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City in New York, United States
Photo: Theresa Marconi, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Big-city culture and small-city charm combine in Rochester, a mid-sized city on the shore of Lake Ontario. The birthplace of amateur photography, Rochester was synonymous with Eastman Kodak for much of the 20th century, but the city's fame was established well before George Eastman came on the scene. Today, its historical treasures complement modern family-friendly attractions that rival those found in much larger communities. In Rochester, you can find the only museum in the world dedicated to play; award-winning music, dance, and acting ensembles; a dense festival calendar covering nearly every weekend of the year; minor-league sports of the highest caliber; and a trio of majestic waterfalls right in the middle of the city. The gateway to the scenic and culinary delights of New York's Finger Lakes region, Rochester is the perfect place to begin your exploration of Western New York.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
Cobb's Hill provides a great panoramic view of downtown. Located on the corner of Culver and Monroe, it is an easy walk from the cafes on Park Ave. Large duck pond, baseball diamond, tennis courts and a nice (although steep) trail to the top of the hill, where the reservoir is located. A path popular with runners circles the reservoir. Adjacent to Washington Grove, 26 acres of old-growth Oak–Hickory forest right in the middle of the city.
At the confluence of the Genesee River and the Erie Canal, the park is a great place to step off onto the Genesee Riverway Trail, the Genesee Valley Greenway, and the Erie Canalway Trail (see below). It's also known for its golf course, one of the major public courses in the area.
Most famous for its hundreds of lilacs, Highland Park is the site of the annual Lilac Festival. Even when the lilacs aren't blooming, though, there are countless other examples of Rochester's horticultural tradition. There is a Sunken Garden behind the Warner Castle, and the Highland Park Bowl, a natural amphitheater, hosts concerts and films during the summer. Adjacent Beikirch Park hosts the county's Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the AIDS Remembrance Garden.
The conservatory holds a number of more exotic plants that wouldn't survive outside in Rochester, including desert and tropical species. Open year-round and a wonderful refuge from the stark winter landscapes.
Maplewood is often overlooked, but it's an important piece of the park system. A long, thin park designed by Olmstead as Seneca Park West, it has three distinct areas. The southern park is home to the beloved Maplewood Rose Garden and (with a hike down to river level) has lovely views of the Lower Falls. You can also access Lower Falls Park and see the Middle Falls via the Genesee Riverway Trail. Be sure to check out the sculpture called "The Seat of Remembering and Forgetting". At the northern end you'll have nice views of the Veterans Memorial Bridge and the river gorge, and a pedestrian bridge lets you cross the river to Seneca Park. In between is a wooded trail with some recreation space.
Manhattan Square
This urban park near the Strong Museum features a unique concrete amphitheater with a distinctive metal superstructural sculpture, some play equipment, and a public outdoor skating rink that (in warmer months) converts to a reflecting pool with fountains. It's a major gathering space for Rochesterians and hosts the ROC Holiday Village every December.
Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony and other historic figures are buried in this beautiful Victorian cemetery. Also a great place for running or walking. Guided tours are available periodically throughout the year; the Halloween tour is particularly popular.
While it's best known for the Seneca Park Zoo, the rest of Seneca Park largely maintains its Olmsted design focused on pastoral fields and river overlooks. Trout Lake, formed by damming a natural spring, is a gem. You can access Maplewood Park and the Genesee Riverway Trail via pedestrian bridge over the river.
No other park (at least, without a beach) gets you as close to the water as Turning Point, named for the large basin where ships coming upstream from Lake Ontario could turn around before reaching the Lower Falls. The park's long trail (part of the Genesee Riverway Trail) includes a southern descent down the gorge to water level, a beautiful curving boardwalk over the river basin, and a northern wooded trail heading toward the harbor. Lots of nature to be found here, including some wetlands. Pastoral and serene.
A non-profit organization housed in a huge warehouse, Artisan Works comprises a labyrinth of hallways and levels where every square inch is covered with art in all media (but mostly painting and sculpture). Everything is for sale. The gallery provides studio space to dozens of artists, some of whom may be working when you visit, and all of whom are happy to chat about what they're making. Also within is the Triangle Theater, a 30-seat movie theater which features films by student and local filmmakers.
The oldest remaining lighthouse on Lake Ontario sits high above the Rochester harbor, and visitors can climb to the top of it to see the light, the lens – and the view. Now if, when you get to the lighthouse, you wonder where the shore is, it's half a mile (almost a kilometer) northeast. That's how much land has been added to the northern shore of New York since the lighthouse was built in 1822. The museum inside the keeper's house has a lot of displays on Rochester's harbor history.
The world's oldest photography museum, the George Eastman Museum could really be considered three museums in one. First, and most visible, is the George Eastman House, the mansion built by the founder of Eastman Kodak, restored to appear much as it did when he was alive, illustrating the life of Rochester's elite in the early 20th century. Second, the museum hosts regular rotating exhibits highlighting the history of photography and film. Third, and perhaps most importantly, the museum houses an enormous archive of photographs, film, and related technology, among the largest in the world. Other institutions regularly send film here for conservation. Guided tours of the house are available, and the exhibits can be toured at your own pace, but access to the archives is restricted to serious researchers only. Films are presented regularly in the museum's Dryden Theatre (see below).
A gallery devoted to photography with a new show every four weeks. If a work strikes your fancy, feel free to purchase it!
The premier art museum in the area, with over 12,000 items, from artists both obscure and renowned. A real Baroque Italian organ resides inside. The Centennial Sculpture Park on the grounds is open 24/7.
