places to visit in rochester

28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Rochester (New York)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: November 6, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Rochester, New York is primarily famous for its music culture, but you’d be surprised to learn that most of its points of interest aren’t related to that at all!

There are many options for what to do in this beautiful city.

The options are all varied and diverse, so there’s something for everyone.

To help you narrow down your choices, here are our picks for the top 28 best and fun things to do in Rochester, New York!

Table of Contents

1. Highland Park

Benjamin Paquette / Shutterstock

Highland Park is one of Rochester’s most famous places to visit, due in part to its beautiful landscaping, teeming flora, and delightful arboretum.

With scenic gullies and little hills set over 150 acres of land, it’s a great place to go sightseeing and is packed with attractions both on and near its grounds.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the stunning park contains over 1,200 lilac shrubs as part of its world-renowned arboretum.

Other beautiful plant species include Japanese Maples, barberries, dwarf evergreens, magnolias, Andromeda, azaleas, house chestnuts, rhododendrons, and mountain laurel.

You’ll also see tons of exotic trees as well as wildflowers local to the area.

A huge pansy bed of 10,000 plants is arranged in a different pattern every year.

Among the interesting spots, you’ll notice while walking around Highland Park are Warner Castle, the Greater Rochester Vietnam Memorial, the John Dunbar Memorial Pavilion, and the Lamberton Conservatory.

Visitors to New York simply have to stop by.

Keep your eyes peeled, as some of them will feature further down on this list!

Address: 180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, United States

2. RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium

FourGreatCats , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium is one of the most loved Rochester attractions, and it should be on your list of places to go if you’re fascinated by astronomy and the world beyond our planet.

It is famous for putting on incredible shows that educate, enlighten, and fascinate the community regarding heavenly bodies and the universe.

Star shows are probably the prized and most loved attraction of the shows that the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium organizes.

These are performed via a star projector that presents an accurate image of the galaxy, boasting planets, the sun, and more than 8,000 stars in perfect clarity, as they would appear on a clear night!

If you happen to be in town this weekend, the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium also puts on laser shows every Saturday night.

Beams of light, all well-choreographed, take turns shining to the music against the bright and vast indoor sky.

Other notable events and showcases hosted by the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium are the world exploration films, space mission simulations, interactive exhibits, and free use of the telescope.

Class visits ticketed featured shows, and educational films are also commonly added to the itinerary.

Whatever your reason for being in Rochester, New York, you shouldn’t miss a trip to this wonderful location!

Address: 663 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, United States

3. The Strong National Museum of Play

JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock

The Strong National Museum of Play encompasses an impressive 150,000 square feet that is all entirely dedicated to toys, games, and forms of entertainment that many children love and grew up with.

It’s an incredibly fun site with tons of activities that are among the best things to do in Rochester, NY when you’re visiting with kids.

Galleries and exhibits are dedicated to a wide range of familiar figures, faces, and products.

Among them are showcases dedicated to the Berenstain Bears, Monopoly, Sesame Street, and the Wizard of Oz, among other things.

It also boasts the state of New York’s only indoor garden of butterflies and the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, which holds over 30,000 consoles and games in its collection.

In addition to that, The Strong National Museum of Play has additional, practical goals, such as the recording of play history and how it has influenced human learning and development over the years.

Libraries and research facilities are onsite dedicated to this goal, but you can expect most of the building to be designed for excitement and a good time in Rochester!

Address: One Manhattan Square Dr, Rochester, NY 14607, United States

4. George Eastman Museum

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

The George Eastman Museum is among the many things to do in downtown Rochester, New York.

Situated in a stunning and awe-inspiring mansion of Colonial Revival style, it was built and finished in 1905 as the home for George Eastman.

Eastman was the founder of the famous Eastman Kodak Company, responsible for the modernization and widespread nature of photography, both in its professional and fun aspects.

It’s hard to comprehend that he lived right here in Rochester.

Upon his passing, he left his mansion to the University of Rochester, which then donated it to the museum to be used.

The mansion was turned into what it is now: the George Eastman Museum.

It serves as a showcase for the life and times of the man as well as the history of photography.

It’s the world’s oldest photography museum and contains one of the world’s oldest archives of film, too.

Donations have greatly increased the contents of the library’s film and photographs.

While you’re here, don’t forget to tour the beautiful gardens!

Address: 900 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, United States

5. Ontario Beach Park

TarnPisessith / Shutterstock

Looking for great vacation spots ?

Ontario Beach Park spans 39 acres and is located along the Northwest side of Lake Ontario in New York.

Open all throughout the year, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in the city of Rochester thanks to its natural beaches, lush park greenery, and options for different activities.

For water sports, you can go fishing, swimming, or boating – or just sunbathe on the beaches available.

In the summer and winter, if you plan to stay in this part of Rochester, you can rent shelters on park grounds.

For other sports, you can head to the basketball or volleyball courts and the softball fields.

Ontario Beach Park also has lots of amenities.

There’s a bathhouse, picnic areas, food stands and stalls, and even a pavilion for performances.

It’s a sight for sore eyes, and walking down the trails is already quite a rewarding experience!

Address: 50 Beach Ave, Rochester, NY 14612, United States

Visiting other parts of the New York State? Why not check out some of the things to do in New York City ?

6. Artisan Works

Artisan Works

Artisan Works is one of the best places to view art local to Rochester, New York, and its surrounding regions.

A not-for-profit space, it is dedicated to showcasing community art in a unique and accessible manner.

Just about anyone is free to enter the building and look at all the things to see with ease and at their pace.

Artists who stop by Artisan Works often create their work during the time they are there, presenting the in-progress and finished products to passersby.

It’s a fascinating way to learn about the art-making process and how different artists go about making masterpieces.

If you’re an art enthusiast, this is one Rochester spot that will be undoubtedly valuable to you.

There are multiple guided tours available for Artisan Works, each designed for different groups.

There are some for college groups, some for young school groups, and of course, plenty for adults.

Public tours are easily available on weekends.

All tours last for about 45 minutes unless you opt for your own guided tour!

Address: 565 Blossom Rd # L, Rochester, NY 14610, United States

7. Seneca Park Zoo

Angie Armstrong / flickr

The Seneca Park Zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Rochester, NY.

Head over there this weekend to be wowed by more than 90 different animal species spaced out throughout 15 and a half acres of wonderful land.

First opened in 1893, the Seneca Park Zoo began with nothing more than some deer and birds.

Since then, it has made a name for itself in New York and beyond for paving the way for more natural and comforting habitats for its animals.

Walking around the Seneca Park Zoo will give you the chance to see elephants, orangutans, polar bears, rhinoceroses, and sea lions, just to name a few.

You’ll be impressed by how well the zoo is kept and how wonderfully each animal is cared for!

Address: 2222 St Paul St, Rochester, NY 14621, United States

8. Rochester Museum & Science Center

Rochester Museum & Science Center

The Rochester Museum & Science Center is one of the most amazing places to visit if you’re coming with kids – or even if you’re just intrigued by the world’s natural forces and wonders.

It makes use of more than 200 different interactive, up-close exhibits with the goal of teaching its guests about the magical joys of science.

Over 1.2 million items are on display, meaning there’s no shortage of what to see at this New York gem.

Among the many things to enjoy at this Museum & Science Center are attractions that let you build robots, travel through space, climb a wall, load and shoot a catapult, use lasers, and more!

Some particularly interesting exhibits are Science on a Sphere, which showcases a 3D display of the earth right in front of you.

You can even watch lightning bolts, use a virtual reality simulator, and talk to an expert about frogs!

Don’t forget to set aside time to watch a 3D film or an interactive show!

Address: 657 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, United States

9. Rochester Public Market

Yelp Inc. / flickr

The Rochester Public Market is a fun way to get a taste of local life.

It runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, but expect it to be harder to find parking if you go this weekend since Saturdays tend to be packed!

The market is run by the city and is a gathering spot for all sorts of vendors from the town and even in the general New York area.

It sells great products like fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, coffee, cheeses, honey, baked goods, and artisan products.

It’s a great option for what to do if you want to support local vendors while learning more about the city’s community, and since it occurs multiple times a week, there’s a chance it’ll be going on tomorrow!

Address: 280 Union St N, Rochester, NY 14609, United States

10. Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse

Lucky-photographer / Shutterstock

The Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse sits on Lake Ontario, and as the oldest lighthouse still active with this location, it’s one of the best points of interest for those who enjoy historical pursuits.

Measuring 40 feet high with 42 steps and 11 ladder rungs that lead up to the 12-foot lantern room, it’s a towering sight to behold.

The Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse was first built in 1822.

Recently, it was refurbished, and its 2014 restoration has turned it into the faithful but renewed depiction we see today.

The tower and lantern were both restored and a replica of the original lens was put in place.

Now, it rests in Charlotte, Rochester, New York.

Tours that let you into the lighthouse are available, and you can check out the keeper’s home with an interior museum, too!

Address: 70 Lighthouse St, Rochester, NY 14612, United States

Planning a road trip around New York? Why not head to Brooklyn? Being the second most populated county in the United States, it packs a punch when it comes to tourist attractions! If you do make the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Brooklyn !

11. Frontier Field

rchappo2002 / flickr

Frontier Field is the place to be if you want to watch an exciting game of baseball.

It was a replacement for the Silver Stadium of New York.

It was built in 1996 to take over as the home of the city’s professional baseball.

With 10,840 seats, new grassy turf, and a 24 x 32-foot video scoreboard, it’s a modern delight to be in.

Over the years, Frontier Field has been home to many different sports teams.

This includes Rochester Rattlers of lacrosse, Rochester Raging Rhinos for soccer, and Rochester Red Wings for Minor league baseball.

The latter is the only team that currently calls Frontier Field home.

If you’re looking for places to visit tonight, check the stadium schedule!

There might be a fun game or two to catch, or maybe even a concert if you’re very lucky!

Address: One Morrie Silver Way, Rochester, NY 14608, United States

12. Cobb’s Hill Park

Cobb’s Hill Park

Cobb’s Hill Park is one of the main places to see among Rochester attractions for those interested in simply sightseeing.

It boasts more than 109 acres of beautiful, picturesque trails along the southeast of Rochester, New York.

It provides amazing views of the city as a whole and is a much-loved hiking spot.

There are plenty of activities you can do for exercise here aside from just walking.

Bring your kids to the playground, go to the reservoir to ski or fish, or make use of the basketball and tennis courts.

In the summer, you can watch softball league games, and there are two cabins available for rent if you’d like to use them.

Address: 80 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14610, United States

13. Mount Hope Cemetery

Steven Bodnar / Shutterstock

Mount Hope Cemetery is among the coolest things to do in Rochester, New York, which might be surprising to hear given that it’s a… well, a cemetery!

But, at the same time, it’s so much more than that.

It’s a historical location that offers guided tours, including private tours, that educate guests about the history of the cemetery.

There are even self-guided tours!

Most interestingly, school visits to Mount Hope Cemetery are often arranged, with specially made tours designed just for kids.

Many notable individuals call the cemetery their final resting place, including activists and advocates, architects, and human rights fighters and leaders.

If you like more unique attractions, this might be one of the best in the city.

Address: 1133 Mt Hope Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, United States

14. Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

Keith Ewing / flickr

Susan B. Anthony Museum & House is a crucial part of the history of Rochester, New York and women’s rights advocacy.

Located in downtown Rochester, these places dedicated to the late civil rights leader are worth a visit to learn about how her actions paved the way for the rights many enjoy today.

The museum building is where Anthony spent most of her years and it’s also where she was arrested in 1872 after leading several women to vote illegally.

Research materials, memorabilia, and artifacts that detail the story of Anthony’s life are meticulously arranged throughout the museum.

Her legacy and struggles are both honored and used as teaching tools for visitors.

Anthony would pass away in this home after performing Failure Is Impossible, one of her most famous speeches.

Aside from being a museum, the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House is also a learning center for the younger community, with multiple programs that are designed to educate and enlighten the youth.

You can also simply opt to tour the home, which has three levels.

Docents lead these hour-long tours and provide you with lots of information.

Before you leave the area, head across the road to the Susan B. Anthony Square Park, which has beautiful flora and the iconic sculpture by Pepsy Kettavong, “Let’s Have Tea”.

Address: 17 Madison St, Rochester, NY 14608, United States

15. The White Lady’s Castle

The White Lady’s Castle

The White Lady’s Castle is situated close to a Rochester, New York forest.

It is crumbling and falling apart.

With an appearance like a medieval castle, it’s surprising to note that it was actually built in the early 1900s as a dining hall.

Indeed, the White Lady’s Castle was part of a hotel once.

Today, all that is left are some stairs leading up to a wall that appears like a rampart.

Legend has surrounded it since the ruins became more and more worn out, which is understandable given how much it looks like a European castle of ancient times.

This has actually led to a Rochester legend about the “white lady”.

The story states that it was once the home to a daughter and her very protective mother.

When the daughter went for a walk and didn’t return, her mother thought that she had eloped with a suitor.

This caused her to go mad, and her ghost now haunts the site and scares away those who come by.

Of course, this is just a myth, but it’s turned the White Lady’s Castle into one of the city’s tourist attractions!

If you’re looking for stuff to do to get your spooks on at night, a trip here might just be the chilling experience you seek!

Address: Lake Shore Blvd, Irondequoit, NY 14617, United States

16. Rochester Lilac Festival

Jennifer Kumar / flickr

The Rochester Lilac Festival is hands down one of the best activities you’ll find in the city.

It takes place in New York’s famous Highland Park and is one of the continent’s biggest flower festivals.

We’ve talked briefly about Highland Park and its lilacs, but did you know how they got there?

John Dunbar – also known as Johnny Lilacseed – was a horticulturist who planted 20 kinds of lilac in the park in 1892.

This eventually led to more and more lilacs, and now there are 1,200 lilac shrubs and over 500 kinds of them!

The Lilac Festival began in 1898 and now occurs annually for ten days in May.

Live music, crafts, races, art, food, and competition for Lilac Festival Queen all make this among the coolest and most wonderful things to see in the city!

Address: 1440 South Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, United States

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17. Seabreeze Amusement Park

Seabreeze Amusement Park

Seabreeze Amusement Park is easily among the most fun things to do in Rochester, NY.

It first opened its doors in 1879 and is one of New York’s oldest amusement parks.

It’s natural, then, that it’s quite the icon of Rochester!

Seabreeze Amusement Park boasts over 70 different attractions with different options for all ages.

Consider the thrill rides like the Log Flume, Revolution 360, or Screamin’ Eagle if you want to get your adrenaline levels rushing.

For fun rides geared at a younger audience, consider the Jack Rabbit, Bear Trax, Whirlwind, and Bobsleds.

There are more spots throughout the park worth enjoying, too!

There’s a live show called Cirque En Vol with impressive feats of acrobatics.

Those willing to get wet will enjoy the Soak Zone, Wave Pool, and Hydro Racer.

And, of course, there’s plenty to eat from the food stalls!

Address: 4600 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622, United States

18. National Toy Hall of Fame

If you’re coming to Rochester, New York with kids, then you absolutely must add the National Toy Hall of Fame to your places to visit.

Known as one of the most exciting places to go in the US , this fun location opened in 1998 as a way to honor the most iconic toys in history.

49 toys now have had the honor of being inducted.

Don’t worry, we won’t detail them – no spoilers here!

Don’t see your favorite toy here?

You can nominate it while you’re in Rochester and it will be evaluated on the basis of innovation, longevity, discovery, and iconic value.

Inductions occur annually in November.

Address: One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY 14607, United States

19. Visit A Theatre

Gary Brownell / flickr

If you’re wondering what to do in Rochester tonight, consider one of their many theaters.

After all, going to a performance is one of the best activities that you can take part in while you’re looking for fun in Rochester, New York!

Eastman Theatre is the location of the one and only Kodak Hall , famous for hosting incredible music performances, screening silent films, and showcasing dance performances.

Since it opened in 1922, it’s kept much of its original aesthetic, maintaining that 1920s opulence and charm.

A new wing provides a recital hall, recording studio, rehearsal room, and teaching studios!

For kids, there’s the Theatre Young Kids Enjoy, or TYKES for short.

As a non-profit organization, it is designed to captivate young audiences with professional actors and meaningful, lessoned-filled stories.

Costumes are vibrant, scripts are smart and appropriate, and settings often have stories set in faraway lands and realms of wonder and fantasy.

The intimate space provides a cozy, homey feel while the equipment is all technologically advanced.

Finally, as one more option for adults (and kids who can sit through a full performance), there’s the Geva Theatre Center.

It opened in 1972 within the building that was once the Naval Armory-Convention Hall of 1868.

Its stories history features stars like Anna Pavlova and Enrico Caruso.

As a professional company of regional theatre, the Geva now is dedicated to the performance of reimagined classic American plays, with twists of originality and modernity.

20. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County Secret Room

Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County

The Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County is, in itself, one of the points of interest you’ll find in this New York city.

But there’s a more unique reason it should be on your list of places to go.

In the children’s book section of the library, there is a fun little secret room that is designed to be as accessible as possible even to wheelchair users.

A building near to the current library location is the Rundel Memorial Library Building across the street (more on that in a future number!).

This is where the central library was originally housed, and it had a secret room there.

When the new building was made for the library in the 90s, it was only natural that a secret room was included in the plans.

The room is hidden behind a bookshelf, which leads to a wide but short door.

Through it, over 200 different dolls are located. The collection began as a school project conducted by George W. Cooper, a principal, to exchange Shirley Temple dolls across the country to different schools.

180 or so dolls were received, made from many different materials, and the collection was donated in 1940 to the library.

The secret room also has a quilt in it made by history students of the 4th and 5th grades, made up of images of the city.

Address: 115 South Ave, Rochester, NY 14604, United States

21. Holy Sepulchre Cemetery

DanielPenfield , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Holy Sepulchre Cemetery is Rochester, New York’s biggest cemetery, set on more than 332 acres of land.

It’s the final burial location for many residents of Rochester, each marker beautiful and stunning with mausoleums, columbaria, and more in Victorian styles.

In 1823, the first Catholic parish in the city, St. Patrick’s, began a burial plot that became filled rather quickly over time.

Four more parishes in the area had their own separate grounds.

Eventually, Bishop Bernard J. McQuaid decided that all Catholic parishes should share one burial location, hence the creation of the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

It was finished in 1871.

More than 300,000 people rest here, including senators, humanitarians, bishops, and celebrities.

The cemetery is one of the free places to visit in the city, but be respectful if you visit!

It’s worth noting that it is closed at night, so if you want to partake in some fun spooky ghost-hunting, you’d be better off looking elsewhere!

Address: 2461 Lake Ave, Rochester, NY 14612, United States

22. Rundel Memorial Building’s Table Of The Fox Sisters

When we talked about the Central Library of Rochester, we mentioned the Rundel building, and for good reason.

Not only is the Rundel Memorial Building among the many Rochester attractions, but it’s also home to the table that was once believed to assist in communing with the dead.

It’s certainly a fun sight to behold, and the story is quite something!

In the mid-19th century, spiritualism was all the rage in the United States.

Among the pioneers of this belief and “celebrities” of a sort were Kate, Leah, and Margeret Fox, all sisters from Hydesville, New York.

They claimed their childhood home was haunted by a spirit that they communicated with using knocks on furniture, which gave them information about the ghosts.

Bones were even found in the house’s walls corresponding to a spirit’s story, but it’s unknown if they were planted.

The Fox sisters used their fame from their successful “clairvoyance” in their home to move to this city.

They began careers as mediums and performed many seances, some attended by huge celebrities.

The table they used for their rituals now rests in the Rundel Memorial Building.

It is a trick table designed to produce the knocking noises the sisters claimed was proof of their abilities, and its secrets were revealed when they admitted to their acts of trickery.

Address: Rochester, NY 14604, United States

23. House of Guitars

64Jazzbass / flickr

The House of Guitars is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Rochester, NY, especially if you’re a music-lover.

It’s the biggest shop for guitars on the entire planet, created by brothers Armand and Bruce Schaubroek in 1964 from the basement of their mother’s home.

They sold guitars during the night and worked typical jobs during the day.

From its conception, the House of Guitars has geared its products towards younger individuals, with modern selections at affordable prices.

It’s gained a lot of fame, with the Beatles, Marc Maron, Weird Al Yankovic, Garth Brooks, Les Paul, and Metallica all stopping by at some point to purchase a guitar.

The House of Guitars sits in the Grange Hall building, located in Irondequoit, covering three floors and then encompassing additional buildings that the brothers bought to accommodate their stock.

The result is a huge labyrinth of buildings in Rochester connected to one another.

With equipment, a studio, a school, a repair shop, and a stage, among other things, it’s an impressive complex that’s fun, hip, and exciting.

Address: 645 Titus Ave, Rochester, NY 14617, United States

24. Memorial Art Gallery

The Memorial Art Gallery in downtown Rochester, New York, is a wonderful location dedicated to community support and enhancement.

Founded in 1913, it spans 14 acres and has more than 12,000 different contemporary items set up and displayed.

The wider campus of the Memorial Art Gallery hosts a number of activities, like tours, lectures, fin exhibitions, and even entertainment in the form of performances and concerts.

It focuses on art, creativity, and authenticity, and there’s no telling what you’ll find when you explore this whimsical and meaningful Rochester community spot.

Address: 500 University Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, United States

25. High Falls

gary718 / Shutterstock

High Falls is a product of this New York city’s special location, right on the Genesee River.

This allows for one of the top tourist attractions of the city to be all-natural and somehow still smack in the convenient center of downtown.

The Genesee River tumbles down from the cascading High Falls, falling 95 feet to its destination from the escarpment.

Historical buildings dating back to the 19th century surround it to add to its aesthetically pleasing appearance.

From High Falls Terrace Park, you can get a stunning view of High Falls.

While you’re at it, enjoy a fun meal at some of the restaurants.

You can also opt to go to High Falls Lookout to view it up-close or walk onto the Pont de Rennes Bridge for a more personal view.

Address: 4 Commercial St, Rochester, NY 14614, United States

Looking for more thrill around New York? You’re going to love Buffalo, the second-largest city in New York! If you do check it out, here are some of the best things to do in Buffalo !

26. Watch A Local Performance

Igor Bulgarin / Shutterstock

Local performances offer fun options for things to see that will delight and culturally enrich you.

If you’ve got some free time this weekend, why not try to head to one of the greatly acclaimed showcases by one of these New York staples?

One great option is the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra .

Founded in 1922, it is known for its high standards and dedication to community education.

Over 130 concerts are played yearly by the Philharmonic Orchestra, with more than 150,000 audience members in person and even more listening to FM radio rebroadcasts.

The excellence of this orchestra and their innovative talent has earned them fame across the country!

Another good option is the Rochester City Ballet .

It was created in 1987 and specializes in contemporary performances for people from all walks of life in the local community.

Many of its shows have earned multiple rewards, including some Sensory-Friendly performances geared towards children on the spectrum of Autism.

It also puts on workshops, donates to charity, and classes in affiliation with the Draper Center for Dance Education.

27. 1872 Monument

1872 Monument

The 1872 Monument is one of the places to visit in New York with an inspiring and sobering history.

It was on the election day of its titular year that the late, great Susan B. Anthony marched from Madison Street to this exact location, leading a group of women.

This was done despite the fact that voting rights had not been given to women, and the men at the polling place were hesitant to break the law despite her persistence.

Back then, this location was a barbershop where polls were being held.

She and the women with her filed their votes regardless of the illegality of their actions, resulting in Anthony’s arrest, trial, conviction, and fine – though she never did pay a single cent of that fine!

Now, the 1872 Monument stands to honor her actions.

It is a sculpture of bronze, featuring two pillars astride a locked ballot box.

On the 89th anniversary of the creation of the 19th Amendment – the Amendment which finally granted the right to vote to women – in August 2009, the monument was dedicated to Anthony.

Address: 439 West Main Street, Rochester, NY, United States

28. Warner Castle

Debora Truax / Shutterstock

Warner Castle is located in Highland Park and is a bit of a hidden gem of Rochester, New York.

It was built by Horation Gates Warner in 1854 as his private home.

He was a man who wore many wealthy hats, as he was a newspaper publisher, bank president, and even court judge!

The home was built in order to appear similar to the castle of the Clan Douglas in Scotland, which Warner loved when he visited the country.

Warner Castle was constructed in its image by Merwin Austin, an architect, on an expanse of 50 acres of farmland.

Warner would live happily in the large building until 1876 when he passed away.

The Warner family continued to own the home until 1902, at which point it was sold to multiple private owners in succession.

Many added special touches that still remain today, like the sunken garden commissioned by the Dennis family in 1912.

After passing out of private ownership, the Warner Castle was a sanitarium for a whopping two decades and then, at last, was transferred to the ownership of the city.

Now, Warner Castle is the Landmark Society of Western New York headquarters.

Some remodeling has occurred, but the castle’s primary features, like its detailed woodwork, luxurious staircase, and regally high ceilings, remain.

Unfortunately, its interior is not available for public viewing, but the beautiful grounds and its gardens are!

Strolling through them is one of the best and most fun things to do in Rochester, NY.

Address: 5 Castle Park, Rochester, NY 14620, United States

Exploring other areas of New York? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Manhattan  & some of the fun things to do in Albany, NY ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Rochester

With so many Rochester attractions to choose from, there’s no end to the fun you can have in this wonderful, vibrant, and scenic city.

Hopefully, this list has helped you opt for the very best among the top things to do in Rochester, NY!

Things to Do in Rochester, NY - Rochester Attractions

Things to do in rochester, explore popular experiences, tours in and around rochester.

Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience

Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour

Axe Throwing in Rochester

Rare Rochester Scavenger Hunt

Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour

Luxury 2 Hour Sunset Tour Canandaigua Lake-Groups or Individuals

Farms, Flights: Finger Lakes Brewery Tour

Keuka Lake Winery Tour

Finger Lakes Guided Black Walnut Tour with Tasting and Hay Ride

Rochester Scavenger Hunt: Big Little Rochester

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Rochester

Other Top Attractions around Rochester

What travelers are saying

• The Strong National Museum of Play
• George Eastman Museum
• Seabreeze Amusement Park
• Highland Park
• Rochester Public Market
• Seneca Park Zoo
• Erie Canal Trail
• Highland Botanical Park and Lamberton Conservatory
• Mount Hope Cemetery
• National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

Top Things to Do in Rochester, NY

Places to visit in rochester, explore popular experiences, tours in and around rochester.

Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience

Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour

Axe Throwing in Rochester

Rare Rochester Scavenger Hunt

Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour

Luxury 2 Hour Sunset Tour Canandaigua Lake-Groups or Individuals

Farms, Flights: Finger Lakes Brewery Tour

Keuka Lake Winery Tour

Finger Lakes Guided Black Walnut Tour with Tasting and Hay Ride

Rochester Scavenger Hunt: Big Little Rochester

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Rochester

Other Top Attractions around Rochester

What travellers are saying

• The Strong National Museum of Play
• George Eastman Museum
• Seabreeze Amusement Park
• Highland Park
• Rochester Public Market
• Seneca Park Zoo
• Erie Canal Trail
• Highland Botanical Park and Lamberton Conservatory
• Mount Hope Cemetery
• National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

132 Things to Do Around Rochester

Rochester, New York, is a vibrant and dynamic city with much to offer. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, there are endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and discovery. To help you make the most of your time in and around Rochester, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 132 things to do. With this guide, you’ll always have fun and exciting ideas for your next adventure in all seasons. There’s something for everyone, from museums and art galleries to outdoor activities and delicious food. So grab your friends and family, or go solo, and let’s dive into all the incredible experiences Rochester offers!

Day Trips Around Rochester, New York

1. Hidden Places

We drive right past some of Rochester’s most unique spots every day, completely unaware of their existence. I continue to meet life-long residents of Rochester who have no idea these hidden places are just minutes away from where they work and live. Some are a little off the beaten path but worth going out of your way to experience.

Explore More

23 Hidden Places Around Rochester

From secret gardens to enchanting waterfalls, exploring hidden places around the Rochester area is the ultimate way to add some spice to your travel experiences.

2. Transcending Places

When I think of “transcendence” as it relates to travel, I think of destinations that move us into a reality that differs from daily life. I look for places that encourage us to transcend space, time, and state of mind and be present and immersed in the experience simultaneously.

Transcending Places

Instead of being an escape, I see these places as opportunities that encourage us to transcend space, time, and our state of mind.

3. Hiking Off the Beaten  Path

Here are a few less populated, rustic, or unusual trails around Rochester that will inspire you to take a hike.

80+ Hiking Trails Around Rochester

Less traveled than in our parks, these hiking trails around Rochester offer a secluded and rustic area to immerse yourself in nature.

4. New York State Parks

If you visit multiple New York State Parks in one day, you only pay admission at the first park. Keep your receipt and show it at each new park that day for free entry. Or, stop at a Monroe County Library and borrow an Empire Pass which entitles you to free entry at most parks.

49 New York State Parks Within a Two-Hour Drive of Rochester

Venture into one of these New York State Parks within a two-hour drive of Rochester and discover what makes them unique.

5. Old Country Stores

These businesses are not just country gift shops with farm-house-themed decor. Walking into one of these old country stores, you’re stepping back in time with aisles of old-fashioned toys, knickknacks, and candies. The nostalgia is joyful!

4 Old Country Stores Around Rochester

These old-fashioned country stores house aisles full of nostalgic candies, toys, and knickknacks that transport you back in time.

6. Quirky Rochester-Area Roadside Attractions

Here are a few interesting things to see around the Rochester area while driving to your day-trip destinations.

Roadside Attractions

Have fun finding these fun roadside attractions—shoe trees, a skeleton army, a metal dragon, a shark girl—within two hours of Rochester.

7. The Best Ice Cream Shops

We love these ice cream shops for their outstanding atmosphere, taste, variety, and innovation. Try a specialty flavor like Concord Grape from Lynnie Lou’s, Lavender Goat Cheese from Eat Me, or Cookie, Fig, and Honey from Hedonist.

🍦The Best Ice Cream Shops Around Rochester

These top ice cream shops, with locations in charming villages and city neighborhoods, turn a simple scoop into an artisanal delight.

8. Date Night Ideas

We’ve broken these date ideas into themes to help you find a topic you already love or want to try.

Your Rochester Date Guide for Spending Quality Time Together, Day or Night

Whether it’s your first date or 50th anniversary, trying various activities with your partner is a great way to shake up your routine.

9. Spectacular Christmas Lights

Our favorite homeowners and communities go all out with their holiday lights to celebrate the season, so let’s get out there and celebrate with them.

Our 4 Favorite Extreme Christmas Lights Around Rochester: 2023 Edition

Enjoy our four favorite extreme Christmas lights, plus more extraordinary Rochester-area homes and holiday-themed events.

10. Day-Trip Destinations

Spend a day exploring a new city, village, or region around Rochester. Each of our favorite destinations offers a full day of unique site-seeing opportunities with shops, restaurants, local artisans, and signature events worth traveling to experience.

Day-Trip Destinations

These day trips are filled with carefully chosen options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as memorable experiences and events.

11. Street Art

Rochester has a vibrant street art culture, with dozens of murals, graffiti, and other forms of public art on display throughout the region. The art is diverse and includes commissioned works by professional artists and pieces created by community members. These murals capture historical moments and current social and political issues. Areas mentioned here offer a high concentration of wall art but keep an eye out for pops of color as you explore the region’s cities, villages, and back roads through the countryside.

Street Art: Exploring Rochester’s Murals & Graffiti

Rochester has a vibrant street art culture, with dozens of murals, graffiti, and other forms of public art on display throughout the region.

12. Gorge Trails

The Finger Lakes region is well-known for its glacially carved gorges and picturesque waterfalls. Exploring a place with gorge, gully, glen, or ravine in its name guarantees a memorable experience.

Gorge Trails Near Rochester

Gorge trails call out from their deep, dark, and cool caverns. If you haven’t already, check these spectacular trails off your list.

13. Seek Solitude

Here are a few spots I can recommend where there’s ample space for finding solitude and solace in nature.

10 Spots to Seek Solitude Around Rochester

It’s critical to spend time outside. Here are a few spots where I find ample space for solitude and solace in nature.

14. Wonderful Winter Walks

These ideas for winter walks should motivate you to step outside for some fresh air and, with any luck, sunshine.

18 Wonderful Winter Walks in Monroe County

These winter walks in Rochester and Monroe County will inspire you to time outside, breathing in cold, fresh air and soaking up a little sun.

15. Roadside Waterfalls

Not all waterfalls are hidden in dark ravines, only reachable by challenging trails. Many of the region’s most stunning waterfalls can be viewed from the road, parking area, or a short walk on a pathway.

Easy Waterfalls

Not all waterfalls are hidden in dark ravines. Many of the region’s most stunning waterfalls can be viewed from the road or a short walk.

16. Natural Swimming Areas

Typically recognized for our 11 Finger Lakes and two Great Lakes, as you drive around the region’s countryside, you’ll find a landscape freckled with bodies of fresh water where locals are boating, fishing, swimming, relaxing, and recharging. On a hot day, you can sit under a waterfall, swim in a lake, or jump in a creek at one of these refreshing natural swimming areas.

Swimming Holes

On a hot day, you can sit under a waterfall, swim in a lake, or jump in a creek at one of these refreshing natural swimming areas.

17. The Sunken Garden

When you stroll around the back of Warner Castle and down the lawn, you’ll discover the Sunken Garden. It’s a peaceful retreat and beautiful any time of the year.

Sunken Garden at Warner Castle

In Highland Park, walk behind Warner Castle or up the hill from Highland Bowl, and there you will find the magnificent Sunken Garden.

18. Rochester’s Hidden Sidewalk

To access the secret half-mile-long sidewalk, start at Ontario Beach Park in Charlotte and walk west along Beach Avenue. You will find the main entrances across from Clematis and Cloverdale Streets, with smaller entrances between roughly every fourth house. Note that the lawns, gardens, and docks along the sidewalk are privately owned and not open to the public. Only the sidewalk itself is available for public use.

Rochester’s Hidden Sidewalk

To find Rochester’s hidden sidewalk, start at Ontario Beach Park and head west on Beach Ave. The two entrances are across from Clematis and Cloverdale Streets.

19. Corbett’s Glen Nature Park

Park at the top of Glen Road for the closest entrance to Allen Creek. There are two designated accessible parking spaces after driving through the tunnel, though visitors who do not require using these spaces should walk through. The trail from the Penfield Road entrance to Tunnel Falls is more challenging.

Corbett’s Glen

Corbett’s Glen is a glorious green space in a suburban jungle. As overused as this statement may be, Corbett’s Glen is truly a hidden gem.

20. Grimes Glen

Following a short walk along the creekside trail, you must wade through the water for half a mile in order to find the first 60-foot waterfall. Continuing through the creek for another half mile will lead you to the second waterfall, a picturesque cascade of the same height. To make your way back to the parking lot, simply retrace your steps.

Grimes Glen in Naples

Grimes Glen is public, free, and you are encouraged to wade up the creek to the first and second waterfalls, both 60-foot cascades.

21. Channing H. Philbrick Park

While the Irondequoit Creek Trail spans the park’s length and beyond, the most exciting section lies east of Linear Park Drive. Near the kiosk next to the upper parking lot, find the easy-to-walk dirt path that follows the creek toward an unusual series of wooden footbridges. Or, walk across the pedestrian bridge that connects Linear Park Drive with North Washington Street to find the Mills Trail—a quick path that leads to the cascades along the creek’s south bank.

Channing H. Philbrick Park

Irondequoit Creek drops 90 feet over one mile through Channing H Philbrick Park, creating the cascades that make it unique.

22. Kayaking

Depending on your definition, water trails are either formally marked routes along a navigable waterway or simply any waterway suitable for canoes, kayaks, and small motorized watercraft. Find 58 places to put in and paddle.

Water Trails: Over 50 Places to Explore Rochester’s Waterways

Paddle your way to peace and quiet along Rochester’s water trails. Use these launches for canoes, kayaks, and small motorized watercraft.

23. Gardens & Arboretums

The peaceful and serene atmosphere of gardens invites relaxation and contemplation. These carefully designed spaces, often cultivated for decades or even centuries, display exceptional collections of flowers and trees that captivate the visitor’s attention. Taking the time to appreciate these natural wonders can be a truly enriching experience.

Gardens & Arboretums

These carefully designed gardens, often cultivated for decades or even centuries, display exceptional collections of flowers and trees.

24. Turning Point Park

The boardwalk takes visitors onto the river, close to blue herons, swans, turtles, deer, and other wildlife. Consider starting your walk from the north at Petten Street by the marina and O’Rorke Bridge for minimal elevation change.

Turning Point Park

Turning Point Park’s most striking feature is a 3,572-foot-long boardwalk over the Genesee River Turning Basin.

25. Holley Canal Falls

Located in the heart of the Village of Holley, the water that flows over Holley Canal Falls and into the glen is from the Erie Canal.

Holley Canal Falls

Holley Canal Falls is located in the heart of the Village of Holley. The water that flows into the glen is overflow from the Erie Canal.

26. Griffis Sculpture Park

Integrated into Griffis Sculpture Park’s expansive landscape, find more than 250 whimsical, fantastical, and delightful sculptures.

Griffis Sculpture Park

Griffis Sculpture Park features more than 250 sculptures that are whimsical, fantastical, and delightful, all integrated into the landscape.

27. 200+ Places to Shop Local

There’s no need to wait for Small Business Saturday to show some love to our local shops! We’ve got a ton of talented folks running boutiques, sweet shops, and unique hand-crafted gift stores right here in Rochester. So next time you’re out and about, why not swing by and check them out? You never know what treasures you might find!

200+ Places to Shop Locally Around Rochester, New York

Shopping locally is about discovering something uniquely Rochester while directly impacting the lives of our families, friends, and neighbors.

28. Highly Recommended Restaurants

This list represents 40+ years of experience dining in the Rochester area, as well as highly recommended restaurants from friends, colleagues, and you! Rochestarians frequent these establishments because the food and atmosphere is consistently amazing. These are places the locals go several times a year, if not more, and recommend them to friends and visitors.

600+ Highly Recommended Restaurants Around Rochester

Some food destinations are well-established, while others are quickly becoming favorites as Rochester’s culinary scene explodes.

29. Volunteer

Take a look at these volunteer experiences and offer your time and talent with one of these amazing Rochester-area organizations.

26 Rochester-Area Volunteer Experiences

I can’t think of a better day trip than volunteering with one of these amazing Rochester-area organizations.

30. ARTISANworks

This unique and immersive experience challenges the senses and defies conventional boundaries. Discover a world of vibrant color and intricate design. From the original works of Picasso and Warhol to the artist studios that showcase the creative process in action, this is a space where art lives. Explore the 360-degree canvas and discover hidden gems that can surprise, inspire, and sometimes shock you.

ARTISANworks

I’ve heard ARTISANworks described as a walk-through kaleidoscope, a bombardment on the senses, and a 360° canvas that defies all boundaries.

31. Rent Snowshoes

There’s no need to stop hiking in the winter just because there’s snow on the trail. If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors, try snowshoeing. There are a few places around Rochester where you can rent snowshoes and learn how to use them. You’ll find that many are nature centers with excellent trails for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

11 Best Places to Rent Snowshoes Around Rochester

If you’re looking to spend time outdoors, give snowshoeing a try. There are places around Rochester to rent and learn how to use them.

32. Taughannock Falls State Park

At 215 feet tall, Taughannock Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. The 0.75-mile hard-packed gravel gorge trail leads to the base of the falls and is open year-round.

Taughannock Falls State Park

Taughannock Falls’s 0.75-mile hard-packed gravel gorge trail leads to the base of the falls and is open year-round.

33. Monroe County Parks

Our county parks are free, so take advantage of 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical, and geological experiences.

22 Monroe County Parks

Monroe County parks are free and offer 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical, and geological experiences.

34. Bookstores

When reading books, the destination is the journey. Here are a few bookstores around Rochester to begin an adventure with new and used books. Plus, check out our Little Free Libraries .

New & Used Bookstores Around Rochester

Books take us on a journey through time and space. If you’re looking for a new adventure, check out these bookstores around Rochester.

35. Locally Grown Produce

Your guide to Rochester’s harvest seasons! Find out which locally grown produce (fruits, vegetables, plants) are at their peak each month, and enjoy Rochester-area harvest festivals.

Farms & Farmers’ Markets: Your Guide to Locally Grown Produce

Exploring local markets and roadside produce stands is a great way to immerse yourself in the community and support family farms.

36. Museums & Galleries

Rochester is home to world-renowned museums and thought-provoking galleries. The city’s Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) is a vibrant district that spans several walkable blocks around University Avenue, Goodman Street, and East Avenue. This area is home to many museums, galleries, and artist studios participating in popular First Friday events, when the community celebrates all things creative and enjoys a lively night out.

Museums Around Rochester

Rochester is home to world-renowned museums and thought-provoking galleries. You can spend weeks exploring our rich cultural heritage.

37. Historic Inns

These historic inns around Rochester offer unique dining experiences. Unlike bed & breakfasts, their dining rooms are open to the public. Unlike restaurants, they offer lodging. And their food is as extraordinary as their stories.

20 Historic Inns & Hotels Around Rochester

These historic inns around Rochester will take you back to a time when it was a frontier town, accessible only by train, boat, or stagecoach.

38. Explore the Image City

Rochester evolved from Flour City to Flower City to Image City when George Eastman invented a way for the masses to capture everyday moments on film.

These “Quintessential Rochester” places are the ones we photograph and share. The places where Rochester’s historic foothold was established. The buildings that make up our skyline. The vistas that fill tourist must-see lists & “wish you were here” postcards.

Rochester: The Image City

Rochester evolved from the Flower City to the Image City when Eastman invented a way for the masses to capture everyday moments on film.

39. Craft Breweries

It can be overwhelming to consider the many craft beverage artisans who call the Finger Lakes and Western New York home. So, let’s focus on the ones we have right here in our backyard.

31 Craft Breweries in Rochester and Monroe County

Considering all the breweries that call the Greater Rochester area home can be overwhelming. Let’s focus on the ones here in Monroe County.

40. Letchworth State Park

To experience the stunning beauty of the Genesee River through Letchworth State Park, plan a day trip that includes a visit to the Mount Morris Dam and Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. Take a hike along Trail 1 for breathtaking views of the gorge. You can also join Adventure Calls Outfitters for a guided rafting trip downstream from Lower Falls to St. Helena, a journey of about five and a half miles.

Explore Letchworth State Park

Letchworth has something for everyone, from hiking one of the park’s 29 trails and picnicking beside a waterfall to taking a scenic drive.

41. Lamberton Conservatory

Take a break and unwind in the Lord and Burnham–designed glasshouse filled with exotic, desert, and economic plants, including banana trees. Enjoy tropical temperatures and the soothing sounds of running water. Find turtles lounging by indoor ponds, with tiny button quail and tortoises wandering around. The theme of the Seasonal Display Room changes five times throughout the year, with the beloved Holiday Show in December. During this time, the conservatory is open on Friday and Sunday evenings to fully appreciate the beautiful festive lights.

Lamberton Conservatory

The 2024 Lamberton Conservatory Spring Show opens in late March and features hyacinths, daffodils, tulips, and other flowering bulbs.

42. The Erie Canal

According to the New York State Canal Corporation, nearly 80% of the upstate New York population lives within 25 miles of the Erie Canal. The original “Clinton’s Ditch” was completed in 1825 and later updated to accommodate larger boats, leading to the creation of the Enlarged Erie Canal. Further modifications in 1918 allowed for self-propelled boats, which no longer required mules, resulting in the current Barge Canal. The entire waterway is commonly referred to as the Erie Canal.

Explore the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor

Nearly 80% of the upstate population lives within 25 miles of the Erie Canal. Explore the 115-mile stretch between the Cayuga-Seneca Canal and Niagara River.

43. Boat Tours

Enjoy stunning scenery, unique geology, and impressive waterfront homes. From the comfort of a boat, you’ll be able to spot local wildlife and learn about the rich history and culture of the area.

Rochester-Area Boat Tours

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes, Genesee River, Erie Canal, and Finger Lakes on one of these Rochester-area boat tours.

44. Eternal Flame

The natural gas flame, sheltered in a tiny cave under a 35-foot waterfall, isn’t eternal, as its name suggests, so be sure to bring a lighter in case the flame is extinguished. The way may be more difficult after heavy rain, but the waterfall will be more impressive. This unique geologic feature is a stunning reward for your effort.

Eternal Flame Hiking Trail

When you reach the Eternal Flame, sheltered in a tiny cave under a beautiful little waterfall, you’ll find it is a fascinating reward for all of your hard work.

45. The Pinnacle Range

Making up a portion of the City of Rochester’s southern border, the Pinnacle Range is a glacial moraine. Highland Drive connects the first four but ends at Mount Hope. The University of Rochester campus on Oak Hill lies just beyond Mount Hope Cemetery at the river’s edge.

A Range of Possibilities: Exploring Rochester’s Pinnacle Hills

The Pinnacle Range along Rochester’s southern border is a glacial moraine created by the retreating Wisconsin Glacier 12,000 years ago.

46. Little Rock City

Exploring a rock city is an adventure like no other. Walking among them feels like being on a city street among skyscrapers. Mosses that cover each bolder help to absorb sound, and their deep shadows keep trail temperatures cool even in August.

Little Rock City in Rock City State Forest

It is free to explore Little Rock City. You could spend 20 minutes or two hours wandering through the boulders, some as large as houses.

47. Rochester’s Geologic History

These day trips into Rochester’s geologic history—filled with drumlins, eskers, kames, kettles, fossils, house-sized boulders, and a few meromictic lakes—will remind you just how amazing our corner of the Earth is.

Geologic History of the Rochester Area

These day trips into Rochester’s geologic history will remind you just how amazing our corner of the Earth is.

48. Ice Skating

When looking for ice skating rinks around Rochester, NY, there are several options. It first depends on whether you own skates or need to rent them.

21 Ice Skating Rinks Around Rochester

All indoor ice skating rinks, plus a few outdoor rinks, offer skate rentals. For outdoors, we need an extended forecast of sub 32 degrees.

49. Breathtaking Fall Foliage Views

These destinations offer colorful fall foliage and varied landscapes so that you can appreciate each of them in their unique way.

🍁 Fall Foliage: 7 Breathtaking Views Near Rochester

If you’re looking for picturesque autumn scenery, these locations offer stunning fall foliage and unique landscapes.

50. Paranormal Activities

There is something about October that piques our interest in paranormal activities. These day trips encourage you to explore the other side of Rochester.

Paranormal Activities: Our Favorite Haunts for 2023

There is something about October that piques our interest in paranormal activities. Explore the other side of Rochester!

51. Lily Dale Assembly

Lily Dale is a lake-side hamlet of Victorian homes and cottages. It is quirky and peaceful, a spiritual community unlike nowhere else on Earth.

Lily Dale Assembly

Established in the late 19th century, Lily Dale Assembly is renowned as one of the country’s most prominent centers for spiritualism.

52. Nature Centers & Preserves

The various nature centers, wildlife preserves, and management areas in New York State all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all. These organizations are committed to preserving the land and its inhabitants. While their missions may be similar, the specific names of each area suggest unique characteristics and offerings. By understanding the distinctions between these names, you can better appreciate the environment and the services provided.

Nature Centers and Preserves Around Rochester

The various nature centers, preserves, and management areas all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all.

53. Incredible Creeks

These creeks impact us in such subtle ways that they sometimes disappear into life’s background. Our beautiful tributaries enhance the gathering places in our small towns. They provide us with opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and fresh water. I have found these particular creeks to be exceptional and worth the effort to seek them out.

Freshwater Creeks Around Rochester

These beautiful creeks around Rochester impact us in such subtle ways they sometimes disappear into the background of our lives.

54. Chimney Bluffs State Park

Rising 175 feet above Lake Ontario, the bluffs are fragile drumlins, like all of the truncated drumlins along this section of shoreline. It would be beneficial to bring water shoes for standing in the lake and sneakers for walking along the rocky shoreline. There is an admission fee, though you can park for free at the end of East Bay Road.

Chimney Bluffs State Park

The bluffs in Chimney Bluffs State Park are fragile drumlins, like all of the truncated drumlins along this section of shoreline.

55. New York State & County Fairs

Our state and county fairs offer their unique blend of agriculture, amusement, and entertainment: parades, demolition derbies, contests, food, tractor shows and pulls, midway rides, vendors, livestock exhibits, and live music.

🎡 2024 New York State & County Fairs

State and county fairs, featuring agricultural-themed competitions, amusement, and entertainment, have been popular since the early 1800s.

56. Performing Arts

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a show on stage or screen. Experience diverse artistic expression, including interpretive dance, chamber music, Shakespearean plays, and Broadway productions. Whether historic auditoriums or multiplex theaters with reclining seats, Rochester’s movie theaters offer a wide range of first-run, independent, foreign, and student films, live-stream events, and festivals.

Theaters Around Rochester

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a show on stage or screen. Experience diverse artistic expression, from Broadway productions to classic movies.

57. Lighthouses Along Lake Ontario

These nine New York lighthouses are all within a two-hour drive of Rochester. And where there is a lighthouse, there is a sweeping Lake Ontario view.

9 Lake Ontario Lighthouses in New York

These lighthouses along Lake Ontario in New York are within a two-hour drive of Rochester. And where there’s a light there’s a sweeping view!

58. National Natural Landmarks

National Natural Landmarks (NNLs) are natural areas in the United States that the Secretary of the Interior has designated as having outstanding biological or geological resources. These areas are considered to be some of the most significant natural features in the country and are protected by federal law.

11 National Natural Landmarks Near Rochester

These National Natural Landmarks, recognized for their outstanding biological and geological resources, are all within a two-hour drive of Rochester, NY.

59. Take a Guided Walk

Discover the greater Rochester region like never before with these guided walks, runs, rides, and behind-the-scenes tours. Led by local experts, you’ll delve into the area’s rich history, geology, ecology, and community. And the best part? You’ll be in good company with other like-minded individuals, sparking intriguing conversations and questions along the way. Take advantage of the perfect blend of education and socializing with these must-try guided activities.

Guided Walks and Tours Around Rochester, NY

Local experts who highlight the rich history, geology, ecology, and community of the greater Rochester region lead these guided walks.

60. Authentic Dining-Car Diners

Designed to resemble a train’s fine-dining car, diners were manufactured off-site and moved by rail to the final location. These diners are extraordinary examples of that era.

6 Authentic Dining-Car Diners

Carefully preserved and restored to their former glory, these authentic dining-car diners will delight anyone who loves a bit of nostalgia.

61. Watkins Glen State Park

Glen Creek descends 400 feet along its two-mile course through Watkins Glen State Park. Follow the 806-step Gorge Trail and wind your way over and under 19 breathtaking waterfalls.

Explore Watkins Glen

The heart of the village of Watkins Glen is the 1.5-mile-long gorge, a truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring showcase of nature’s beauty.

62. Great Lakes

Rochester is well-known for its 11 Finger Lakes and two beautiful Great Lakes—Ontario and Erie. But as you drive around the countryside, you can see a landscape freckled with blue bodies of fresh water where locals are boating, fishing, swimming, and relaxing.

39 Other Great Lakes Near Rochester

Rochester is well-known for its 11 Finger Lakes and two beautiful Great Lakes. But there are even more freshwater lakes to enjoy.

63. Rochester’s Fun Facts

I’ve been gathering Rochester’s fun facts for several years and am so excited to collect them all together here. Let these inspire your next day’s trip!

Rochester’s Fun Facts: Oldest, Original, Only, & More!

Rochester’s fun facts will inspire you to explore more. And these are just some of the historical tidbits that make Rochester special.

64. Harriet Hollister

Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area is a New York State Park located in the hills six miles south of Honeoye Lake. Here, you will find one of the most majestic scenic views in the Finger Lakes region.

Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area

Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area is a New York State Park located in the hills six miles south of Honeoye Lake.

65. “Hit the Trail” Passport

Pick up your “Hit the Trail Passport” booklet at Wegmans, or print your own. You’ll have everything you need to start your hiking adventure.

