and gorges, numerous state parks with trails full of waterfalls, and even roadside waterfalls.

In Rochester, NY there are three voluminous falls on the Genesee River, the most impressive being High Falls which drops 96 feet and is the tallest of the three.

High Falls is located in the heart of downtown and served as a location of the city’s industrial development as they used hydropower from the waterfall to fuel electricity for the flour mills along the river. Even to this day the plunging surge of water is used to produce hydroelectric power!

Visitors can view High Falls from the Pont De Rennes pedestrian bridge and along the High Falls Terrace Park (which was temporarily closed on our visit). Another excellent viewing location is from the rooftop at the Genesee Brew House for anyone looking for a beer break!

Located about two miles away is Lower Falls , which is an impressive 85-foot drop! The best viewing area for the falls is at Lower Falls Park.

And last but not least, Corbett’s Glen is the third of the waterfalls and natural Rochester attractions located in the town of Brighton. Visitors can view the falls along the boardwalk at a deck viewing area.

Mansions of East Avenue Historic District

One of our favorite things to do in Rochester is to get in the car and drive up and down the streets along the East Avenue Historic District which is home to one gargantuan mansion after another! 

Down East Avenue, which is also home to other Rochester attractions and historic 19th and 20th-century mansions like the George Eastman Museum, are the giant historic homes of Rochester’s elite wealthy class. Even the homes on the side streets off of East Avenue here are impressive and HUGE.

You’ll spot architectural styles like Second Empire, Italianate, Queen Anne, Gothic Revival, Neo-Classical, and Tudor to name a few examples in the historic district. And if you’re a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work you can find the Edward Boynton House (16 East Blvd) which is a classic example of Wright’s prairie style homes!

While some of these historic mansions have been converted into museums and divided into multiple luxury units, there are some to this day that remains single-family homes! 

If you love architecture and admiring historic mansions, you have to drive around this neighborhood!

Explore the Park Avenue Neighborhood

Another cool area to explore full of fun things to do in Rochester including great shops, restaurants, bars, and pretty houses is Park Avenue. 

There are plenty of places to dine and walk around here. One place that we saw attracted a huge weekend crowd was Jines Restaurant , which is popular among the weekend brunch crowd.

Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at Vern’s for their incredible pizza and pasta! Not only is the setting and ambiance here off the charts cool, but their cocktails and Italian food is out of this world!

Pop into Parkleigh for tons of awesome gifts, home goods, and all types of fun goodies to check out! They have two locations next to one another, one focusing solely on Mackenzie Childs products and the other being set up more like a department store with different sections of home goods and gifts!

Another spot, especially if you’re looking for a great souvenir or gift from your weekend in Rochester, is Stever’s Candies . This family-owned and operated candy shop has been a local favorite since 1946 with sweet treats like salt water taffy, fudge, fruit truffles, and other delicious confectionaries. 

Lamberton Conservatory at Highland Park

Located in Highland Park is another one of the best things to do in Rochester, visit the Lamberton Conservatory, a site that dates back to 1911! Inside the conservatory, you’ll find a collection of tropical and desert plants from climates all over the world and the resident turtles and tortoises.

You’ll find collections of carnivorous plants, tropical flowers, cacti, and even seasonal exhibits that are changed several times throughout the year so no two visits are the same.

If you have time, be sure to also take in the beauty of Highland Park, where Lamberton Conservatory is located within, which was designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the same mind behind Central Park and Prospect Park in New York City.

Warner Castle and Sunken Garden

Did you know there’s a castle in Rochester? Warner Castle, another landmark inside Highland Park, built in 1854 and used as a private residence until 1951. The castle itself is a replica of a Scottish Lowlands castle.

While you can’t go inside the castle, you can definitely have a ‘Kodak Moment’ outside of it and the public is welcome to make their way behind the castle to visit the Sunken Garden.

This is one of the more hidden and unique things to do in Rochester, the Sunken Garden which was added to the estate in the 1930s to add a little more whimsy to the space, has beautiful stone and gated structures sunken in the ground that have become a popular wedding photography spot and quiet retreat for those visiting Highland Park.

You don’t need a lot of time here, but this is definitely a hidden Rochester attraction worth seeking out especially if you’re already visiting the Highland Park area.

Little Theatre

If you’re looking for something fun to do in Rochester consider checking out a movie or show at Little Theatre on East Avenue! Also known as ‘The Little,’ this historic 1929 theatre is one of the oldest active movie theatres of its kind in the country built to show more indie or eclectic films in a ‘small theatre’ as an alternative the big venues and theaters showing the new motion pictures with ‘talking.’

These were meant to be small venues vs the big movie theaters and the Little Theatre still holds true to its original purpose.

You can’t miss the eye-catching art deco theatre and its marquee on East Avenue. If you need a bit of a relaxing break from all the sightseeing around the best things to do in Rochester, consider seeing a show here!

There’s also a cafe on site with food and drinks plus art exhibits here too.

Visit a Cat Cafe!

One of the most purrfect things to do in Rochester is pay a visit to The Pawsitive Cafe on East Avenue, a charming cat cafe! After living in South Korea and traveling around Japan, we fell in love with cat cafes. You can grab a drink and snack and walk around and pet the house kitties.

Many of the cat cafes in the United States, including this one, use their cat cafes to help kitties find forever homes through adoption. That being said, a few of the kitties here are resident cats and aren’t available for adoption, but there are plenty of cats that are!

To visit, you will need to book your admission in advance. There are options like spending 30 minutes in the cat cafe or special events like yoga with cats, movie night with the cats, or board game night with the cats you can also choose. Your admission goes towards care of the cats until they are able to be adopted. 

Keep in mind they are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Strasenburgh Planetarium

One of the things to do in Rochester we regrettably missed that is high on our to do list for our next visit is go to the Strasenburgh Planetarium, which is a part of the Rochester Museum and Science Center.

Learn about the beauty beyond earth in outer space in one of the educational planetarium planet shows, laser shows, or star shows! A few years ago we went to our first rock and roll laser show in a planetarium and it was so FUN, the Strasenburgh Planetarium has several different rock laser shows including Pink Floyd, Radiohead, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, Dave Matthews Band, and even 70s and 90s music themed laser shows.

Check out their schedule of events online or visit the Planetarium Box Office to see the shows during your visit.

Rochester Public Market

One of the most popular things to do in Rochester on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays is pay a visit to the Rochester Public Market! This public market is open year-round, so it doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting. The earlier you visit the better as locals sell their farm fresh produce, and other local products like honey, wine, and more!

This market has been around since 1905 and has hundreds of vendors plus cafes and small shops that surround the market site that are open during market hours to check out too.

Be sure to do a lap around the different vendors, nibbling your way through the market and don’t miss out on trying one of the famous empanadas here!

Play Games at Nerdvana

We found another one of our favorite things to do in Rochester after visiting the Strong Museum of Play! Located across the street from the museum is Nerdvana, a videogame and board game restaurant and bar!

This is a great place to take a walking or standing break (especially after the museum) and enjoy a meal or drink.

Pick between board games or video games while you dine! Each booth is equipped with its own tv set up with a game system, they’ll ask you your preference and seat you accordingly. We saw families and groups of friends all enjoying this awesome set up and couldn’t wait to play some games ourselves!

Since we ate a meal right before this, we sat at the bar and enjoyed a drink. This was honestly so fun, we played video games we hadn’t even heard of for two hours!

They also had board games if you prefer to play one of those as well. Just keep in mind, if you want to sit at a booth its a $15 minimum per guest and meant for those dining in. If you’re grabbing drinks, you can sit at the bar like we did.

Explore the Neighborhood of the Arts

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Rochester is check out the Neighborhood of the Arts, also known as NOTA.

This was one of our favorite areas to hang out on our most recent trip, the neighborhood is made up of 15 city blocks full of mosaics, murals, studios, galleries, and fun shops and boutiques to check out!

Both the Eastman Museum and Memorial Art Gallery are within the boundaries of the Neighborhood of the Arts as well as Writers & Books , a literary center and bookshop set in a former police precinct building.

Stop by Melo Coffee & Kitchen for your morning joe in the am and breakfast! This cute cafe offers espresso-based coffee drinks along with a few breakfast items.

Akimbo Bookshop is another bookstore within NOTA worth popping into. This adorable spot has a wonderfully curated selection of small press and social justice books.

If you love candles as much as I do, you’ll want to stop in Scents by Design candle bar too! First, you’ll explore the different fragrances picking out your favorites, then you’ll select your vessel before heading over to the candle bar where you can sip on a drink while you pour your own unique scent for your very own candle!

This was one of our favorite unique things to do in Rochester that will remind us of our fun weekend here for weeks to come when we burn our candle at home!

Craft Company No. 6 is a MUST stop gift shop in the Neighborhood of the Arts! This giant shop features all home made and hand-crafted items from artists set in a former fire station! While you’re exploring the shop you’ll even notice original details from the firehouse like the pole that firefighters would slide down from the second to first floor!

The shop, Horse with Wings is another great stop! When we walked in the door we were greeted by the artist and owner John Haldoupis who was painting another piece to sell in the shop. He formerly worked in theater and set design and it shows throughout the store. You can find his paintings for sale along with other fun items from ornate lamps and gifts.

Check out Some More of Rochester’s Shops

Whenever you visit a destination – if you’re like me at all – you like hitting up the local shopping scene. One of the best things to do in Rochester is to hit up the cool independent shops. Here are a few that we discovered on our trip in addition to all the great shops within the Neighborhood of the Arts mentioned above!

Stem Plants Rochester is a cool plant shop located across The Strong Museum of Play selling a collection of rare houseplants. Don’t expect to find plants that you can easily come by at your local hardware store, they specialize in hard-to-find and unique houseplants! Now if only I had more of a green thumb as I somehow don’t have a great track record with houseplants. 

Staple Vintage which is worth taking a lap around to see if you can find a treasure! This queer-owned vintage shop specializes in vintage clothing finds for all genders. They also have a few antique housewares for sale too located in the Neighborhood of the Arts.

As mentioned earlier, Parkleigh is another great shop to visit especially if you’re on the lookout for a special gift from someone. Be sure to visit both locations next door to one another too. The one location features solely Mackenzie-Childs homeware and the other location has an assortment of all types of home goods and gifts!

Peppermint is an adorable boutique located at the Culver Road Armory featuring women’s clothing and accessories as well as a great selection of Rochester-themed gifts!

Another not-to-be-missed shop is Figgy Studio & Shop . This cool boutique features homemade jewelry, gifts, and clothing. Pretty much everything in this shop is made by local artists and makers!

My personal favorite bookshop in Rochester was The Unreliable Narrator , a bookstore/gift shop full of whimsy and wonder! Think magic books, tarot cards, and items centered around worlds of fantasy from Lord of the Rings, Studio Ghibli films, witchcraft, wizards, and more! The entire shop is a thrill to walk around, I wouldn’t leave until I looked at every item in the store!