A small-ish art gallery operated by RIT, featuring the work of fine arts students, faculty, alumni, and other artists of note.
RoCo
This non-profit arts center supports local artists, in part by exhibiting their work to the public. But it's not just local artists you'll find in the gallery; they regularly host works from around the world. It's also a gathering place for the local arts community, so dropping by isn't just about viewing the art; it's also about connecting with the artists.
Several different collections, for both exhibition and research, are combined here to document the public health of Rochester and Monroe County.
A science museum filled with hands-on exhibits and activities. Fantastic for kids, but a lot of it is fun for parents, too. Major hands-on exhibits include Wonders of Water, How Things Work, and Illumination: The World of Light and Optics. Don't miss the enormous mastodon skeleton in Expedition Earth, or the musical Tesla coils in the Electricity Theater. Other permanent exhibits focus on the people of the Haudenosaunee, 19th-century Rochester, and the Underground Railroad. The Strasenburgh Planetarium is next door; get a $4 discount on combined admission when you purchase in person.
The planetarium adjacent to the RMSC offers a variety of large-format films and planetarium shows using their state-of-the-art star projector. Laser shows set to music are also quite popular. A few space-related exhibits occupy areas outside the star theater. Purchase tickets in person to save $4 on combined admission with the RMSC.
Rochester's zoo is nestled inside the Olmsted-designed Seneca Park. While small—the entire zoo can easily be enjoyed in an afternoon—a lot of value is packed into the small area. The zoo has the only African elephants in the state, part of their Step Into Africa exhibit that includes a rhinoceros, giraffes, lions, baboons, and zebras. The Rocky Coasts exhibit, with polar bears, sea lions, and penguins, is another highlight.
Enjoy live music, drink beer and wine, socialize, and enjoy other activities among the animals of the zoo. Ages 21 and up only.
The oldest remaining building in Monroe County, parts of which were built as early as 1792. The house later served as a tavern for travelers along East Avenue; it's been restored and serves as an excellent example of the era.
This downtown children's museum, the only one in the world with a specific focus on play, is the place to visit if you have kids from 1-12. You can easily spend a whole day here, or visit a couple of times to enjoy everything. This museum focuses on learning through play and features tons of interactive exhibits, including some focused on well-known themes like Sesame Street. The kid-sized Wegmans supermarket is always a must-do. One nice feature is that most exhibits have information for adults to read (such as on how fairy tales have changed with the times) while the kids do things like climb on a pirate ship. Older visitors (those who can remember the 1980s) may also enjoy the classic arcade cabinets in the eGameRevolution exhibit. The Strong is also home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame. The museum's Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden costs $6 extra and has a limited number of timed tickets available each day.
This is the house where the women's rights activist lived for many years, and where she was arrested after voting illegally in 1872. The museum highlights Anthony's influences, the many reforms she worked for (suffrage, abolition, temperance, education, and a purse of her own among them), her friendship with Frederick Douglass, and her trial for voting. Tours last up to an hour. Don't forget to check the gift shop!.
Public art came to Rochester in a (literally) huge way in 2012, in which Wall\Therapy invited urban artists from all around the globe to come and use the city's blank walls as canvases. It started in the Public Market neighborhood, then in 2013 moved to El Camino and the South Wedge. Later years saw other neighborhoods throughout the city receive new murals. You can see a map of locations on the website. No admission needed; just stroll around and gawk.
Don't miss a drive down historic East Ave; with the mansions of Rochester's past barons still mostly intact, you can really see a history lesson of the Rochester area. Another great place to see off of East Ave is the Sandringham/Ambassador Drive neighborhood; some of the greatest residential architecture in Rochester can be viewed here.
Most famous for its annual Corn Hill Arts Festival, this area can be nice to walk around any time of the year. As Rochester's oldest residential neighborhood, there are lots of beautiful historic homes. Corn Hill Landing, on the river, has shops and restaurants.
Small residential neighborhood in downtown Rochester. Full of beautiful 19th-century townhouses. Several good restaurants are in the neighborhood and it is in easy walking distance to Eastman Theater and the Eastman School of Music as well as the Memorial Art Gallery.
The majestic High Falls of the Genesee are what attracted settlers to the area in the first place. A 96-foot (29 m) waterfall in the center of downtown is certainly a unique sight; viewing is best from the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge. But also take a walk around the old warehouses on the west bank between the bridge and the falls; this is the area known as "High Falls" and home to a very nice museum/visitor's center and some very old milling equipment.
An eclectic neighborhood along University Avenue, near the Village Gate and the Rochester Museum and Science Center. Lots of public artwork (thanks to ArtWalk), some small shops and eateries, and beautiful Victorian homes. Very walkable.
There are a lot of great trendy shops in this district, and it's serviced by the RTS service. However, it's definitely not an entire day activity, and things close relatively early.
A triangular neighborhood bordered by the Genesee and Interstate 490. The South Wedge is what some may call an "up and coming" neighborhood. Many nightlife options and a growing number of shops and businesses. Close to Alexander Street, the University of Rochester and Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Rochester's convention center is centrally located and, true to its name, right on the river. It's connected via Skyway to the South Avenue Garage (and thus to the Hyatt Regency Hotel). It also connects via Skyway to the former Rochester Riverside Hotel, which will, with luck, reopen someday.
Rochester Institute of Technology's innovation and creativity festival showcases what happens "when the left brain and right brain collide," featuring hundreds of student projects from every corner of the university. Robotics, music, sign language, virtual reality, ecology, and weird science are just a few of the many subject areas covered; in fact, most of the projects take elements from multiple disciplines and combine them in innovative ways. Plenty of food, hands-on exhibits, and kids' activities make for an unbeatable value for a day out.
