Rochester Explore Local With RVshare

Rochester is situated on Lake Ontario, in the Finger Lakes vacation region. Referred to as ‘Kodak town’ the city is known as the birthplace of amateur photography, with the Eastman Kodak camera company first setting up here. Along with its stunning lakeside setting, Rochester also has the Genesee River flowing northward through the city, while the historic Erie Canal also runs along the city's borders.

Along with its picturesque location, people flock to Rochester to enjoy its thriving culinary scene, festivals, shopping, family friendly attractions, numerous parks and gardens, and more.

Ready to discover the best of Rochester, New York? Let’s get started!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

Rochester and its surrounding area are home to multiple state parks and national parks, helping you to get back to nature and leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city – even if only for a couple of hours. Here are our top picks within the region.

Hamlin Beach State Park

Just a 30-minute drive north-west of the city is the popular Hamlin Beach State Park, which is perched on Lake Ontario. With its crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and long list of recreational activities, it comes as no surprise that thousands of visitors flock here each year. Enjoy hiking, biking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, boating, fishing, swimming, and more.

Chimney Bluffs State Park

Just an hour’s drive away from Rochester, and situated along the stunning Lake Ontario coastline, is Chimney Bluffs State Park, which is famous for its massive earthen spires dotted along the coast. Day-use services include picnic areas, nature trails and restrooms, while you can also partake in activities such as fishing, hiking, hunting, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Fair Haven Beach State Park

Right near Chimney Bluffs, you’ll also find Fair Haven Beach State Park located along the scenic coastline. This lakefront state park offers a popular sand beach, as well as surrounding hilly woodlands and shoreline bluffs. Enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, boating, stand up paddle boarding, and more in the warmer months, while winter offers sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing.

Letchworth State Park

Heading in the opposite direction now, you’ll find Letchworth State Park around a 50-minute drive south of Rochester. This massive state park is home to three major waterfalls, a gorge, and lush forests, giving it the nickname, “Grand Canyon of the East”. Hikers can choose from 66 miles of hiking trails, which are also available for horseback riding, biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

Sampson State Park

An hour’s drive south-east will take you to another scenic and popular New York state park, known as Sampson State Park. It’s situated on the beautiful Seneca Lake and encompasses over 2,000 acres. Camping and boating are the most popular activities here, but visitors also flock to the park to enjoy swimming at the sandy beach and hiking the beautiful lake trail.

Whether you’re after a quick round-trip or a day-long hike, Rochester has a variety of hiking and walking trails to satisfy your every need. Just don’t forget to pack some water, sunscreen, and a snack, of course!

Turning Point Park Trail

Located within Rochester is Turning Point Park, which is home to a very popular and picturesqueboardwalk and trail. It even includes a 3,572 ft-long bridge over the Genesee River Turning Basin, providing walkers with beautiful views. The park's trail then continues to connect to the Genesee Riverway Trail. You can take this trail and explore over 16 miles of Rochester by reaching Ontario Beach Park to the north or downtown to the south.

Crescent Trail

When it comes to trails within the city, theCrescent Trail is the one on everybody’s lips. Covering over 38 miles, this trail can be access from multiple locations throughout Rochester. It officially starts at Bushnell’s Basin and takes hikers through multiple parks, recreation areas, and nature areas, all offering additional, connected hiking trails.

Ready to enjoy a scrumptious meal while wandering around Rochester? Here are our top restaurant picks!

The Owl House

The Owl House specializes in fresh, made-from-scratch New American food and inventive craft cocktails, making it the ‘cool kid on the block’ in terms of Rochester restaurants. They source their ingredients from local providers, where possible, and offer favorites such as sandwiches, soups, salads, and small plates – including vegetarian and vegan options.

Good Luck Restaurant

Good Luck is a restaurant and nightspot in Rochester offering cuisine made from seasonal, local ingredients, and craft cocktails in a loft-style space with an open kitchen. They also have regular pop-up events and offer delights such as their signature Good Luck Burger, Squid Ink Calamaratta, and Miso-Braised Tofu.

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

There are a few special things aboutDinosaur Bar-B-Que. Firstly, they’re located in the heart of the city, overlooking the picturesque Genesee River in the former Lehigh Valley Railroad Station. Secondly, they encourage you to bring your furry friends to enjoy their outdoor dining area. And thirdly, they offer some of the most delicious food in Rochester, including mojito marinated chicken breast, a build-your-own BBQ burger, brisket sandwiches, and more.

Tapas 117 Lounge

Tapas 117 Lounge is a mainstay in Rochester, having been in business for over 23 years. They offer over 20 appetizer choices, giving you a tapas style dining experience, and describes their menu as “a creative fusion of familiar and exotic flavors from around the world.” They also hold regular events, including dance classes, to elevate your night out.

Lento Restaurant

AtLento Restaurant, you can expect nothing but the highest quality ingredients. You see, they procure their meat locally, then butcher, smoke, and cure it in-house. Additionally, they source their produce seasonally from local farms, while they also pickle their own vegetables, and make their own condiments, sauces, and dressings. Locals love their raw oysters, as well as the $5 speciality cocktails!

After filling up on delicious food and enjoying all that the hiking trails and state parks have to offer, you may be wondering: “what’s next?” Well, when it comes to Rochester’s attractions and activities, you’re only just getting started. Here are some of the most fun things on offer in and around the city!

For kids and families

If you and your family are looking for a way to pass the day, look no further than these kid-friendly activities!

The Strong National Museum of Play

For the ultimate play destination in Rochester, head toThe Strong. The museum owns and cares for the world’s most comprehensive collection of toys, dolls, board games, video games, other electronic games, books, documents, and other historical materials related to play. They offer a fun and educational experience for visitors both young and old.