Browse the Selection of Music at Record Archive

Our favorite shop in Rochester we hit up was Record Archive, this giant music store sells a ginormous collection of vinyl, CDs, and anything music related plus some novelty gifts and items.

In their giant warehouse space, they specialize in new and vintage vinyl albums, we walked away with five new records for home! They also have a bar in the back and have been around since 1975. For any music lovers, you’ll want to set aside at least an hour in here!

Both times we’ve been to Rochester, I’ve found great records in their $1 section! Feels like such a win when you get vinyl for a buck!

Not to mention they have live music on Wednesday nights in the bar in the back of the shop! We got to enjoy this on our most recent visit and it was so fun, not to mention they have a great selection of beer on draft and wine to choose from.

Where to Eat & Drink in Rochester

Genesee brew house.

Time to visit one of the oldest and continuously operating breweries in the United States, home to your Granddad’s favorite beer, or at least growing up in the Midwest, Genesee is known as a ‘grandpa beer’ along with Schlitz and Old Milwaukee. 

One of the best things to do in Rochester is to visit the Genesee Brew House, the historic brewery founded in 1878 that made their famous brews like the Genny Light and Original Cream Ale.

Now that I’ve talked about ‘grandpa beers’ don’t let that deter you from visiting. Sure, millennials have a reputation for being beer snobs and we love a good hazy IPA, but the refreshing light lager is a great classic beer to have by the pint. Not to mention, at the Genesee Brew House, which has a tap room on the first floor behind the gift shop, a restaurant on the second floor, and a great rooftop deck overlooking High Falls, has a handful of brews to try!

The Brew House opened in 2012 in a historic building on the campus of the original brewery. Beyond serving up great beer with one of the best views in the city, there’s an interactive beer exhibit exploring the history of the brewery and large gift shop selling all kinds of great Genesee merch and beer to take home with you.

If you want to do more than drink beer and at the Brewpub, you can reserve a spot on one of their brewery tours online in advance too.

Brunch & Bowl at Radio Social

Since this is a guide on how to spend an awesome weekend in Rochester, one-weekend activity you don’t want to miss is brunch at Radio Social! This historic warehouse has been transformed into an entertainment zone featuring 34 bowling lanes, arcade games, and great food!

You can of course visit any time of the week and enjoy their selection of Middle Eastern food and pizzas, but the weekend brunch here is where it’s at! They have a special ‘cereal waffle’ that changes weekly, during our visit it was a cocoa pebbles-inspired waffle that we had to try drizzled with fruity syrup on the top.

They also have other great Middle Eastern dishes like breakfast hummus (topped with an egg and bacon) and stand-out, innovative dishes like their maple and cayenne-infused bacon. Don’t skip out on the breakfast cocktails either!

We are huge fans of games, so having bowling as an option was pretty awesome too and gets you moving after feasting.

Located in the towering Metropolitan Building’s lobby is the sleek bistro, Bar Bantam serving up craft cocktails and selection of small shareable plates and mains.

Bar Bantam is open all day featuring a cafe menu in the mornings and afternoon and come dinner, they offer their evening menu. Stand out dishes during our visit included the watermelon salad with crispy pork belly and crispy fingerling potatoes with baja sauce.

The setting is also nice and great for just cocktails if you’re looking for a night cap or pre-dinner drink.

Strangebird Brewing

New York State is no stranger to great craft breweries and Strangebird is one of the new kids on the block that’s been getting a lot of attention since its opening in 2021 as it was named the 2022 New York State Craft Brewery of the Year.

Inside this industrial chic brewery you can enjoy tastings of their current brews on draft and order some of their brewpub fare like their fried chicken sandwich, burger, or pizzas. 

And if you want to take something home with you, pick up one of their 4 packs or 6 packs to take with you.

Living Roots Urban Winery

One not-to-be-missed spot during your weekend in Rochester is wine tasting at the gorgeous Living Roots Winery tasting room and urban winery featuring wines from the local Finger Lakes and Southern Australia.

Given that you’re in the heart of the Finger Lakes you might be wondering what Australian wines are doing here, but it all makes sense when you learn that the husband-wife duo behind Living Roots roots are actually in both regions. 

Sebastian comes from a family with six generations of winemaking in the Adelaide Hills area of South Australia and Colleen is from upstate New York. The winery beautifully combines both of their roots and serves up fantastic and a diverse array sparkling, white, rose, and red wines from both regions.

The space is also beautifully designed and perfect for an afternoon tasting with light snacks like a charcuterie spread or items from Oz like kangaroo jerky.

If you find yourself exploring the Finger Lakes region more, be sure to also pop into their tasting room in Hammondsport (coming any day now) or you can try their wines and other wineries of the region at Once Finger Lakes in Penn Yan .

Carnegie Cellars Wine Bar & Kitchen

Speaking of wine, another great place to enjoy a glass, bottle, or flight of wine is Carnegie Cellars Wine Bar & Kitchen in Rochester!

Located in the Neighborhood of the Arts, this wine bar offers a curated selection of wines from all over the globe along with a few regional wines from the Niagara and Finger Lakes wine regions.

They also offer tapas and entrees too if you decide to have a bite to eat here as well.

Vern’s

As mentioned earlier in the Park Avenue neighborhood, one of our favorite places to eat in Rochester was having dinner at Vern’s, an Italian restaurant featuring incredible pizza, pasta, and cocktails!

I was also obsessed with the bar and ambiance in here! They will try to convince you that you’ll need 2 dishes per person, but their portions are very generous! If you aren’t looking for leftovers, then order knowing that.

Their pasta was insanely delicious as well as their pizza, this ended up being our favorite restaurant we dined at on our most recent visit to Rochester!

Restaurant Good Luck

Hands down one of the best restaurants in Rochester and picks for where to eat is Restaurant Good Luck! It’s recommended to make a reservation to dine here, but if you don’t plan accordingly you might be able to snag a seat at the bar.

This upscale American eatery has been dubbed one of the best bars in America by Esquire and offers incredible cocktails and dishes! We tried a special of the evening along with one of the seasonal dishes.

As we were dining, we realized many tables were ordering their giant burger with fries, in fact we saw a family of four split two of those along with another dish. The burger was cut in half with the inside facing outward so that even in the presentation you could see the burger was cooked to perfection with the perfect amount of pink in the meat.

This has a great ambiance and setting as well. If you’re looking for a bit of an upscale dining option, this is your spot.

Highland Park Diner

We are huge fans of old-school diners, and Upstate New York is full of them. Before leaving from your weekend in Rochester don’t miss having a meal at Highland Park Diner set in a 1940s-era Orleans Company box car! Not to mention the diner is on the Rochester Landmark Society’s list of architectural gems too, as it’s the only box car made by that company still in existence.

And just like any good diner, they’ve got an extensive and overwhelmingly large breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu you’ll have no problem finding at least 10 things you want to try! Without a doubt, this is one of the most unique things to do in Rochester.

Village Bakery & Cafe

If you’re looking for good coffee and a quick bite to eat in the morning check out the Village Bakery & Cafe in the Culver Road Armory near Cobbs Hill Park. We recommend grabbing a coffee drink and splitting a pastry so you can save room for a stop like Highland Park Diner for a filling meal since chances are you only have a few meals left during your weekend in Rochester.

Their coffee drinks were some of the best we had in the city. If you are craving for a bit more to eat they do have breakfast sandwiches and build your own breakfast sandwiches to choose from too.

Locals Only

Another great breakfast spot to check out is Locals Only where you can find breakfast and brunch served daily until 3 PM.

They offer coffee, cocktails, and their kitchen goodies including seasonal specials, classic breakfast sandwiches, lunch items, and other fun items like their soft pretzel or tater tot flight.

If you’re looking for the nightlife in Rochester, look no further than the local dive bar on East Avenue, Salingers. This local hang out spot has cheap booze, beer games, a pool table, and a playlist featuring music from the 1990s. 

If you order a well-drink, get ready for it to come out in a pint glass. Somehow our two drinks were $8 and we still don’t understand how. 

If you’re looking for a fun local spot with no frills, this is the place. Plus they’ve got free popcorn, or as I like to call it ‘community corn’ and peanuts. Got to love spots like this.

Things to do Nearby Rochester

Lake ontario.

One of the greatest things to do in Rochester is take a 15-minute drive up to one of the Great Lakes! Lake Ontario is just a short distance from downtown Rochester and worth checking out whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a quick beachside walk, or a beach bonfire!

There are several parking areas along Lakeshire Boulevard where you can pull off and head down to the beach. One interesting stop is the White Lady’s Castle, which you can walk down to the shores of Lake Ontario from. These medieval-looking castle ruins look a bit out of place, they were once a part of a dining hall that was here and now it’s more like a park.

There’s a legend that people sometimes catch a glimpse of a ghost of a heartbroken mother looking for her missing daughter around Eastman Durand Park. Whether you’re into spooky tales or not, this is still a great spot to park and check out the park as well as walk over to the shores of Lake Ontario!

Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

We love lighthouses and were excited to find out there was a pretty, historic lighthouse near Rochester we could visit as we took a scenic drive up to Lake Ontario. This is the oldest surviving active lighthouse on Lake Ontario dating back to 1822. 

Located in the town of Charlotte (pronounced SHAR-lott) at the mouth of the Genesee River on Lake Ontario, this lighthouse was originally closer to the shore of Lake Ontario and was moved. 

Originally the lighthouse used 10 whale oil Argand lamps before being replaced with a Fresnel Lens in 1853. The lighthouse was actually saved by a group of students at the nearby high school in 1965 who didn’t want to see the historic landmark destroyed thanks to their efforts this beautiful lighthouse is still here and visitors can visit inside and even climb the lighthouse tower.

Honeoye Falls

We are obsessed with visiting charming towns in New York and the Finger Lakes has tons of great towns to check out including the village of Honeoye Falls, around a 25-minute drive from Rochester.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside past farms and fields, in the fall you’ll spot a few farm stands along the way selling pumpkins and other goodies.

Then when you get to Honeoye Falls you can take a lap downtown and be sure to visit the beautiful waterfall on Honeoye Creek which can be viewed from the bridge downtown. You can also park at Mendon Town Hall and walk to a platform viewing area where you’ll get a great view of the 30-foot falls and the old red sawmill next to it.

Letchworth State Park

An hour drive away from Rochester that’s well worth the journey is a visit to Letchworth State Park, home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in New York . Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,”  you can find three dramatic waterfalls including the Lower, Middle, and Upper falls as well as trails, picnic areas, and for those who want to get up really early you can book a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the gorge and falls! 

What’s interesting about Letchworth State Park is that this site was actually private land owned by industrialist William Pryor Letchworth and his Glen Iris Estate overlooking the impressive Middle Falls. Letchworth donated the land to the state and now his former estate is used as accommodation for the lucky guests who are able to book and nab a reservation.

Seneca Falls

For the history buffs that want to explore more of New York’s historic sites after checking out the historic Rochester attractions like Susan B. Anthony’s house can continue their educational exploring by driving just under an hour to historic town of Seneca Falls, the birthplace of women’s rights in the United States.