“Hit the Trail Passport” for the Rochester Area

Pick up your “Hit the Trail Passport” booklet at Wegmans, or print your own! You’ll have everything you need to start your hiking adventure.

66. Spend a Day in the Finger Lakes Region

The Finger Lakes Region is one of the most beautiful places on Earth and right in our backyard. It is easy to get out there and explore.

Explore the Finger Lakes Region

The Finger Lakes region is a popular tourist destination, featuring 11 lakes, charming cities and villages, and scenic farmland.

67. Tinker Nature Park

Tinker Nature Park comprises 68 acres in Henrietta with a 1.2-mile flat perimeter trail for jogging, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, or walking.

Tinker Nature Park

Tinker Nature Park spans 68 acres along the Pittsford-Henrietta town border, offering trails and boardwalks suitable for all abilities.

68. Amusement Parks

Oh, how we miss our amusement parks in the winter. When May comes around, you find the ones with the dry rides opening on the weekends, with the water parks opening closer to Father’s Day in mid-June.

Seabreeze, Darien Lake, and Other Amusement Parks Near Rochester

When May comes around, you find the amusement parks with the dry rides opening on the weekends and water parks opening in mid-June.

69. Find the Darkest Skies Near Rochester

Locations northeast of Rochester close to Lake Ontario or south of US-20 in the Finger Lakes will offer the darkest sky near Rochester.

The Darkest Skies Near Rochester

Locations northeast of Rochester close to Lake Ontario, or south of US-20 in the Finger Lakes will offer the darkest sky near Rochester.

70. Sonnenberg Gardens

Explore a magnificent late 19th-century Victorian estate, complete with a Queen Anne–style mansion and nine formal gardens in this 50-acre New York State Historic Park. Marvel at the Lord-and-Burnham–designed glasshouse conservatory.

Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion

Located in the City of Canandaigua, Sonnenberg Gardens is an exceptional example of the lavish wealth and philanthropy of the Gilded Age.

Skiing around Rochester is as much winter recreation as a social experience, competition, and tradition. A few of these destinations also offer cross-country ski rentals.

The 16 Best Places for Downhill and Cross-Country Skiing Around Rochester

Skiing is a popular winter activity that provides both physical and social benefits and helps maintain vitamin D levels with sun exposure.

72. Cobb’s Hill and Washington Grove

Nestled between Culver Road, Monroe Avenue, and Highland Avenue, lower Cobb’s Hill Park is primarily recreational, but the hill makes it unique. Encircling the reservoir is a paved 0.7-mile walking path offering a panoramic view of the Rochester skyline. A trail through Washington Grove leads visitors through a tranquil urban forest of old oak trees to a series of ever-changing graffiti-tagged water towers.

Cobbs Hill + Washington Grove

The peaceful view from Cobbs Hill, along with the friendly people walking and taking it all in, make it a unique Rochester experience.

73. Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours

Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours are a great way to experience the canal and locks and learn about its history along your narrated cruise.

Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours

Sam Patch Erie Canal Tours are a great way to experience the canal and learn about its history along your narrated cruise.

74. Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

Constructed in 1822, this is America’s oldest surviving active lighthouse on Lake Ontario. To reach the 12-foot-high lantern room, you must climb a tight 40-foot-high spiral staircase, followed by an 11-rung ladder, and crawl through an opening in the ceiling. The view from the top is worth the effort.

Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse

You can climb the 40-foot tower in the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse and enjoy the view of Lake Ontario, the Genesee River, and Ontario Beach Park.

75. Mendon Ponds Park

The Devil’s Bathtub is one of New York’s rare  meromictic lakes . It’s so deep, and so protected by the geologic features around it, that the layers in the water do not mix, or “turn over”. In 1969, Mendon Ponds Park was named to the National Registry of Natural Landmarks due to its geologic history and the presence of significant kames, eskers, and kettles.

Mendon Ponds Park

Mendon Ponds is Monroe County’s most expansive park, with woodlands, ponds, wetlands, and 21 miles of color-coded trails across 2,500 acres.

76. Rochester Railfans

Our innovative use of the railroad, trolley, subway, and the Erie Canal helped develop the Rochester area as a center of manufacturing and commerce. So many of the places we eat and shop are reclaimed train depots. Places we get a massage, read books, laugh, sleep…

Rochester Railfans

Rochester’s railfans can appreciate the remarkable structures preserved by dedicated preservationists who recognize their value.

77. Ganondagan

Ganondagan State Historic Site sits atop Boughton Hill in Victor. It is the original site of the most significant 17th century Seneca town—sometimes referred to as Gannagaro—which at its peak had 150 longhouses where only one replica stands today.

Ganondagan State Historic Site

Ganondagan is the original site of a 17th-century Seneca town, which at its peak had 150 longhouses where one replica stands today.

78. Rock Cities

Clustered in the southwestern corner of New York State, each site has an individual creation story going back to when a vast, shallow inland sea covered the area, affected over time by continental drift, glacial activity, and mountain building. And they each present a unique experience. You can only see some in a single day, so spread them out over several Southern Tier day trips. Plan at least an hour for each park.

4 Rock Cities Near Rochester

Explore these cool, mossy rock cities near Rochester, like Little Rock City near Ellicottville and Thunder Rocks in Allegany State Park.

79. MacKay Wildlife Preserve

There are fascinating geological wonders to discover at MacKay Wildlife Preserve in Caledonia, including a sea of round, moss-covered boulders.

MacKay Wildlife Preserve

Visitors to MacKay Wildlife Preserve will find a sea of round moss-covered boulders, a collection of hardwoods, and unusual land formations.

80. The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail

The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail is the portion that runs along the southern Lake Ontario shoreline, from Fort Niagara in Youngstown to Fort Ontario in Oswego.

Explore The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail

The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail runs along the southern Lake Ontario shoreline, from Fort Niagara in Youngstown to Fort Ontario in Oswego.

81. Places to Immerse Yourself in Green

I find the color green soothing, especially when surrounded by it. Enjoy some of my favorite places to go green!

36 Places to Immerse Yourself in Green

I find green to be a soothing color, especially when surrounded by it. Here are some of my favorite places to go green!

82. Explore Buffalo’s Waterfront

From Canalside to the Outer Harbor and Riverworks to Silo City, there are a dozen excellent day trips from Rochester to Buffalo’s Waterfront. You may wonder why there’s a scent of cereal in the air. Buffalo is home to a General Mills plant that produces Lucky Charms and Cheerios, among other brands, filling the air with the sweet smell of toasted oats.

Explore Buffalo’s Waterfront

From Canalside to Outer Harbor and RiverWorks to Silo City, there are a dozen excellent day trips from Rochester along Buffalo’s waterfront.

83. Helmer Nature Center

The paths at Helmer Nature Center, made primarily of wood chip, boardwalk, and hard-pack gravel, are marked and easy to navigate. Sloped portions take you down to the valley floor, where the terrain around you is hilly and tree-covered, making it peacefully quiet.

Helmer Nature Center

The terrain at Helmer Nature Center is hilly and tree-covered, making is an excellent place for peaceful woodland exploration.

84. Museum of the Earth

Covering roughly 635 million years of the geologic record, the museum does a fantastic job of narrowing it down to large-scale events that are relevant to our place in New York State, and presented in a way that is engaging.

Museum of the Earth

Museum of the Earth focuses primarily on life in New York State beginning in the Cambrian Period, covering roughly 635 million years of geologic record.

85. Sledding Hills

One of the most popular sledding destinations in Rochester is Mendon Ponds Park. This park has several hills, from gentle slopes for beginners to steep drops for thrill-seekers. You can also explore the trails, ponds, and wildlife of this scenic park while you’re there.

The Best Sledding Hills Around Rochester

Are you ready to play in the snow? Take your sled to one of Monroe County’s thrilling sledding hills, like Mendon Ponds and Black Creek.

86. Highland Park

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted to be enjoyed year-round, every pathway, tree, vista, and relationship between the land and water through Highland Park is intentional. Highland has even been described as a museum or zoo of exotic plants and trees. Meander along paved and mown-grass pathways to find Lamberton Conservatory, Poet’s Garden, Highland Bowl, and Warner Castle’s Sunken Garden.

Highland Park in Rochester

Highland Park has even been described as a museum of exotic trees, many of which are the tallest of their species in the state, though few are native.

87. Pathways for Easy Strolls

These paved pathways and boardwalks around Rochester have been designed for accessibility, making them an ideal destination for individuals with mobility challenges, families with young children, and those using strollers, walkers, or wheelchairs. The walkways offer a smooth ride and a beautiful view through some of the city’s most scenic areas, including parks, lakes, and other natural settings.

20 Paved, Gravel, and Boardwalk Pathways for Easy Strolls

These paved pathways and boardwalks are ideal for folks using strollers, walkers, wheelchairs, or managing other mobility challenges.

88. High Falls

High Falls is the name of the waterfall, the neighboring historic district, and a future Rochester state park. Popular spots to view the falls include High Falls Terrace, the Pont de Rennes Bridge, and Genesee Brew House’s rooftop patio while enjoying a casual meal and a tasty beverage. On the west side of the river, visitors can walk along cobblestone streets to learn about the area’s hydropower history and see the top of the falls near the Gorsline Building.

High Falls on the Genesee River

High Falls is the name of the waterfall, the neighboring historic district, and the future Rochester High Falls State Park.

89. Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park

Next to The Strong National Museum of Play, this five-acre park hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Some popular events include the Rochester International Jazz Festival in June, Party in the Park on Thursday nights during the summer, Rochester Fringe Festival in September, and Roc Holiday Village in December. In winter, the reflecting pool transforms into an ice-skating rink.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at Manhattan Square

Next to The Strong National Museum of Play, the five-acre Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Park hosts various annual events.

90. Rochester-Area Chocolatiers

The region has a rich history of chocolate-making, with many of the local chocolatiers being third- or fourth-generation descendants of the founders of their businesses. They have maintained the traditional family recipes passed down over the years while adding modern twists to create truly unique and delicious chocolate creations.

20 Rochester-Area Chocolatiers

Many of our fine Rochester-area chocolatiers are 3rd- and 4th-generation descendants using traditional family recipes with modern twists.

91. Braddock Bay

The Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area (WMA) includes Braddock Bay Park and many surrounding wetlands and bird migration paths. If you are driving along Edgemere Drive near the ponds or the parkway between Island Cottage and Bennett Road, dining at the Braddock Bay Tavern & Grill, or fishing in Salmon Creek, you are enjoying the beauty of the Braddock Bay WMA.

Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area

If you’re cruising on Edgemere along the ponds, or on the parkway near Manitou, you’re enjoying the Braddock Bay Wildlife Management Area.

92. Buttermilk Falls

Stairs are prevalent along the 0.65-mile Buttermilk Creek Gorge Trail. When you reach the stone bridge, you can continue to the upper park, return through the gorge, or cross the creek and take the Rim Trail back to the parking area, where you can enjoy a swim in the natural stream-fed pool beneath Buttermilk Falls.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

In Buttermilk Falls State Park, like most of the Finger Lakes gorge parks, stairs are the primary walkway along Buttermilk Creek; challenging but worth it!

93. Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge

You’ll find several overlooks and trails throughout the refuge, some with boardwalks to navigate the wetlands, like the Swallow Hollow Trail. Iroquois is managed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service and, along with the adjoining Oak Orchard and Tonawanda Wildlife Management Areas, makes up the 20,000-acre Alabama Swamps Complex.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge

At 10,828 acres, Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is the state’s largest refuge. Alabama Swaps amasses 19,000-acres designated for wildlife.

94. Wineries with Scenic Keuka Lake Views

Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region is a great place to start if you’re looking for a scenic spot to enjoy delicious wine. There are dozens of wineries, but if you want a stunning lake view, I recommend checking out these seven in particular.

7 Wineries with Scenic Keuka Lake Views

For your Finger Lakes wine tour, our priority is simply to show you which wineries have the most spectacular scenic Keuka Lake views!

95. The Jump Off Trail

The accessible Gannett Hill Jump-Off affords one of the loveliest scenic views in the Finger Lakes region, with County Route 33/West Hollow Road, Bristol Mountain, and, occasionally, Rochester’s skyline viewable from the platform. Spectacular any time of year, the optimal time to visit is during the peak of fall foliage in late October. The Jump-Off Trail connects with the Finger Lakes Trail System’s Bristol Hills Branch Trail.

The Jump Off Trail

The Jump Off Trail in Ontario County Park is ADA-accessible and affords one of the most beautiful scenic views in the Finger Lakes Region.

96. Seneca Park & Zoo

The 20-acre Seneca Park Zoo is a small portion of the 300-acre county park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1893. The zoo operates a seasonal ZooTram shuttle, transporting visitors between the extreme ends of the park for a nominal one-way fee. Many people walk through the zoo and take the tram back up to the main entrance, appreciating Seneca Park’s scenic views. Beyond the zoo, you will find a trout pond surrounded by pavilions, a playground, and hiking trails. The south trail ends at the scenic Pure Waters Pedestrian Bridge, part of the Genesee River Trail, which spans the river to connect with Maplewood Park.

Seneca Park and Zoo

The Seneca Park Zoo is only a small part of the 297-acre Seneca Park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1893.

97. Take a Boat Tour

Enjoy stunning scenery, unique geology, and impressive waterfront homes. From the comfort of a boat, you’ll be able to spot local wildlife and learn about the rich history and culture of the area. Indulge in the serene atmosphere and breathe fresh air while enjoying a unique and unforgettable experience.

98. Webster Arboretum

Follow meandering pathways through Webster Arboretum’s 32 acres to discover a pond, various trees and shrubs, and formal gardens, including a daylily garden with over 200 cultivars.

Webster Arboretum at Kent Park

Covering 32 acres, the arboretum boasts a pond, winding paths, various trees and shrubs, and formal gardens with over 200 daylily cultivars.

99. Ellison Park

Established in 1926, Ellison is the first official Monroe County Park. It features five blazed trails of varying difficulty, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is also a popular spot to launch a kayak or canoe and paddle downstream on Irondequoit Creek toward Irondequoit Bay.

Ellison Park

Ellison Park is a popular spot to launch a kayak or canoe and paddle downstream on Irondequoit Creek toward Irondequoit Bay.

100. Ontario Beach Park

At the northernmost tip of the city, the Genesee River borders the park to the east. Besides a sandy beach with plenty of parking, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll on the boardwalk and pier, indulge in the original 1902 Abbott’s Frozen Custard, ride on the 1905 Dentzel Carousel, and tour the 1822 Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse.

Ontario Beach Park

Besides a sandy Lake Ontario beach with plenty of parking, enjoy the boardwalk, carousel, pier, and an original 1902 Abbott’s Frozen Custard.

101. Durand Eastman Park

In 1888, landscape architect Bernard H. Slavin designed this county park that covers 977 acres and includes five lakes, the two most prominent being Durand and Eastman Lakes. You’ll find a section of pedestrian-only roadway between Log Cabin and Zoo Roads that is perfect for a walk in the arboretum. Walk across Lakeshore Boulevard to explore the seven-mile Irondequoit Lakeside Multi-Use Trail, a paved sidewalk along 5,000 feet of Lake Ontario shoreline with a portion of wetland boardwalk. Additionally, there is a city-managed Lake Ontario swimming beach.

Durand Eastman Park

Durand Eastman Park’s 977 acres include an arboretum, hiking trails around Durand and Eastman Lakes, and a swimming beach on Lake Ontario.

102. Rochester Public Market

The Public Market is a great day-trip destination in a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can find a wide variety of fresh produce, meat, seafood, and artisanal products like pasta, honey, and spices. The market is also home to popular coffee shops and restaurants. A seasonal open-air trolley transports visitors between the market and the Trinidad Street lot between North Union and Scio Streets. Be sure to check the website for free special events. Open all year on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rochester Public Market

The Rochester Public Market is the best place to find the freshest locally grown produce, seafood, beef, cheese, bread, and beverages.

103. Fabulous Fall Hikes

Some of these hikes are short and sweet, while others offer a range of terrains and distances to suit your preference. The best part is that you’ll enjoy a mix of natural and manufactured sights on these trails. From the calming presence of water to the variety of trees and the peacefulness of solitude, these hikes have it all, and that’s why they’re my top picks.

22 Fabulous Fall Hikes in Monroe County

Our favorite fall hikes offer a variety of elements and views. The presence of water, trees, and solitude helps rank these high on our list.

104. Stony Brook

Most visitors hike in and out along the 0.75-mile Gorge Trail, enjoying the stream-fed pool, waterfalls, and stone bridges. The walkway beside Stony Brook is composed of shale and gravel, with some spots that are moderately challenging to navigate and dozens of steps to climb alongside each waterfall.

Stony Brook State Park

The walkway through Stony Brook State Park is a combo of shale, gravel, and stairs alongside waterfalls, similar to the other gorge parks.

105. Niagara Falls, USA

Niagara Falls State Park, America’s first state park, was established in 1886 and designed by Frederick Law Olmsted two years before Rochester’s Highland Park was created. Visitors travel far and wide to see Niagara Falls, and we are fortunate to drive there in 90 minutes. While Niagara Falls, Ontario, has a falls-facing view, it can become overwhelming with many tourism-oriented distractions that cost time and money. On the New York side of Niagara Falls, activities focus on the natural world, with accessible pathways leading along the Niagara River. Make the most of your day trip by exploring Goat Island, Three Sisters Island, and Prospect Point, where you can enjoy the view of Canada across the river.

Explore Niagara Falls, USA

Niagara Falls is majestic year-round, and I recommend going at different times throughout the year to witness the uniqueness of each season.

106. Mount Hope Cemetery

The cemetery is divided into two sections: the south side, which is the newer area, and the north side, which is older and home to notable figures such as Nathaniel Rochester, Susan B. Anthony, and Frederick Douglass. The north section’s winding cobblestone roads are best explored on foot and provide a glimpse into the cemetery’s rich history, ecology, and geology. Maps and guided tours are available to provide more in-depth information about the land’s fascinating past, including ice age landforms and fossils. While the landscape is delightful year-round, this beautiful Victorian cemetery is extraordinary in October. The diversity of trees in the arboretum displays a vibrant array of colors, with bold yellows and reds carpeting the ground before the snow arrives.

Mount Hope Cemetery

Mount Hope Cemetery’s winding roads are best explored on foot for a glimpse into the area’s rich history, ecology, and geology.

107. Perfect Picnic Spots

When it comes to choosing the best spot for a picnic, there are a few things that I prioritize. For instance, a picnic table is a must-have for me to enjoy all the food and drinks comfortably and off the ground. I also appreciate being surrounded by beautiful scenery and being near water. Shade is essential for beating the heat, and some privacy is always welcome. If you’re planning a picnic and want suggestions based on my criteria, here are my top recommendations.

30 Perfect Picnic Spots Around Rochester

When searching for the perfect picnic spots, I look for a picnic table, scenery and proximity to water, shade, and relative privacy.

108. Rochester Museum & Science Center

RMSC’s city campus features the three-story science museum and the Strasenburgh Planetarium. In the museum, don’t miss the two singing Tesla coils in the Electricity Theater, where audience members can volunteer to stand inside a Faraday cage while the coils sing a duet with lightning. The planetarium offers a state-of-the-art view of our solar system and the visible universe using near-real-time data. The lounge chairs in the planetarium are not fixed to the floor, making the space accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Rochester Museum & Science Center

Between the star shows, laser shows, interactive exhibits, and Singing Tesla Coils, the Rochester Museum and Science Center will entertain you for hours!

109. Apple Everything!

We are so fortunate to be surrounded not only by the freshest apples from local farms but also by talented artisans who expertly know what to do with them. And we spend September and October searching for the best.

🍎 Apple Everything! Rochester’s best ciders, fry cakes, fritters, pies, and more

Come mid-September, we begin to crave all things apple. Apple cider. Apple cider donuts. Apple fritters. Apple pie. And warm fry cakes.

110. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

The US Fish & Wildlife Service manages the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge at the north end of Cayuga Lake. The refuge is along one of the busiest flight paths in the Atlantic Flyway. Upon entering the refuge from US Route 20, you’ll find a seasonal visitor center, observation tower, viewing platform, and the Seneca Trail.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,000-acre preserve located on the north end of Cayuga Lake, under one of the most active flight lanes in the Atlantic Flyway.

111. Strong National Museum of Play

The Strong houses the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of play-related materials. Besides its fascinating interactive exhibits, the museum has a kid-sized Wegmans grocery store, historic pinball and arcade games, and a ropes course above Skyline Diner. The Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden offers a beautiful rainforest environment for those looking to escape cold weather. The museum also houses the National Toy Hall of Fame, World Video Game Hall of Fame, and various collections from Margaret Woodbury Strong, ensuring plenty to see and do for an entire day.

Strong National Museum of Play

The Strong National Museum of Play boasts the world’s most extensive collection of play-related historical materials.

112. Powder Mills Park

Follow the marked trails to take a stroll through Irondequoit Creek’s wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. Bring a handful of quarters to the fish hatchery to purchase food pellets to feed up to 20,000 fish at different stages of development. Don’t miss the fascinating Mushroom House next to the hatchery parking lot. Visit the Daffodil Meadow from late April through mid-May to see the flowers in full bloom.

Powder Mills Park

Powder Mills Park favorites include the fish hatchery, Daffodil Meadow Trail in early May, The Mushroom House, and fishing Irondequoit Creek.

113. Genesee Valley Park

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1888, find GVP where the Erie Canal, Red Creek, and Genesee River intersect. Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes from the Genesee Waterways Center. Enjoy the four beautiful concrete footbridges that connect the park across each waterway.

Genesee Valley Park

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1888, find Genesee Valley Park where the Erie Canal, Red Creek, and Genesee River intersect.

114. Genesee Country Village & Museum

GCV&M is a living history museum with 68 structures on 700 acres, making it the largest and most comprehensive museum of its kind in the state and the third largest in the country. The 19th-century village features a range of buildings that were moved to the museum’s grounds starting in 1966, such as frontier homesteads, Victorian mansions, churches, schools, shops, and taverns.

Genesee Country Village & Museum

The Genesee Country Village is a living history museum with 68 structures on 700 acres, making it the largest museum of its kind in New York.

115. Monroe County Libraries

The Monroe Country Library System comprises town and village locations, Rochester Public Library branch locations, and the Central Library. Each one offers unique amenities and is in a different neighborhood, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration.

31 Monroe County Libraries

A free library card allows you to access 31 Monroe County libraries, including Central Library and Libby, the digital library.

116. Places in the City to Enjoy the Genesee River

The 157-mile Genesee River originates 10 miles south of the Pennsylvania border. As it flows north, it passes over Letchworth’s three major waterfalls and meanders through several towns, including Mount Morris, Geneseo, Caledonia, Avon, Rush, Scottsville, Chili, and Henrietta. At Genesee Valley Park, the river merges with the Erie Canal and continues north through Rochester, flowing over Court Street Dam and High, Middle, and Lower Falls before reaching Lake Ontario.

Exploring The Genesee River

At Genesee Valley Park, the river merges with the Erie Canal and continues north through Rochester before reaching Lake Ontario.

117. Maplewood Park

This two-mile linear Olmsted-designed park follows the river from Middle Falls north to Kings Landing, the oldest cemetery in Rochester. Most visitors start at the Rose Garden in Lower Maplewood and walk down the stairs to access the Genesee River Trail. Walking upstream, you’ll find Lower and Middle Falls. The trail heading downstream leads through Middle Maplewood and along Seneca Parkway, which Olmsted also designed as part of the park system. After passing under the New York State Route 104 Veterans Memorial Bridge, the path continues into Upper Maplewood. It ends at the Pure Waters Pedestrian Bridge, which spans the Genesee River and connects to Seneca Park.

Maplewood Park & Rose Garden

Maplewood Park is a linear park that follows the river from Driving Park and the Lower Falls to just north of Route 104, ending at the pedestrian bridge over the Genesee.

118. Hamlin Beach

The park offers seven miles of paved and dirt hiking trails and a self-guided tour of a historic CCC/POW camp. The lake shore is perfect for reading a book in the shade with your toes in the sand. In Area One, you can find green space, an unguarded beach, a kayak launch, and the Yanty Creek Environmental Nature Trail. Areas Three and Four have guarded swimming beaches, picnic tables, pavilions, playgrounds, bathhouses, and concession stands. Area Five has green space, an unguarded beach, and the Devil’s Nose hiking trail along the West Bluff.

Hamlin Beach State Park

Hamlin Beach State Park has 7 miles of beautiful biking and walking trails, including a mile-long self-guided tour of a CCC/POW camp.

119. George Eastman Museum

GEM is a tribute to the life and contributions of George Eastman, the father of modern photography. As the world’s oldest photography museum, it houses an impressive collection of over 400,000 photographic objects and 28,000 moving image titles. Visitors can tour Eastman’s unique home and explore the museum’s permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. The 500-seat Dryden Theatre offers film screenings in their original format on most evenings.

George Eastman Museum

The George Eastman Museum is a beautiful tribute to his life & legacy, and is the world’s oldest photography museum with one of the oldest film archives.

120. Explore Rochester

Rochester is a vibrant and diverse city in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. With a population of over 200,000, Rochester is the fourth-largest city in New York State and is home to several world-renowned institutions and attractions. A perfect day in Rochester would involve visiting one of the city’s engaging museums, spending time in its exceptional parks, and seeing both High Falls and Lake Ontario. Enjoy amazing food and drinks, and consider rounding out the day with an evening at a theater, baseball game, festival, or concert.

Explore Rochester

A perfect day in Rochester would include a visit to one of its world-class museums, spending time in its exceptional parks, and seeing both High Falls and Lake Ontario.

121. Farm Sanctuary

The sanctuary encompasses 175 acres in Watkins Glen, with sweeping views of Sugar Hill State Forest, and is home to over 500 rescued farm animals. Take an hour-long guided walk around this exceptional shelter to learn about the sanctuary’s mission and hear each animal’s story. If you enjoy being around cows, pigs, goats, sheep, turkeys, and other farm animals, I highly recommend the tour, which encourages guests to interact with the animals and be part of their healing journey.

Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen

Farm Sanctuary sits on 175 acres in Watkins Glen, just west of Sugar Hill State Forest, and is home to more than 500 rescued farm animals.

122. New York Museum of Transportation

Explore NYMT’s vast collection of train and trolley cars, buses, signs, photos, model railroad displays, and two Midtown Plaza monorail cars. During special events, enjoy a scenic two-mile round-trip ride on a 90-year-old electric trolley car—the only trolley ride in New York State.

New York Museum of Transportation

Enjoy a scenic two-mile round-trip ride on an 90-year-old electric trolley car at the New York Museum of Transportation.

123. Discover Niagara Shuttle

The Discover Niagara Shuttle is a free shuttle service that takes visitors to various destinations along a 13-mile stretch from Niagara Falls to Fort Niagara in New York State. The shuttle service operates every day from Memorial Day in late May until Labor Day in early September. The shuttle stops at 18 destinations, including Niagara Falls State Park, Old Fort Niagara, and the Aquarium of Niagara, among others. The shuttle service, using motorcoach- and trolley-style vehicles, is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the area without worrying about driving, parking, or navigating unfamiliar roads.

21 Discover Niagara Shuttle Stops

The Discover Niagara Shuttle is a two-hour round-trip from any starting point if you’d like to simply enjoy the ride. Or, hop on and off.

124. Cascadilla Gorge

Cascadilla Creek produces several waterfalls, ranging from swift cascades to 80-foot drops, as it descends 400 feet through the gorge. Starting from the bottom lets you encounter increasingly breathtaking waterfalls as you walk up the half-mile trail using steps and bridges to reach the top.

Cascadilla Gorge in Ithaca

Cascadilla Creek produces 8 waterfalls as it descends 400 feet through Cascadilla Gorge. The trail consists of stone steps, pathways, and bridges.

125. Beautiful Boardwalks

When considering strolling along a boardwalk, my initial thoughts are the Eastern Seaboard and its magnificent beach boardwalks in Atlantic City, Wildwood, Ocean City, Myrtle Beach, Coney Island, and Virginia Beach. When I think about the ones near Rochester, my mind shifts to trail systems incorporating boardwalks to assist visitors in navigating wetlands or protecting wildlife from human footprints. Nonetheless, I adore boardwalks wherever they are! Here are some of my personal favorites.

18 Beautiful Boardwalks

These boardwalks are integrated into larger trail systems to assist individuals in navigating wetlands and conserving wildlife.

126. Black Creek Park

Black Creek is one of the largest of Monroe County’s parks, second only to Mendon. It features a variety of trails with varying lengths, difficulties, and conditions, with some trails muddy throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the pond or launch a kayak in the creek. In the winter, the park offers one of the best sledding hills in the county.

Black Creek Park

Black Creek Park features a variety of trails with varying lengths. Enjoy a walk around the pond or launch a kayak onto Black Creek.

127. Memorial Art Gallery

MAG boasts a rich permanent collection, an impressive range of traveling exhibitions, and a diverse schedule of classes and events, like third-Thursday DeTOURs. On the museum’s grounds, wander through Centennial Sculpture Park, which features world-renowned artists alongside whimsical photo-ops, including some best viewed at night. Try to decipher the Morse code set into the red brick sidewalk.

Memorial Art Gallery

The Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester boasts a rich permanent collection and an impressive range of traveling exhibitions.

128. Self-Guided Tours

These self-guided tours around Rochester offer a unique way to explore the region’s history and culture at your own pace. The list includes driving and walking tours that cover various themes, such as barns, lighthouses, cobblestone buildings, public art, fairy doors, and oak trees. They provide an opportunity to learn about the area’s past and present, from the role of the Genesee River in the region’s development to the history of freethought and the women’s rights movement. These self-guided tours offer a fun and engaging way to explore Rochester and the surrounding areas.

12 Self-Guided Tours

These self-guided tours around Rochester are like a regional scavenger hunt! Learn the stories behind some of the things you see along our roadways.

129. Susan B Anthony House & Museum

The docent-led tour brings to life Anthony’s mission to secure inalienable rights for all Americans and, most notably, women’s right to vote. Her Rochester home served as headquarters for the National American Woman Suffrage Association. In Anthony Square, just down the street, you will find a life-sized sculpture of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass having tea, discussing the day’s news, or perhaps sharing a birthday celebration—Anthony was born on February 15, and Douglass chose February 14, not knowing his birthdate. While they did not always agree, they shared a lifelong friendship and rest near each other in Mount Hope Cemetery.

Susan B Anthony

Susan B Anthony’s passion for securing women’s right to vote started with her work as an agent of the anti-slavery movement.

130. Panama Rocks

Panama Rocks was established as a privately operated park in 1885, the same year as Niagara Falls State Park. The rock formations themselves date back about 400 to 350 million years ago (Ma), during the Devonian period.

Panama Rocks Scenic Park

Watch your footing, know your limits, and use common sense when it comes to climbing on the boulders at Panama Rocks Scenic Park.

131. Oatka Creek Park

In this undeveloped county park, some pathways may be muddy and shared with horses, but there is little elevation change. The pathways lead through woodlands and wildflower meadows, offering a peaceful and picturesque experience. One highlight of the park is the purple trail that leads to a bridge over Oatka Creek, while the black trail features a beautiful quaking aspen grove.

Oatka Creek Park

Oatka Creek Park in Wheatland is one of the more strollable in the Monroe County Park system, with little change in elevation along the 3.3 mile loop trail.

132. Explore Livingston County

Take a drive through the Livingston County countryside and explore a few charming destinations close to home. Village Main Streets and historic districts were made for walking and shopping! Take a stroll to appreciate the details in architecture, landscaping, displays in shop windows, and memorials to our local heroes.

Explore Livingston County

Take a drive through the Livingston County countryside to explore charming village Main Streets, historic districts, nature trails and lakes.

How many of these things to do around Rochester have you checked off your list? How many have you added?

Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.

Debi Bower is the founder and creative director of daytrippingroc.com and author of the award-winning book Day Trips Around Rochester, New York .

People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have . I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.

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32 super fun things to do in rochester, ny.

As a local Western New Yorker, allow me to introduce you to the often underestimated city of Rochester, NY! Situated along the great Lake Ontario shores, this city boasts a diverse population of over 200,000 , a rich history, and several universities/colleges ! Once renowned for its industrial might (Rochester was the home of big companies like Kodak and Xerox) and its significance in Underground Railroad and Black history , today, it thrives as a hub of innovation and cultural diversity. From its burgeoning brewery scene to the array of museums, we’ll uncover the hidden gems in store, cool places to visit, and fun things to do in Rochester!

I. Rochester’s Interesting History 

The city of Rochester was established in 1821 thanks to its status as a port in the St. Lawrence Seaway, meeting up with the Genesee River at Lake Ontario. It was originally known as Rochesterville until it was shortened in 1822. 

WIth the Erie Canal (1825) and the waterpower and railway links that were made (1839), Rochester was considered one of the boom towns of Western New York by the mid-1800s. WIth flour milling, wheat production, and clothing and shoe industries, Rochester was mass-producing in the 1860s to keep up with the American Civil War.

In the late 19th century, George Eastman, John Jacob Bausch, and Henry Lomb helped Rochester gain its lasting nickname, the ‘Photo City,’ by coming to Rochester to develop their photographic, optical, and precision equipment. 

With famous names like Margaret and Kate Fox, Frederick Douglass, and Susan B. Anthony, Rochester has been home to some of the greatest influencers in American History. 

II. What Makes Rochester Unique?

So many aspects of the city of Rochester make it special. Being the former home of the Kodak Film company,  Susan B. Anthony, and Frederick Douglass, Rochester has an incredible and rich history that can be seen throughout the city. 

As the third largest city in New York, Rochester, or the ‘Flour City,’ has been home to a rich and growing industry that has touched just about every sector. It’s a city that knows how to adapt and survive. 

III. The Coolest Things to Do in Rochester

Artisan works gallery ★.

Artisan Works Gallery is a revamped historic factory building converted to an art museum with 500,000 items in its collection.  The Gallery created a system of self-funding that allows the museum to run without government funding. This is where a lot of Rochester’s local art lives.

Visit Artisan Works Gallery on weekends between 12 and 5 to immerse yourself in the creative world and find inspiration in your life. 

Browse the Rochester Public Market

When I say Rochester really embraces their history, I mean it. The Public Market has been on North Union Street since 1905. The Market runs on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday all year round, with Saturdays often boasting over 300 vendors offering local produce, global delicacies, prepared and packaged foods from all ethnicities, and so much more.

You could easily spend hours here browsing, shopping, and tasting the different offerings.  Explore some local businesses and experience foods you’ve never tasted before!

Letchworth State Park (Day Trip)★

Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon of the East , just a short drive south of Rochester. As the Genesee River cuts through a massive gorge, you can witness not one but three incredible waterfalls – some of the best waterfalls in the United States.

Stroll through the forests and enjoy nature on any of the 66 total miles of hiking trails in this beautiful landscape. There are trails to suit anyone and any activity, from horseback riding and biking to snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Absolutely one of the best things to do and one of the best state parks in New York.

Mendon Ponds Park

Take a moment to enjoy nature and de-stress in the largest park in Monroe County, Mendon Ponds Park . Because of its unique geological history, this park was listed on the National Registry of Natural Landmarks in 1969.

As one of the unique places to visit in Rochester, Mendon Ponds offers trails, birdwatching, boating, cross-country skiing, fishing, 48 geocaches, horseback riding, kayaking and canoeing, playgrounds, and sports fields. It’s a great break from the city, and just a short drive from downtown.

George Eastman Museum ★

You’ll find one of the most historic Rochester attractions on the George Eastman Estate in downtown Rochester. The pioneer of personal photography and motion picture film, George Eastman is perhaps one of the most famous Rochester personalities. 

The George Eastman Museum was founded in 1947 as the world’s oldest photography museum and archives. Peruse the massive collection or catch a movie in the Dryden Theatre. There are also music recitals almost every Sunday afternoon. 

Park Avenue Entertainment District

As one of Rochester’s most historic districts, Park Avenue offers restaurants, cafes, breweries, shops, galleries, and more.

Whether you’re looking to start off your day with a fantastic breakfast like a Hangover Bowl at Blu Wolf Bistro or eat somewhere with a theme like Mad Hatter , or you’d like to take a break with a cup of coffee after checking out some local shops, this district is made to please.

Even more pleasing is the architecture and ambiance. You can easily spend a day exploring the shops and galleries, and finish off the day at a local brewery.

Memorial Art Gallery ★

In one of the best cities in New York, you can find 5,000 years of history on display at the Memorial Art Gallery , hosted by the University of Rochester. With over 12,000 objects on display and a year-round schedule of exhibitions, concerts, tours, lectures, and family fun, it has been called one of the best museums in Upstate New York.  

The Gate House

How about affordable, organic, and sustainable food in an amazing environment? The Gate House offers just that with its mouth-watering gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizza. They manage all this while powering their entire operation and restaurant solely on wind and solar power! Don’t miss Sunday brunch with mimosas and their famous Bloody Marys.

Go Kayaking on Irondequoit Bay

If you’re a fan of kayaking, take the quiet path from Irondequoit Creek to the Bay. Whether you shuttle to the Bay or go round-trip, this peaceful and quiet creek offers plenty of flora and fauna to see.

There aren’t strong currents, so it’s a great activity for the family or beginners who want to try out their skills. You can rent kayaks in Ellison Park for the whole family.

Lyric Theatre Company of Rochester

Located in an early 1900s church, the Rochester Lyric Opera found a home in Rochester for their performances and educational programs. With 700 seats in the auditorium, this building was designed for music, featuring stunning architecture and perfect acoustics.

Although recently converted back to a church, the Lyric Theatre still offers community performances in its incredible space – why not stop in for a world-class production?

ArtWalk Rochester

This might be one of the best things to do in Rochester, NY! ARTWalk is a permanent urban art trail connecting the arts centers and public spaces within the Neighborhood of the Arts .

Join up your visits to the George Eastman Museum and the Memorial Art Gallery and follow this interactive, outdoor museum with public art as part of practical things like benches and painted on the sidewalks. You can check out individual pieces, or walk the whole route with a downloadable map.

Geva Theatre Center

The corner the Geva Theatre Center now stands on has an important place in history as a gathering place for presidents, governors, and military personnel, as well as artists, celebrities, and musicians.

Since Geva purchased and revamped the building in the 1980s, they’ve presented around 336 plays and housed over 5,000 actors, directors, managers, and designers. Each seat is at most 50 feet from the stage, making it an intimate space to watch performances.

The theater supports multiple productions throughout the year. Right now, they’re offering one of my favorites: Rogers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella!

Susan B. Anthony House Museum

On 17 Madison Street sits the house of Susan B. Anthony , the legendary women’s rights leader. This is the home she lived in, the site of her arrest in 1872 after she voted, and the headquarters of the National American Woman Suffrage Association while she was President.

Experience the power of place at her home and the Susan B. Anthony Museum and learn about the impact she had on women’s and American history.

Walk the Erie Canalway Trail

Between Rochester and nearby Fairport, there’s an excellent stretch of the Erie Canalway Trail to explore. The 14-mile off-road trail is great for walkers and bikers, and passes through woodlands and streams, with great views of canal boats and the infrastructure of this famous man-made waterway.

Bike the entire trail in about an hour or take a leisurely stroll to one of the picturesque villages along the way, such as Pittsford or Fairport.

Take a Segway Tour

Upstate Seg Tours can whisk you around the best parts of Rochester for an hour or two on a Segway scooter. Glide around with up to 5 other people and see more that the city has to offer with professional and knowledgeable guides. 

Relax on Charlotte Beach

If you’re looking for one of the best beaches in Upstate New York, Ontario Beach Park should be on your list. One of the Great Lake’s best natural sand beaches, it covers 39 acres and has a sandy waterfront with Charlotte Pier. Enjoy the beach, the pier, the Dentzel Menagerie Carousel built in 1905, or a picnic. It’s open year-round for summer or winter fun.

Strong National Museum of Play

Whether you have kids or not, the Strong National Museum of Play is not only one of the fun things to do in Rochester but may top the list of best museums in Upstate New York. Both kids and adults love the museum exhibits, and the learning about the history of how life and our interests have changed over the centuries. You can even visit Sesame Street!

Rochester Museum and Science Center

This interactive museum appeals to all ages. Whether you like natural history, space, or local history, there are exhibits for you to get lost in. My favorite exhibit is the life story of Frederick Douglass and black lives in Rochester, the Underground Railroad, and the impact of slavery on the United States. 

The Little Theater

This little theater , designed in the style of Edgar Philips of Rochester and Frederick Pike of Buffalo, is on the National Register of Historic Places and a big part of the Little Cinema Movement .

This movement tried to appeal to audiences that preferred things outside of the realm of the larger commercial movie houses, such as silent films. Why not see a movie at an iconic theater of cinematic history?

High Falls Center & Interpretive Museum

One of the best places to visit in Rochester, and probably the best place to start your visit, is the High Falls Center . Not only can you learn some of the history of Rochester at the museum, but there’s a laser show and plenty of tours to take. 

It sits right at the center of what used to be Rochester’s and America’s flour milling industry. There’s even a fantastic footbridge for the perfect view of High Falls. 

Visit the Breweries of Rochester

Rochester started its first brewery in 1819 and boomed to over 50 breweries before the fall in the 1900s (9 remained). Craft breweries started to pop up in the 90s, and Rochester is now home to over 30 craft breweries. 

• Genesee Brewing Company (4.6/5): The oldest brewing company in Rochester and New York State, this brewery is named for the river it resides near. They stored the beer in the cold, dark caverns and gorges surrounding the river. 
• Roc Brewing Co. (4.5/5): Grab a flight of local beer in their tasting room downtown. This brewery tries to maintain that hometown feel while following the current trends in craft brewing. There’s something for everyone to try, no matter what you fancy. 
• R.G. Brewery and Five Sons Winery (4.7/5): I would say that this winery is among the best breweries in Upstate New York. Beyond their excellent location in Brockport, just outside of the city, their food, beer, and wine are a wonderful experience. I recommend the wine gelato!
• Rohrbach Brewing Co. on Railroad Street (4.7/5): Founded in 1991, this brewery has the honor of being Rochester’s first craft brewery. The beer hall serves the best wood-fired pizza in town. 

Play at the Dreamworks Rink

This indoor, year-round skating rink is a great place to go and play, especially if you need some indoor fun out of the rain or snow. The Genesee Valley Sports Complex offers ice skating, an outdoor pool, and a sports floor. Check out their open skate and adult-only skating times, and rent your skates right in the Dreamworks Rink. 

Tinker Nature Park

While you’ll have to leave your four-footed friends at home, the Tinker Nature Park in Henrietta is a great little park focused on nature. With some short trails and several museums and learning centers, you can spend the day outside and see the flora and fauna firsthand. You can even rent snowshoes and skis the explore the park in the winter.

Mount Hope Cemetery

While you usually wouldn’t think of a cemetery on a list of things to do in Rochester, Mount Hope Cemetery has a lot to offer. Beyond being one of the most impressive Victorian cemeteries in the country, it’s also the resting place of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.

This stunning location will awe you in every way with the natural landscape and the sculptures scattered throughout the arboretum.  It might seem a little strange, but it is really worth a visit. 

Genesee Riverway Trail

Bike, run, or walk the scenic 9-mile trail that runs through 9 historic districts and landmarks, including the 1842 Erie Canal Aqueduct and the Lake Ontario Lighthouse. Along the course, you can access many of Rochester’s wonderful sites including three waterfalls, the gorge, eight bridges, and eleven parks (including some designed by Frederick Law Olmsted ).

Genesee Country Village & Museum

Witness history brought to life at the Genesee Country Village and Museum . Here, 19th-century American history and New York State history have been preserved.

The museum maintains a 19th-century village over 600 acres including a working farm, 68 historic buildings and an educational experience you can’t beat. Engage all five senses and explore history before your eyes.

Lamberton Conservatory

Within the beautiful Highland Park , you’ll find the Lamberton Conservatory . After the flour mills left Rochester, the city started a booming business in the plant and seed market. Highland Park and the Conservatory are symbolic of that moment in the past.

Spend a gray or rainy day inside the conservatory relaxing to the sound of running water while taking in all the colors and scents of flowers and tropical plants. This is an excellent place for photographers to practice their art in macro photos.

Ganondagan State Historic Site

This very special historic site is a must stop! The Ganondagan serves as a valuable resource for understanding local Native American history in the region through its exhibitions, beautiful cultural center, Seneca Bark Longhouse, nature trails, and much more.

Situated just 15 minutes between Rochester and Canandaigua, it’s easy to stop by here between your New York road trip adventures. 

I learned so much at the Ganondagan State Historic Site, things that should have been taught to us in schools as New Yorkers! You’ll learn about the significance of this location, formerly a vital center for the Seneca people and the Iroquois Confederacy. 

Today, it continues to be an invaluable site for archaeological research, offering insights into the Seneca’s rich heritage and daily life through artifacts and the reconstructed Seneca Bark Longhouse. 

As a hub for cultural preservation, Ganondagan is dedicated to educating visitors about the traditions, politics, and social structures of the Seneca and other Iroquois nations.

Spanning 569 acres of diverse landscapes, it also offers natural beauty through its trails and guided tours, alongside hosting numerous cultural and educational events to promote understanding and appreciation of local Native American history and culture.

Black Button Distilling

If you’re a fan of bourbon or gin, then this is the place for you. I was introduced to Black Button by accident, and their bourbon creme makes the best root beer floats. After my first encounter, I needed to see what more they had to offer.

Tour their distillery and visit their tasting room in a stunning brick building; you won’t be sorry! They even host cocktail classes and sell kits.

Explore Finger Lakes Wine Country

Relax and sip away at world-class wine in the Finger Lakes Wine Country . There are wine trails, breweries, cideries, and distilleries sprinkled all throughout the region. Summer or winter, the views and the people are spectacular, and so is the wine. 

Rochester City Ballet

Rochester City Ballet is the only professional ballet company in New York State outside New York City! It’s a great opportunity to see a live ballet performance outside of New York City or Saratoga (where there’s a troop in residency from the city).

Whether they’re performing classics like Sleeping Beauty or The Nutcracker or original works, it’s sure to be breathtaking.

The Strasenburgh Planetarium

While searching around for fun things to do, the Planetarium at the Rochester Museum and Science Center might catch your eye. Take an incredible journey across the universe during one of their shows. They even have an exhibition on how much Rochester has influenced space exploration! 

Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum

As the third oldest chapter in the National Railway Historical Society, the museum began in 1937, but really came to fruition in 1971 with the purchase of a depot on the Erie Lackawanna Railroad.

They’ve built a demonstration railroad with historic railroad equipment and offer the only real train rides in the city. Two miles of landmark rail connect the two museums by train. 

Photo City Music Hall for Live Performances

This music hall caters to everyone, which features music from all cultures, including local, national, and international artists. Enjoy live music of all varieties. As they say, it’s live entertainment, “From the Weird Side of the Tracks”. With a full calendar of events, there might be something that piques your interest. 

Go to a Rochester Red Wings Game

Rochester has been home to the Red Wings Baseball team since 1899, the oldest minor-league team in the history of professional sports! Why not get tickets for their next game and experience sports history at Frontier Field in downtown Rochester?

Guided Tour of the City

If you want to observe everything there is to see, consider taking one of the many tours available to explore Rochester. Let a guide take you around and tell you all there is to know, or go on your own.

• Frederick Douglass Walking Tour : This self-guided tour takes you around to all the significant sites in this iconic man’s life. One of the foremost leaders in the abolitionist movement, he also worked alongside Susan B. Anthony in support of women’s suffrage. 
• Akwaaba Heritage Tours : You can take one of their pre-made tours, like the Riverwalk, that explores the stops on the Underground Railroad along Main Street, and learn about the lives of Frederick Douglass, Austin Steward, and Harriet A. Jacobs. You can also ask for a custom tour to cover other places you want to learn about. 

Where to Stay in Rochester

• Hampton Inn & Suites : This beautiful hotel is located just outside the city, so you won’t have to fight heavy traffic. With delightful wood furnishings, a complimentary breakfast (they’ll even bag it for you on the go), and a heated indoor pool, you can’t beat this location. 
• Luxury Cottage with Heated Pool + Hot Tub : Stay at this place if you want to experience the small-town charm of downtown yet want to have access to the city! It has a heated swimming outdoor pool and an indoor hot tub, too!
• Cottage on Lake Ontario : If you’re looking for a stay that offers a view of Lake Ontario, this contemporary home is an option. It’s literally a few steps away from the lake! 
• Lake Waterfront Stay : This serene property offers a view of Irondequoit Bay. You may even enjoy the views on a tub!

Where to Eat & Drink in Rochester

• Happy Gut Sanctuary ★: Step away from the kombucha trend and try their unique fermented teas. Each tea is designed to have the fermentation process enhance the subtle flavors of tea.
• Boulder Coffee : What better combination than good coffee and live music? Whether you’re here for a live show, a first date, or to relax with friends, Boulder is the perfect place. 
• Bar Bantam : Smack dab in the heart of Rochester, this all-day eatery commands an incredibly bright and welcoming space whether you’re looking for a lighter cafe-style meal or a full dinner with cocktails. The Marco Polo dinner is superb.
• Rella ★: A 2-minute walk from the Strong Museum of Play, Rella offers a fantastic seafood and wine menu in a retro but inviting setting. Get served generous portions of mouth-watering amazing food. 
• Living Root Urban Winery ★ With a direct link to Australia, the Living Roots Winery has a tasting room in Rochester. They have a bar and patio where you can get a taste or a little bite to eat. 

Annual Events in Rochester

• Rochester International Jazz Festival (runs June 23 to July 1): it’s one of the world’s leading jazz festivals held at the Kodak Hall Eastman Theatre. With an incredible lineup of fantastic jazz musicians, this would be a great time to visit Rochester.
• Lilac Festival is usually hosted during the first three weekends in May while the incredible lilac bushes are flowering. Walk around Highland Park and see the 1,200 lilac bushes in full bloom (they have over 500 varieties). You can also check out amusement rides and local merchants throughout the park. 
• Roc Holiday Village is Rochester’s winter festival, running Wednesdays through Sundays throughout December until Christmas. There’s a shopping village, ice skating, Santa, fire pits, restaurants, igloos, live music, and food trucks. 

Things to Do in Rochester: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rochester, NY, famous for?

So many things. It’s been known as the ‘Flour City,’ the ‘Flower City,’ ‘Photo City,’ and many more due to its contributions to American industry, photography, xerography, optics, and manufacturing. 

Is Rochester worth visiting?

Considering the museums and art galleries alone, Rochester makes a great place to visit. Add in history and diverse culture, and you’d be foolish not to check out this amazing city. 

What food is Rochester known for?

Rochester’s signature dish is the Garbage Plate – a mashup of all kinds of ingredients, usually including a hamburger or cheeseburger, hot dogs (specifically locally made red or white hots), meat or grilled cheese, all served on top of home fries or french fries, sometimes baked beans, and macaroni salad.  It looks a mess, but is surprisingly popular. 

You can find the Garbage Plate all over the city, but check out Nick Tahou Hots (home of the Original Garbage Plate). 

About the Author

Heather Menz has called the Buffalo area home for over 35 years. With a degree in archaeology and a keen interest in history, she has explored sites that are easy to find and those hidden deep in Buffalo and Rochester’s history.

As part of an active and outdoors-oriented family, she has traveled and hiked much and learned more about what the Western New York area has to offer.

Heather Menz

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10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Rochester, NY

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Rochester is one of the most pleasant cities in upstate New York and offers a number of interesting sights. One of the most striking features is High Falls, tumbling 95 feet over a cliff ledge right in the center of downtown. The city is also fortunate to have a large number of well-preserved historical buildings, great museums, and wonderful places to eat.

Downtown is easy to navigate, and many of the key tourist attractions and things to do are a short distance from each other. A visit here, combined with a day trip to nearby Pittsford and the Erie Canal, can make for a very enjoyable weekend getaway. If you're visiting in winter, you can even work in a bit of skiing at nearby Bristol Mountain, one of the best ski resorts in New York State .