Seneca Park Zoo

Seneca Park Zoo inspires the Rochester community to connect with, care for, and conserve wildlife and wild places. They’re home to a number of incredible animals that you can see up-close and offer attractions such as giraffe feeding, a zoo tram, food services, a gift shop, and more. Kids (and adults) of any age will love it here!

At night

What should you do in Rochester once the sun goes down? We’re glad you asked! Here are our suggested night-time attractions.

Comedy at the Carlson

Is there a better way to end your day than with a night time comedy show?Comedy at the Carlson is Western New York’s premier destination for all things comedy and features a 350-seat showroom that hosts the nation’s best entertainers weekly. Enjoy a post-dinner show, along with a few drinks and plenty of laughs!

Rochester City Ballet

If a ballet performance is more your thing, then you’re in luck. Rochester is also home to theRochester City Ballet, which was established in 1987. The company presents a broad range of classical and contemporary work at the Nazareth College Arts Center, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, and in Canandaigua. Trust us, you’ll be in awe of the talent being showcased.

On the cheap

Looking to save a dollar or two during your Rochester excursion? There are plenty of activities and attractions that can be visited on a budget, helping you to get the most out of your time spent in the city.

The George Eastman Museum

The George Eastman Museum is located in Rochester on the estate of George Eastman, the pioneer of popular photography and motion picture film. It’s the world’s oldest photography museum and one of the oldest film archives and admission costs just $5 - $15 per person. Enjoy exhibitions, collections, tours, restored gardens, frequent talks, music recitals, and more.

Memorial Art Gallery

A visit to theMemorial Art Gallery (or MAG, as it’s often referred to) is a journey through more than 5,000 years of art history. It has a permanent collection of more than 12,000 objects, as well as a year-round schedule of temporary exhibitions, lectures, concerts, tours, and family activities. Admission costs just $6 - $15, with children under 6 free to attend. Enjoy half-price admission on Thursdays after 5 pm!

Free things to do in Rochester

Looking to get the most out of your time spent within the city of Rochester? Whether you want a fun way to waste away a Sunday afternoon or a date idea that won’t break the budget – here are our most recommended things to do in Rochester that won’t cost you a cent.

Highland Botanical Park

Highland Botanical Park is an arboretum and park covering 150 acres. Along with hosting the popular Lilac Festival in May, the area also offers many fun activities, events, and interesting attractions. Stop by the Lamberton Conservatory, which features plants from around the world, and don’t miss the numerous memorials and gardens. In winter, the Lily Pond also freezes over to provide visitors with a natural ice-skating rink.

Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse

TheCharlotte Genesee Lighthouse is America’s oldest surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario. There is a very small museum located in the lighthouse keeper’s home, and tours also run regularly and cost just a few dollars per person. You can climb the lighthouse using it’s interior steps, but be warned – it’s a tight fit! There’s also a Lighthouse Trail on-site, which connects with Lake Ave.

Spas in Rochester

By now, you’ve probably been on your feet all day exploring the sights and delights that Rochester has to offer. If you’re craving some rest and relaxation, or even a bit of pampering, these are two of the best spas in the region.

Ape & Canary

Described as an urban spa destination,Ape & Canary offer more than just hair services. You see, they also offer a wide variety of spa services to help you look and feel your best. Just some of their treatments include manicures, facials, and massages. If you really want to treat yourself, you can also purchase a spa package. You’ll walk in but float out!

AE Spa

AE Spa has been providing skin care therapy for over 25 years, as well as Massage Therapy, Facials, Waxing, Pedicures, and more. There’s a tranquil water fountain in the waiting area, while calming music plays to help you further de-stress. Locals like to refer to it as “a high-end spa, without the high-end attitude”, so you know you’re in good hands here.

Best gyms and yoga studios

If rejuvenation for you is less about deep relaxation and more about sweating it out, then you’re in luck. Rochester is home to some of the highest-rated gyms and yoga studios within the region.

Ruckhouse Athletics

When you work out atRuckhouse Athletics, you’re not just joining a gym – you’re joining the Ruckhouse family. Along with your favorite classes, they also offer an on-site juice bar and Hybrid Athletics Wellness room offering chiropractic, massage, physical therapy, and muscle recovery services.

Tru Yoga

AtTru Yoga, their mission is simple: to provide a place where we can deepen the experience of the body, mind and spirit. Enjoy classes such as morning flow, open vinyasa, yin yoga, candlelight flow, and more. They also offer a number of workshops, trainings, and specialty classes, so check back regularly!

Looking to fulfill your wanderlust by heading outside of the region for a day? You could spend decades within Rochester without barely scratching the surface of all there is to do in this large city, but consider these day trips next time you fancy a new adventure.

Niagara Falls

Rochester is located just an hour-and-a-half away from one of America’s most famous attractions, Niagara Falls. Hop on a boat tour to experience the falls up-close and feel the fine mist on your bare skin. You can also visit Goat Island, which is situated in between the two falls. It’s a quick and easy day trip that’s sure to be a rewarding experience!

Watkins Glen State Park

Another hour-and-a-half trip from the city will take you to Watkins Glen State Park, one of the state’s best-kept secrets. You see, it was once named one of the top three state parks within America, yet tourists outside of the region don’t seem to know very much about it. Watkins Glen boasts nineteen waterfalls, 200-foot tall cliffs towering over a gorge, and seven scenic trails, giving you plenty of sightseeing to occupy an entire day. Additional activities include hunting, swimming, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more.

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Rochester that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Rochester? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.