Visit The Women’s Rights National Historical Park, this museum tells the story of the first women’s rights convention that was held in Seneca Falls and also gives you different landmarks throughout the area where you can stop and appreciate the pioneering figures behind the women’s suffrage movement including the homes in notable figures that fought for women’s rights including Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s home.

And for those who are fans of the classic film, It’s a Wonderful Life , the town might seem familiar to you. That’s because Seneca Falls is said to be the inspiration for Bedford Falls in the famous Frank Capra film. They even have a museum in town dedicated to the film!

Must Visit Events in Rochester

Rochester fringe festival.

Did you know Rochester has one of the most popular Fringe festivals in the United States? Every year in September, Rochester has 12 days of nonstop fun and over 500 performances at its annual festival!

In case you’re unfamiliar, Fringe originated in Edinburgh, Scotland , and is the world’s largest arts and media festival! The first one was in 1947 and now there are over 200 Fringe Festivals worldwide!

Rochester Fringe hosts all kinds of great shows and performances ranging from visual arts, music, opera, film, silent discos, to acrobats and trapeze artists to name a few! Many of the events are paid and require tickets, but there are some free performances making the festivities accessible to all.

Many of the performances are held in the Spiegeltent, nod to early 20th century mirror tents and traveling dance halls which serves as a perfect venue complete with stained glass windows, a bar, and velvet-draped ceilings that feel like you’re in an old-school circus tent!

If you’re spending a weekend in Rochester in September, you’ll want to grab a few tickets to Rochester Fringe!

Rochester International Jazz Festival

Another famous festival here in Rochester is the annual Rochester International Jazz Festival which takes place each summer in June. 

The 9 day festival boasts more than 300 concerts with over 1,500 artists and performers that come from all over the world to perform here. The performances range in musical styles and include both outdoor and indoor venues. You might even catch an improvised jam session too if you’re visiting during the festivities. 

Rochester Lilac Festival

Bringing the nickname “flower city,” full circle is the famous Rochester Lilac Festival that takes place annually in May in Highland Park. This lilac festival is the largest of its kind in the country and is completely free!

Attendees can enjoy over the blooming 1,200 bushes and 500 different varieties of lilacs on display in between visiting and shopping from the different vendors.

There are also bands who perform, 5K and 10K races, and other fun festivities that take place during the Rochester Lilac Festival!

Where to Stay in Rochester

For exploring all the best things to do in Rochester, one of the best places to stay is the Courtyard by Marriot in Rochester Downtown . Located on East Avenue, you’re just a short walk to many of the main Rochester attractions, bars, and restaurants as well as a short walk to the George Eastman Museum.

The rooms are modern, sleek, and spacious. There’s a bar and restaurant on-site as well as a convenience store area selling any other snacks, drinks, or things you may need during your stay.

The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa is another excellent choice for where to stay in Rochester. This is where we stayed on our most recent visit and really enjoyed the spacious rooms. We stayed in a suite that had a separate living area to our bedroom.

The hotel also had a gorgeous rooftop bar where you get breathtaking views of the Rochester city skyline from inside behind the bar or on the outdoor deck. The location was also great as its walking distance to museums and downtown Rochester.

Enjoyed this guide to all the amazing things to do in Rochester, NY for an unforgettable weekend getaway? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest.

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Blog Government Digital Service

https://gds.blog.gov.uk/2014/09/15/you-can-now-book-a-prison-visit-online/

You can now book a prison visit online

Booking a prison visit should be simple and straightforward. Until now that was far from the case. Booking a visit required both prisoner and visitor to jump through hoops: paper forms and drawn-out phone calls. And if the visit date turned out to be impossible, they had to start all over again.

Now you can book a visit online . It takes about 5 minutes. Before, picking an available date was pot luck. Now there's a date-picker that lets you select 3 possible slots instead of 1. It’s a straight-forward service with user-needs at its heart but, if you get stuck, you can call the prison's visits booking line and someone will help you with the booking.

Here's a very short film we've made about it:

By making it easier to book visits, prisoners will see more of their friends and family. Evidence suggests this will help their rehabilitation. Transformation isn't just about websites.

The service was built by the Ministry of Justice, with a combined team from the National Offender Management Service, HM Prison Service and MoJ Digital Services.

For more of the story behind this service, read Mike Bracken's account of his trip to HMP Rochester or check out the service’s transformation page .

Join the conversation on Twitter , and don't forget to sign up for email alerts .

You may also be interested in:

• Prison visit booking: using digital analytics to inform alpha development
• Making prison visits easier to book
• Meet the Transformation team

Sharing and comments

Share this page, 20 comments.

Comment by Pauline posted on 23 August 2015

How do you find out the prisoners number??? so you can go ahead with online booking of a visit?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 24 August 2015

You can find a prisoner using this service: https://www.gov.uk/find-prisoner However it will be the prisoner's responsibility to get in touch with you to let you know their prison number etc.

Comment by linda posted on 15 August 2015

This service does not appear to work this is day 2 trying to use it

Comment by Olivia posted on 30 July 2015

Hi, If a visit is booked and someone cant make it, is it possible to change the name of one of the people to someone else?

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 30 July 2015

It's best to contact the prison directly if this happens. You can find contact details here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder

Thanks, Louise

Comment by Paige posted on 28 July 2015

Hi my partner was sent to nottingham today, I was on his previous list 4 months ago for a visit. Will that still be on the system all will it have to he put through again if so how long does it take to be approved for a visit? Thanks Paige.

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 29 July 2015

You might want to get in touch with the prison first before booking a visit. You can find the contact details of the prison here: http://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder

Comment by Debs posted on 27 July 2015

Hello Is there a list of prisons where online booking can't be used?

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 28 July 2015

According to the information on this page: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits , you can arrange a visit to any prison in England and Wales through this service. If you're visiting someone in Northern Ireland or Scotland you'll need to contact the prison directly.

This link also lists the type of visits that are not covered by the online service: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits so you need to get in touch with the prison directly.

Hope that's helpful.

Comment by c.steer posted on 26 July 2015

So how do I find the booking form to fill in I am new to computers

Comment by Louise Duffy posted on 27 July 2015

Here's the link to the booking form: https://www.gov.uk/prison-visits

You'll need this information to complete the form:

prisoner number prisoner’s date of birth dates of birth for all visitors coming with you make sure the person you’re visiting has added you to their visitor list

Hope that's useful.

Comment by Shawnaa posted on 09 May 2015

i have a visit booked which i did online but i do not have a visiting order woll the prison let me in?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 11 May 2015

Your identity will be checked on arrival to make sure you’re on the visitor list.

Comment by jessicca posted on 27 January 2015

What happens after you book the visit and its confirmed by email do you need the visiting order ?

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 29 January 2015

The Visiting Order (VO) number is generated by the booking system, it is included in your confirmation email and you will need this to change or cancel a booking.

However, if you're visiting a prison the guidance is that you only need your ID, not the VO number. If when you visit the prison you are asked for the VO number you should report this via the Contact Us link on the Prison Visits Booking form.

I hope that helps.

Comment by Ilysa Mcnally posted on 18 November 2014

How late in advance can I book e.g. book a visit today (Tuesday) for the Sunday coming???

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 19 November 2014

Hi Ilysa. Thanks for your question. A visit needs to be booked 3 working days in advance. So in this case, the visit request would have to be no later than Tuesday to allow for a visit on Sunday.

Comment by carole posted on 23 October 2014

How far in advance can you book visits

Comment by Carrie Barclay posted on 23 October 2014

Hi Carole. You can book up to 28 days in advance. Thanks for your question.

Comment by kimberly posted on 16 August 2015

does anyone know how to cancel a visit online?

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Visits & Getting there, HMP Rochester

Visits are held 14:00-16:00 daily excepting Friday when there are no visits. The prison does hold an additional visiting session on Saturday morning between 09:15-11:15

You can book online, go to www.gov.uk/prison-visits . All you need is the name and date of birth of the person you are visiting and their prisoner number. You can choose up to 3 possible dates and times. Prison booking staff will check what’s available and confirm your visit by email. You’ll also receive your visiting order (VO) number by email. You must bring this with you when you visit. If you’ve made an online visit booking request and haven’t received a confirmation email within 1-3 working days, email [email protected]

You can also book by phone, call 01634 803237 Mon – Thurs: 8.30-11.30 and 13.30-15:00

There is a visitors’ centre which provides toilets and play area facilities.

The prison is situated near the town of Rochester and the closest railway station is Rochester Station. Click here A taxi rank is located next to the station or you can take a bus from the bus stop opposite. This is bus number 145. You need to get off at the stop named ‘Bridge Wardens’

When you get off the bus, turn left and walk until you reach an alleyway on your right. When you come to the end of the alleyway and cross the road you will be next to a ‘Shell’ garage. In front of the garage, cross over the main road (Maidstone Road) and enter Sir Evelyn Road, which will be in front of you.

By car from : A2 from London until you reach where the road splits into A2 and M2. Following M2 signs to Canterbury, come off at Junction 3 (Chatham). Follow road round to the left and the signs for Chatham. You will come to a set of traffic lights, turn left and still follow the signs for Chatham. You will then come to a roundabout, take the middle lane and head for Borstal. Go under the flyover (Left lane, Borstal). Follow the B2097 for 1½ miles. Go past ‘Comet’ and turn left opposite the ‘Shell’ garage (Sir Evelyn Road).

If coming via the M20 take Junction 6 off the M20 to Chatham (A229). Follow the A229 towards Chatham/ Rochester, keeping to the left lane of the three lanes. Keeping to this lane bear left following the signs for Borstal. You will come to a set of traffic lights. Take the second exit, sign posted Borstal. You will come to another set of traffic lights. Keeping left, still follow the signs for Borstal (B2097) for 1 ½ miles. Go past ‘Comet’ and a Sports Centre on your right. Further on there is a ‘Shell’ petrol station on your right, directly opposite is Sir Evelyn Road.

Return to Rochester

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You don't always get what you are entitled to unless you ask properly!

We can introduce you to  experienced  lawyers can help you with parole,  probation,  immigration, adjudications, visits and any other complaints  and disputes you have with the Prison Service.

The solicitors are all experts on how the Prison Service/Criminal Law  system works and will be able to provide to you the necessary advice and support to ensure you or your loved ones are treated fairly. These lawyers are "small enough to care about you, but big enough to fight for you"

and remember the old saying:

"  A Man Who Is His Own Lawyer Has A Fool for a Client"

Click here to go to the list of lawyers in your area

The Best Things to Do in Rochester, NY

Fun & unique things to do in Rochester, NY (and what to eat!)

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Year visited: 2023

Time of year: June

Rochester, NY

Rochester, NY was never high on my list of places to visit. Except for one thing: The National Museum of Play!!! I’ve been wanting to visit this Rochester museum since I saw a commercial for it watching Arthur when I was 9.

So when 2020 happened, and cancelled all our grand travel plans, we museum hopped around our state and checked the Museum of Play off my bucket list. But other than that, I didn’t even give Rochester a chance to prove to me it had other worthwhile attractions.