For ideas on the best places to visit, see our list of the top things to do in Rochester.

1. Visit the Eastman Museum & Mansion

2. take the kids to the strong national museum of play, 3. soak up some culture at the memorial art gallery, 4. wander through highland park & the lamberton conservatory, 5. see high falls, 6. go shopping at the rochester public market, 7. explore the erie canal in nearby pittsford, 8. tour the national susan b. anthony museum and house, 9. dine around rochester, 10. seneca park zoo, where to stay in rochester for sightseeing, best time to visit rochester.

Highlights : Rare cameras and valuable artwork in a wonderfully restored mansion

George Eastman, founder of the Eastman Kodak Company and the man who brought photography into the lives of everyday people, lived in Rochester. Today, his incredible Colonial Revival mansion is a museum and gallery, where you can learn about the history of photography, visit galleries, grab a bite to eat, and tour the beautiful home and gardens.

A variety of galleries at the Eastman Museum tell the history of photography and will be of interest to shutterbugs. But even non-photographers will enjoy listening to staff members recount interesting stories of Eastman and his development and marketing of film and cameras. On display are examples of various types of photos and cameras from throughout the years. You can see cameras and other items donated by Ansel Adams, including his very first camera given to him as a child.

Wandering through the mansion, you can see how Eastman lived, with some rooms still decorated in the period. Other rooms have been turned into special exhibits, including one room that allows you to walk into the box of a camera obscura and see the inner workings of a camera.

Other unique items include Eastman's pipe organ and a tiny old elevator hidden behind a door, which you can still use. On the main level are movie theaters offering special showings and a café serving homemade sandwiches, coffee, and other beverages.

Address: 900 East Avenue, Rochester, New York

Highlights : Interactive and fun exhibits, a butterfly garden, and a coral reef aquarium

Focusing on the history of play, The Strong is a cross between a traditional history museum and an interactive children's museum, and can be enjoyed by adults and children. Exhibits range from Sesame Street and the Berenstain Bears, right through to the eGameRevolution. The museum is also home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

Brand new in 2023 is a 90,000-square-foot expansion that takes the concept of play to a new level. The new exhibits include an 18-Foot Tall Dragon from Dungeons & Dragons , the World's Largest Playable Donkey Kong Arcade Game , standing 20 feet high. Also new are two massive screens featuring Street Fighter and Super Mario Bros games.

The Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden is the largest of its kind in New York state. This year-round indoor exhibit offers a chance to see butterflies, as well as turtles, a panther chameleon, and birds, as you wander along the path.

Other points of interest in the museum are the coral reef aquarium and the Elaine Wilson Carousel and Strong Express Train. Rides require a small fee. Ensure that you allow plenty of time to visit - with over 285,000 square feet of display space, this museum is massive.

Address: One Manhattan Square, Rochester, New York

Highlights : Mummies from Egypt, 17th-century paintings, traveling exhibits

The Memorial Art Gallery has a diverse collection of art and is one of the key cultural establishments in the city. The museum was founded in 1913 and today holds more than 12,000 items in its collection.

Pieces on display range from 17th-century paintings to ancient drums from Borneo, right through to mummies from ancient Egypt. The collection is spread out over two floors. Don't miss the massive pipe organ in the main room on the second floor. Traveling exhibits come through on a regular basis, so be sure to check the museum's calendar prior to visiting.

Address: 500 University Avenue, Rochester, New York

Highlights : A delightful greenspace, a historical conservatory, walking trails

One of Rochester's most beautiful public parks, Highland Park is set on 19.6 acres of rolling hills, with massive oak, pine, and maple trees; walking trails; and open spaces. It's a wonderful place to go for a walk on the wooded and winding trails, or simply soak up the serenity. In fall, when the leaves are changing color, it's spectacular.

One of the highlights of the park is the Lamberton Conservatory . The original building with its beautiful glass dome and windows was built in 1911 but was completely rebuilt according to the original plans in 2008. The atrium, filled with tropical plants, makes a pleasant indoor escape on cold days.

Address: Highland Park Conservancy, 180 Reservoir Avenue, Rochester, New York

Highlights : A stunning waterfall, easily accessible, Pont de Rennes Bridge with great views

Rochester's unique position on the Genesee River means one of the area's most beautiful natural attractions can be found right downtown. The rushing river tumbles 95 feet off the escarpment at High Falls crashing into a maelstrom of froth and mist.

The best view of the falls is from High Falls Terrace Park , where you can look across to the falls from a high vantage point. Restaurants perched on this side of the gorge are just a short walk away from the park and make a nice lunch stop.

For a close-up view of the water rushing over the edge of the falls, head across the river to the High Falls Lookout near the Gorsline Building. This viewpoint is surrounded by interesting 19th-century buildings. If you don't mind a bit of a walk, stroll out on the pedestrian-only Pont de Rennes Bridge for a straight-on view of High Falls.

Highlights : The city's freshest fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses

The Rochester Public Market is a hive of activity on market days: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. This year-round market has been a Rochester institution since 1905. Over 300 vendors sell all manner of fresh food in stalls located in outdoor sheds and one large indoor hall.

The Rochester Public Market is an ideal place to find the freshest local and international produce along with meats, seafood, and cheeses from specialty producers. In addition to fresh food, there are cafes, food stands, and even a florist on-site.

Throughout the year, the market holds regular events that range from musical performances, food truck competitions, flower markets, and gigantic flea markets. Most of these events take place in the warmer months. Check out the market's website for the latest information.

Saturday is by far the busiest day, and parking can be a challenge, so go early if you can, and use of the Scio entrance is recommended.

Address: 280 North Union Street, Rochester, New York

Highlights : History, kayaking, and quaint restaurants overlooking the canal

Pittsford is a small historic village just a short drive from central Rochester and is perfect for a day trip. Here, you'll find quaint shops and restaurants lining the picturesque Erie Canal, along with a historic downtown.

First settled in 1776, the village has done a good job of retaining its historic charms. In summer, this is a pleasant spot to park the car and stroll around, stop in at local boutiques, or have lunch and watch the boats motor by.

If you crave something a bit more adventuresome, hit the water in a kayak at the Lock 32 Whitewater Waterpark. Built in a former spillway for the canal, the water park has fast water up to class V each weekend throughout the summer. If you just want to try kayaking or playboating, lessons are available.

Highlight : A perfectly preserved home of one of America's historical figures

Susan B. Anthony lived in this restored heritage house with one of her sisters. This is the location of the famous arrest of Ms. Anthony, when she attempted to vote in 1872. Tours of the Susan B. Anthony Museum are available daily. Note that the house has three levels, and climbing stairs is required. Tours take about an hour to complete and are led by docents. The home next door was owned by another of her sisters.

Down the street is the Susan B. Anthony Square Park , with towering trees and a bronzed sculpture titled "Let's Have Tea" by local artist Pepsy Kettavong, featuring Ms. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.

Address: 19 Madison Street, Rochester, New York

Highlights : Fine dining in classy surroundings, casual fare on a patio, and a chance to eat at a historical diner

You don't have to go far to find some excellent and interesting dining options in Rochester, be it casual or fine dining. For fine dining combined with history, try The Cub Room , where exposed brick, wooden ceilings, and black-and-white photos take you back to the era of the 1930s and 40s.

With a varied menu to suit all tastes, The Revelry is another great dining choice with indoor and outdoor space in summer. It also serves a tasty brunch. And for a full selection of tasty, casual food, from breakfast to dinner, head to the Highland Park Diner . This traditional-looking diner is a bit of an institution in the city.

Highlights : Penguins, polar bears, giraffe feeding, and a new café

The small but very interesting Seneca Park Zoo is a perfect and affordable family outing when visiting Rochester. The zoo is home to 90 species spanning the globe from pole to pole.

Must-dos include visiting the African Penguin pavilion to see the cutest little creatures you can imagine swimming about, a stop at the Olive Baboon enclosure to see the troop doing their thing, and time with the polar bear Anoki.

A highlight of a visit here is giraffe feeding. For a modest fee, you can get up close and personal with Iggy, Kipenzie, and Olmsted, who will be more than happy to eat what you are offering.

If you and your crew work up a hunger, the new Trailside Café has a good selection of meals and snacks to suit every visitor.

Rochester's main attractions are relatively close to one another, and it's an easy city to get around. Staying in the older historical part of the city near the museums is preferable. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations.

Luxury Hotels:

• A top choice for both luxury and location is The Strathallen Rochester Hotel & Spa - a Double Tree by Hilton . This hotel is situated just down the street from the Memorial Art Gallery in a beautiful and historic part of the city. Rooms are large and come with balconies, and hotel amenities include a rooftop fire pit and indoor pool.
• For a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples, try the Inn on Broadway This boutique property features 25 tastefully decorated rooms and offers exceptional service. The hotel's restaurant, Tournedos, is one of the city's best dining spots.
• Handy to the Amtrak station and connected to the convention center is the recently renovated Hyatt Regency Rochester. At the top end of the mid-range category, this hotel is well located in the heart of downtown Rochester and is also close to the Blue Cross Arena. High Falls is only a short stroll away.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Located right near Rochester University is Staybridge Suites Rochester University . This riverfront hotel features suites complete with fridges and microwaves and a separate sitting area. Monday through Wednesday, a complimentary evening reception is held with light bites and beverages.
• Located nearby is the Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center . This recently built hotel features modern and comfortable rooms and is located in the new College Town complex, close to numerous attractions.
• The newly renovated Hampton Inn Rochester-Greece is about 10 minutes from downtown. The indoor pool is ideal for families with children. A hot buffet breakfast is included with each stay.

Budget Hotels:

• Budget hotels can be found a short distance outside the downtown core. Access to the city is via Interstates, so travel time is relatively short. The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester Airport - University offers spacious rooms, a decent breakfast, and an indoor pool. Several types of rooms are available.
• Another good option is the Holiday Inn Express Rochester - University Area, with an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.
• A bit more economical and a little farther out, the Econo Lodge I90 & I390 is a few streets off the Interstate with quiet, comfortable rooms, and offers a basic continental breakfast.

The best time to visit Rochester is in the summer months of June, July, and August . Pack your shorts, at this time of year. You'll find warm to hot days that have a lingering heat late into the evening. The city is abuzz with plenty of visitors attending fun festivals. One of the highlights is the marquee Rochester International Jazz Festival .

Late May and June are very pleasant, with moderate temperatures and lovely long days. The flowers bloom, and the trees get their leaves. September has much of the heat of the summer, but the days are shorter, and evenings tend to be cool, especially later in the month.

October is sweater weather, with warm days and cold nights, but it has the added bonus of fall foliage. The winter months of December, January, and February in Rochester are cold, grey, and snowy, but trips to the nearby ski hills make the short days more tolerable. November is rainy and not recommended.

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Upstate New York: In this area of New York, you can find interesting cities, all with historic architecture and traditional and vibrant city centers, perfect for a weekend getaway. For some ideas, see our Top Attractions in Buffalo , and nearby Niagara Falls . And just an hour from Rochester is Syracuse , with a full range of attractions, basketball and football games, and incredible shopping.

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21 Amazing Things to Do in Rochester, NY

During my time writing this site, I’ve traveled extensively throughout New York, and there are few places that I look forward to visiting more than Rochester.

That’s because there are not only so many great things to do in Rochester, NY, but there is also an incredible variety of sights to see. Whether you love world-class museums, incredible waterfalls, local culinary creations, or fascinating culture, there’s a bit of something for everyone that can be easily checked out in the area.

So, after visiting the city many times over the years, here are my picks for the best things to do in Rochester and the rest of Monroe County.

Susan B. Anthony House

There may be no more influential figure to have resided in Rochester than Susan B. Anthony, and her home in West Rochester is open throughout the year for tours.

Visits to the Susan B. Anthony House offer the chance to learn more about her incredible life and the impact that she had on women’s rights, specifically the right to vote. Tours take you through the home and include many pieces owned and used by Anthony.

The home next door has even been turned into a great little museum.

Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, you’ll find the incredible High Falls along the Genesee River .

This nearly 100-foot waterfall creates a dramatic scene in the middle of the city thanks to both its large size and the massive canyon the river has carved below it.

There are a variety of viewing spots from which to see this waterfall, so make sure to check out each of the interesting spots.

Strong Museum of Play

I’ve visited many children’s museums, and I don’t think that there’s a better one in New York (or perhaps anywhere) than the Strong Museum of Play.

This museum features dozens of unique play areas for children including scientific areas, pinball machines, a giant pretend grocery store, Sesame Street, and much more. Even better, many of these areas are also quite fun for parents to experience too.

The Strong Museum is also home to an actual toy museum featuring vintage toys from American history and an entire area devoted to video games (many of which you can play).

George Eastman Museum

The George Eastman Museum is the world’s oldest museum dedicated to photography and is located in the home of George Eastman, the founder of the Kodak Company.

The museum chronicles the history of photography and film from its earliest days up through modern advancements. The pieces of display here are truly remarkable and offer a fascinating glimpse into how these media have changed throughout the years.

The museum also features a fascinating look into Eastman, who was quite an interesting individual even aside from his company.

Cobb’s Hill Park

Cobb’s Hill Park is a 109-acre park located southwest of downtown Rochester. The park features many typical park amenities including sports fields and playgrounds and is also home to the city’s reservoir.

The highlight for visitors, however, is the incredible view of the skyline of downtown Rochester from the top of Cobb’s Hill. Without a doubt, this is one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset.

Seneca Park Zoo

If you love animals, then visiting the Seneca Park Zoo is one of the best things to do in Rochester, NY.

This zoo is home to more than 90 different species from around the world and offers the chance to see many of them up close. These include popular species such as tigers, sea lions, and polar bears.

For kids, the zoo is also home to a very large and creative natural playground that is a ton of fun for them to explore.

Craft Breweries

If you love craft beer, Rochester is a great city to visit. Not only are there a ton of great breweries in Rochester , but there are also some really interesting and inventive taproom spaces to visit.

Spots like Genesee Brewing Company (with its great deck overlooking High Falls), Fifth Frame Brewing Company (which both brews beer and roasts coffee), and Stoneyard Brewing Company (which is right on the Erie Canal) offer the chance to enjoy great beer in unique settings.

Lower Falls

A short distance north of downtown Rochester, you’ll find Lower Falls , another massive waterfall along the Genesee River.

At 110 feet in height, this is actually the tallest of the five major waterfalls along the river and is also the last before the river empties into Lake Ontario.

While viewing this waterfall isn’t as easy as seeing High Falls, there are several vantage points both at the rim of the canyon and near the base where you can enjoy this beautiful waterfall from.

Genesee Country Village and Museum

Located southwest of Rochester, you’ll find the Genesee Country Village and Museum .

This 19th-century living village features nearly 70 historic structures moved here from around the region and offers a fantastic look at what life was like in this part of New York in years past. Many of the buildings are staffed by costumed interpreters.

In addition to the village, there is a historic baseball field that has regularly scheduled baseball games with 19th-century rules and several other museums on the grounds.

Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

Located near the mouth of the Genesee River, you’ll find the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse .

This lighthouse dates back to the mid-19th century and allows visitors to explore both the museum within the lighthouse keeper’s home and climb to the top of the restored and still-functional lighthouse.

The views from the top are incredible and offer the chance to look out over northern Monroe County and Lake Ontario.

Corbett’s Glen

Corbett’s Glen Nature Park is a 52-acre park southeast of Rochester.

This small park features several picturesque waterfalls, a very cool stone tunnel, and a short trail that connects them all together. This hike is relatively easy, making it a great choice for visitors of all ability levels.

While parking here is pretty limited, this is definitely a neat spot for a quick hike if you can find a spot to park.

Rochester Museum and Science Center

Whether you want to learn more about Rochester or love science, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is a great spot to check out.

This museum offers a wealth of information about the history of Rochester, including details about the region’s natural history, native peoples, and important industries. Interspersed throughout the space, there are many hands-on science activities that are sure to delight people of all ages.

If you have the time, the museum is also home to the city’s only planetarium.

Seabreeze Amusement Park

Located north of the city, Seabreeze Amusement Park is a great spot to visit for some summertime fun.

Seabreeze first opened in 1889 and is the fourth-oldest amusement park in the country. Despite its age, there are a lot of fun modern rides here. However, the highlight is the Jack Rabbit, which is the world’s oldest continually-operating roller coaster.

In addition to the park’s 25 rides, there is also a popular waterpark that you can enjoy on hot days.

Mount Hope Cemetery

Mount Hope Cemetery was the first municipal cemetery in the country and has been open since 1839.

In that time, hundreds of thousands of people have been buried in the cemetery, including some of Rochester’s most prominent citizens. The grounds here are quite beautiful and you can visit the final resting places of luminaries such as Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.

There are also guided tours held periodically throughout the year.

Ontario Beach Park

While Rochester might be hundreds of miles from the ocean, there are several beach areas along Lake Ontario in Monroe County. Probably the closest to the city is Ontario Beach Park , which is located near the mouth of the Genesee River. 

The natural sand beach here offers a lot of summertime fun and the chance to cool off on the water of the lake. There are also beach volleyball courts, a pier, and great fishing.

If that’s not enough, you can also take a ride on the park’s 1905 carousel.

Powder Mills Fish Hatchery

Powder Mills Fish Hatchery is a neat spot to visit in Powder Mill Park.

This hatchery first opened in 1933 and is home to thousands of trout being grown for stocking in nearby waterways. Visitors can check out the tanks with various sized fish, feed the fish, and read the great signs to learn more about the workings of the hatchery.

Of course, while at the hatchery, make sure to check out the many other great things to do in the park.

Nick Tahou Hots

No visit to Rochester is complete without a stop at Nick Tahou Hots , a hole-in-the-wall restaurant near downtown.

This restaurant is the original location for Rochester’s most famous culinary dish, the garbage plate. While the name might sound unappealing, a garbage plate is comprised of one of several meat choices and some combination of home fries, macaroni salad, and baked beans. This is then topped with chopped onions, hot sauce, and mustard.

While this is definitely an interesting concoction, and you’ll either love it or hate it, it’s the sort of thing that is worth trying at least once.

Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum

If you love trails, the Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-visit spot.

Located in southeastern Monroe County, this museum offers the chance to learn more about the impact that the railroad had on the history of the region. The museum operates out of a historic Erie Lackawanna Railroad depot and has restored dozens of antique engines, passenger cars, and other rolling stock.

It is also the only place in the Rochester area where you can ride an authentic antique train!

Honeoye Falls

Honeoye Falls is both the name of a southern Monroe County community and the name of a waterfall located in the heart of the downtown area. While the village looks quite charming, I’m specifically referring to the waterfall here.

Honeoye Falls appears to be a natural waterfall topped with a small concrete dam. Combined, it is about 25-30 feet tall. It is located right in the heart of town with the town hall on one side and a historic red mill (that is privately owned) on the other. 

The viewing area next to the town hall makes for a spectacular sight with the waterfall in the foreground and the bright red mill in the background.

Turning Point Park

Located north of downtown Rochester along the Genesee River, you’ll find Turning Point Park . This 275-acre park is home to an area known as Bullock’s Woods and features several miles of wooded trails for hiking and biking.

The highlight here, however, is the two-thirds of a mile-long boardwalk that passes over a bulbous area of the Genesee River that was once, as the name implies, a place for large cargo ships to turn around after docking along the river.

Walking over this boardwalk offers incredible views of the river and even gives you the chance, if you’re lucky, to see some of the area’s interesting wildlife.

New York Museum of Transportation

The New York Museum of Transportation offers a fantastic look into the history of transportation in New York.

The museum features many fantastic displays including a giant model railroad, many restored train cars, and even a historic subway car from the city’s defunct light rail.

The main draw here is their trolley ride, making them the only museum in New York with an antique electric trolley that visitors can ride.

What are your favorite things to do in Rochester, New York? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for even more great places to visit in New York? Check out my favorite things to do in Buffalo , my top picks in Syracuse , the best things to do in Ithaca , and the top waterfalls in the Finger Lakes .

More nearby places worth exploring

Getting in the Christmas Spirit at the It’s a Wonderful Life Museum in Seneca Falls, NY

Visiting the Harriet Tubman House and Gravesite in Auburn, NY

Staying the Night at Lake Bluff Campground Near Chimney Bluffs State Park

ROC Lights at Victor Hills: Festive Christmas Fun Near Rochester

Find more things to do in the finger lakes.

Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

8 thoughts on “21 Amazing Things to Do in Rochester, NY”

Lived here most of my life and, sadly, never knew, let alone visited, most of Rochester’s many interesting sites. I’ve seen only a very few, but one that isn’t mentioned is Highland Park, also known as Lilac Park. Thank you so much for the “tour”, I only wish I was physically able to go and see many of them.

My husband uses a mobility scooter..most of these places are accessible!

Frederick Douglass Monument in Highland Park. Rochester’s airport was just renamed after Douglass.

Whenever I return ‘home’, I remember what culture is. It makes me remember simpler times and really think twice about why I live in Florida.

Working locks along canal. #41 maybe… Jefferson Rd…

Rochester has one of the best Farmers Markets in the country! Also, don’t forget the Erie Canal and our numerous summertime festivals; Park Ave, Clothesline@ the Art Museum, Cornhill etc.

Perhaps a bit outside of Rochester but stll considered part of the area to locals: The magnificent Finger Lakes and Letchworth State Park. Canandaigua Lake, the jewel of the eleven Finger Lakes, is only about a 30 minute drive from Rochester. Other western finger lakes, Conesus and Honeoye, are also nearby. Letchworth has 3 significant waterfalls and Letchworth gorge is often called the Grand Canyon of the East. Fall colors make this a must see. A museum at the middle falls highlights the history of the Seneca nation of the Iroquois Confederacy. And nearby Glen Iris Inn makes a perfect lunch stop!

Letchworth is a great park, but I kept this list just to things to do in Monroe County.

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Attractions

Museums, thrill rides, doubleheaders … whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, there’s always something to see and do in Rochester!  We've highlighted a few ideas on places to visit in Rochester, but browse the listings below for even more ideas. 

The Strong National Museum of Play in downtown Rochester delights children and adults with its hands-on approach to learning. Kids can shop at the mini-Wegmans grocery store (a staple to us Rochesterians), explore interactive exhibits for all ages, walk and play through the outdoor Hasbro Game Park , tour the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden ® , and view the  National Toy Hall of Fame with toys beloved by all generations. 

The Rochester Museum and Science Center offers many ways to spark creativity in young minds while encouraging lifelong learning opportunities for adults. Along with viewing the permanent and traveling exhibits, visitors can catch a show at the Strasenburgh Planetarium and walk the trails of the Cumming Nature Center .

Take a trip back in time when you visit Genesee Country Village & Museum— the largest living history museum in New York State and third largest in the United States. The museum features costumed interpreters in restored historic buildings that create a working 19th-century village setting the stage to tell the story of New York State and American history. 

The oldest photography museum in the world can be found here in Rochester at the George Eastman Museum , located on the estate of George Eastman, the pioneer of popular photography and motion picture film. The museum features rotating galleries, tours of the historic mansion and gardens, a historic theatre capable of screening nitrate and 35 mm films, and a range of programs and events all year long for fans of photography. 

Explore the place that Susan B. Anthony called home during the most politically active period of her life and even stand in the front parlor where she was arrested for voting in 1872 with a visit to the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House —a National Historic Landmark—in Rochester, NY. 

Art enthusiasts will not be disappointed in the number of museums and galleries our city offers. With the Memorial Art Gallery , including the Centennial Sculpture Park , and the Rochester Contemporary Art Center , there are works of art to please even the toughest art critic.    

Theme Parks and the Zoo

Seabreeze Amusement Park is one of only thirteen trolley parks still operating in the U.S., and it offers thrill rides and attractions for the entire family. It’s also home to the Jack Rabbit , the oldest continuously operating wooden roller coaster in the country, in operation since 1920. Seabreeze also has a water park, kiddie rides, midway, and food.  

Roseland Waterpark is a family-fun water destination in the Finger Lakes. Enjoy 56 acres of aquatic adventure and 9 unique water attractions perfect for the entire family, including speedy tube and tubeless slides, a raft tube, wave pool, splash factory, and adventure river. Near Roseland Waterpark is Roseland Wakepark , the first and only Cable Wake Park in the northeastern United States. It’s perfect for experienced wakeboarders and those that want to learn. 

The Seneca Park Zoo is open year-round and is home to over 90 different species. Conservation is at the forefront of the Zoo’s mission, and it is committed to the highest standard of care for each animal. Along with visiting the animals, kids can enjoy the huge central playground, hands-on learning activities, and educational programs.   

The Rochester Red Wings , Rochester’s Minor League baseball team, always draws an energetic crowd to their home games at Innovative Field . Theme nights like Pride Night, Garbage Plate Night, and First Responders Night, add to the fun and make rooting for the home team even more exciting. 

During ice hockey season, the Rochester Americans (locally referred to as the Amerks), play at the Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial. The games are faced-paced, loud, and exciting—everything a hockey game should be! 

Root for the home team and cheer for Rochester soccer team Flower City Union . 

The Top 15 Things to Do in Rochester, New York

This Historic Upstate City Has More Attractions Than You Realized

John Kucko / Visit Rochester

The northward-flowing Genesee River meets Great Lake Ontario in Rochester: New York State's third-largest city. A hub of industry since shortly after its post-Revolutionary War founding, Rochester remains at the forefront of innovation. If you remember the days of film cameras, then you probably helped build Rochester, which has famously been home to the Eastman Kodak Company since 1888. And that means you owe it to yourself to visit this lively city, where these days, "Kodak moments" happen at cool museums and flower-filled parks, at sports and performing arts venues, beside waterfalls and at more than 100 area wineries, breweries and distilleries. Ready to explore Rochester? Here are 15 of the best things to do in and near "Rachacha."