For ten days every May, Rochester's flagship festival celebrates the community—and its flowers—in beautiful Highland Park, designed by renowned landscaper Frederick Law Olmsted. The park's world-famous lilac collection was started by horticulturist John Dunbar in 1892 with 20 varieties. Today, over 500 varieties of lilacs cover of Highland Park's . The usual summer festival staples are all here, such as kiddie rides and food vendors, but also tons of activities, a parade, a craft show, a festival-sponsored 5K race, and a packed schedule of music and entertainment. You can even buy Highland Lilac perfume!
Modern and classic cocktails are making a comeback, even in often-staid Rochester. Rochester's bars and bartenders get together to share cocktail culture, ideas, and recipes with each other and with the general public. Six days of events at venues throughout the city, and (of course) drink specials at more than 30 cocktail and spirits bars around town.
Movies on a Shoestring
One of the only film festivals devoted to short films, this annual event has been a fixture in Rochester for almost 70 years. It's only three days long, but you can see dozens of films in that time if you attend all four sessions. Many of the filmmakers attend to talk about their films.
Ontario Beach Park likes to kick off the summer beach season with Harborfest weekend, a great excuse to visit the park and enjoy the amenities. In addition to the usual carousel rides and beach activities, you'll find a sand sculpture contest, a beach volleyball tournament, a classic car show, live music and food trucks. Saturday night sees a boat parade of lights. Charlotte businesses offer specials all weekend.
Founded in 2002, the RIJF quickly became the centerpiece of Rochester's festival schedule. Held in almost two dozen venues, all within walking distance of each other, the nine-day festival offers a mix of free and ticketed events for people of all ages. It attracts fans from the U.S. and around the world who come to hear one of the most multidimensional, international, and diverse artist lineups presented at a major music festival.
The Corn Hill neighborhood, with some of the city's oldest and prettiest homes, is just south of downtown along the river. This festival celebrates the neighborhood's long history with over 400 arts and crafts exhibitors, plus the standard live musicians and food vendors.
Rochester's been celebrating the LGBTQ+ community for decades, particularly an annual picnic in July, so that's the spot on the calendar that all of the local Pride celebrations have come to take place. Alongside the main festival and parade there are a variety of other community events that join the celebration each year. Usually held on Park Avenue.
Rochester's largest and most energetic ethnic festival brings the sizable Puerto Rican community together to share their culture. Expect lots of food and stage performances, and more Puerto Rican flags than you could count.
Park Avenue is one of the most eclectic neighborhoods of the city, and this festival showcases its artisans, merchants, and artists. It's a scaled-back version of the Park Ave Festival that ran for decades but got a bit too big—and a bit too far from its founding principles of neighborliness and fun. The Summer Stroll has been instituted in its place to restore the original community feel.
Many years ago, Clarissa Street was known as "Rochester's Broadway", home to the best jazz clubs in the city. Urban renewal in the 1960s and 70s left its unfortunate mark on this neighborhood, but every August people come back for one day to celebrate the place it used to be. Live music is the main draw, but you'll also find a parade and other typical festival fare.
This is the most "artsy" of the summer festivals, focused on paintings and other artwork more so than the crafts of other festivals. You can also take this opportunity to browse the gallery itself.
Organizers of this festival hoped to attract 15,000 attendees when it started in 2012; they got 33,000, and 50,000 the next year. The festival features a wide-ranging slate of artistic performances, from theater to dance and music, at venues throughout the East End, including a magnificent and rare Spiegeltent from Belgium. This was the first Fringe Festival in Upstate New York, and now it's one of the biggest in the country. Its free outdoor spectacle performances are a unique feature that you won't find at most other festivals.
formerly Rochester River Romance
Rochester celebrates the Genesee River with this full weekend of events taking place all along the river.
The Rochester Lesbian & Gay Film and Video Festival
Films and videos of all types, but all having something to do with gender and sexuality, are on tap for these ten days in October at multiple venues around the city.
Rochester is not known for its role in the world of fashion, but one group has dedicated themselves to showing that fashion touches everyone's lives. With affordable ticket prices, accessible events, and a sense of fun and charity, Fashion Week goes all over the city to bring fashion to the masses. It's becoming a big event around town, with boutique crawls, fun parties, and of course runway shows.
Rochester has tried several times over the years to host winter festivals, to varying degrees of success. The current version focuses on the holiday season, with all activities concentrated within Martin Luther King Jr. Park near the Strong. There's free ice skating (and free skate rentals) at the pond, a shopping village, a large lodge with drinks and entertainment, private igloos available for rent, and of course visits with Santa. Locals might get more out of it than visitors, but it's still a great way to have some fun in the cold.
baseball
A Rochester tradition since 1899, the Red Wings are the AAA affiliate of the Washington Nationals. ESL Ballpark is a beautiful 90s ballpark situated downtown with convenient $6 parking. The general manager and his team can't control the product on the field, but they hit it out of the park when it comes to promotions and the gameday environment. Free fireworks shows set to music are just one of the possibilities to accompany a game. Food options at the park are a bit better than the average, too—there's the usual hot dogs and beer (white hots and Genny, since this is Rochester, after all), but maybe you'd like to try the beef on weck, rice bowls, mac and cheese, or the "Home Plate" (the stadium's take on the Garbage Plate).