Until I started travel blogging about western NY , and realized that my knowledge beyond my own bubble is a little bit too thin. So when my friend who grew up in Rochester came home for a visit, we explored the city and found A LOT more magical things to do in Rochester!

What’s in this Article?

About rochester, ny, things to do, where to eat, when to visit, where to stay, day trips from rochester.

Where is Rochester, NY?

Rochester is located in north western New York, on the shores of Lake Ontario. It is pretty much halfway between Buffalo and Syracuse, and is the third most populated city in the state, behind Buffalo and the obvious one that shall not be named (because we’re sensitive about people assuming “New York” means NYC).

What is Rochester known for?

Growing up, the only thing I knew Rochester for was the Museum of Play (a worthy reason to be known). But the city actually has a lot of reasons to be known:

The Flour City - The city of Rochester boomed in the early 1800’s, after the construction of the Erie Canal made it an ideal location for shipping goods. So many flour mills popped up along the Genesee River (flowing right through the city!) that it was nicknamed the “Flour City.”

The Flower City - A slightly more modern nickname, and a play off the original, Rochester is known as the “Flower City” because of all the lilac bushes, and its world renowned lilac festival .

Eastman Kodak Company - Rochester native George Eastman developed a photographic process that made it easy for everyone to take pictures. The Kodak Company, which is still in business in Rochester today, has long been an innovator in the photographic, film and digital print industry.

Susan B. Anthony - The famous women’s rights suffragist lived in Rochester for 40 years, and was even arrested for voting at her home in the city.

Frederick Douglass - Frederick Douglass helped Harriet Tubman lead many escaped slaves on the last leg of their journey from the US into Canada, on the northward flowing Genesee River. He also gave a famous speech in Rochester, the city he called home for longer than anywhere else in his life.

Wegmans - Wegmans is the best! That’s all there is to say. Wegmans is a western NY staple, but is especially popular (and common) in Rochester because the grocery store chain began here in 1916.

Toys! - Last of all, Rochester is known for toys, as they do have the play capital of the world and the national toy hall of fame here. The museum began as the toy collection of philanthropist Margaret Woodbury Strong in the 1960s (I mean, I still have all my old toys too…) and has since grown to the unique Rochester icon that it is today.

Why visit Rochester?

As I stated above, we found so many fun and magical things to do in Rochester! From a Scottish castle to a mansion that looks like the epitome of the board game Clue, world renown lilacs to a museum full of the world’s best toys, there are so many reasons to visit Rochester!

How to get to Rochester:

Rochester does have its own airport. However, because it is a smaller and less popular destination, it will be much easier and usually cheaper to fly into Buffalo .

It is just an hour drive across I-90 from Buffalo to Rochester (plus, you can visit Buffalo and Niagara Falls too!)

Things to Do in Rochester, NY

It’s time to plan your trip to Rochester, NY! First I’ll go over all the unique things to do in Rochester, and then I’ll cover where (and what) to eat and where to stay, PLUS other things to do nearby!

The only natural place to start a list of things to do in Rochester? My #1 pick, the Strong National Museum of Play!

Map of the best things to do in Rochester:

The strong museum of play.

Probably the most well-known thing to do in Rochester is the Strong National Museum of Play . It is one of the most fun and interactive museums in the world!

It includes the National Toy Hall of Fame, a butterfly garden, a room full of old arcade games (that you can play!), a mini Wegmans (more on that later), and plenty of places for both kids and adults to explore.

Read my article about the Museum of Play to learn more about the different sections of the museum and what parts are best for kids and adults.

Tips for visiting the Museum of Play:

Park in the brightly colored parking garage on Howell St.

Parking is $5. Pay for parking inside at the front desk, or at the kiosks in the garage. Be sure to scan your admission ticket to receive the $5 rate.

The museum is open 10 am-5 pm Sunday-Wednesday and 10 am-8 pm Thursday-Saturday.

Museum admission costs $25 in person, or $23 if you book in advance online. Some things in the museum cost extra.

George Eastman Museum

My high school photography teacher took our class to Rochester to visit the George Eastman House … but like a cowardly teenager, I opted out to avoid having to miss my other classes (yes, I was a strange child).

I also refused to visit when we came to the Play Museum in 2020, stubbornly not wanting to know what I had missed out on (I am a strange adult too…).

But the responsibility of a travel blogger is to explore ALL the things to do and report back to you, so finally, countless years later, I visited the Eastman House & Museum. And it was one of my FAVORITE things to do in Rochester!!

The museum is split into two parts: the photography museum with the old cameras and photographs and works by contemporary artists, and the mansion where the Eastmans lived, which literally looks like you stepped into the board game Clue. It is seriously one of the coolest houses ever!

Tips for visiting the Eastman Museum:

Parking is free for museum guests. The entrance to the parking lot is off of East Ave. (NOT University Ave, where our GPS decided to take us).

The museum is open 10 am-5 pm Tuesday-Saturday, and 11 am-5 pm on Sunday.

Museum admission is $20.

Dryden Theater

The Dryden Theater is connected to the Eastman Museum. George Eastman was a big proponent of the film industry, and as such, the theater makes it its mission to support the art form and preserve film history. It is one of the few theaters in the world still able to project original nitrate films, and screens many old films in their original format, as well as newer movies.

So if you’re sad you missed your chance to watch Invasion of the Body Snatchers in its original black and white in theaters, now’s your chance!

You can’t visit Rochester, or western NY for that matter, without visiting at least one Wegmans. And there are plenty to choose from in the Rochester area!

Wegmans has been touted as the “Disneyland of grocery stores.” I always tell people it is so much more than a grocery store.

To help you understand a little better, here’s a video of the Pittsford Wegmans, one of the largest Wegmans in the world!

Highland Park

Highland Park is one of the jewels of the city of Rochester. Walking paths, memorials, and a castle make this 150 acre park one of the cheapest and one of the most unique things to do in Rochester! You can spend plenty of your time in Rochester wandering around this beautiful park.

Here are some of the things you can expect to find:

The world famous lilac blooms. Come in May to see them in bloom.

Explore the Lamberton Conservatory . Hours are from 10 am-4 pm.

Visit the Frederick Douglass Memorial Plaza, or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Just across the street from Highland Park is Mt. Hope Cemetery, where you can find the graves of Frederick Douglass & Susan B. Anthony.

Warner Castle (listed next)!

Warner Castle

Hidden in the midst of Highland Park in central NY is… wait for it… a Scottish castle! I love Scotland and castles, so I was super excited to find this as one of the (free) things to do in Rochester, NY!!

Warner Castle was built as the home of Horatio Gates Warner in 1854. It was modeled after a castle he had seen in Scotland and fell in love with.

The castle is now owned by the Landmark Society of Western NY, and unfortunately the inside is not open for exploration. But you can visit the outside of the castle, and the magical sunken gardens in the back. It is a great spot for a family photo op.

Tips for visiting Warner Castle:

There is a small, free parking lot for Warner Castle. The parking lot is located on Castle Park, off of Reservoir Ave.

If the parking lot is full or blocked off, you can park in Highland Park and walk to the castle from the back entrance to the sunken gardens.

Ignore the hours on Google. You can visit the outside of the castle/sunken gardens any time (unless someone has rented out the gardens for a private event).

Susan B. Anthony Museum

Susan B. Anthony is one of the most well-known figures of the women’s rights movement. You can visit the Susan B. Anthony House in Rochester, NY where she lived most of her life, and was even arrested for voting in 1872!

Don’t forget you can also visit her grave site in Mt. Hope Cemetery, across from Highland Park.

Tips for visiting the Susan B. Anthony House

The museum is in a residential neighborhood, as it is the house in which Anthony lived.

There is a small parking lot next to the house, and also free on-street parking available.

The museum is open 11 am-5 pm Tuesday-Sunday.

Museum admission costs $15.

View from Pont de Rennes Bridge.

Here are some fun, unique facts about Rochester: It is one of the few cities with a waterfall flowing right through the middle of the city! The Genesee River is also one of the few rivers to flow northward!

The setting of High Falls right in the city center makes this a very accessible thing to do in Rochester. You can get a great view of the waterfall, no hiking required!

Tips for visiting High Falls:

A very small (free) parking lot is available at High Falls Terrace. There is also a large parking lot right next door for patrons of the Genesee Brew House.

There is a good view and lounge chairs at the High Falls Terrace Platform. You can feel the spray of the waterfall from here.

Another good view is from the Pont de Rennes Bridge, which crosses the Genesee River and connects the High Falls Terrace to the Browns Race Historic District.

The High Falls Visitor’s Center is just across the bridge, although it is temporarily closed.

Neighborhood of the Arts

Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) is a fun area of Rochester to explore, with lots of local shops, restaurants and art installations.

It is right next to the Eastman Museum, so you can park at and explore the museum, and then walk around NOTA after. Paid parking is also available along the street.

Cruise on the Erie Canal

Rochester is one of many NY cities built along the statewide Erie Canal. The best place to explore the canal is in Pittsford, NY, a 15 min. drive from the city center. You can ride a boat down the famous canal, walk along the water (for free!), or grab dinner (or gelato!) with a great view.

Tips for visiting the Erie Canal in Pittsford:

Free parking is available at Schoen Place. The main parking lots are for patrons of the shops/restaurants. If you just want to walk, there is a free gravel parking lot behind the paved parking lots.

Book a cruise on the Erie Canal with Sam Patch Boat Tours .

There are lots of shops and restaurants along Schoen Place to visit and explore.

Swim in a Great Lake

Rochester rests on the shores of Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes (Man, waterfalls, the Erie Canal, the Great Lakes…Rochester is really spoiled for choice when it comes to water activities!).

If you happen to be in town on a warm day, one of the best things to do in Rochester, NY is go to the beach! That is honestly a sentence I never thought I’d say, but there is in fact a great beach near Rochester on Lake Ontario. Check out Ontario Beach Park for swimming, volleyball, a ride on the historic carousel, or just relaxing on the sand.

Tips for visiting Ontario Beach Park:

The park is open all year, from 7 am-11 pm (although this may not be a top thing to do in January…).

Free parking is available. The beach is free to visit.

Oldest Mini Golf Course in the US

Not far from Ontario Beach Park is Whispering Pines Mini Golf . First built in 1930, Whispering Pines is the oldest mini golf course still in use in the US (granted is has been updated in the last 100 years)!

Side note: The world’s longest mini golf hole is also in central NY. Congrats to NY State for holding so many mini golf distinctions!

Catch a Show

A fun thing to do in any large city is to catch a show in a downtown theater, and Rochester has many to choose from.

Rochester Broadway Theater League’s Auditorium Theater has touring Broadway shows, as well as other live performances throughout the year.

The Geva Theater is another great place to watch live performances during your time in Rochester.

Don’t forget about the Dryden Theater , showcasing old black and white films and other classic movies at the Eastman House.

Where to Eat in Rochester

Genesee Brew House, overlooking High Falls, Rochester, NY.