Act Like a Kid (at Any Age) at the Strong National Museum of Play

 Visit Rochester

You'll never think of museums the same way after a visit to this interactive destination that appeals to the kid in everyone. Founder Margaret Woodbury Strong was the largest single Kodak shareholder and a multimillionaire at the time of her death in 1969: just one year after she created her Museum of Fascination. Her substantial assets have enabled the museum to grow and evolve into one of the largest history museums in the nation with a one-of-a-kind mission to celebrate and encourage creativity and play. Home to collections, exhibits and the National Toy Hall of Fame and World Video Game Hall of Fame, you'll be immersed in both nostalgia and the latest technology. Hang out on Sesame Street (it's recreated here!); bust a move in the DanceLab; walk through a giant kaleidoscope; play your way through the evolution of video games. That's just a smattering of the activities that make the Strong Museum a must for all ages.

Get a Taste of Rochester at the Public Market

Rochester Public Market 

Rochester's year-round, city-run Public Market is a long-standing tradition that dates back to 1905. Open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, it attracts a plethora of vendors — as many as 300 on a peak Saturday — and you'll be astounded by the array of farm-fresh and foraged produce, gourmet products, locally raised meats, art and crafts, flowers and other unique products on offer. It's the food, though, that entices many out-of-towners, especially when the Public Market hosts Food Truck Rodeos the last Wednesday evening of each month from April through September.

Be Inspired at the George Eastman Museum

 George Eastman Museum

Kodak co-founder George Eastman never married but his company and his city were his "babies." Much of his substantial fortune was donated or bequeathed to Rochester institutions, and his legacy is most strongly preserved at this multifaceted museum of photography and motion pictures, which opened in 1949 and gained a 73,000-square-foot exhibition building in 1989. Visitors can tour Eastman's restored Colonial Revival mansion and snap photos in the gardens, then head into the museum to see current exhibitions of work by contemporary photographers, films screened in the Dryden Theatre and the permanent collection's photography equipment and images, from primitive daguerreotypes to works by legendary photographers like Mathew Brady and Ansel Adams.

See High Falls on a Historic District Walking Tour

The Genesee River tumbles 96 feet at High Falls in the heart of Rochester. You'll want to admire and photograph this waterfall, which powered the mills that earned Rochester its first nickname: "Flour City." In this historic part of the city, a self-guided walking tour of less than a half-mile will lead you to landmarks from Rochester's 19th-century industrial boom including Genesee Brewing Company and the former Rochester Button Company, as well as the 1914 Kodak Tower. Walk out onto the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge, and you'll have a perfect angle for shooting pictures of High Falls and the Genesee River Gorge.

Celebrate Lilacs

Visit Rochester

Rochester's Highland Park has a sweet-smelling claim to fame: It is home to the largest lilac collection in the world. The first lilacs were planted in 1892, and these spring blooms have been celebrated since 1905. May is the prime month to visit if you want to see these 1,200-some lilac shrubs in fragrant bloom: There are more than 500 varieties to photograph and admire. They're the inspiration for Rochester's newer nickname — "Flower City" — and a 10-day free Lilac Festival that is North America's largest celebration of its kind. You'll want to wear purple and be there for the parade; wine, craft beer and Bloody Mary tasting expos; Art in the Park; live-action Garden Battles and evening concerts.

Sample Rochester's Beverage Bounty

 Finger Lakes Wine Country

More than 100 beer, wine and spirits makers are clustered in this New York region, so you may feel overwhelmed by the opportunities to imbibe. If beer is your beverage of choice, you can sip history at the Genesee Brew House , located adjacent to one of America's oldest breweries. Genesee has been brewing in Rochester since 1878. Visit more than a dozen upstart craft brewers like Iron Tug , Fifth Frame and Three Heads , too. Wine enthusiasts love Rochester's proximity to Finger Lakes Wine Country : The "Sonoma of the East" has more than 100 scenic wineries, and additional vineyards are popping up along Lake Ontario's shores, too. Be sure to try ice wine at Casa Larga , just a 15-minute trip from downtown Rochester. Fine spirits are being distilled in Rochester, as well. Tour Black Button Distilling and taste grain-to-glass, distinctly Rochester spirits like Lilac Gin.

Make a Side Trip to Letchworth State Park

Jim Vallee / iStock / Getty Images

While you're in the Rochester area, you'd be remiss not to visit the state park nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the East." Letchworth State Park, a 45-minute drive southwest of the city,  may not be a household name, but it frequently appears atop lists of the best state parks in the nation. Even if you only drive through the park, stopping at overlooks, you'll be mesmerized by the 600-foot walls of 250-million-year-old sedimentary rock and the three dramatic waterfalls, as the Genesee River gushes through this scenic gorge. Have more time? There are trails to hike, exhibits to visit in the Humphrey Nature Center and, if you plan ahead, hot air balloon rides over the falls for aerial views.

Jump in a Lake

Debora Truax / iStock / Getty Images

Not just any lake, of course — Lake Ontario, one of America's Great Lakes. Rochester's location gives visitors prime access to this freshwater swimming pool, and city-owned, 39-acre Ontario Beach Park is the place to go if you want to spread a blanket on the natural sand, stroll along the pier and even ride an antique carousel. In addition to horses, the 1905 Dentzel Menagerie Carousel has mules, ostriches and a tiger to ride. For more throwback fun, attend a big band dance party at the beach's community center. Admission is just $2 to dance to a live band on Wednesday evenings in the spring and fall.

Root, Root, Root for the Rochester Red Wings

Tim Clayton - Corbis / Contributor / Getty Images

Triple-A minor league baseball action awaits at Frontier Field in Rochester, where the Red Wings have played since 1899. That's right: This is the oldest continuously operating minor league franchise in America. Affiliated with the Minnesota Twins, this top-level farm team's roster features some of the hottest prospects in the country, and affordable tickets, theme nights, giveaways and $1 hot dogs and snacks on Wednesdays make this the perfect family outing.

Attend a Performance at Eastman Theatre

Matthew D. Wilson / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 2.5

Many of the concerts held at this acoustically and visually superb theatre are open free to the public. The venue is located at the renowned Eastman School of Music of the University of Rochester, and talented faculty and student soloists and ensembles perform here frequently. Eastman Theatre, named, of course, after benefactor George Eastman, was updated in 2009 with a $10 million donation from the Eastman Kodak Company. It is home, as well, to performances by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Eastman Opera Theatre, as well as touring ensembles.

Stargaze and More at Rochester Museum & Science Center

Dennis Macdonald / Photolibrary / Getty Images

Home to the newly rejuvenated Strasenburgh Planetarium , where shows inside the four-story dome will take you on an outer space journey, the Rochester Museum & Science Center has been a hub for exploration of our natural world and human scientific achievement for more than a century. With a unique emphasis on history and humanity, along with eye-popping exhibits like the Electricity Theater 's dancing lightning, plus new simulator rides each month, you can chart your own adventure through this urban museum. The Science Center's 900-acre Cumming Nature Center , located just under an hour south of Rochester in Naples, gives you another opportunity to learn and observe on trail hikes and wildflower walks and through a variety of educational programs.

Sweeten Your Morning at Ridge Donut Cafe

 Ridge Donut Cafe

Be forewarned: Once you see Instagram images of the sweet, oversized orbs at Rochester's best donut shop, you won't be able to think about much else until you get your hands on one of these palm-sized confections. Since 1977, family-owned Ridge Donut Cafe has been crafting both tried-and-true traditional donuts and newfangled temptations like cannoli-stuffed powdered donuts and maple-frosted bacon donuts. Expect to find a daily assortment of 30 varieties plus three specials that are often first to sell out. Apple fritters are popular, too, and the cafe serves your basic line-up of hot beverages, and breakfast and hot lunch sandwiches, too.

Appreciate Our Planet's Diversity at Seneca Park Zoo

Zooper12 / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 3.0  

At just 20 acres, Rochester's zoo is less than one-tenth the size of the Bronx Zoo. Yet, a visit here will take you on a trip around the world to meet more than 90 species including endangered African penguins and a polar bear, plus some creatures that sound as though they were invented by Dr. Seuss including the Rock Hyrax and the Hellbender. Seneca Park Zoo is in the midst of a transformation that will add even more animals and attractions, while expanding conservation and education programs. Visit nearly any day of the year, rain or shine: The zoo closes only for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.

Tour the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

 Brett Carlsen / Stringer / Getty Images

Step inside the Rochester home where legendary women's suffrage leader Susan B. Anthony spent much of her life. You'll see the parlor where she was arrested in 1872 for voting in the presidential election, and you'll hear of her tireless work for women's rights. The museum exhibits her personal possessions including her famous alligator purse and artifacts related to her efforts.

Cheer for the Rochester Americans

Buffalo may have the big league NHL team, but Rochester has an affordable alternative that is just as exciting. The Americans play in the American Hockey League (AHL), and these up-and-coming players skate their hearts out. At Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial, fans are treated to special theme nights and promotions.

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Incredible Things To Do In Rochester NY: Experience One Of Upstate New York’s Hidden Gems

These fun things to do in Rochester will help you plan an amazing weekend in one of Upstate New York’s hidden gems.

The city of Rochester, New York was not a destination that had been on my travel radar.

Despite having explored much of Upstate New York with road trips through the Adirondacks , and living within just an hour of both the Canadian and American sides of Niagara Falls , Rochester hadn’t stood out to me as a destination for exciting family adventures.

My greatest connection to Rochester was getting my childhood Saturday morning cartoon fix from Commander Tom on the city’s Channel 7 broadcast

Recently, however, my family made the two-and-a-half-hour drive down to Rochester to make a visit to one of our favorite state parks, Letchworth State Park and ended up being drawn in by the wealth of fun and exciting things to do in Rochester, New York.

To say that this city took us by surprise is an understatement. By the end of our weekend in Rochester, we had completely fallen for this city and were anxious to come back again.

Situated near the shores of Lake Ontario, and with the scenic Genesee River winding through its center, complete with the towering 96-ft tall High Falls, Rochester is as scenic as it is adventurous. And if you’re looking for a great way to spend a weekend in Rochester or explore for longer or just checking out what to do in Rochester, New York, here are some of our favorite things to do.

About Rochester, NY

Table of Contents

Rochester New York is a city of, just over, 200,000 residents in Upstate New York. The city sits between nearby Buffalo and the city of Syracuse on the shores of Lake Ontario. In fact, on a clear day, you can see the iconic skyline of Toronto , Canada from its shores.

Rochester sits in an enviable spot. It’s within easy reach of the Canadian border, yet also just a short distance from the wineries and rural towns of the beautiful Finger Lakes region and the jaw-droppingly beautiful Watkins Glen State Park .

Rochester is one of New York State’s best-kept secrets. The city is ripe with heritage and history, arts and culture, a thriving nightlife, and fantastic restaurants. It has all of the offerings of a big city, but still retains the charm of a small town.

Rochester is a city that has solidified its importance on the American stage as well. It’s been was the home of Susan B. Anthony, the matriarch of the women’s suffrage movement, and is the final resting place of Frederick Douglass, a former black slave turned politician and activist who succeeded in gaining federal voting rights for Black men.

As you can see, Rochester is full of surprises. And I think these incredible things to do in Rochester will help open your eyes to what a fantastic city this is to visit.

Fun Things To Do In Rochester

So we know that Rochester NY has some history, and it has some natural beauty. But is it worth visiting Rochester?

I wouldn’t be writing this article if it wasn’t. This city truly exceeded our expectations. And the fact that we were able to find so many great things to do with kids in Rochester just made it all that much more special.

So let’s plan your visit and explore these awesome things to do right now.

Take a Stroll Through Ontario Beach Park

A visit to Ontario Beach Park is a must for those visiting Rochester in the summer. The soft, sandy shores of Lake Ontario back onto a lush, shady park that covers over 39-acres of waterfront. The park is mixed with great restaurants as well as basketball and beach volleyball courts that make a full-day visit to Ontario Beach Park truly enjoyable.

The park is incredibly popular during the summer months. You’ll find boaters, anglers, and swimmers all enjoying the beautiful scenery and blue waters. You can even rent sun shelters to enjoy on the park grounds.

On our visit, we grabbed “White Hot” (a unique hot dog made with pork, beef, and veal that can only be found in Rochester) and “Ground Round” at Bill Gray’s Rochester Tap Room and took a stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy some people watching

For something sweet, we made a visit to the birthplace of frozen custard at Abbott’s Frozen Custard just across from the main entrance of the park. If it’s a hot day, I recommend getting your frozen custard in a bowl unless you want really sticky hands.

Catch A View of the High Falls Waterfall

Dropping over a massive 96 ft cliff on the Genesee River, High Falls in Rochester, NY is a must-stop for any visit to the city.

Situated among the remains of historic mills, forges, and factories in the High Falls District that date back to the 19th century. Throughout the district, you’ll find educational placards that explain the various buildings along the riverside.

We found a parking spot in the nearby garage and stroll through and around some of the ruined buildings to the converted rail bridge. This bridge is now a scenic pedestrian walkway and offers some of the best views of High Falls anywhere in Rochester.

We were high enough to get an aerial view of the falls and enjoy the sight of birds flying beneath us to bathe in the mist of the powerful waterfall.

If you continue right across the bridge you’ll end up at the Genesee Brewing Co. Or, you can stay on the historic side and make a visit to the Genesee Brew House , a popular pub and patio serving up locally-made beer.

Explore Space and History at the Rochester Museum and Science Center

Whether you’re visiting Rochester with kids or on a couples getaway, one of the most intriguing things to do in Rochester is making a visit to the Rochester Museum and Science Center .

The museum itself is fabulous and offered us a range of interactive and engaging displays that explore from the time of the dinosaurs all the way up to the arrival of Europeans and the displacement of Indigenous Peoples in Upstate New York.

The museum even explores modern sciences such as lightwaves, soundwaves, and even modern construction.

But the true gem of the Rochester science museum is the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium. If you have a fascination with astronomy or outer space, this incredible theater will have you traveling among the stars. The Rochester planetarium ignites its domed theater with a range of entertaining shows and programs that are both family-friendly and fascinating.

On our visit, we enjoyed the “Planet Spectacular” program. The show’s live narration and modern technology allowed us to see the stars and visit nearby planets as well as see them as they are right at that moment. It was a brilliant experience that had us all in awe.

Celebrate Fun at the Strong Museum of Play

Until our latest tour of places to visit in Rochester, the Strong Museum of Play had been our only taste of Rochester. We had first visited on our way to explore the Finger Lakes region , and we had visited again on a journey home from our kid-themed Manhattan food tour .

The Strong Museum of Play is a museum dedicated to the history, technology, and creativity behind the world’s best games, toys, comics, and entertainment technology. It’s fun for all ages, but it’s an absolute must for anyone who is exploring Rochester with kids.

Sprawled across a massive 150,000 square feet are engaging, interactive exhibits completely focused on the art of fun. You’ll find rooms filled top to bottom with video games, displays where you can climb like Spider-Man, and programs designed to engage, entertain, and enlighten visitors about the science of fun.

Mixed among the historic items are countless exhibits that are designed to be played with, not just looked at. You’ll even find a full-sized replica of one of the most iconic locations from Sesame Street.

Among the countless toys and games, we had a blast wandering the butterfly garden, racking up points in the pinball room, and tottering through the towering Sky Climb. This new, multi-story treetop trekking-style experience is where adventurers can make their way through a multitude of aerial obstacles.

Explore Rochester’s Passion for Music

Music has been a big part of my family for as long as I can remember. A love for music is something that I share with my kids. We are constantly jamming at home as my boys learn the tricks of playing guitar and drums.

Rochester is a huge musical city. On any given night there are lives shows scattered at clubs across town. But to really gain a taste of the Rochester music scene, we made a visit to Record Archive and the House of Guitars.

Record Archive is a full-fledged music destination disguised as a record store. At first glance, this vinyl and CD shop appears to be a sprawling ode to American music. But at a deeper look, we found a full bar and performance space that allows patrons to not just shop for great records, but experience live tunes with a beverage as well. You can find out more about them here .

House of Guitars was my son C’s big wish. As soon as he heard that Rochester was home to the world’s largest guitar store, he was sold!

The House of Guitars is a legendary music shop that’s as much a museum as it is an instrument and record shop. We navigated the maze of rooms, lopsided stairs, and vintage gear and found rooms packed with memorabilia, walls covered with autographs, and enough musical memories to cause our brains to go into overdrive. You can find out more about them here .

Pay Homage to Susan B. Anthony and the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Susan B. Anthony was the driver behind gaining equal rights for women and achieving women’s right to vote. Every woman in the United States owes this strong and relentless woman for her work to achieve equal voting rights for both sexes.

You’ll find tributes to Susan B. Anthony spread throughout the city, but if you want to get a deeper look into her life, make a visit to the Susan B. Anthony House and Museum. The museum is located where Anthony spent many years, up until her death, lobbying and working for equal rights. It’s even the site of her 1872 arrest.

My boys were fascinated by the experience and the engaging stories of the museum’s curator, Aisha Pierre, who brought us around the museum. We were regaled with fascinating stories about her life, legacy, and important friendships.

Hike Your Way Through Letchworth State Park

Located just 40-minutes from central Rochester, a visit to Letchworth State Park is one of the best things to do in Rochester for those who love the outdoors.

Letchworth has been ranked the #1 state park in the United States thanks to its tremendous beauty and passionate cheering squad. Exploring the cascading waterfalls, iconic bridges, and towering gorge helped win us over as well.

You can even connect with Adventure Calls Outfitters for a rafting tour of the park. C and I had the pleasure of doing this a few years back and had a blast navigating the rapids, waterfalls, and scenic beauty of the lower gorge.

You can read my complete guide to Letchworth State Park right here.

Walk Through History at Genesee County Museum Village

Just 20-minutes from central Rochester is a time machine that took us 200-years into the past.

Genesee County Museum Village is a 19th-century living history museum. Although we visited when the skies were overcast, the warm welcome by the many characters within the town certainly allowed us to be comfortable.

The village is set up just like an early 19th-century Upstate, NY town complete with a general store, churches, a blacksmith, tin maker, cobbler, potter, and even an on-site brewery. It’s an amazing way to experience what New York State was like before highways and planes were a thing.

Although there wasn’t one when we were visiting, Genesee County Museum Village also hosts baseball games with historic rules and styles. Guests can cheer on their favorite teams as they play a game just like it would have been when baseball was just gaining fame.

Charlotte–Genesee Lighthouse

Located within walking distance of Ontario Beach Park, the Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse makes for a wonderful stop along the Lake Ontario shoreline.

Built in 1822, this is the oldest lighthouse on the US shores of Lake Ontario. The oldest lighthouse sits on the Toronto Islands across the Lake. The whole structure measures 40-feet in height and has 42 steps and 11 ladder rungs to reach the top.

The lighthouse still functions to this day and went through an extensive restoration back in 2014. Check the lighthouse website and time your visit with a tour of the lighthouse keeper’s home. You’ll be treated to an intimate view of the lighthouse keeper’s life in the small museum.

Putt-Putt at America’s Oldest Mini-Golf Course

Located next to the Parkside Diner, Whispering Pines Mini-Golf Course is the oldest mini-golf course in the USA.

Whispering Pines Miniature Golf, which is located in SeaBreeze (a suburb of Rochester), has been running since the miniature golf boom in 1930. It’s so iconic that it has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The small course offers a fun challenge for families. And a visit there let my family know just how terrible we all are at mini-golf. But we certainly had a blast walking among the fossilized rock course and trying (and failing) some of the unique and complicated holes.

Cycle along the Erie Canal in Pittsford

Pittsford is a scenic town that sits on the banks of the Erie Canal just outside of Rochester. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot with some excellent restaurants, I highly recommend a visit here.

We made the short drive from Rochester, and after enjoying a delicious Mediterranean meal at Aladdin’s Natural Eatery, we met up with the crew at Towpath Bike to pick up some rentals for the boys and I to pedal along the scenic waterway.

We were hooked up with some colorful cruisers, and after passing by the crowds who were in town to celebrate a rowing regatta, we made our way for about 10-miles along the gravel path that follows the canal. It made for a wonderful outing, and it was fun cycling with the boys after my epic ride along the St. Lawrence River the previous summer.

If you’re visiting Rochester with kids, it’s good to note that our connections with Rochester Tourism helped us with the rentals. Towpath doesn’t typically rent bikes for children.

Shop Till You Drop at the Rochester Public Market

One of my absolute favorite things to do in a new city is to drop by the public market. There’s no better way to get the pulse of the city and experience the unique juxtaposition where rural farming, local crafts, and urban living come together in harmony.

The Rochester Public Market runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. We went early on Saturday, and it was quite busy. I’ve heard that it can be tough to find parking within the market on that day, but we had no trouble.

The market itself is run by the city. It welcomes vendors of all sorts and offers covered tents that make for a pleasant shopping experience. We found loads of amazing local crafts and produce as well as a great collection of pre-made foods to stock up for a picnic.

Grab A Lane And a Meal at Radio Social

When I first took my boy’s ax throwing in Peterborough, Ontario , I remember looking around at the awesome environment with a great bar and a fun, clean modern entertainment vibe and saying “why doesn’t anyone do this to bowling alleys.”

Well, someone must have been listening to me because Radio Social is exactly what I was imagining when I said that.

This bowling alley, restaurant, and entertainment facility combines amazing food, a fun, modern atmosphere, and a great bar and social environment. It’s a far cry from the typical dark, dingy bowlerama’s that I grew up with. And it’s a place that, in my opinion, makes one of the best places to visit in Rochester, New York.

Located in a reclaimed, 42,000 sq. ft former radio factory (hence the name), Radio Social offers 32 bowling lanes, modern lounge areas, indoor, and outdoor entertainment, and even outdoor fire pits. It’s a place where you could spend every night of the week and have a different experience. Yet it also seems small, welcoming, and genuinely enjoyable.

Do not visit Radio Social without trying the food. This is, and I’m shocked to say this about a bowling alley, one of the best restaurants in Rochester. Whether you order from their casual menu with tender and juicy burgers and soft dough pizzas or from their Mediterannean menu with Cornish Hen and Lamb Arancini, the food at Radio Social is a delight. My hat is off to chef Steve Eakins, I would make the journey back just to eat here again.

Enjoy A Picnic In Highland Park

Highland Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Rochester. The stunning landscaping explodes with gardens, trees, hills, and natural gullies.

The park is spread across 150 acres of prime Rochester real estate and welcomes sightseers, birdwatchers, and those looking for a wonderful spot for a picnic. It even has a stunning arboretum that houses 1,200 lilac shrubs.

Highland Park is also the latest home of the famous Frederick Douglass statue. This is the first statue of a black man to be erected in the United States. It was originally erected in 1899 to commemorate the man responsible for bringing voting rights to black Americans. It now stands at the Frederick Douglass Monument and Memorial Plaza surrounded by quotes from some of his most important speeches.

Discover More About This City With Our Rochester, NY Video

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Where To Eat In Rochester

One of the best things to do in Rochester is to eat. This city has more than its fair share of incredible restaurants. And although we were only exploring the city for a few days, we ate to our heart’s content and took as many leftovers as our car could hold.

I had previously mentioned Radio Social, which should surely make this list. But along with that gem, here are some of my favorite restaurants in Rochester New York to enjoy on your next visit.

Dinosaur BBQ

Everyone I know who had visited Rochester before me said the same thing. If you only eat at one place in Rochester, eat at Dinosaur BBQ.

So it’s no surprise that the first dinner we had in the city was at this famous bbq joint located on the Promenade along the Genesee River. And we were not disappointed.

Dinosaur BBQ in Rochester was opened in 1998 and is actually the second location of the brand. This restaurant offers slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone meat paired with backyard favorites like beans, mac and cheese, and mashed potatoes.

The servings are huge and it is some of the best bbq I have ever eaten.

Mad Hatters Restaurant and Bakery

My family loves the Alice in Wonderland story, so when I saw that there was an Alice in Wonderland-themed restaurant in Rochester, I was sold.

Mad Hatters offers a high tea in Rochester experience, perfect for Wonderland fans. But we visited for breakfast on our first day instead. The serving sizes were massive. I enjoyed the classic eggs benedict while the boys fought their way through huge servings of waffles and meat lover’s frittata.

Zweigle’s

Hot dogs are practically a religion in Rochester. In fact, this is one of the only places where you can enjoy a “White Hot.” Zweigle’s offers the most popular version of this beef, pork, and veal-stuff sausage that locals absolutely love.

Zweigle’s began making these unique hot dogs in 1925. It even became the official hot dog of the Buffalo Bills, the Buffalo Sabres, and the Rochester Americans.

Nick Tahou Hots

You can’t eat in Rochester and not hear about a “garbage plate.” This is a legendary dish in the city, and it was trademarked by Nick Tahou Hots, which was the home of the original Garbage Plate .

These monstrous dishes typically take a protein (usually a cheeseburger, hamburger, Italian sausage, steak, chicken, or hot dog) and layers it with a mix of fries, beans, and/or macaroni salad. The entire thing is typically coated with a local hot sauce and mustard.

This dish is definitely not for the calorie counters. But it is one of those things to do in Rochester that you need to try at least once.

Where To Stay In Rochester, NY

Rochester is an awesome city. And if you want to see it right, you’ll need to give yourself a few days. So if you’re looking for where to stay in Rochester, here are a few options to help you settle in.

Strathallan Hotel & Spa

The Strathallan Hotel & Spa was where we opted to stay during our long weekend in Rochester. This excellent Rochester hotel is a DoubleTree by Hilton and offers a clean, spacious, and modern accommodation experience that’s great for the whole family.

There’s an onsite pool, a rooftop patio, and a highly-regarded restaurant as well. The hotel also owns 7 or Strath, which offers additional units in an historic mansion across the street.

We stayed in a double suite with an additional pull-out couch so the boys could each have their own sleeping area. You can find pricing and availability for the Strathallan Hotel & Spa here .

Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown

The Strathallan is very central and convenient. If there is no availability there, the Hilton Garden Inn might be a great choice.

Originally the home of the National Clothing Company, this Rochester hotel features towering ceilings and marble floors. You’ll also find an arboretum, an indoor swimming pool, and a modern fitness center.

You can find the prices and availability here .

Which Of These Things To Do In Rochester Will You Do Next?

We had an absolutely incredible time during our family weekend in Rochester. The city blew away our expectations and showed us that there is so much more to Rochester than we had ever imagined. It’s a family-friendly city with an incredible range of attractions and restaurants that blew our minds.