hockey
Known fondly as the "Amerks", Rochester's storied hockey team is the AHL affiliate of the Buffalo Sabres. The Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial is an old building, but it was renovated in the 1990s and is now a fine downtown hockey arena. One of the oldest and most successful teams in the league: hockey night in Rochester is still a fun time, especially in the playoffs.
lacrosse
The K-Hawks are a top-tier indoor lacrosse team, featuring some of the best talent in the world. If you've never seen an indoor lacrosse match, a National Lacrosse League game is a great introduction. The original Knighthawks won back-to-back-to-back NLL championships (2012–14) and had several future Hall-of-Famers on the roster, but all that left town for Halifax in 2019. The new team, which was created as an expansion team in 2019, is now owned (as of 2025) by the Seneca Nation of Indians. It's struggled to reach the same heights as the old team, but the fan base is returning and the results are improving.
soccer
The state of American professional soccer below MLS is constantly in flux, and so it goes in Rochester as various teams try to recapture the magic of the Rhinos. The Lancers, named after the city's very successful 1970s team, play in the UPSL, a massive multi-level semi-pro league with hundreds of teams throughout the country.
soccer
Also in the local semi-pro soccer scene Flower City Union won the 2023 NISL championship before deciding to move to the NPSL, which plays a more regionalized schedule with less travel. They play at the Rhinos' old digs, the massive soccer-specific stadium on Broad Street northwest of Innovative Field.
hockey
Who needs football? Rochester Institute of Technology has hockey! Rochester's only Division I college teams play a hard-hitting and very successful brand of hockey, and they've already made waves in just a short time at the top level, including a Frozen Four appearance for the men in 2010. The Gene Polisseni Center on campus combines the old-school atmosphere of the Tigers' previous barn with plenty of modern amenities. The legendary Corner Crew cheering section harasses opposing goalies all night, every night. This classic college hockey atmosphere is worth experiencing.
football
The closest the Rochester area gets to major-league team sports is the Bills' annual summer training camp, held since 2000 in northern Pittsford. There's lots to do besides just watch practices, too; you can participate in interactive games, peruse the merchandise, or try to get some autographs. You can get a lot closer to the players here than at the stadium in Orchard Park!
Rochester's oldest neighborhood movie theater. It's just a single screen, but you can order food and drink to be delivered to your seat. Shows a select first-run film each week; free showings of older favorites on Mondays.
Formerly a second-run discount theater, Movies 10 now shows first-run films. Still cheaper than a multiplex, though!
The George Eastman Museum knows that part of preserving the history of film is showing films to audiences. That's the role of the Museum's Dryden Theatre. The Dryden shows a wide variety of Hollywood classics, international and independent films—literally something different every night of the week. The programming is thoughtful and cutting-edge, with frequent visits by directors and actors. Nearly all films begin at 7:30PM and are preceded by a brief film talk.
Run by local public broadcaster WXXI, the historic Little shows a wide variety of foreign, independent and classic films in five theatres. There is also a cafe bakery (serves a full dinner menu along with wine and beer), sometimes with live music.
The University of Rochester's own student-run movie group. Movies are shown on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as most Thursdays while Fall and Spring semesters are in session. Movies of every conceivable genre are shown throughout the year, including pornography.
Rochester Broadway Theatre League
Housed in an historic Masonic temple building, the Auditorium Theatre is Rochester's Broadway roadhouse; the Rochester Broadway Theatre League brings to town several touring productions each year. The theater is aging and acoustically imperfect, but it's due for extensive renovations soon (now that RBTL owns the whole building), and it's the only area theater with the space to put on the big shows. Other concerts and performances dot the schedule throughout the year; see the web site for upcoming events.
Blackfriars Theatre is a mid-sized professional theatre that has entertained audiences since the 1950s, providing a local showcase for actors and actresses, theater artists and technicians who have chosen to make Rochester their home. They're performance space on East Main is near the Auditorium Center.
The Eastman Theatre dates back to George Eastman's time and contains three halls within its space.
The main hall is what most people think of when they think of the Eastman Theatre, and it's the best place to catch the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (see below), one of the top mid-sized city orchestras in the country. Opened in 1922, it was designed by George Eastman as a concert hall and movie house. Today, after renovations to improve sightlines and comfort, it seats 2,400. It's by far the best large performance space in Rochester, with the expected variety of events going on all year.
Kilbourn, which also opened in 1922, is one of the finest small concert halls in the world, and it serves as the primary performance space for Eastman School of Music students. As such, audiences are in for a treat, in the form of free recitals and concerts throughout the year, as elite music students exhibit their talents on stage.
Hatch opened in a new wing of the Theatre in 2010, providing an even more intimate space for recitals than Kilbourn. It incorporates the latest acoustical designs and technology to provide the most precise listening and performing experience possible.
The Tony-award winning choreographer Garth Fagan has his own dance troupe in Rochester, his adopted hometown. When they're not touring the country, they put on a variety of performances both around the city and at their studio space. Truly world-class dancers provide a show you can't match in any other city this size.
Geva, the city's premiere professional theater company, hosts a variety of productions on its two stages, housed in a converted armory! The yearly production of A Christmas Carol is a popular family tradition. Cafe on site. Discounts are available for students and seniors.
Hochstein Performance Hall is part of Hochstein School of Music & Dance, which has served as a community center for Greater Rochester since 1920. Located in the heart of the city, the elegant 857-seat Performance Hall offers free recitals and performances regularly, including the long-running "Live from Hochstein" Broadcast and Concert Series.