There are a lot of great local places to eat in Rochester, NY. Here are a few of the best choices, recommended by locals.

I feel obliged to start with the iconic Rochester dish, the garbage plate (though to be honest, I’ve actually never tried one…)

Try a Garbage Plate

The famous “ garbage plate ” is a must-try while you’re in Rochester. Nick Tahou Hot’s has the original, but you can get one at pretty much any local restaurant.

A garbage plate basically consists of hamburger or a similar meat topped with french fries, baked beans, macaroni salad and hot sauce. More or less.

Genesee Brew House

The Genesee Brew House is a good choice for a place to eat in Rochester not only because of its ideal location overlooking High Falls, but also because it happens to be one of the oldest continually operated breweries in the US!

Dinosaur BBQ

Our local friends took us to Dinosaur BBQ when we came to visit. The food was delicious, and the downtown location is super convenient (as long as you don’t accidentally drive onto the highway when you think you’re just turning around the block to find a parking spot).

Railroad St.

We found ourselves on the super cool block of Railroad St. in search of donuts one morning. Unfortunately that donut shop no longer exists, but there are still a lot of great restaurants to check out on this block, that would definitely have a fun vibe at nighttime.

Java’s Cafe

Not only did our local friends recommend Java’s Cafe ; it’s also listed as the #1 coffee shop in Rochester on Trip Advisor! So obviously it has to be good.

This was a fun local coffee shop to hang out in for a while after exploring downtown Rochester.

Melo Coffee & Kitchen

The Neighborhood of the Arts cafe Melo was recommended to us by the cool dude in the gift shop at the Eastman Museum (thanks cool gift shop dude!).

We ended up going to Java’s instead, because we can only drink so much coffee… But if you are looking for somewhere to eat in NOTA, look no further than Melo.

Boulder Cafe & Lounge

Boulder was another local cafe recommended to us by the super cool gardener at the Eastman Museum (thanks super cool gardener girl!). She recommended Boulder as somewhere unique to the Rochester area, promoting local artists and musicians.

Ridge Donut Cafe

I am always in search of the best donuts . And Ridge Donuts wasn’t even on my radar, until I found it mentioned in a Reddit post about whether BXCR Donuts (that donut shop on Railroad St.) was still open (they’re not).

I tried several other donut shops in Rochester as well, but this one is definitely the winner. No fancy out of this world flavors, just really good donuts!

Wegmans is always a good choice for where to eat. They have grab and go meals, salad bars, sub shops and sushi shops, and, in fancy Wegmans like the one in Pittsford, entire restaurants!

Wegmans is an especially great choice for where to eat in Rochester, since, you know, they invented Wegmans (thank you, Rochester!).

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rochester

The sunken gardens, behind Warner Castle.

The best time of year to visit Rochester would be between May-October.

Spring is when the flowers start to bloom and kids are still in school. Summer is your best chance of good weather. And fall is when the leaves turn, and the kids are back in school again.

Anytime during these months would be good to visit Rochester, but I would say the most ideal time to visit is in May, before the lilac festival. This is when the famous lilacs will be starting to bloom, but come before the festival to avoid all the people!

Or… come during the Lilac Festival , if you want to take part in that! There are a lot of festivals in Rochester that you could potentially plan your trip around.

Where to Stay in Rochester

Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott is the perfect place to stay right downtown, and close to everything. It is right in between the Eastman Museum and the Museum of Play.

The Strathallan

If you’re looking for something a little more fancy, The Strathallan boutique hotel is also right in downtown and pretty close to everything you’ll want to see.

Hyatt Regency

Hyatt Regency is a downtown hotel near the river, and close to the Museum of Play. It is a bit further from the Eatman Museum, in between the Museum of Play and High Falls.

Hilton Garden Inn

Hilton Garden Inn is right next to the Hyatt Regency. It is a convenient location in downtown Rochester.

Holiday Inn Rochester

The Holiday Inn in downtown Rochester is also a great location. It is just across the river from the main city center, and is in between High Falls and the Museum of Play.

The Best Day Trips from Rochester

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls needs no introduction! It is the oldest state park in the country, and one of the natural wonders of the world.

It is only an hour and a half drive to Niagara Falls from Rochester, or a half hour drive from Buffalo, where you will most likely fly into. It makes a great day trip from Rochester, or an add on in a road trip from Buffalo .

Letchworth State Park

The northernmost entrance to Letchworth State Park is only 45 minutes from Rochester, although the best part of the park is around the Middle Falls, just over an hour drive. Letchworth has been voted the #1 state park in the country!

Geneva, NY/Finger Lakes Region

Geneva, NY is the heart of the beautiful Finger Lakes Region, and one of my favorite places on earth! It is just under an hour drive to Geneva, making it an easy day trip from Rochester.

From here you can enjoy the lake, visit a winery, or explore some of the other nearby lakes.

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is just 45 minutes past Geneva (an hour and a half total from Rochester), so you can easily visit both on a day trip from the city, or a road trip around western NY . The fairy tale bridge on the 1.5 mile Gorge Trail is the main attraction at the #3 state park in the country.

Corning Museum of Glass

One final day trip from Rochester is the hour and a half drive to Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, NY. Here you can make your own glass and wander through the galleries containing all sorts of things from awesome and strange glass sculptures to ancient Egyptian pottery.

Having a great time exploring the Eastman Museum in Rochester, NY.

Further Reading

The city of Rochester’s HUGE list of things to do in Rochester !

Any more questions?

If you have any questions about visiting Rochester, or western NY, feel free to email me or comment below.

Planning a trip to Rochester?

Save one of the pins below for future trip planning:

You might also like:

The Best Western NY Road Trip Itinerary

The Strong Museum of Play Without Kids

Hiking the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen

The Complete Guide to Letchworth State Park

Niagara Falls, Canada & the US

Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

Things to Do in Ottawa, ON

Corning Museum of Glass Travel Guide

The New York State Bucket List

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11 Things To Do In Rochester: Complete Guide To History, Art, & Culture

From beautiful museums to several historical buildings to top-notch restaurants, hotels, and resorts, Rochester is one of the best cities in New York.

Read update

Wondering What To Do In Rochester NY?

Rochester is an amazing travel destination in Upstate New York , as there are plenty of sites to see and fun adventures to experience. The city is known for its world-class museums and art galleries but also boasts an incredible culture to explore.

There are numerous family-friendly attractions, a fantastic dining scene, and fascinating food markets. Rochester is also recognized for its beautiful music concerts, several dance shows, and seasonal festivals to catch.

UPDATE: 2023/09/03 16:05 EST BY LANE VASQUEZ

Our complete travel guide to Rochester, NY highlights all the things to do, how to best spend a day, and new spots to explore.

Things to Do in Rochester NY

Rochester is one of the most impressive cities in Upstate New York because of the myriad of magnificent sights it presents. Planning a visit to New York's third-largest city? Here is the ultimate travel guide to all the things to do in Rochester NY.

1 The Eastman Museum & Mansion

This museum is named after the man behind the invention of photography, George Eastman, the founder of Eastman Kodak Company. His Colonial Revival Mansion, now the Eastman Museum , is where vacationers can learn the history of photography, explore the galleries, and stroll through his stunning home and gardens.

• Admission: Tickets are $20 for adults/$7 for youth

There are a lot of photographs that illustrate the history of film and cameras. There are amazing exhibits to experience, including ones that showcase the life Eastman lived.

2 Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

Susan B. Anthony's home is now an iconic landmark in Rochester; Anthony lived in the home for forty years and was even arrested in the front parlor due to her activism.

Susan B. Anthony lived on the property until her passing in 1906.

• Address: 17 Madison St, Rochester, NY 14608
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM
• Admission: Susan B. Anthony National Museum & House admission is $15 for adults, $5 for students

3 The Strong National Museum Of Play

As its name suggests, the Strong National Museum of Play takes us back to the time when we were kids, displaying a good number of beautiful toys, games, and other play items for children.

• Admission : $23 when purchased online; $25 on site
• Packages are available from $31 to combine attractions like the Museum + Butterfly Garden and Museum + Skyline Climb

This museum is Rochester's best tourist attraction and one that kids would love, making it incredibly fascinating for a family.

4 Seabreeze Amusement Park

Seabreeze Amusement Park is one of the oldest amusement parks in New York and is one of the best things to do in Rochester when traveling with kids.

The park offers plenty of exciting activities for kids, including roller coasters and rides. It's a nice place to show children how amusement park rides used to be in the 'olden days.'

• Admission : Single-day tickets start at $40.99

While the rides may not as fun as modern amusement parks, this is a fun, inexpensive way to spend an afternoon in Rochester.

5 City Of Rochester Public Market

The City of Rochester Public Market has served the surrounding community since 1905, making it a staple of Rochester, New York. Many generations have come to buy and sell goods over the years, adding to the history of the shopping complex.

• Schedule: Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday year-round
• Free parking is available in city-owned Market parking lots

In addition to special market events, there is also regular shopping throughout the week. Visitors can come and buy local produce and farm-to-table ingredients and enjoy the authentic culture of Rochester. If anyone in the group loves supporting small businesses, this is the spot to hit up.

6 Cobb's Hill Park

Another stop in Rochester is Cobb's Hill Park. This park is in the city's southeast area and features 109 acres of luscious greenery and places to enjoy the day. Cobb's Hill Park also has various trails that visitors can walk, adding to the fun.

• The park features a reservoir in the middle, surrounded by a decorative iron fence, sidewalk, and grassy/landscaped areas.

7 Mt. Hope Cemetery

For people wanting to experience a Victorian cemetery while in Rochester, New York, the Mt. Hope Cemetery should be at the top of the list. This renowned burial place is one of America's most remarkable Victorian cemeteries, totaling 196 acres.

Visitors can walk the grounds, pay their respects, and admire the various styles of tombstones throughout the property.

• This cemetery is open daily from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, giving tourists plenty of time to take in the scenery.

8 Highland Park

For people wanting to get outside and explore the woods in Rochester, New York, heading to Highland Park is a perfect idea. This 150-acre park hosts fun activities, including hiking, events, art installations, and other family-friendly occasions.

Notably, the Lilac Festival takes place at Highland Park, where tourists can view all the flowers blooming each spring. This is considered a botanical park, as there are countless flowering species and other specialty plants native and uncommon to New York.

9 Ontario Beach Park

Another outdoor event to consider while in the Rochester area is to head out to Ontario Beach Park. Visitors can set up an umbrella and beach chair and watch the waves crash along the shore. Notably, this beach features a century-old carousel, swimming, boating & rentable shelters.

This could be an excellent spot for an afternoon picnic or even an excuse to wake up early to see the sunrise. Regardless, this beach can get busy on weekends, so heading out on a weekday may be better.

Ontario Beach Park can get crowded during weekends. Therefore, Rochester visitors may want to check out this location during the week when it is less crowded.

10 High Falls

One of Rochester’s major draws is its location on the Genesee River, and one of the best things to do in Rochester is visit High Falls, a product of this amazing feature. This waterfall is a top-rated destination for Rochester tourists, making it a must-see for tourists.

