Are you looking for amazing things to do in Rochester, NY? I recently spent five days in Rochester, and I was blown away by how much this vibrant city has to offer. Known as both the “City of Flour” and the “Flower City,” Rochester’s mix of history, arts, outdoor beauty, and fantastic food makes it a must-visit destination.

Whether you’re planning a couples’ getaway, a family trip, or a friends’ retreat, there’s something here for everyone.

Many thanks to Visit Rochester New York for sponsoring my trip so I could experience the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. All opinions are my own.

Keep reading for a detailed 3-day itinerary packed with all the best things to do in Rochester, NY.

Where Is Rochester, NY?

Rochester is in western New York, along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. It’s about 60 miles east of Buffalo and 90 miles west of Syracuse. The Genesee River runs through the city, and it’s near the Erie Canal, making it an ideal base for exploring upstate New York.

Popular day trips from Rochester (all within 2 hours):

• Finger Lakes Wine Region & Corning Museum of Glass: Visit Canandaigua, Keuka, or Seneca Lake wineries
• Letchworth State Park: “Grand Canyon of the East” with waterfalls and hiking trails
• Niagara Falls: Both American and Canadian sides accessible
• Watkins Glen State Park: Famous gorge trail with 19 waterfalls

Best Time to Visit Rochester

I visited Rochester in the spring. The Erie Canal was empty and the trees were just starting to bud, but the weather was pleasant and the springs bulbs were blooming. I enjoyed the spring weather, but I’d love to go back in the fall. I think fall would be a fabulous time to visit!

Each season offers unique experiences in Rochester. Here’s a quick guide.

• 🌸 Spring: Celebrate the Lilac Festival in May at Highland Park.
• ☀️ Summer: Enjoy warm weather, parks, and festivals like the Rochester International Jazz Festival.
• 🍁 Fall: Take in stunning foliage, apple picking, and pumpkin festivals.
• ❄️ Winter: Experience Rochester’s snowy charm with ice skating, museums, and indoor attractions.

Regardless of when you visit, there are many iconic places to visit and fun things to do in Rochester NY. Here’s a sample of how you can make the most of three quick days there. My suggestion – stay longer! You won’t run out of things to do.

Where to Stay in Rochester

I recommend the Strathallan, a DoubleTree by Hilton. It offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, two great restaurants, and a rooftop bar.

For families, consider Airbnb options near the Strong Museum or Highland Park.

3-Day Itinerary: Things to Do in Rochester, NY

Day 1: Dive Into History

Morning: Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

Start your trip with a guided tour of Susan B Anthony’s historic home and museum. Learn about Anthony’s tireless fight for women’s suffrage, reflect on how far we’ve come, and acknowledge that there is still a long ways for us to go.

Admission: $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, $5 for children under 12. Open Tuesday–Sunday.

Afternoon: Frederick Douglass Monument & Mount Hope Cemetery

There are quite a few Frederick Douglass sites you can visit, including the first-ever monument dedicated to an African American in Highland Park. I especially loved the inspirational murals you’ll find scattered around Rochester. The bronzed sculpture called “Let’s Have Tea” in Susan B. Anthony Square Park (near her house and museum) is also worth seeing.

After visiting these sites, take a peaceful stroll through Mount Hope Cemetery to see the graves of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.

Established in 1838, Mount Hope is one of the oldest municipal cemeteries in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, famous for his work on Central Park in New York City, the cemetery is an arboretum full of beautiful trees, rolling hills, and winding paths.

Additional or Alternative Activity: RMSC Museum & Science Center

Explore interactive science exhibits, catch a show at the Strasenburgh Planetarium, or enjoy hands-on experiments. The museum offers engaging activities for all ages and makes an excellent indoor option during poor weather.

Evening: Genesee Brew House

Wrap up your day with craft beers and stunning views of High Falls at the Genesee Brew House. Part of one of the largest and longest continuously operating breweries in the U.S., this historic spot offers a unique blend of flavorful brews and rich brewing history. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for a perfect end to your day.

Before or after dinner, take a leisurely walk on the Pont de Rennes Bridge for the more great views of this 96-foot urban waterfall. The falls are illuminated at night and fun to see!

Day 2: Arts, Play, and Exploration

Morning: Memorial Art Gallery (MAG)

Stroll through this impressive gallery housing 12,000 works of art. Make sure to check out the outdoor sculpture park too, which is free to explore.

Don’t miss the Tom Otterness collection, Creation Myth (2014). Otterness uses bronze, marble, and stainless steel figures to show his twist on creation – woman creating man instead of vice versa.

He also has a permanent installation called Life Underground (2004), which you’ll find in New York City at the 14th Street/8th Avenue subway station.

Afternoon: The Strong National Museum of Play

Spend hours enjoying this one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to the history of play. Highlights include the World Video Game Hall of Fame, vintage pinball machines, and Sesame Street World. Adults and kids alike will love it!

I was not looking forward to visiting what I mistakenly thought was a toy museum. However, The Strong turned out to be one of my favorite stops during my visit to Rochester. Even without kids, it’s worth spending a few hours at The Strong.

Additional or Alternative Activity: George Eastman Museum

Visit the world’s oldest photography museum, housed in the stunning mansion of Kodak’s founder. Explore photography exhibits, historic gardens, and the beautifully preserved Colonial Revival mansion. The museum offers fascinating insights into the evolution of photography and cinema and the most interesting stories if you take a docent led tour!

Evening: Dinner at Strangebird

End your day with dinner at Strangebird Brewery, recently voted one of the top 30 breweries in the U.S in 2024. Known for its inventive craft beers and delicious menu, this spot is a must-visit for foodies and beer enthusiasts alike.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures and Local Flavor

Morning: Rochester Public Market

Head to the Rochester Public Market where you can start your day at Flour City Bread Co. for fresh pastries and coffee. Established in 1905, the Rochester Public Market is one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the United States.

After breakfast, spend your morning sampling local foods, shopping for handmade goods, and enjoying the lively atmosphere at this year-round market. Saturdays offer the most variety.

Afternoon: Erie Canal Adventures

Completed in 1825, the Erie Canal was an engineering marvel that connected the Great Lakes to the Hudson River, transforming New York into America’s commercial gateway and reducing shipping costs by 95%.

The canal’s construction helped establish Rochester as a major flour milling center, earning it the nickname “Flour City.”

Boat tours operate May through October, while the canal path is accessible year-round for cycling and walking. In winter, the drained canal offers unique photography opportunities and peaceful walks, though boat tours and water activities are paused. If you’re visiting from May – October, take a boat tour from Schoen Place in Pittsford or rent a bike to ride along the scenic canal path.

Additional or Alternative Activity: Genesee Country Village & Museum

Step back in time at this 19th-century living history museum. The village features over 68 historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities. Perfect for history enthusiasts and families, especially if you visit during the warmer months.

Evening: Iconic Rochester Eats

Try a “Garbage Plate” at Nick Tahou’s or savor BBQ at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. End your trip with Abbott’s Frozen Custard, a local favorite since 1926. For more great places to eat in Rochester, read my article:

Final Thoughts on Rochester, NY

After spending several days in Rochester, I can confidently say this city deserves more attention as a travel destination. From its rich history and vibrant arts scene to its outdoor beauty and delicious food, there’s something for everyone. Whether you visit in spring for the lilacs or winter for museums and ice skating, one thing’s for sure: one weekend won’t be long enough in Rochester, NY!

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