Theatre on the Ridge
Part of the sprawling industrial complex once known as Kodak Park, Kodak Center is a live performing arts, event, and conference center featuring a 1,978-seat main theater with the biggest stage in Rochester, 180-seat Studio Theater, 48-seat Club Theater, conference rooms, a gymnasium, and many other spaces. Numerous musical, stand-up comedy, and dramatic acts are featured throughout the year. The center also hosts the Kodak Visitor Center where visitors can learn about the history of Kodak. There is a 1,000+ spot parking lot located across the street for patrons and a 30 minute visitor lot directly next to the theater.
A longstanding music club, it's an intimate venue but some great bands come through. The drinks aren't anything to write home about, but folks don't come here for the drinks.
Multi-use Community Cultural Center
The MuCCC is a non-profit 80-seat theater housed in a converted church. Its purpose is to host theater groups without permanent spaces of their own, such as the Rochester Community Players and several Black theater companies.
500-person capacity live music venue with drink specials.
One of George Eastman's greatest legacies, the Rochester Philharmonic is an outstanding orchestra, especially for a city the size of Rochester. The RPO's main performance space is the Eastman Theatre (see above), but they get around town to other venues, especially in the summer. Pops conductor Jeff Tyzik, once Doc Severinsen's arranger for the Tonight Show Band, has taught the RPO to swing like few other professional orchestras can, but their classical chops are equally noteworthy.
The former Xerox Auditorium is adjacent to what used to be Xerox's world headquarters. Xerox Tower is now Innovation Square, and the auditorium—once used for board meetings and the like—is now a beautiful and intimate performance venue with very good acoustics. It seats 700 but feels like 300.
Long the most popular music club in the area, the venerable Water Street is back after several years in somewhat different forms. The main hall has room for 1,000 revelers, and the venue is careful with its booking to avoid some of the capacity and rowdiness problems of the past. There are not many places like it in Rochester. Jack's on Water Street is an attached restaurant and occasional (smaller) performance venue.
There are some other bars and restaurants around that have a handful of board games for patrons to borrow, but it's safe to say no place has as huge a collection as Dice Versa, with over 300 games stacked on their shelves. True, you have to pay a cover charge to play games, but (during the week) you can game all day if you want (Friday and Saturday there's a 3-hour limit). The food (sliders, mac and cheese, flatbreads, and apps) is tasty and it's easy to eat way too much of it during a long gaming session. Their drink menu is also inventive and fun; try the Potion Shop, which lets you roll a 20-sided die to have fate choose the contents of your shot glass.
GLG
GLG has twelve high-end gaming PCs and three console couches in their gaming lounge, not to mention some great views of the city from high atop the former Xerox Tower.
If Dice Versa is a gaming lounge with food, Nerdvana is a restaurant and bar with games. When you check in for a meal, you'll be asked "Nintendo, Xbox, or PlayStation?" and be seated at a table with your chosen video game console attached to a built-in screen and loaded with a variety of games. Play all you want while you wait for your food (or while you eat, they don't judge). They also have a big selection of board games (only somewhat smaller than Dice Versa's library) if that's more your speed. And don't worry—you can also play at the bar. The food menu is varied and includes some nice twists, and the cocktail menu is equally good.
Equal parts burger joint, casual bar, and retro arcade, The Playhouse // Swillburger offers a little something for everyone. The food is counter-service, but everything on the menu (burgers, fries/tots, and shakes) is highly regarded. Arcade machines ($0.50–$1 each) are vintage and thus prone to breaking down, but they do their best to keep them in repair. 21+ after 10PM.
Bowling used to be big in Rochester; all the local manufacturers had after-work bowling leagues back in the 70s and 80s. There are still alleys around but many of the big ones have closed. Radio Social, though, combines 34 bowling lanes with all sorts of other indoor and outdoor games like giant Jenga, shuffleboard, and cornhole. It's not just gaming, though; this place has an executive chef! The kitchen does serve up pizza and burgers, but it specializes in inventive Middle Eastern fare. The bar has the expected beers on tap, but also unique craft cocktails and a nice selection of wine. 21+ after 9PM.
This historic course (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) dates all the way back to 1930, making it one of the oldest (if not the oldest) surviving miniature golf courses in the United States. 18 old-style holes, including a windmill (of course) and one hole where you have to pitch the ball instead of putting it. Adjacent to the Parkside Diner if you want to grab a bite to eat before or after putting.
Back in the 1980s, these two miniature golf establishments were Putt-Putt Golf and Games locations. Today they're locally owned. Putt-Putt's trademark orange metal rails are gone, and the courses now incorporate water and sand hazards for a more natural feel. The courses are fairly well maintained with smooth greens and no moving obstacles. Both locations have arcades inside.
The Greece location has three scenic courses. There's also a batting cage outside.
Henrietta's location has two courses and a go-kart track outside.
George Eastman and Dr. Henry Durand donated their summer-cottage lakefront properties to the city in 1909, and the park is now a popular summer getaway for everyone. Its beach is open for swimming during the summer, and it's less often closed due to water conditions than Ontario Beach. Also has a golf course and other standard park amenities.
Located at the northernmost reaches of the city, Ontario Beach is the most popular beach area in Rochester. Algae problems of prior years have largely been alleviated, but occasionally the beach may still need to be closed. When conditions allow, swimming is open 11AM-7PM daily during the summer. If you can't go in the water, though, there are other things to do; in particular, the 1905 Dentzel carousel should not be missed. There's also pickleball, ice skating on a synthetic ice rink, a playground, and five picnic shelters. No pets.