The river tumbles 95 feet from the cascading High Falls to its destination. Located right downtown Rochester, High Falls' most spectacular views can be seen from the High Falls Terrace Park.

Visitors can have a close-up view of the cascading from the High Falls Lookout near the Gorsline Building.

Related: 10 Things To Know About Palouse Falls, No Matter When You Visit

11 Seneca Park Zoo

Seneca Park Zoo is one of the best zoos in New York and is usually ranked right after Brooklyn Zoo. The place boasts various animals, including elephants, rhinos, apes, birds, some penguins, and bears. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the zoo’s features are easy to navigate.

Plus, they’ve installed ramps and benches to make the place more accessible.

• Admission: Tickets are $12 for adults, $9 for youth

12 Best Time To Visit Rochester, New York

Rochester’s climate is continental. Summers can be warm or hot, while winters are always freezing and snowy.

• Spring and autumn are the best times to explore the ‘flower city.’

The weather is pleasant in mid-March through May and September through November, making them the most stable periods to explore the city. The periods also present several outdoor opportunities for outdoorsy travelers.

13 Best Ways To Get Around Rochester

Travelers have several options when it comes to getting around Rochester. Vacationers can use several pedestrian skyways and underground paths to get to their various destinations.

Taxis, Uber, or Lyft are convenient, especially when going far from the city limits.

• Most of Rochester’s hotels offer free shuttle services to their guests.

Vacationers can also use car rentals at Rochester International Airport, downtown, or other car rental companies spread throughout the city.

Related: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Upstate New York: Areas To Explore & Where To Stay

14 Where To Eat In Rochester

With all the things to do in Rochester, dining out is both a necessary and enjoyable experience. Try these restaurants for a taste of Rochester during your trip.

Jines Restaurant

At Jines Restaurant , travelers can carry take-out food and have indoor or outdoor dining. The food here is quality; one can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner in a comfortable atmosphere anytime.

It is the best option for breakfast, as the menu is extensive, and any choice is reasonably priced. English muffins, omelets, Italian raisin toast, and turkey sausage & eggs are some of the items that vacationers will find on the menu.

Char Steak & Lounge

Located right in the heart of The Arts, Char Steak & Lounge is part of the Strathallan Hotel & Spa. A wide range of flavors, including homemade pasta, grilled steaks, and fantastic desserts. It is an incredible option for lunch.

• Opening hours: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has an accommodation capacity of up to 50 guests, boasts a full bar and free internet access, and guarantees the most delicious dinner dishes in Rochester. Travelers can make reservations through the restaurant’s website.

• Opening hours: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Mondays to Thursdays, 11:00 am–10:00 pm Fridays and Saturdays, 11:00 am–9:00 pm Sundays.

Related: Charleston In 24 Hours: Where To Eat & What To Do In A Day

15 Where To Stay In Rochester

Rochester boasts many accommodation options for travelers, from luxury resorts to bed & breakfasts to budget hotels and hostels. Here are the top hotels to check out.

Staybridge Suites Rochester University (Luxury)

Overlooking the Genesee River, Staybridge Suites Rochester University is an incredible option for families and vacationers visiting the city for business reasons.

It’s located a short distance from UR River Campus and UR Medical Center—and boasts elegant rooms that come with fully-equipped kitchens. One can choose to stay in a one-bedroom or two-bedroom suite.

• Accommodation: Staybridge Suites Rochester University
• Address: 1000 Genesee Street, Rochester, NY 14611
• Amenities: Fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, free parking, free airport shuttle, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, and a flat-screen TV

Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center (Mid-Range)

Located a few steps away from the University of Rochester, Mount Hope Cemetery, and Highland Park, Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center offers access to several medical facilities, businesses, restaurants, and shops.

The Museum of Play, a beautiful museum with amazing toys and play items from childhood, is located not far from here.

• Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center
• Address: 30 Celebration Drive, Rochester, NY 14620
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, free parking, and free airport shuttle

Newly Remodeled And Spacious Getaway

Located in the South Wedge area in Rochester, the Newly Remodeled and Spacious Getaway boasts beautiful rooms with fully stocked kitchens. It’s also close to the nearby restaurants, shops, bars, fitness centers, and more.

• Accommodation: Newly Remodeled and Spacious Getaway
• Address: Rochester, New York, United States
• Amenities: Adults only, kitchen, Wi-Fi, air-conditioned, coffee machine, washing machine, clothes dryer, linens, and towels.

Related: Where Should You Stay In Honolulu? Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

16 Tips For Staying In Rochester

Rochester is a perfect destination for travelers who enjoy the great outdoors, as many hiking trails lead to some of the city's most impressive waterfalls. Before visiting Rochester, here are some of the things vacationers should know.

• Rochester's temperatures can sometimes go up from the 70s to below freezing. Vacationers should pack skin care products to ensure they don't suffer sunburns when it gets too hot in summer.
• Beware of the parking rules in Rochester. Also known as 'alternative parking,' the city's parking restrictions only allow visitors and locals to pack on the even-numbered side of the street on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, but only until 7:00 pm. Parking on the odd-numbered side of the road is allowed on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays until 7:00 pm.

What is special about Rochester?

Rochester is an amazing travel destination to visit in Upstate New York , as there are plenty of sites to see and fun adventures to experience. The city is known for its world-class museums and art galleries, but it also boasts an incredible culture to explore.

17 How To Spend A Day In Rochester

Wondering what to do in Rochester in a single day? Start the day by visiting the Rochester Public Market for a cup of coffee, perhaps at Java's. One may have to wait in line, but it's worth it. Explore the colorful items in the market after that.

Over 300 vendors have unique offerings, including dairy products, seafood, and local produce. Vacationers will also find breweries, gift shops, and flower shops in this thriving market.

From the market, choose between the National Museum of Play or the National Toy Hall of Fame if visiting with kids. A family can choose to spend a whole day at any of the museums since there are fun things to see and do for an entire family.

Related: One Day In Bar Harbor: What's Worth Doing In 24 Hours

If not visiting with children, travelers can skip the museums and explore Rochester's beautiful art scene at the Memorial Art Gallery or Rochester Contemporary Art Center.

In the evening, enjoy music in one of the many venues in the city. Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra at the Eastman Theater is an excellent place to visit.

Is Rochester worth visiting?

Rochester is beautiful, and visiting it is totally worth it (even when it's pitted against Syracuse ). There is a wide range of activities to explore, places to stay, and incredible hotels offering comfortable accommodations in the city. Every vacationer will always have a wonderful trip to Rochester.

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Hmyoi rochester.

• Inside Time Reports
• 13th December 2014
• Closed young offender institution , Kent & Sussex , Male YOI , Prison Visit

Prison information

Address: 1 Fort Road Rochester Kent ME1 3QS Switchboard: 01634 803100 Managed by: HMPPS Region: Kent and Sussex Category: Male YOI Link to:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/rochester-prison

Description

A dedicated site for sentenced young men up to the age of 21.

Rochester is a prison and young offender institution for men over 18 in Rochester, Kent.

Visit Booking: On-line

Use this online service to book a social visit to a prisoner in England or Wales you need the:

• prisoner number
• prisoner’s date of birth
• dates of birth for all visitors coming with you

The prisoner must add you to their visitor list before you can book a visit.

You’ll get an email confirming your visit. It takes 1 to 3 days.

ID: Every visit

Children’s Visits:  Children can visit daily within visiting hours – Family days are planned internally

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The Complete Weekend Travel Guide to Rochester, New York

Something I found fascinating when telling friends and family we were heading to Rochester for the weekend was that everyone had a different immediate response:

“Eastman Kodak!”

“Wineries!”

“Garbage Plates!”

“Susan B. Anthony!”

“Video Games!”

It will never get old to me that people’s first reaction to simply hearing the name of a destination is to spout off a fact they know about the city or a specific sight or attraction like they’re a contestant on a game show (I find cross-generational habits like this utterly endearing).

But the last one on the list came from the person who is most important to me – and it was in response to my discovery that a relatively new airline to the region planned to launch a direct flight between Raleigh and Rochester at a great price.

Avelo Airlines now connects the two cities on Fridays and Mondays, making it a perfect weekend destination for North Carolinians like us (Rochester is also currently easily reached by air from other East Coast destinations and Detroit – everyone else will need to hop on a connecting flight first!).

And so, off we booked that $88 roundtrip flight, eager to explore not just the city’s best-known sights, but its hidden gems, too.

Now that we’re back, I am game-show-eager to share those hidden gems with you – but before I dive in, let’s look back at Rochester’s history (it’s fascinating, I promise!).

ABOUT ROCHESTER

Forget those towns out West – Rochester is known as America’s first Boom Town. Before the gold rush in California, wheat was the nation’s precious golden-hued resource, and Rochester’s waterfalls offered the hydropower needed to mill it. Flour mills sprung up, and thanks to the development of the Erie Canal, Rochester became the world’s leading producer of flour for a time in the early 1800s.

Eventually, Rochester’s nickname of “The Flour City” was shifted to Minneapolis , and Rochester’s replacement nickname of “The Flower City” grew as plant nurseries began to take root all around the outskirts. And soon after that, Rochester became a hub of social reform and activism, with influential figures like Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony advocating for abolitionism and suffrage. Over the years, Rochester’s cultural heritage has evolved, contributing to its vibrant arts scene and diverse community. Today, the city stands as a testament to its historical roots, while embracing innovation and progress, making it a captivating destination for travelers and history enthusiasts alike.

Five Facts You May Not Know About Rochester

• The Seneca tribe of the Iroquois Confederacy resided in and around Rochester until relinquishing their claim to the area in the Treaty of Big Tree in 1797.
• The city is home to one of the country’s largest urban waterfalls. High Falls is a 96-foot waterfall in the heart of downtown (and it makes for a great photo op!).
• Rochester was one of the final stops on the Underground Railroad for many enslaved people, who then continued to freedom in Canada.
• Some of the products you use every day got their start in Rochester: Bausch & Lomb , Kodak , Xerox , and Wegmans are just a few of the major corporations that started here.
• Rochester’s history and industry have lent it many nicknames over the centuries, most notably, “The Young Lion of the West”, The Flour City”, “The Flower City”, and “The World’s Image Center”.

Ready to explore this city that feels simultaneously familiar and brand new? Read on for your dedicated weekend guide to Rochester, New York.

THINGS TO DO IN ROCHESTER

Rochester museums.

Rochester has no shortage of museums , but there are four in particular that must be on your list:

The George Eastman Museum is located on the estate of – who else? – George Eastman, a pioneer in the field of photography and the founder of the Eastman Kodak Company. Here visitors can marvel at how far camera technology has come while exploring the meticulously-preserved estate. A short drive away is the residence of another famous Rochesterian of the era: Susan B. Anthony. By taking a guided tour at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House , you’ll learn more about the famous activist and her legacy, as well as the work of her peers with not-so-famous names.