If you’re looking for what to do in Rochester, New York, you’ll have your hands full. and that’s a good problem to have!

If you love family travel, sign up for our newsletter or hop over to Facebook to join thousands of other travel-loving families in our Family Travel Support Group . We offer a supportive and encouraging environment for parents traveling locally or abroad.

Disclosure: We were guests of Visit Rochester and Adventure Calls Outfitters. We were sponsored on many of our experiences in this post. As always, our opinions remain our own.

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info on our  disclaimer.  Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its  affiliates.

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Rochester, NY

Whether it's beautiful parks, lively arts and cultural offerings, hiking and biking, unique cuisine, cool festivals, or hot jazz, this eclectic city has just what you're looking for. From boat rides on the  Erie Canal  and star shows at the  Rochester Museum & Science Center  to pubs, clubs, and great entertainment, everyone finds something to love in Rochester.

Three Things You Can't Miss  |  Family Fun  |  Spend the Day  |  Spend the Weekend  |  Spend the Week  |  Hotels & Stay  |  Where to Eat  |  Getting There

Three Things You Can't Miss

Highland Park

Refresh in Rochester's iconic urban retreat designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also designed NYC's Central Park. Stunning in every season, the 150-acre park includes Lamberton Conservatory, garden memorials, and Lily Pond, a natural skating rink, in winter. In May around Mother's Day, the Rochester Lilac Festival  celebrates a collection of more than 12,000 lilacs in full bloom (America's largest collection).

George Eastman Museum

Tour the mansion and gardens of the founder of Eastman Kodak and visit the world's oldest photography museum. The Eastman has vast film archives and unbelievable collections of photography and cinematic film. Visit for daily screenings, from silent films to Hollywood classics and early Westerns, as well as live music performances.

Rochester Museum & Science Center

Kids will love immersing themselves in the wonders of science, from operating the locks of the Erie Canal to seeing stars at the edge of the universe in the Strasenburgh Planetarium. Learn about the history of the city from 500 million years ago when it sat at the bottom of a tropical sea south of the Equator to how the Native Americans lived before the European settlers arrived and Rochester's important role in the Underground Railroad.

Credit: The Strong, Rochester, New York

The strong national museum of play.

Gain major points with your kids by taking them to the Strong, where they can play for hours in Berenstain Bear country, in a pretend Wegman's grocery store, or on Sesame Street itself. Play through 80 years of pinball machines, walk among butterflies in the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, and show your children and grandchildren the toys of your own childhood in the National Toy Hall of Fame.

Credit: Genesee Country Village & Museum

Genesee country village & museum.

Visit the largest living history museum in New York. Learn what life was like in the 19th century as you watch demonstrations of pottery-making, gardening, barrel-making, blacksmithing, cooking, chores, and more, all performed by costumed interpreters. Kids will delight in playing with games and toys of times before Wi-Fi like stilts and rolling a hoop with a stick, as well as watching games of historic baseball.

Seneca Park Zoo

Seneca Park Zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts both within the zoo's walls and globally. Visit more than 90 animal species including African penguins, sea lions, a polar bear, and, in the recently expanded Animals of the Savanna exhibit: Masai giraffes, zebras, naked mole rats, and a white rhino. They are also the only zoo in New York with African elephants.

spend the day

Start with a walking tour of Highland Park . Depending on the season, you'll be surrounded by fragrant lilacs, roses, vivid autumn colors, or the tropical gardens of the Lamberton Conservatory.

Head to High Falls , a 96-foot waterfall in the historic Brown's Race neighborhood. Genesee Brew House  near the pedestrian bridge serves pub-style fare on a rooftop patio overlooking the falls, including white hots, a local favorite.

Tour the mansion and gardens of the  George Eastman Museum  and see one of the world's best collections of photography and film. Allow at least two hours, or longer if you want to take in one of the daily film screenings.

Try Rochester's famous Garbage Plate at  Nick Tahou Hots , a unique dish with your choice of meats (cheeseburger, sausages, steak, etc.) covered with home fries, french fries, baked beans, and macaroni salad.

spend the weekend

Get an early start with breakfast at the  Rochester Public Market  (open 5 am–3 pm). More than 300 vendors include bakers, food trucks, coffee shops, and farmers selling fresh regional produce. Browse the stands and pick up snacks for later.

Take a morning walk in Highland Park and feast your eyes on gorgeous gardens, an arboretum, and the Lamberton Conservatory.

With or without kids, it's all fun and games at the  Strong National Museum of Play  (pictured). Explore the world's largest toy collection, arcade videos, carousel, train rides, and plenty more. Play Guitar Hero or rack up a high score on a vintage machine in the Pinball Playfields. Meet old friends in the National Toy Hall of Fame. Grab a burger at the classic Skyliner Diner in the atrium.

Bike or walk downtown to High Falls . Nearby, Genesee Brew House  serves salads, appetizers, and local hots on the rooftop patio. At dusk, the falls are illuminated with colored lights.

Plan a night on the town in the East End. A top choice for nightlife and entertainment, this neighborhood has dozens of clubs, restaurants, galleries, museums, and theaters, including the  Eastman Theater , one of America's finest concert halls. Year-round events include the nine-day  International Jazz Festival  in June, featuring legends and rising stars. 

Pick up breakfast treats at Savoia Pastry Shoppe, an old-style bakery famous for their sausage bread and pastries as well as a great selection of cupcakes and cookies. Let the heavenly aroma on Clifford Avenue lead you to their door.

Bike or hike along the paved multi-use Genesee Riverway Trail that runs 24 miles through Rochester. Part of the New York State Canalway Trail, it starts in  Genesee Valley Park  and passes three waterfalls, eight pedestrian bridges, and 11 parks (including four designed by Frederick Law Olmsted), with a grand finale at  Lake Ontario .

Travel through 5,000 years of art, ancient to contemporary, at the Memorial Art Gallery and view masterworks from Monet to Warhol. Hear the rare tones of the only full-size Italian Baroque organ in the US every Sunday afternoon. Tour the sculpture park, with impressive public art and follow the interactive Poets Walk that borders it. 

Take in a Sunday afternoon concert at the mansion of the  George Eastman Museum .

Be sure to see the  Great Lake Ontario  before you leave town. Take a selfie with the  Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse  (pictured) on a trip to Ontario Beach Park (also known as Charlotte Beach) where you can also swim, picnic, stroll along the pier, or ride on the old carousel.

spend the week

Choose from six self-guided walking tours of downtown Rochester available to print before you head out or use with Google Maps app on mobile devices. Find the links at Landmark Society of Western New York .

Explore wonders of the world at the  Rochester Museum & Science Center  (pictured), with 200 fascinating interactive exhibits, shows, and collections. Journey across the universe in the Strasenburgh Planetarium, experiment with lasers, lenses, and mirrors, and take a virtual world tour.

Save your appetite for a trip to the landmark  Nick Tahou Hots , home of the famous Garbage Plate and featured on the Food Network.  

Get breakfast at the  Rochester Public Market  (open 6 am–1 pm). Browse the stands for bargains and regional specialties, from ethnic foods to craft brews and wine.

Visit the  National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House  (pictured), home of the founder of the women's suffrage movement and the site of her arrest in 1872 for daring to vote in an election.

Whatever your age, feel like a kid at the  Strong National Museum of Play , the only museum in the world dedicated to play. Check out the Lego exhibit, play vintage pinball, explore the world's largest collection of electronic games, and see the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

Start your day with breakfast at  Highland Park Diner , a classic 1940's railcar diner.

Step into the past at  Genesee Country Village & Museum  (pictured) in Mumford, 20 miles from Rochester. Costumed interpreters recreate 19th-century village life on 700 acres with heirloom farms and restored historic buildings including homes, shops, inns, churches, and a one-room schoolhouse.

Bring a blanket and a tasty picnic dinner from Swan Market to the free Wegman's Concerts by the Shore, held Wednesday nights from June through August. Check out Ontario Beach Park 's many other great events like the Big Band Dance series in spring and fall.

Spend a perfect day along a picturesque section of the 22-mile  Canandaigua Wine Trail  that runs from nearby Fairport to Canandaigua to Naples.

Along the way, stop in Fairport to tour the hilltop  Casa Larga Vineyards , whose award-winners include authentic ice wines. In Canandaigua, visit  Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion  (pictured), a Victorian country estate with a crystal-palace-like greenhouse and lush gardens with marble statues, fountains, and reflecting pools. Watch a chef demonstration or taste New York specialties, artisan cheeses, wine, beer, and spirits at the  New York Kitchen  beside  Canandaigua Lake . Sample small plates or have dinner in the locally-sourced restaurant.

View exotic animals up close at the  Seneca Park Zoo  (pictured), a hidden gem with naturalistic habitats for more than 90 species, from meerkats to snow leopards to African elephants. Party animals 21-and-over can reserve tickets for ZooBrew on select Friday evenings, billed as the wildest happy hour in town.

Spend a relaxing afternoon on the Erie Canal aboard the  Sam Patch , a replica of an 1800's packet boat. Cruises depart from the Port of Pittsford, nine miles south of Rochester. Stop in for ice cream at Pittsford Dairy while you're in town.

Have dinner beside the Erie Canal at the landmark Richardson's Canal House , originally an 1818 tavern, also in Pittsford.

Pick up subs from DiBella's and bike along the Genesee Riverway Trail that runs along the river. If you're up for it, you can ride all the way to  Lake Ontario  (pictured).

Visit the George Eastman Museum to learn about what photography and film were like before the days when we can capture everything on our mobile phones. The former mansion and gardens of the founder of the Eastman Kodak company are beautiful, educational, and entertaining.

Live it up with a night on the town in the East End, where the activities include everything from lively bars and romantic bistros to street festivals, theaters, and live music performances. 

Make it a Sunday Funday at  Seabreeze Amusement Park  (pictured). Ride the Jackrabbit roller coaster from 1920 or the Screamin' Eagle if you dare! The Log Flume, a super soaker, is one of the steepest in the country. The waterpark has wild slides and a lazy river. Over 100 years old,  Seabreeze  remains a family favorite and is still growing.

Before heading home, stop at nearby Ontario Beach Park to see the 1822 lighthouse and stretch your legs.

Get a heavenly Abbott's frozen custard, popular since 1902, and walk out to the pier to watch the awesome sunset over the boundless lake.

Hotels and Stay

Holiday inn express irondequoit.

Clean, comfortable suburban hotel, two miles from Lake Ontario. more

Comfort Suites of Rochester/Henrietta

Conveniently located, indoor heated pool. more

Rodeway Inn Rochester Airport

155 rooms, outdoor pool, and shuttle service to airport. more

A B&B at the Ellwanger Estate

Beautifully restored landmark home with a veranda and lush gardens. more

Woodcliff Hotel & Spa

Full-service hotel and spa on a hilltop. more

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown

 An arboretum, heated indoor swimming pool, and fitness center. more

Courtyard by Marriott/Penfield

Spacious guest rooms and suites, indoor pool, and fitness center. more

The Inn on Broadway

An elegant boutique hotel in a landmark 1929 building. more

Strathallan DoubleTree

A downtown hideaway with a pool and rooftop bar. more

Hyatt Regency Rochester

Central setting and downtown views. more

Where to Eat

Rochester public market.

300+ vendors including farmers selling fresh produce and food trucks. more

Nick Tahou Hots

Where the regional specialty the "Garbage Plate" was invented. more

Abbott's Frozen Custard

A Rochester treasure with many locations, open since 1902. more

Schaller's Drive-In

Hot dogs, fries, milkshakes, and more in a nostalgic setting. more

A classic Italian market famous for its subs, started in Rochester in 1918. more

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

Known for their slowly smoked meats and live music. more

The Gate House

Wood-fired pizza and delicious burgers named after local celebrities. more

Genesee Brew House

A family-friendly brewpub serving Genesee Brewing Company beers. more

Next Door Bar & Grill by Wegmans

New American, Western European, and Japanese Cuisine. more

Tournedos Steakhouse

A classic steakhouse with fresh seafood and in-house dry-aged beef. more

Ox and Stone

Latin-inspired cuisine and cocktails in an 1880s mansion. more

Max of Eastman Place

Fine dining and seasonal specialties in a comfortable setting. more

getting there

Take Amtrak to Rochester station (ROC) at 320 Central Ave. Taxi service is available to downtown shopping district and city attractions. 

RTS Bus Service & Megabus

Fly into Frederick Douglass–Greater Rochester International Airport .

• From Albany: 3.5 hours • From NYC: 5.5 hours  • From Boston: 6 hours  • From Buffalo: 1 hour 15 min  • From Philadelphia: 5 hours  • From Toronto: 3 hours  • From Montreal: 5 hours

Check out Visit Rochester  for more information.

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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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• Destinations

25 Best Things to Do in Rochester, NY

The strong - national museum of play, rochester museum & science center, finger lakes wine country, george eastman museum, rochester.

• Complete List & Map

1 Manhattan Square Dr, Rochester, NY 14607, 585-263-2700

657 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, 585-271-4320

More ideas: Weekend Getaways from NYC

More ideas: Apple Picking in Rochester NY

Highland Park

More ideas: Romantic Getaways in PA

Rochester City Ballet

1326 University Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607

The RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium, Rochester, NY

More ideas: New York Beaches

Theatre Young Kids Enjoy (TYKEs)

1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14618, 585-461-2000

Seneca Park Zoo

2222 St. Paul Street, Rochester, NY 14621, 585-336-7200

National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

17 Madison St, Rochester, NY 14608, 585-235-6124

Eastman Theatre

More ideas: New York Lakes

Artisan Works

565 Blossom Road, Suite L, Rochester, NY 14610, 585-288-7170

Memorial Art Gallery

More ideas: Kayaking in Rochester, NY

City of Rochester Public Market

280 N. Union St., Rochester, NY 14609, 585-428-6907

Frontier Field, Rochester, NY

333 Plymouth Ave N, Rochester, NY 14608, 585-454-1001

Crush Beer and Wine Tours, Rochester, NY

P.O. Box 20136, Rochester, NY 14602, 855-862-7874

Seabreeze Amusement Park

4600 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622, 585-323-1900

Ontario Beach Park

4799 Lake Avenue, Rochester, NY 14612, 585-753-5887

Durand Eastman Park, Rochester, NY

1500 Lake Shore Blvd, Rochester, NY 14617, 585-753-7275

Geva Theatre Center, Rochester

75 Woodbury Blvd, Rochester, NY 14607, 585-232-4382

Things to Do in Rochester, NY: Genesee River's High Falls

4 Commercial St, Rochester, NY 14614, 585-442-2030

Charlotte - Genesee Lighthouse

70 Lighthouse Street, Rochester, NY 14612, 585-621-6179

Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra

108 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604, 585-454-7311

Mount Hope Cemetery

1133 Mount Hope Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, 585-428-7999

Cobbs Hill Park, Rochester, NY

Culver Rd and Norris Drive, Rochester, NY 14610, 585-428-6770

• 1. The Strong - National Museum of Play
• 2. Rochester Museum & Science Center
• 3. Finger Lakes Wine Country
• 4. George Eastman Museum, Rochester
• 5. Highland Park
• 6. Rochester City Ballet
• 7. The RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium, Rochester, NY
• 8. Theatre Young Kids Enjoy (TYKEs)
• 9. Seneca Park Zoo
• 10. National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
• 11. Eastman Theatre
• 12. Artisan Works
• 13. Memorial Art Gallery
• 14. City of Rochester Public Market
• 15. Frontier Field, Rochester, NY
• 16. Crush Beer and Wine Tours, Rochester, NY
• 17. Seabreeze Amusement Park
• 18. Ontario Beach Park
• 19. Durand Eastman Park, Rochester, NY
• 20. Geva Theatre Center, Rochester
• 21. Things to Do in Rochester, NY: Genesee River's High Falls
• 22. Charlotte - Genesee Lighthouse
• 23. Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
• 24. Mount Hope Cemetery
• 25. Cobbs Hill Park, Rochester, NY

Last Updated By VI on April 21, 2024 in Things to Do in New York State & Places to Visit

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14 Best Things to do in Rochester, NY

By Touropia Editors · Last updated on October 2, 2023

The third-largest city in the State of New York, Rochester is a fabulous place to visit with plenty for visitors to see and do. While it boasts a number of excellent museums and art galleries, it also has a rich industrial history and thriving cultural scene to delve into.

Set along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, it is bisected by the gushing Genesee River with High Falls in the center being one of its standout sights. Aside from seeing the wonderful waterfall and all the well-preserved historic buildings nearby, other things to do in Rochester include enjoying the many family-friendly attractions, fine dining options and food markets.

Lots of lovely parks and pretty waterways are dotted about its diverse neighborhoods with the city also being known for its exciting outdoor activities and successful minor-league sports teams. Only adding to its appeal are the innumerable music concerts, dance shows and festivals that take place in town each year.

14. Memorial Art Gallery

One of the city’s key cultural institutes, the Memorial Art Gallery houses an incredible collection of artifacts and artworks from all around the world. As such, perusing its light and airy galleries really is a treat as ancient drums, Egyptian mummies and other unique and interesting objects are on show wherever you go.

Since being founded in 1913, its phenomenal paintings, photos and sculptures have wowed visitors with its two floors now displaying over 12,000 artworks. These include not just extraordinarily old African artifacts and thought-provoking modern installations but masterpieces by Monet, Cezanne and Matisse among many others.

Part of the University of Rochester campus, it occupies a fine old building with lush grounds and a sculpture park lying all around it. In addition to seeing its diverse range of works that span many millennia, you can also attend talks, workshops and festivals at its sprawling complex.

13. Susan B. Anthony Museum

Once the home of the legendary civil rights leader, the Susan B. Anthony Museum now offers up a fascinating insight into her life and legacy. Very well-preserved, it is packed with authentic artifacts, papers and memorabilia with tours taking you all around its cozy interior.

Undoubtedly one of Rochester’s most famous former residents, she toiled tirelessly and selflessly away for decades in a bid to ban slavery and promote women’s rights. At her historical house in the west of the city, guests can explore exhibits on her countless campaigns, speeches and achievements and see personal items and the original furniture from her era.

You’ll also learn about her arrest in the front parlor after voting in the 1872 election and see her old bedroom where she sadly passed away in 1906 after forty years spent in the house.

12. Artisan Works

If you’re interested in art and are looking to invest in some cool if potentially expensive souvenirs, then the atmospheric Artisan Works is certainly the place to go. Located ten minutes’ drive directly east of downtown, every inch of its humongous warehouse is coated in awesome artworks with the artists also producing new ones before your very eyes.

While the vast factory once produced weapons in WWII, it is now instead dedicated to inspiring people with art. As you explore its labyrinth of different levels and hallways, you’ll come across all kinds of colorful creations and eclectic themed rooms with vintage automobiles and old antiques lying dotted about.

Besides marveling at all the impressive pieces on display and enquiring about their prices, you can also watch master artisans in action. Normally they are only too happy to explain the techniques and thought process behind each of their art forms.

11. Ontario Beach Park

A very peaceful and picturesque spot to spend some time, the popular Ontario Beach Park lies at the entrance to the Genesee River, some twenty minutes’ drive north of town. Asides from swimming and splashing about in the massive lake of the same name, visitors can also sunbathe, hike and play volleyball on its pristine sands.

Due to its close proximity to the center of Rochester, locals and tourists alike flock here during the sunny summer months. As well as lounging lazily on its broad beach and wandering about its pretty green spaces, more active beachgoers can play basketball and pickleball out on its courts or softball on its verdant fields.

What’s more, there is also a prominent pier to amble out and fish upon with playgrounds, pavilions and picnic areas scattered about here and there. An amazing 1905 carousel and a sleek, shiny marina are also on offer.

10. Seneca Park Zoo

Home to over 300 animals, birds and reptiles of some ninety or so species, the splendid Seneca Park Zoo is set in a scenic spot along the east bank of the Genesee River. A firm favorite with families, it makes for a great day out with feeding sessions, keeper chats and animal encounters all happening almost daily.

One of the oldest zoos in the States, it first opened its doors in 1893 with large enclosures, aviaries and animal exhibits now covering much of the park. While some sections whisk you to rocky coasts where sea lions, snowy owls and the elusive Canada lynx reside, others focus on the huge elephants of Africa or the hairy orangutans of Asia.

On top of all this, the zoo is highly regarded for its awareness-raising and outreach work with loads of fun festivals and interactive events being held over the course of the year.

9. Frontier Field

Conveniently located in downtown, Frontier Field is the intimate home pitch of the city’s Rochester Red Wings. Watching an action-packed game at the beautiful ballpark is a fantastic experience with firework shows, community events and concerts also sometimes taking place here.

Built in 1996, it replaced the team’s old Silver Stadium which had remarkably been their home since 1929. From all its spacious seats and suites, fervent fans can now enjoy perfect views over the pitch and the city’s sparkling skyline off in the distance.

Aside from cheering on the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals, you can also attend other sporting events and shows at the arena. Lots of tasty food stands are dotted about selling everything from standard hotdogs and hamburgers to fried calamari and roast beef sandwiches.

8. Erie Canal Trail

A wonderful way to see more of the city and its surroundings is to walk, jog, run or cycle along the attractive Erie Canal Trail. Running along Rochester’s southern boundary, it takes you past sublime scenery and centuries-old historic sites with countless attractions, amenities and communities also lining the route.

Stretching 365 miles in length, it connects Albany to Buffalo with the paved path mostly following what was once the historic canal’s old towpath. Along the way you can stop off at picturesque parks and idyllic nature spots or explore some of the charming towns and quiet villages it passes through.

As you slowly stroll along the multi-purpose path, you can bask in outstanding views over the canal with historic buildings, restaurants and waterfront cafes appearing every now and again. In winter, hardy individuals can even cross-country ski and snowshoe along snow-coated parts of it.

7. Rochester Public Market

A colorful and chaotic affair, the Rochester Public Market has over 300 stands and stalls for you to peruse. Very popular with locals and tourists alike, it is held every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday in the Marketville Heights part of town.

Since starting up in 1905, the market has grown and grown with its vendors now selling everything under the sun. While some stalls are laden with fresh fruit and veg, others display artisanal cheeses, meats and seafood with handmade crafts and clothing also featuring.

As well as picking up some groceries, you can stop off and sample some baked goods and savory snacks or simply sit and sip on a hot coffee. Over the year, it also hosts flower markets, flea markets and food truck festivals with regular music performances only adding to the appealing ambience.

6. Seabreeze Amusement Park

If you’re after an exhilarating and unforgettable time, you’ll certainly not want to skip out on the Seabreeze Amusement Park. Since 1879, it has been a favorite summertime destination of Western New Yorkers thanks to its cool lake breezes, exciting rides and numerous waterslides.

Actually the fourth-oldest amusement park in all the country, it lies at the spot where the enormous Irondequoit Bay meets Lake Ontario. Covering its scenic bluffs are more than 25 thrilling rides and rollercoasters to try out with arcades, acrobats and an ornately carved 1926 carousel also on offer.

If you get too hot, you can always swim and splash about in its pools or shoot down one of its slides which are surrounded by sunbathing areas, shops and snack stands. One of the park’s most popular and endearing attractions though is the wooden Jack Rabbit which dates to 1920 and is the oldest continuously operating rollercoaster in the States.

5. High Falls

Unusually enough, one of the region’s most stunning natural sights can be found right in the heart of downtown. Once key to both the city’s settlement and early industrial development, High Falls now instead makes for some fantastic photos and viewing.

Set along the Genesee River, the waterfall reaches almost a hundred feet in height with a ginormous gorge lying at its foot. While its gushing waters formerly used to feed flour mills and factories, they now instead generate hydroelectric power for the city and its suburbs.

From the prominent Pont De Rennes bridge and Terrace Platform, visitors can enjoy divine views of the falls and snap photos of their brilliant white waters. You can also learn more about their history and importance to Rochester at its adjoining museum and visitor center.

4. Rochester Museum & Science Center

Another of Rochester’s top attractions is the magnificent Rochester Museum & Science Center. Packed with fun hands-on activities and interactive exhibits, its colossal complex is situated just a short drive from the center, along East Avenue.

Established in 1912, it now occupies a massive modern building with its three vast floors focusing on not just local history and nature but science and technology too. Beside building a cool robot and taking a virtual trip in a simulator, there are over 1.2 million artifacts and specimens to check out on almost every field of study imaginable.

In addition to exploring all of its interesting exhibits, guests can catch scintillating science shows or scan the skies and stars above in its state-of-the-art planetarium.

3. Highland Park

Sprawling across a huge part of the south of the city are the gorgeous green grounds and gardens of Highland Park. Particularly known for its attractive arboretum and lovely landscaping, it is a treat to amble around with pretty plants, flowers, trees and shrubs on show wherever you go.

Spread across rolling hills and sweeping valleys, its winding paths take you past groves of old oaks, pines and magnolias with cheery azaleas and pansies often planted amongst them. Despite including numerous themed gardens, the park still retains its natural appearance with the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted having designed it back in the 1880s.

Within its picture-perfect confines, you can find important historic sites and cultural landmarks like the Lamberton Conservatory and Gothic-style Warner Castle. Its large outdoor amphitheater puts on music concerts and free films in summer alongside the Lilac Festival and Shakespeare in the Park.

2. Strong National Museum of Play

Perfect for families with young children, the superb Strong National Museum of Play has hundreds of exciting hands-on activities and experiments to try out. Set right in the center of Rochester, it lies just a stone’s throw from many of the city’s other main sights.

As educational as it is engaging, its innumerable exhibits look at the past, present and future of play with all kinds of tantalizing toys and games being on display. While some parts focus on storybooks and TV shows, others instead cover carousels and comic books or video games and virtual reality.

Its large modern building also has some Sesame Street sets for you to explore with the wonderful world of the Berenstain Bears attracting lots of attention alongside them.

1. George Eastman Museum

An absolutely fascinating place to explore, the George Eastman Museum documents the history and development of photos and cameras. Named after the founder of the Kodak Company who brought modern photography to the masses, it boasts a unique and impressive collection of photos, films and other cinematic objects.

First opened to the public in 1949, its extensive artifacts and exhibits are housed within Eastman’s charming old 1905 Colonial Revival-style mansion. On top of seeing how the entrepreneur lived, its displays showcase how photography and film techniques and technology progressed over the years.