Riverie is a 35-passenger cruise boat that offers river cruises throughout the summer (and sometimes late spring and early fall). Cruises include guide narration focusing on the history and importance of the river and the Erie Canal. Some cruises include music and/or a boxed lunch; alcohol, soft drinks, and snacks can be purchased on board. Also check out Rochester By Water's other vessel: the Sam Patch packet boat, which offers canal cruises out of Pittsford.
This not-quite-completed trail runs along the river, north from the canal, through downtown, and all the way to the lake. You'll get a good look at the gorge along the northern section, and it can be a nice way to get downtown if your legs (and shoes) are up to the task. One highlight is the wide boardwalk over the Turning Point basin 2 mi south of the lake.
This trail, which will eventually stretch across the state, is being created from the former Erie Canal towpath, where the mules would walk to tow the barges along. Though the walking paths are open year-round, the canal is drained, kept empty, and less scenic between November and May. During the winter time, however, the canal trail is virtually deserted, and provides an excellent place to snowshoe and cross-country ski.
Formerly a railroad bed, this mostly gravel trail is perfect for off-road cycling/walking/running. It follows along the Genesee River, cutting through the rolling farmland south of Rochester. 50 mi+ depending upon how far south they've developed the path.
This was RIT's hockey rink when RIT was still downtown.
The Iceplex has four sheets of ice, primarily used for youth hockey. The main sheet is the home rink for the Nazareth University ice hockey teams.
While one of the largest breweries in the country, Genesee had no visitor's facility until September 2012. Now it's up and running and a major landmark on the east side of the river. The Genesee Brew House is a visitor's center, brew pub, and gift shop rolled into one. Genesee beers are on tap, of course, but there's also a pilot brewery for small batches of experimental brews; you can try a flight of four beers for $10, a portion of which goes to charity. Schedule a tour of the pilot brewery, or check out the visitor's center to explore the long history of beer in Rochester.
Nestled inside a cloverleaf onramp, in the shadow of the Frederick Douglass – Susan B. Anthony Bridge, the ROC City Skatepark finally opened in 2020 after more than 20 years of dreaming and over 12 years of actual planning and construction. The half-acre (2,000 sq m) park is designed for all types of wheeled sports from BMX to skateboarding to scooters, and the city hopes it serves as a big tourism draw for enthusiasts.
One of the first and largest indoor rock-climbing gyms in the country, RocVentures remains a local institution. Some apparatus only requires brief training, so even beginners can give it a try, but there are also courses and training equipment for experts to improve their skills. Great exercise and fun, too.
At the junction of Irondequoit Bay and Lake Ontario, Seabreeze combines the features of an old-fashioned amusement park with the technology and thrills of a modern water park. The fourth-oldest amusement park in America. The carousel is from 1996 but features hand-carved horses and was built in the old style. Don't miss the historic Jack Rabbit roller coaster, the fourth-oldest operating coaster in the world.
If you've ever seen any of the Ninja Warrior competition programs on TV, you've seen the sorts of activities that go on at The Warrior Factory. The owners have set up a gym that can be used both by serious "ninja" competitors and by casual weekend warriors. They even have kid-sized obstacles for youngsters just starting out. The obstacles, many of which replicate ones you've seen on TV, are a fun way to test your strength and improve your athleticism. This is the original location; the company has expanded to Syracuse, Buffalo, and Hamilton.
The largest local burger chain may also be the best, with a wide-ranging menu of burgers, hots, wings, and "plates". With ten locations in and around the city (and three more in Webster, Ontario, and Brockport), you won't have to go far to find one. In a delicious local partnership, most locations have Abbott's Frozen Custard stands right inside, and some have a game room as well.
The original location, at Seabreeze.
This location is housed in the tiny 1950s-type Skyliner Diner, long and narrow like a train car. The diner is in turn located inside the Strong National Museum of Play. Museum admission is now required to get to the restaurant, which sits near the carousel in what was once the entrance lobby.
Inside the Port of Rochester terminal building. No Abbott's since there's a separate Abbott's in the same building.
This tiny joint northeast of the airport was once featured on Adam Richman's Man vs. Food Nation, and they focused on Campi's signature dish, the massive Steak Bomber. Take a huge pile of sliced chuck, top it with caramelized onions and other veggies, add Rochester's meaty hot sauce, and put it all on a circular toasted roll twelve inches (30 cm) in diameter.
Dogtown Hots
A dog-themed restaurant known for garbage plates and hot dogs with a huge variety of toppings. Tahou's will always be the original, but many locals hold up Dogtown's garbage plates as the best in town.
One of "Hot Dog Row" burger joints in the Seabreeze neighborhood. Motto: "Where Quality Predominates". They have another location in Penfield at Lloyd's Corners.
The best subs in Rochester, at least according to many locals. It's the rolls, freshly baked in-house, that do it, but they also don't skimp on the fillings. 1950s-style decor makes it a fun place to meet friends for lunch. Five locations in the city and inner suburbs. Other locations locally in Webster and Fairport; in the Buffalo, Syracuse, Ithaca, and Albany areas; and further afield more than two dozen others in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan.
The chain's flagship location is bigger than the others but (at least since the pandemic) serves essentially the same menu.
With an ever-changing eight-flavor lineup, Hedonist offers premium small-batch ice cream in the South Wedge. The goodies are made on-site with local ingredients, including cream from Pittsford Dairy. It's outstanding ice cream, but you'll pay for the indulgence.