History can sometimes be heavy, so lighten the load by spending a day at The Strong National Museum of Play . This is the world’s only collections-based museum devoted to the art of play, and it truly is an experience like no other. All ages will find something (or many things!) to cherish here. And if you’re traveling with the brood in tow, make time for a visit to the Rochester Museum & Science Center . With so many hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations, it’s one of those rare educational experiences that doesn’t make learning feel like a bore (they won’t even know they’re doing it!).

You learn more about each museum and my insider tips to make the most of your visit in my Rochester Museums guide .

Erie Canal Tour

Hop in the car and head just fifteen minutes away to the canalside village of Pittsford. Docked in this charming village you’ll find the Sam Patch , a replica historic packet boat. Named after the legendary daredevil who once famously jumped from High Falls, this boat tour offers a unique perspective on one of America’s most significant waterways. As the boat gently glides through the historic Erie Canal, passengers are transported back in time, learning about the canal’s vital role in shaping the region’s industrial and cultural heritage. The highlight of the tour takes place in a century-old lock, watching as the waters rise inside the gates of Lock 32.

Back on the level waters of the canal, take in scenic views of the charming towns and residences, before returning to the dock. A boat tour with Sam Patch is a relaxing adventure that provides insight into the past while enjoying the beauty of the present-day landscape. Notes: schedule tours in advance; tour operates seasonally.

Rochester Public Market

A Saturday morning in Rochester can’t possibly be spent anywhere else than the Rochester Public Market (also open Tuesdays and Thursdays!). The further north you travel in the U.S., the more challenging it is to find a market open year-round, but this one has been doing just that since 1905.

I know what you’re thinking – weekend travelers often have little use for fresh produce, what with our general lack of kitchens and all. But one of the great things about Rochester Public Market is the many prepared food vendors mixed in among the season’s bounty. You can pretty much take a trip around the globe at the market stalls, from empanadas to pierogi to egg rolls. But as with any market, it’s always best to take a lap before you commit – you might just find something even more tempting around the corner. Note: parking is freely available but expect your drive to take a little longer than usual thanks to a higher volume of traffic; bring cash as many vendors do not accept credit cards.

High Falls captures the essence of Rochester’s natural beauty and urban charm in one setting. This 96-foot waterfall is the beating heart of the city, as it played a vital role in powering Rochester’s early mills and factories during the 19th century. For the best view, head to the rooftop of the Genesee Brew House.

Mount Hope Cemetery

Mount Hope Cemetery is the final resting place of many Rochestarians, but its two most notable residents are Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony. If you have any preconceived notions about visiting a cemetery (especially if they involve the terms “creepy” or “spooky”), you can go ahead and toss them out now. Mount Hope is one of the oldest municipal cemeteries in the United States, and it holds an abundance of stories within its tranquil grounds. Strolling the grounds is free and open to the public, and offers an opportunity to connect with the past and pay homage to the remarkable individuals who have shaped Rochester’s cultural heritage.

Rochester Monuments and Murals

You’ll find the legacies of Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony honored all over Rochester, and not just in name only (see: The Frederick Douglass-Susan B. Anthony Memorial Bridge and Rochester’s airport ). Both are featured together in the “Let’s Have Tea” sculpture honoring their friendship in Susan B. Anthony Square Park . This pocket park is located only a block away from the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House , so be sure to walk over following your visit.

Rochester is also home to what is believed to be the first public statue to memorialize an African American in the U.S., and you can find the Frederick Douglass Monument and Memorial Plaza in a prominent place in Highland Park. For a more recent look at the famous abolitionist, head to the former site of the Douglass family home (now part of Rochester’s library and school systems). Here you’ll find several murals by Shawn Dunwood y honoring his work and legacy.

Where to Shop in Rochester

The Op Shop is a delightful collective of vintage sellers and local makers in a former home in Rochester’s East End. Perusing the racks is a little bit like hopping in a time capsule, and there’s something from just about every decade (although I have to admit, it hurts the soul a little bit to find something “vintage” that you once purchased new!). Better than their selection, though, is their commitment to inclusivity .

Okay, while I know it feels weird to position an upscale grocery chain immediately after a locally-owned business, Wegmans is undeniably a big part of local life in Rochester. Wegmans, as we know it today, debuted in 1930 (though the Wegman brothers began selling produce in Rochester in 1916), and the Pittsford store is one of the largest. Stock up on snacks for your stay – or for the plane ride home.

ROCHESTER FOOD & DRINK

Rochester restaurants.

Allow me to be the first to tell you that you are in for a treat when you go out to eat in Rochester.

The city has it all, from classic brunch spots to innovative small-plate restaurants. Begin your day at local standby Jines Restaurant or brunch it up at Locals Only – both are excellent places to get off on the right foot. For lunch, grab a table at one of the city’s many breweries, such as Genesee Brew House or Strangebird Brewing , or at a newcomer to the scene like Cotoletta . Take things up a notch at dinner by dining at Rochester favorites like The Revelry , TRATA: The Restaurant At The Armory , or Vern’s . Hungry for more info? You can head over to my post on 8 Essential Restaurants in Rochester, New York .

Rochester Coffee Shops

Java’s Cafe , the coffee shop of a local roaster, is located at the bar of Cure – but there’s a catch to visiting. It’s only open alongside the public market, and it’s a cash-only establishment (okay, that’s two catches, I guess!). In any case, Java’s is the perfect way to fuel your market exploration. For the rest of the week, there’s Fuego Coffee Roasters . The micro-roaster carefully works alongside their farmers to ensure they are being fairly paid. In a rush or trying to avoid paying for metered parking? You can order ahead online .

But if I had to choose just one Rochester coffee shop for my caffeine fix, it would be Ugly Duck Coffee . Classic coffee and espresso drinks are perfectly executed, but their specialty drinks really shine. Order The Snug (espresso, maple syrup, molasses bitters, steamed milk) for me!

Rochester Bars

The Finger Lakes district of New York is wine country – but even if you don’t have the chance to get out to the vineyards, Living Roots is the perfect place to enjoy a taste of the terroir. The Rochester tasting room is essentially a wine bar for their New York and Australia-grown varietals, including a ridiculously delicious-looking menu of small plates (basically, it’s the type of wine bar that every wine bar should aspire to be). A Flight is the way to go, and Living Roots has expertly curated four options: Bubbles, Dry Whites & Rosé, Off-Dry Whites, and Reds. Michael and I ordered the first and last options and enjoyed the experience of tasting the spectrum. Our picks? The Pét Nat Rosé and the Depths of the Earth Red Blend .

Traveling with a whiskey-lover? Make their night by bringing them to The Daily Refresher , an ultra-cozy living room-esque cocktail bar. There is a staggering number of different whiskeys on the menu (over 300!), and it makes me wish I was cool enough to like it. But thankfully, the menu also includes a great selection of cocktails, wine, and local beer. Stretch your going-out budget by visiting during Happy Hour.

Rochester Treats

Pastry fans will find layered, flaky bliss at Flour City Bread , located at Rochester Public Market. On the morning of my visit, the line snaked through the restaurant next door, and once I’d procured the goods, it was easy to see why. For a treat at the end of the day, head to  Hedonist Artisan Ice Cream & Chocolates . Being under the umbrella of a local chocolatier, it only makes sense to order a scoop of something chocolatey. The Chocolate Sorbet is the most chocolate thing you can order, and it is decadent without being heavy. In the mood for something else? Head here for the latest scoop .

WHERE TO STAY IN ROCHESTER

The Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown is an excellent choice for visitors staying just a weekend in Rochester. It has all the amenities and features a traveler needs, like ultra-clean and spacious rooms, comfortable beds, free parking, a convenience shop in the lobby, and ample common area seating for lounging or working. But best of all, its location is unbeatable. When traveling for such a short amount of time, proximity is key (“time is money” and all that), and the Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown is within walking distance to many of the places in this guide.

WITH MORE TIME…

Lucky you to have more time in Rochester! Next on my list to explore are the items below (and as always, if you make it there before I do, please leave a comment and let us know how you liked it!):

In Rochester

• Landmark Walking Tours | Free walking tours around the city
• Memorial Art Gallery | A diverse collection of art at the University of Rochester
• Ontario Beach Park | For a fun day in the sun (weather permitting, of course!)
• Lamberton Conservatory | Botanicals for the seasons
• Seneca Park Zoo | Lions and Tigers and (Polar) Bears, oh my!

Day Trips from Rochester

• Finger Lakes Wineries | Hit the wine trail for a taste of the region in a glass
• Chimney Bluffs State Park | Unique rock formations just an hour from downtown
• Taughannock Falls State Park | A gorgeous waterfall just 90 minutes from Rochester
• Niagara Falls | The classic vacation destination, only 90 minutes away
• Corning, NY | AKA “America’s Crystal City” – less than two hours away
• Ithaca, NY | Psst … I hear it’s gorges

TRAVEL TIPS FOR ROCHESTER, NEW YORK

Frederick Douglass – Greater Rochester International Airport is located about a ten-minute drive away from downtown Rochester (in good traffic, of course!), and yes, a car is a major help in getting around the city. But the good news is that most of the sites visitors will be drawn to are located within a fairly compact area (or as it was said to me, “Everything in Rochester is always 15 minutes away”). Parking is relatively easy to find, but double-check the signage before leaving your vehicle. You’re sure to have plenty of great memories from your trip to Rochester, but don’t make getting towed one of them!

This visit occurred in early July, and the weather was *chefs kiss*. Cool nights, warm days… this time of year is truly Rochester’s season to shine. Winters, on the other hand, are dark and cold. The city averages around 100″ of snow each winter, with January and February being the most bitter. Dress accordingly and check the weather forecast before your trip.

Rochester is home to a number of festivals, including the Rochester Lilac Festival , Rochester International Jazz Festival , and Rochester Fringe Festival . Check the calendar before your visit to see if there is something that strikes your fancy!

I found locals to be approachable, friendly, and ready to offer recommendations – but I never really landed in a long conversation with any strangers (my introverted soul was perfectly okay with this!). Moral of the story: don’t hesitate to ask for advice on what to see and do. Being curious and open to new experiences can make your trip even more enjoyable!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING ROCHESTER, NEW YORK

Often when I leave a city, I leave feeling like I’ve more or less accomplished what I set out to see and do, but eager to move on to the next destination. In Rochester, I felt like I managed to see and do everything, yet I found myself wanting to stay longer so I could dive in deeper.

If that’s not enough of an endorsement for your visit, well, I’m not sure what else I can say! I hope you’ve added Rochester to your list after reading this guide; no matter your travel style, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable adventure.

Questions for you

What is the first thing that pops into your head when someone mentions Rochester?

What is the last destination that left you wanting to immediately return?

Enjoyed this post? You may also like:

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• 8 Essential Restaurants in Rochester, New York
• Traveling Light: Packing List for a Weekend in Rochester, New York
• 36 Hours in Albany, New York
• Traveling Light: Albany, New York Packing List
• 36 Hours in NYC: Lower Manhattan
• A Three-Day Fall Weekend in NYC
• Culturally Relevant: The Essential Weekend Travel Guide to Cleveland, Ohio
• Meeting Motor City: An Introductory Weekend Travel Guide for Detroit, Michigan
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One Comment on “ The Complete Weekend Travel Guide to Rochester, New York ”

Excited to dive into this! Rochester has always been on my list of places to visit, and having a comprehensive guide like this is exactly what I need to plan the perfect weekend getaway. Thanks for sharing!