Aside from seeing amazing old photographs and ogling at the estate’s exquisite architecture, visitors can enter into a camera obscura and watch film screenings in the museum’s movie theater.

Map of Things to do in Rochester, NY

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Rochester with Kids: 25 Best Things to Do in Rochester, NY

R ochester, NY is widely known as a gateway to the Finger Lakes region or the perfect stopover on a road trip to Niagara Falls . But this Upstate New York city stands on its own as a great family vacation destination, with good food, world-class museums, and a ton of history. Set right outside the banks of Lake Ontario, Rochester is also full of natural beauty.

Our family had a blast exploring Rochester on a recent summer trip. Here are 25 of our favorite things to do in Rochester with kids, including family-friendly hotels and restaurants in Rochester, NY. Check out our Adirondacks and Catskills Family Travel Guide for more New York State family vacation ideas.

Play the day away at The Strong National Museum of Play.

Best Museums in Rochester, NY for Kids

1. the strong national museum of play.

Children of all ages will love this 150,000-square-foot museum with tons of interactive exhibits and cool displays. Our family spent all day here, building Mr. Potato Heads, challenging each other in the arcade, and watching classic toy commercials. Hands down, our favorite section was the Toy Hall of Fame, which features classic playthings and the history behind them. (Who knew Play-Doh was originally created to clean wallpaper?) The Strong hits all the right nostalgia buttons—I highly recommend visiting!

RELATED: Top Children's Science Museums Across the US for Families

Even big kids enjoy the water table at the Rochester Museum & Science Center.

2. Rochester Museum & Science Center

Spark your kid's interest in science at this three-story, hands-on museum that also has a planetarium. (The 900-acre RMSC nature preserve is about 50 minutes outside the city.) Children can meet Ice Age animals, touch dinosaur fossils, and try out plumbing and electrical engineering projects. We especially liked the Wonders of Water exhibit, which features a water table, a mock shipwreck, and a giant water-inspired climbing structure.

3.  Susan B. Anthony House

Squeeze some history into your Rochester, NY trip by visiting the home of women's rights icon Susan B. Anthony. Guided tours (which last 45-60 minutes) take visitors through the Madison Street house while telling the story of Anthony's life. A highlight is seeing the front parlor where the leader was arrested after daring to vote in the 1872 presidential election.

There are lots of old photos to see at George Eastman Museum.

4. George Eastman Museum

Check out some of the world's oldest photos and camera equipment at this museum located on the estate of George Eastman, a pioneer of modern photography. (Rochester, NY is home to the Eastman Kodak headquarters.) The family-friendly Discovery Room has craft projects, children's books, and antique stereoscopes—kind of like the View Master's ancestors—that kids can try out. The mansion and grounds at the estate are also stunning and fun to explore.

5. Genesee Country Village & Museum

Step back in time at this 600-acre outdoor history museum located in Mumford, NY, about 30 minutes southwest of Rochester. The village features 68 19th-century buildings, including a pioneer cabin, an 1840s drug store, a blacksmith shop, and an elaborate Victorian mansion. Most buildings are staffed by costumed interpreters, and in some cases include demonstrations. A highlight is watching the vintage baseball games played on Sundays in the summer months.

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There are rides for all ages at Seabreeze Amusement Park.

More Top Things To Do in Rochester, NY with Kids

6.  seabreeze amusement park.

There are rides for all ages at this beachy amusement park set in the suburb of Irondequoit. Littles will love the junior roller coaster and kiddie rides. For big kids, there are 30-foot-high giant swings and the legendary Jack Rabbit, the the oldest continuously operating roller coaster in America that's an absolute blast. Seabreeze also has a water park with tube slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Bonus: Parking is free. Be sure to check the calendar, though—the park is only open seasonally.

7. Seneca Park Zoo

Visit zebras, frogs, African elephants, snow leopards, and penguins at this 20-acre, stroller-friendly and walkable zoo that is open year-round. Expect to take about 2.5 hours to fully experience it (maybe more if your child lingers on the zoo's small playground). Some up-close animal experiences are offered seasonally for an additional fee, including giraffe feedings. It's a must-do if you haven't before—the giraffes' long purple tongues are sure to bring the giggles!

Check out the pretty trees at Highland Park.

8. Highland Park

Get some fresh air and exercise at this gorgeous 150-acre park that is home to the world-famous Lilac Festival in May. But lilacs aren't the only stunners here. We saw dozens of impressive trees and flowers during our morning hike, as well as cute chipmunks, groundhogs, and robins. Supposedly, there are 35 varieties of magnolia trees at Highland Park. There are also a couple of playgrounds and the Lamberton Conservatory, which costs a few dollars for everyone over age 5.

9. Genesee Valley Park and Sports Complex

More natural beauty can be found at this 800-acre park known for its three intersecting waterways—the Red Creek, the Genesee River, and the Erie Canal. Hike or bike the many miles of trails, hit the playground, picnic, rent kayaks or canoes... there are so many things to do. Plus, the on-site sports complex is an all-season facility that offers an indoor ice skating rink in the fall and winter and an outdoor Olympic-sized pool in the summer.

10.  Rochester Red Wings

Root for the home team at  Innovative Field  baseball stadium. The Rochester Red Wings are the Minor League AAA affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Themed games (like  Star Wars  night and Batman night) feature special guests, giveaways, and sometimes post-game fireworks. Bonus: Tickets are very affordable.

11. Family Farms

Longing for that old-fashioned farm feel? Find it at one of the greater Rochester, NY area's family farms. Visitors love the hillside slide, jumping pillow, and kiddie train rides at  Wickham Farms  in Penfield. Meanwhile,  Stokoe Farms  in Scottsville has been a local staple for more than 200 years. During its fall harvest festival, families can enjoy more than 30 attractions like hayrides, dog shows, a petting zoo, and a pumpkin patch.

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Take a refreshing dip in Lake Ontario.

12. Local Beaches

Soak up some sun, sand, and splash time one on of the beaches bordering Lake Ontario. Locals love the 5,000 feet of waterfront and free parking at Durand Eastman Park , home to the "White Lady's Castle" (a creepy/cool building in ruins that supposedly was once a dining hall and is the subject of many ghost stories). Meanwhile, Ontario Beach Park offers swimming, boating, a picturesque pier, and a historic carousel that was installed in 1905.

13. Six Flags Darien Lake

If your family is up for a road trip and you live by the mantra "go big or go home," there's a Six Flags amusement park in Corfu, about an hour outside Rochester. With 45 rides—including eight roller coasters and 10 water rides—this park will have your kids screaming their heads off all day long. Big kids may want to conquer the Ride of Steel, ;the fastest roller coaster in New York State. There are also plenty of attractions for little ones, as well as concerts and special events.

Indoor Fun for Families in Rochester, NY

14. ofc creations theatre center.

Got a musical theater fan in the house? This performing arts center in the upscale neighborhood of Brighton opened in 2020 with a goal of entertaining theater fans young and old. Though not all shows are kid-appropriate, many are—past performances have included Newsies , The Wizard of Oz , and The Sound of Music . Plus, the Student Performer Series features kids ages 4 and up, some of whom are preparing to head to Broadway and others who are taking the stage for the first time.

15. Altitude Trampoline Park

Defy gravity at this giant indoor trampoline park, known for its cleanliness and high-energy attractions. Practice cartwheels and flips on the tumble track, scale the free-climbing rock wall, jump into the big foam pit, or get into a game of extreme dodge ball. There's also a special court for the youngest jumpers. This 50,000 square-foot facility should keep your family busy for hours.

16. Indoor Playgrounds

Little ones can blow off steam at one of Rochester's many indoor playgrounds (especially handy when the weather takes a turn). The spacious  Ontario Play & Cafe has a cool pirate-ship playground, an interactive water table, and plenty of comfortable seating so parents can easily watch their kids play. Meanwhile, Leap 'N Laugh has bounce houses galore and a three-story climbing structure with slides and a huge ball pit.

17. Climbing Centers

Are your kids scaling the walls? Take them to scale the walls of a local climbing center! Both RocVentures Climbing Gym and Central Rock Gym offer colorful bouldering walls, child-sized equipment for rent, and open climb times, as well as youth programs like classes and camps. Fill out an online waiver to save time before visiting.

18. Clubhouse Fun Center

This local chain is the go-to spot for families looking to play mini golf, hit the arcade, and race around the go-kart track. The Greece location also features batting cages and laser tag, while the Henrietta fun center has bumper cars and gemstone panning.

Try the veggie combo at Aladdin's Natural Eatery.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Rochester, NY

19.  aladdin's natural eatery.

Hankering for some Middle Eastern food? Aladdin's has great hummus, gyros, Greek salads, and falafels. There are also plenty of pasta choices, if that's more your child's speed. On a nice night, visitors like to dine on the restaurant's covered outdoor terrace. Note: Aladdin's is known for generous portions.

20. SPoT Coffee

Begin your morning at this local staple that serves up great coffee, all-day breakfast, and some lunch items like salads and sandwiches. The kids menu has favorites like grilled cheese and pizza bagels, too. SPoT Coffee is open every day and offers daily specials such as drink discounts (check the website ahead of time for more info).

21. The Playhouse/Swillburger

The Playhouse is a combination restaurant and arcade, making for a fun night out with the fam. There are more than 30 vintage games and pinball machines to play. Plus, the restaurant is set in an old church building, adding to its hip vibe. On the menu: burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, tater tots, and milkshakes.

22. The Owl House

Our family was really impressed with the food and experience at this fine dining spot that has a cozy indoor area and a gorgeous back patio. Everything was very fresh, with plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. While there is no kids menu per se, the staff was very accommodating and willing to simplify their salmon entree for my picky daughter. Plus, the buffalo cauliflower wings are somewhat legendary.

RELATED: 100 Things To Do in New York State with Kids Before They Grow Up

The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa is a great place for families to stay.

Great Hotels in Rochester, NY for Families

23. the strathallan rochester hotel & spa.

My family stayed at this historic Rochester hotel and we were very satisfied. Sure, our room could've used an update, but the location was ideal (a block away from the science center), and the outdoor space at the hotel was just lovely, with a lush garden and comfortable outside seating. Bonus: The Strathallan's on-site steakhouse is great and very convenient.

24. Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown

Clean and comfy, this Courtyard Marriott  in downtown Rochester, NY has many of the amenities traveling families are looking for: a 24-hour market, laundry services, and free parking. It's also located within walking distance of some of the Rochester Arts District's most popular restaurants.

25. Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

This Hampton Inn, which opened its doors in June 2023, earns rave reviews for its spacious and connecting rooms, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. And if you want to be close to the Strong museum, this is the spot to stay—the hotel is a five-minute walk from the museum.

Disclosure: We may earn a small commission if you click through our links and make a purchase. This revenue helps us maintain this site, so thank you for supporting us.

All photos by the author

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Rochester (Kent, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Rochester (Kent, England)

The seat of the second-oldest diocese in England, Rochester is at an ancient crossing on the River Medway, fortified by a sturdy Medieval castle that has survived in amazing condition.

Rochester cathedral blends Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with a west front that dates back almost 900 years.

Charles Dickens, who lived nearby in Higham, was fond of Rochester and worked many of its landmarks like Eastgate House and Six Poor Travellers House into his writing.

Just around the river bend from Rochester is Chatham, home to a Royal Navy dockyard with almost 500 years of shipbuilding heritage.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Rochester :

1. Rochester Castle

One of the UK’s outstanding pieces of Norman Romanesque architecture, Rochester Castle guards the London Road from its mound beside the River Medway.

The enduring structure is the square keep, built from Kentish ragstone and raised during the reign of Henry I in the 1120s.

This three-floor building is just over 35 metres tall, and its entrance is protected by an extension that would-be attackers would have to approach on a narrow stairway.

In places the keep’s walls are four metres thick, and these were put to the test in three sieges.

In 1215 King John was able to undermine the southeast using a fire started with pig fat.

In the chapel you can find a model showing how Rochester Castle would have looked in the 14th century, while there’s open-air theatre and cinema shows all summer long in the castle grounds.

2. Rochester Cathedral

The cathedral has been a place of worship since the 7th century, but the current building dates mostly from the 12 and 13th centuries.

This was at the transition between Norman and Early English Gothic and the cathedral merges both styles.

The west front is Norman, visible in its rows of blind arcades and the highly ornamented archivolts and tympanum depicting Christ in Glory in the great west door.

Entering the nave, the first six bays are also Norman, before a Gothic design prevails.

To the east of the north tower is Gundulf’s tower, which is a fragment of an older building from the turn of the 12th century and now used as a private back door to the cathedral.

See out the ruins of the 12th-century cloisters against the south of the building.

3. Guildhall Museum

A fine Baroque civic monument, the Guildhall sits on Rochester’s High Street and dates from the late-17th century.

As soon as you go in you’ll be wowed by the exuberant plaster ceilings over the entrance hall and staircase, presented to the Guildhall by local MP Sir Cloudesley Shovell in 1695. The museum is a trip through Medway’s human history, starting 200,000 years ago with a flint axe that you’re allowed to touch.

There’s a display of Roman domestic utensils from Darenth Roman Villa, a model showing a siege at Rochester Castle, a discovery room dedicated to Charles Dickens, a model of a 19th-century prison hulk and a reconstruction of a Victorian kitchen and drawing room.

Something you will not see anywhere else is the set of 18th-century cabinet maker’s tools, claimed to be the most complete in the world.

4. Rochester High Street

Weaving along from north to southeast and lined with gaslights, Rochester High Street is achingly pretty and at times feels like a period movie set.

Hundreds of years of architecture have been preserved, from quaint, cantilevered Tudor houses and weatherboard cottages to rows of bold 17th and 18th-century townhouses with white-painted quoins.

Several of the attractions on this list are found on the High Street, like Eastgate House, the Guildhall and even the southeast wing of the cathedral.

The Medway Visitor Centre and Huguenot Museum is in a stately Baroque building topped with a little lantern.

One of many great things about the High Street is the absence of nationwide chains.

Along with family-run pubs there’s a big selection of local businesses, design stores, vintage clothes shops, cafes, twee gift shops and most of all antiques sellers.

5. Eastgate House

Open again to the public after a five-year revamp, Eastgate House is one of the High Street’s treasures, an Elizabethan townhouse completed in 1591. This property certainly caught Charles Dickens’ attention, as Eastgate House appears as Westgate in the Pickwick Papers and as the Nun’s House in the Mystery of Edwin Drood.

In the 16th century Eastgate House was the residence of a senior officer at the Royal Tudor Dockyard, and since the 19th century has been a boarding school and hostel.

You can admire the preserved interiors and hear about some of the characters who have passed through.

In the gardens something special awaits at the Swiss Chalet, Dickens’ writers’ shed in which he wrote several works, transferred here from Gad’s Hill in the 1960s.

6. Six Poor Travellers House

Next door to the Visitor Centre on the High Street is a solemn Elizabethan stone building.

As the name suggests, the Six Poor Travellers House was built to provide lodgings for down-at-heel travellers staying in Rochester.

It was built in the mid-1580s and served its function until the Second World War.

The house features in Dickens’ Christmas Story, the Seven Poor Travellers.

You can go in for free (donation encouraged) from Wednesday to Sunday in the summer.

Information panels record the long and captivating story of the building and there’s an adorable little herb garden behind.

7. Restoration House

A sublime Renaissance mansion beyond the southeast corner of Rochester’s city wall, Restoration House came about after two Medieval houses were joined together by a third building in the mid-17th century.

The owner of the mansion at that time was Henry Clerke, a lawyer and MP for Rochester.

On 28 May 1660, Charles II stayed at Clerke’s house on the way to London to be proclaimed King, bringing to an end the Commonwealth of England, hence the name.

Over the last 20 years the current owners of Restoration House have discovered lots of fashionable 17th-century decoration believed to have been produced for Charles II’s visit.

This can be seen in the painting scheme’s marbling and japanning, as well as the choice of French grey paint.

You can visit on Thursdays and Fridays in summer to view these restored interiors, twin walled gardens and paintings by Gainsborough, Constable and Reynolds.

8. Chatham Historic Dockyard

Although separate from Rochester, it’s great to know that this enthralling piece of naval history is just around the river-bend.

For centuries up to 1984 this was one of the Royal Navy’s main facilities, keeping all of its individual factories and workshops together.

It stands as the most intact dockyard from the Age of Sail in the world.

Since 2016 the Command of the Oceans gallery has summed up the rich heritage of the site, using cutting-edge multimedia and interactive displays.

Around the dockyard you’ll be aware of just how many different skills went into a warship, calling in at Ropery, which dates back to 1618, or witnessing the digital theatre installation at Hearts of Oak, retelling the construction of wooden-hulled ships.

Steam, Steel and Submarines brings you from the Industrial Revolution to the two World Wars, showing the kind of man-power needed to build the steamships of the Victorian age.

9. HMS Cavalier

The pick of the Historic Dockyard’s three museum ships is this World War II-era C-class destroyer launched in 1944. HMS Cavalier’s most important intervention in the war was escorting a vital convoy from Russia’s Kola Inlet in February 1945, after its ships had been scattered by a storm and attacks by U-boats.

If you don’t mind steep stairways, HMS Cavalier is a delight to explore.

Assisted by the audioguide you’ll see the guns on deck, the cramped living spaces, the NAAFI shop selling little luxuries, the medicine dispensary, the galley and the open bridge where you can imagine what it might have been like to steer this ship.

And if the Cavalier feels claustrophobic, wait until you see the Oberon-class submarine, HMS Ocelot!

10. Rochester Bridge

For hundreds of years the bridge at Rochester was the lowest permanent crossing on the Medway before it opens out into an estuary.

There are actually four bridges over the Medway at Rochester, but the one we’re talking about here is the bridge that carries the A2 across to Strood at the north end of the High Street.

This cast iron construction dates to 1914 and stands on the site of many successive crossings, going back to Roman times.

Nearby, on the riverfront is the Bridge Chapel, built in 1383 and restored in the 1930s after becoming a storehouse as early as the 16th century.

Take the footpath over to the Strood side where you’ll get a beautiful perspective of the Castle and Cathedral from the Esplanade.

11. Upnor Castle

Downriver from the Historic Dockyard on the picturesque opposite bank of the Medway is an Elizabethan artillery fort maintained by Medway Council.

This was built in the 1560s to defend the dockyard and the many Royal Navy ships that would be anchored in the Medway.

Upnor Castle was called into action during a catastrophic raid by the Dutch Republic in 1667, which laid much of the dockyard to waste and captured or burnt most of the English fleet.

The raid is retold with a bilingual audiovisual presentation, while you can take some time to appreciate the fort’s preserved turrets, and the gun embrasures on the water bastion, which juts out over the river.

12. Huguenot Museum

In 2015 the UK’s first museum devoted to the Huguenots opened on Rochester High Street.

This is in the same building as the Visitor Centre and its collection has pieces from the historic French Hospital.

Founded in 1718 to look after poor French protestants and their descendants, this institution was first located in Finsbury Park before shifting to Hackney, then Horsham and finally ending up in Rochester in 1959. The museum explains the persecution faced by Huguenots in the 16th and 17th century, causing some 180,000 to start new lives all over the world, including Britain.

You’ll see the knowledge, skills and trades they brought with them, like silk-weaving, clock-making, gun-making and goldsmithing.

Among the museum’s oil paintings and silk samples there’s a portrait of Mary Louise Grellier who was the daughter of the director of the French Hospital, and a miniature 18th-century prayer book, designed to be hidden up a sleeve.

13. Fort Amherst

On the way to the Historic Dockyard in Chatham, Fort Amherst was raised in 1756 to prepare for a possible land invasion from France.

This enthralling defensive structure is riddled with tunnels, and the non-profit trust in charge has been restoring the site piece by piece since the 1980s.

In 2018 a new visitor centre is in the works with the help of a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and is due to be completed in 2020. You can climb to the highest point of the fort for a commanding view over the Medway, and in summer there are twice-daily guided tours of the tunnels.

These were intended for defence, storage and shelter during the Napoleonic War, but were later adapted as a base of operations in the Second World War.

14. Royal Engineers Museum

Housed in the glorious Edwardian Baroque Ravelin Building, Gillingham’s Royal Engineers Museum is minutes by train from Rochester.

The museum has hundreds of thousands of pieces in its collection, charting the 300-year history of the Royal Corps of Engineers and delving in to British military engineering in general.

There’s a map used by the Duke of Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo, a German V-2 rocket from the Second World War, a Harrier Jump Jet, a Brennan torpedo and a small fleet of bridge-laying tanks.

In the medal galleries are 48 Victoria Crosses (the highest British military award for valour), while ” The Corps Today” presents some of the high-tech equipment used by 21st-century military engineers.

15. Sweeps Festival

Charles Dickens can be thanked for the revival of Rochester’ s May Day celebrations, a tradition going back 400 years.

Dickens wrote about Rochester’s dancing chimney sweeps in his collection of short pieces, Sketches by Boz.

Although it had died out by the 1900s, the Sweeps Festival has been brought back to life since 1980. There’s live music across the Bank Holiday weekend, as well as a parade from Star Hill on the High Street to the Castle Gardens, joined by people dressed up as old-time chimney sweeps and Morris dancers (traditional folk dancers) from around England.

This also involves Jack-in-the-Green, a character covered in foliage, resembling a walking bush.

He is “awakened” by dancers and sweeps on Blue Bell Hill some time before daybreak on May 1.

15 Best Things to Do in Rochester (Kent, England):

• Rochester Castle
• Rochester Cathedral
• Guildhall Museum
• Rochester High Street
• Eastgate House
• Six Poor Travellers House
• Restoration House
• Chatham Historic Dockyard
• HMS Cavalier
• Rochester Bridge
• Upnor Castle
• Huguenot Museum
• Fort Amherst
• Royal Engineers Museum
• Sweeps Festival

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Great American Diner

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850 Long Pond Rd

Rochester, NY 14612

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This awesome diner opened in August 2023 but today (12/16/23) was my first visit. My mom and I had heard about the "large" pancakes and were looking forward to trying them. The location is easy to find, on the end in a strip plaza. Plenty of parking and no steps to get inside. It is bright and clean with booths, tables and a counter. We stopped at the hostess station and even though it is a Saturday we were seated right away. It was a bit loud inside due to the high ceilings, lots of people, and holiday music. Bathrooms are not gender neutral but were clean. The menu is extensive but we came for breakfast and pancakes. Our server Jojo was great - friendly, efficient, helpful and kept my coffee cup full. The coffee and food were also great. I recommend the GAD Breakfast combo we each ordered it with a giant plate sized pancake. I had blueberries inside and outside of the pancake - very fresh and delicious with real butter. Real Maple syrup is also available for an up-charge. Neither of us finished the pancake but we did get a cardboard boxes to take leftovers home. We will definitely stop back with my hungry teenage sons!

See all photos from Laura R. for Great American Diner

Given the star ratings, I really expected a great breakfast but instead really disappointed. Ordered from Specials menu. Hash Browns are Pattie's from a box, sausage patties from a box, eggs were ok, gravy and biscuits were uninspiring. Cute decor but food was a big fail for me.

Went here for breakfast on New Years Day it was pretty crowded with a 40 minute wait. When we were seated our waiter was very attentive. I had the blueberry French toast, it was awesome, I would have liked some whipped cream on top. The service and timely delivery of our meals was outstanding. Great portion size and reasonably priced. The restaurant was clean and bright.

A bowl of everything, sausage gravy, scrambled eggs and home fries.

Blueberry French toast

Great place to eat. Open til 8pm 4/6 And 4/7 this weekend if you're from out of town and looking for a place to eat during the upcoming solar eclipse

Best breakfast diner In Rocester. Fast service great food. You will never leave hungry or disappointed

Breakfast at The Great American Diner was the perfect place to meet a group of friends a few weeks ago! The wait staff was warm and welcoming, the restaurant itself is bright and sunny, and the food was delicious, especially my Mexican omelette. Even the coffee, a bottomless cup, was great. There's no reason I won't be returning soon!

This used to be called happy days but now it isn't idk why but I like there burgers there

2.2 miles away from Great American Diner

Ian M. said "Family of five for breakfast a few days ago. Waiter was extremely friendly, very professional, and very thorough. The breakfast food was both delicious and nutritious. I have to say that this is my most favorite breakfast experience…" read more

in American, Breakfast & Brunch, Diners

LongHorn Steakhouse

2.6 miles away from Great American Diner

Rachel G. said "I went to this restaurants with very little expectations, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. It has been a hectic week with work, and then school starting, and it was hot...And suddenly, it was 730 and I did not feel like…" read more

in Barbeque, Steakhouses

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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The History of the World: Nixon visits Moscow

The history of the world: sixth edition.

• May 22 nd 2013

22 May 1972 The following is a brief extract from The History of the World: Sixth Edition by J.M. Roberts and O.A. Westad.

In October 1971 the UN General Assembly had recognized the People’s Republic as the only legitimate representative of China in the United Nations, and expelled the representative of Taiwan. This was not an outcome the United States had anticipated until the crucial vote was taken. The following February, there took place a visit by Nixon to China that was the first visit ever made by an American president to mainland Asia, and one he described as an attempt to bridge ‘sixteen thousand miles and twenty-two years of hostility.’

When Nixon followed his Chinese trip by becoming also the first American president to visit Moscow (in May 1972), and this was followed by an interim agreement on arms limitation – the first of its kind – it seemed that another important change had come about. The stark, polarized simplicities of the Cold War were blurring, however doubtful the future might be.

Reprinted from THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD: Sixth Edition by J.M. Roberts and O.A. Westad with permission from Oxford University Press, Inc. Copyright © 2013 by O.A. Westad.

J. M. Roberts CBE died in 2003. He was Warden at Merton College, Oxford University, until his retirement and is widely considered one of the leading historians of his era. He is also renowned as the author and presenter of the BBC TV series ‘The Triumph of the West’ (1985). Odd Arne Westad edited the sixth edition of The History of the World . He is Professor of International History at the London School of Economics. He has published fifteen books on modern and contemporary international history, among them ‘The Global Cold War,’ which won the Bancroft Prize.

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