Rochester's last classic diner. A 1948 Orleans diner restored in 1986 to an art deco style. Their motto is "real food, served real well at real prices". A neighborhood joint with very good food. Friendly, personal service (the owner himself often takes orders) and fantastic Sunday breakfast/brunch menu: berries & peaches stuffed French toast, tasty savory omelets and a glorious eggs Benedict. Be sure to ask for "sweet cheese" on your waffles, pancakes & French toast.
The pandemic affected even this popular college hangout, which used to be open 24 hours. It's still a popular place for a cheap but filling meal.
Located in the Twelve Corners area of Brighton, this longstanding Jewish (and Kosher) bakery makes European-style breads and pastries. Challah, rye, and pumpernickel are their daily breads (but don't forget the bagels), while pastries include several flavors of babka, danishes, and kuchen. Under new management as of 2024, they're expanding their menu to include other common breakfast and lunch items.
Mark's Pizzeria has been around since 1982, when founder and president Mark Crane started selling pies in Palmyra. The chain has grown and shrunk throughout the years, but remains the most popular pizza in Rochester, consistently winning the Democrat & Chronicle Rochester Choice Award for best pizza. Seven locations in and around the city, plus many suburban locations, and some as far as Newfane and Auburn.
This is where drunk college kids stumble off of Monroe Ave. to eat a garbage plate. The garbage plates from establishments that reside inside the city limits of Rochester have a decidedly more flavorful character than those in the suburbs. Mark's is the only diner you might ever visit that has a bouncer. Go if only for the spectacle.
Tahou's is the origin of Rochester's authentic cuisine, the garbage plate. For a few dollars, the plates come with your choice of meat, macaroni salad, home fries, onions and special sauce. The most common plate can be ordered by as quickly as possible saying "Cheeseburger plate, mac salad, home fries, everything!".
As if a little slice of Brooklyn has been transported to Rochester, the Pizza Stop makes pizzas the way they do downstate; even NYC transplants approve! In addition to the thin Neapolitan style, they make a mean thick Sicilian as well, and their stuffed pizza is just over-the-top ridiculous. There's another location in Pittsford Plaza that is operated independently.
This chain, founded by local legend Salvatore "Soccer Sam" Fantauzzo, advertises that they "deliver everything... but babies!" But primarily, they deliver pizza, and they've become very successful doing so. Pizza experts scoff at the quality of their pies, but with about 30 locations in Monroe, Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne Counties, they must be doing something right. You can even get Salvatore's pizza at Innovative Field and the airport. (Not to mention a location in Jacksonville, Florida!)
The original Salvatore's location.
Another Rochester burger joint that grew up along the beach, though this one was in Greece not Seabreeze. Excellent ice cream here. A second location is on East Ridge Road in Irondequoit.
Vietnamese cuisine (the SEA stands for "South-East Asia"), specializing in pho. Very large portions. Second location at 1675 Mt Hope Ave that's open Sunday and Monday.
Looks like nothing from the outside, an easily miss-able hole-in-the-wall place on South Clinton. But inside the tiny space is a little haven, authentically Japanese, with rice-paper screens and the most perfectly prepared sushi in Rochester. The only staff are the friendly Japanese owners who will offer lots of guidance if you ask.
Just as authentic as Nick Tahou's (the "T" stands for Tahou), but in a safer part of the city and open later.
Unlike the other local burger joints, Tom Wahl's started in Avon, way to the south in Livingston County. That location, which dates to the 1950s, is now an historic landmark. The chain is now owned by the Bill Gray's folks, and it's somewhat smaller than its sibling chain, with only seven locations. The food is similar, though Tom Wahl's has a smaller menu more focused on ground steak and other sandwiches. Root beer floats are a specialty, featuring homemade root beer and (at some locations) homemade ice cream.
Probably the oldest Ethiopian restaurant in Rochester, Abyssinia remains a beloved favorite. The menu is simple but the quality is excellent. The injera flatbread is particularly well regarded.
Wegmans replaced their old East Avenue store—the only one left in the city proper—with a brand new one, even carving out space along the crowded East Ave for this new restaurant. Amore serves up Italian classics—made mostly with Wegmans-brand ingredients—in a peaceful and casually elegant atmosphere. It's isolated from the rest of the store, so don't worry about dodging shopping carts or dealing with the noise of the grocery.
If less traditional, more experimental/Western, sushi sounds interesting to you, pay a visit to this excellent sushi restaurant and bar. A special each day of the week; the best values for your buck are the Wednesday $27 all-you-can-eat maki rolls and the Sunday 3-for-$23 deals.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is where everyone you ask will send you for barbecue; it's a small Syracuse-based chain that Rochesterians have adopted as their own. Amazing ribs, chicken, and black beans and rice among many other things. Expect to wait though! Average wait for a table is easily an hour, they don't take reservations, and unless your whole group is there you can't get on the list. They're a tad vigilant about it, but the place pushes so much business through they can afford to do so. The Dino is a must when in Rochester, if only for some of the sauce.
This restaurant, named after its location in Village Gate Square, specializes in burgers and flatbread pizzas, but with a distinctly upscale twist. High-quality ingredients creatively applied to these staple menu items make the Gate House a very popular place for dinner before a show at the nearby Auditorium Theatre. Of course, this is Rochester, so you can even get a fancy version of a garbage plate. Reservations recommended.
A cozy eatery in the heart of the Park Avenue neighborhood, offering traditional fare with a focus on high-quality local ingredients. Parking can be tricky, as there's no dedicated lot; try Parkleigh next door.
Housed in a former firehouse (and fully leaning into that theme in the decor), Hose 22 offers up great American grill fare and pizza, just a notch above your typical bar and grill.