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 Rochester, MN Visitor's Guide    

 If you are planning your trip to Rochester and would like to view Rochester's online visitor's guide, please click here . Our office is currently only open during select times, but if you would prefer to receive the travel planner in the mail, please complete the following form and we will be sure to send you one as soon as possible.

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New “100 things to do in rochester” book released.

From the obvious to the obscure, a soon-to-be-released new book will help you discover—and rediscover—Rochester!

From publisher Reedy Press:

"Rochester is known as the cultural capital of Western New York because of its world class museums, music, and more. Take your own tour of this affordable, accessible gem with 100 Things to Do in Rochester Before You Die, a local’s lowdown on what makes this place so remarkable no matter the month or the weather. Explore the arts scene by learning how the city became the birthplace of amateur photography or by dancing at one of the world’s largest jazz festivals. Get playful at the world’s largest toy store or thumb through the largest vinyl record collection in the Northeast. The picture-perfect canalside villages along the Genesee River provide the ideal landscape for adventure and contemplation whether it’s by the 96-foot waterfall or the Erie Canal along the city’s southern border. Follow in the footsteps of historical icons like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. Round out your visit with some of Rochester’s best food, maybe even the iconic, celebrity-endorsed “Garbage Plate,” which is as messy as it sounds. With insider tips and suggested itineraries by subject and season, freelance journalist and author Robin L. Flanigan takes you on a whirlwind tour—from the obvious to the obscure—of the place she proudly calls home. From the heart of the city all the way to Lake Ontario, this guide to Rochester will have you planning your next visit right away."

"100 Things To Do In Rochester Before You Die" is a great way to welcome and reward clients, employees, and students; raise money for your organization; and more. 160 pages, $18.00. Bulk pricing is available.

Opportunities exist for:

• Companies (onboard/recruit/retain employees)
• Businesses (client incentive promotions)
• Universities & colleges (welcome students & staff)
• School districts (fundraising)
• Nonprofits/organizations (fundraising)
• Real estate agents/mortgage loan officers (client gifts)
• Hotels & AirBnB/VRBO owners
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Contact Robin to purchase at [email protected] or visit 100thingsinrochester.com .

About the Author

Robin L. Flanigan is a national award-winning, freelance journalist for magazines and newspapers around the country, and author of the children’s book M is for Mindful. She was a beat reporter for 11 years in newsrooms including Rochester’s Democrat and Chronicle. Her essays have appeared in The Sun and other literary magazines and anthologies, and in 2009 she authored a coffee-table book titled Rochester: High Performance for 175 Years.

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Prepare for your first TreeRunner Visit!

Reservations are required. This is to ensure that a harness is available for you when you arrive. Before guests can enter the park they are required to sign a waiver, regardless of if they are climbing or not. Anyone under the age of 18 years old is required to have their parent or legal guardian complete this waiver on their behalf. Anyone 18 years or older must complete a waiver for themselves. All waivers are required to be completed in advance. This will create a faster check-in and put reserved climbers into the trees much sooner. Each climbing waiver is valid for the entire season.

Feel great about your upcoming trip to TreeRunner Adventure Park!

All climbing requires advanced reservations to ensure that there is adequate equipment available. 

When you arrive you will need to check-in at the registration area. Groups will not fit into our registration areas and will need to wait outside. The group coordinator (person who set up the reservation) will need to check in the group at registration. You will need to arrive 15 minutes early to allow for check-in, use of the restrooms and to get into a safety briefing. If you do not arrive early, it may delay your climb and take time away from the reservation.

Harder trails begin to close as much as 1 hour prior to closing to allow guests to complete the trails before the end of the night. Please make your reservation with this in mind to ensure you are able to complete all the trails you want to conquer.

Weather is very important when planning your trip. In most cases, the park will operate rain or shine. In the case of high winds, thunder, lightning, or heavy downpours, we may suspend climbing while we monitor conditions. Reopening is our goal but if any inclement weather affects your climb we can issue rain vouchers to you upon request. Refunds are not offered but we will provide park credits to use at a later time. To receive credit for what you have paid, cancel before your climb time through your confirmation email. The credit process is automated at this point. You will receive an electronic gift card for the amount you paid to climb with TreeRunner. You MUST cancel before your reservation time begins to receive credit.

Our trees act as a great umbrella for light showers. The park will close for heavy rain, as well as lightning or thunder when it is in the vicinity.

Read about our policy on our “Weather & Rain Policy page”

We would recommend bringing as little as possible to the park. Beverages will be for sale at the registration area. Glass, alcohol, and open flame are not permitted.

All climbers will take part in a ground school before climbing where they will be taught how to navigate our trails through the use of their harness, safety clips, and zip line trolleys. While the actual experience on the course is self-led, our staff will be monitoring you from the ground to assist if needed.

Close-toed and close-heeled athletic-type footwear is required. We recommend dressing for the weather. In warmer temperatures, we recommend loose-fitting clothing that fits under the harness. The harness sits on the shoulders and around the thighs. In cooler temperatures, layers are best. It may be chilly when you start but you will warm up as you climb. We do climb in the rain so bring your rain gear! For safety reasons, long hair must be tied back.  We recommend taking off any dangling accessories, jewelry, scarves, etc. before climbing.

Our entire experience is 3-hours long, and depending on how busy the park is, each trail takes 20 – 30 minutes to complete.

• Minimum age to climb independently is 7
• Minimum vertical reach: 6 ft to be able to climb independently, any shorter is allowed but needs a parent to help with the transfers
• Maximum height: 6’4″
• Minimum weight: 60 lbs.  Guests under 60 pounds are required to climb with an adult (18+) in the Aerial Forest.
• Maximum weight: 265 lbs
• Minimum age: 7 years old (with parent climbing with them), 10 years old to climb independently
• Maximum age: none!

Children ages 7 and up are welcome in our aerial forest while climbing with an Adult. Kids must be at least 10 years old to climb independently. View our age guidelines for more information. 

We suggest making reservations at least a day in advance. For glow nights, we suggest booking as much as a week in advance.

Yes. All participants climbing on the trails, as well as any patrons who wish to enter the park, even if they are not climbing, are required to sign a waiver. A link to the waiver will be emailed to you when the advanced reservation is placed online. You can also fill out your waiver by using the “Sign Waiver” button on our website.

Non-climbers, or walkers, do not need to pay to gain admission to our park, however, they will need to fill out a waiver.

Of course! We have the best cancellation policy! As long as you do it an hour before your scheduled start time, guests can reschedule themselves for any time in the future through their confirmation email!

No, all payments made for reservations are final and ineligible for a monetary refund.

If you are running late for your reservation, send us an email and we are happy to see if we can accommodate. Most times, we are able to push your start time back to a later time, though this might mean that you will get a bit less time to climb as that gear might have already been reserved for the next time slot after your climb. You are always able to reschedule as well if you are worried you are going to eat too much into your climb time.

Our outdoor adventure park does offer some snacks and beverages for purchase.

Our safety briefings occur every 15 minutes. 

We have varying levels of difficulty. Please see our “Obstacles” page for more information on our course levels.

We suggest speaking with your physician to determine whether or not they feel it is safe.

Unfortunately, it is challenging to access our parks in a wheelchair, however, it is certainly possible to come in and watch others climbing.

Absolutely! We just ask that someone in your party stays with your pup, and that you pick up after your furry friends.

We recommend arriving 15 minutes early!

Course closing time.

Weather & What to Wear

Weather is very important when planning your trip. In most cases, the park will operate rain or shine. In the case of high winds, thunder, lightning, or heavy downpours, we may suspend climbing while we monitor conditions. Reopening is our goal but if any inclement weather affects your climb we can issue rain vouchers to you upon request. Refunds are not offered but we will provide park credits to use at a later time. To receive credit for what you have paid, cancel before your climb time through your confirmation email. The credit process is automated at this point. You will receive an electronic gift card for the amount you paid to climb with TreeRunner. You MUST cancel before your reservation time begins to receive credit. Close-toed and close-heeled athletic-type footwear is required. We recommend dressing for the weather. In warmer temperatures, we recommend loose-fitting clothing that fits under the harness. The harness sits on the shoulders and around the thighs. In cooler temperatures, layers are best. It may be chilly when you start but you will warm up as you climb. We do climb in the rain so bring your rain gear! For safety reasons, long hair must be tied back.

What Should I Bring?

We would recommend bringing as little as possible to the park. Beverages will be for sale at the registration area.

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April 8, 2024 - Total Solar Eclipse in Rochester

The Greater Rochester region is in the path of totality for the Total Solar Eclipse. Learn more and plan your eclipse visit today!

With so much to do and see in Rochester, you might not be expecting to spend too much time in your hotel room. But for those moments of rest in between adventures, we offer a plethora of lodging options for every taste.

If you’re looking to be in the middle of the action, consider booking a hotel downtown . Downtown hotels are convenient to the Floreano Convention Center, downtown businesses and corporate headquarters, in addition to museums, attractions, dining and nightlife. 

Near the Airport

After a long flight, we know how important a comfortable place to stay can be. Fortunately, Rochester offers plenty of high-quality accommodations near the airport. 

Just yards from the Frederick Douglass - Greater Rochester International Airport, the Fairfield by Marriott Rochester Airport offers guests unparalleled service and amenities including complimentary grab n' go style breakfast for an easy start to your day.

If you appreciate a little splendor, our luxury hotel rooms and suites with top-of-the-line amenities and magnificent views are worth the trip alone.  

The Inn on Broadway is Rochester's only luxury boutique hotel, offering travelers an ideal location in the heart of downtown's East End Theatre District. Originally built in 1929 as the University Club of Rochester, the building has since been beautifully restored. The 25-room property pays tribute to the city’s prestigious history and exudes the glamour and grandeur of the Flower City. 

Search the listings below for more ideas on where to stay in the Greater Rochester area. 

Hot air balloon crashes into power lines in Minnesota, sparking a brush fire

A hot air balloon accident Wednesday along a highway in Rochester, Minnesota, sparked a brush fire nearby, authorities said.

Rochester police said they responded to reports of a hot air balloon accident on Highway 63, between 40th and 48th streets SE, around 6:50 p.m. Wednesday.

While the balloon was trying to land in a field, a gust of wind pushed it into a nearby power line, causing the basket to disconnect from the balloon and fall 20 to 30 feet to the ground, police said.

Sparks flew from the power lines, prompting a small brush fire next to where the basket landed, according to police. The Rochester Fire Department responded to extinguish the flames.

Three passengers were in the balloon at the time, two of whom reported “very minor” injuries, police said.

The balloon was found a couple of miles away after it was seen drifting southeast without its basket, officials said.

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating, police said.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.