According to the jingle, "Sooner or later, everyone dines at Jines," which may only be a slight exaggeration. Jines is one of a cluster of restaurants at the corner of Park and Berkeley, each with very popular sidewalk tables (at least in nice weather), which makes this a particularly lively and inviting stretch of Park Avenue. Jines was part of the wave of Greek-American diners that opened in the 60s and 70s, though this is more "family restaurant" than "greasy spoon". The atmosphere and service are familial (the Gines family still runs the place), and the menu is extensive, hearty, and not without its creativity.
Located in Henrietta, a sprawling suburb that features mostly grimly terrible chain restaurants, this fantastic Thai spot features reasonable prices, lightning quick service (seriously, it's like they know what you're going to order before you get there) and food that always tastes uncannily fresh and yummy. The ambiance is not great, with a huge cavernous dining room and terrible, terrible art on the walls, but the food is consistently good and you can always get takeout. Make sure to try the Thai iced tea. No need to bother with reservations. Open for lunch and dinner.
This is a hip little cafe with lively staff; an inventive menu of salads, bowls, burgers, and sandwiches; an extensive bar menu; and regular live music events, including weekly open mics. Some evening concerts may have a cover charge or even require advance tickets, so check the schedule before you decide to roll in at 7 or 8 for dinner.
A local chain of Mexican restaurants with a broad and accessible menu. Authenticity may not be high, but the flavor is there and the portions are generous. Sometimes you just want some tacos and a margarita. Additional locations in Penfield and Webster.
A cozy little diner on the edge of Collegetown and URMC, frequented by U of R students and hospital workers alike. Excellent chocolate mint cake. Be careful not to miss the turn if driving from the north.
Located in Rochester's snootiest suburb, you wouldn't expect the best deal in Rochester, but this charming restaurant will give you the most bang for your buck. Authentic and carefully prepared, don't miss the huge village platter (an appetizer that can be easily shared by two or more), gyros and well-spiced kebabs. Lots for vegetarians, and unbelievable sweet potato fries. Reservations only taken for 3 or more. On the weekends they're basically required, or you'll wait hours for a table.
The Owl House has long been known as a vegan-friendly restaurant, although they do have non-vegan dishes. They will do what they can to accommodate any dietary restriction, particularly vegan and gluten-free. Even the brunch menu is predominately vegan and gluten-free; remarkable for a meal that often includes waffles and eggs. It's a tiny little converted house nestled in a row of bigger houses, so consider making a reservation. Outdoor patio is first-come-first served, weather permitting.
This popular Japanese restaurant specializes in sushi, particularly their sushi rolls, each of which has a rather unique moniker. The Yummy Yummy Roll is highly recommended, but you can also try the Red Dragon Roll, BFF Roll, or of course a Rochester Roll. Other typical Japanese-American dishes are available as well.
Features extensive Korean menu -- Korean BBQ, scallion pancakes, spicy stews, etc. All meals come with lots of tasty extras, like fermented black beans and kimchee.
The Restaurant at the Armory
An old military armory is the setting for this trendy hotspot that blends bar food with upscale entrees in a modern industrial setting. Everything about Trata is a unique mix of influences. There's a rooftop bar and some amazing outdoor seating available; inside there are more bars and seating across three floors of space.
The former Steel River BBQ still has their popular smoked wings, but they've expanded into the historic building next door and now offer a variety of entrees in their dining room, along with classic pub fare in the bar area.
Two locations close to the city and one in Victor (New York). The food—including steaks—is hearty fare with decent variety and some international flavor.
Originally a neighborhood bar on Monroe Avenue, Jeremiah's has since added some suburban locations. It's best known for its wings, but it also has a large menu of tasty entrees and sandwiches. In addition to Monroe Ave and Henrietta, there's one in Penfield (the Gates location closed but they're hoping to reopen in a nearby spot).
Upstate NY chain sports bar with an enormous menu. The real attraction is the chicken tenders and honey mustard which are nothing like the frozen variety served at most sports bars. There are dozens of televisions which makes it a good place to watch a game.
This Victorian home has seen a sequence of restaurants fill its space since 1949, starting with what was once Rochester's most upscale restaurant, the Rio Bamba. This latest iteration has an airier atmosphere and a compact New American menu with fairly accessible prices. The Alexander is also aiming to provide distinctive event spaces within the building.
While the Bake Shop offers light sandwich fare and breakfast dishes, the real attraction here for foodies is their Edible Atlas dinner series. Every two weeks, the kitchen selects a whole new cuisine to present to intrepid diners, be it Mexican, Korean, Greek, or anything else the chefs can think of. The menu is set in advance; all you have to choose is your beverage. You'll want to get reservations, though, as the restaurant offers only 18 seats for each dinner (one on Friday and one on Saturday). If you can't get a seat, try the takeout version (though you'll need a reservations for that, too).
An understated facade on busy Monroe Avenue belies the lively and slightly quirky atmosphere inside. (Check out the 18,000 pennies lining the floor of the lobby.) The food and service are top-notch, and the menu changes seasonally to incorporate local ingredients as much as possible. Mostly American fare with some Italian influences, like house-made pasta.
The Strathallan's signature restaurant is one of the finest dining options in Rochester. Upscale American entrees and steaks in a contemporary lounge setting. Breakfast is quite a bit more conventional to cater to overnight guests.
Texas-tinged upscale comfort food in an ultra-relaxed atmosphere.
Despite the name, this isn't some Chinese takeout joint. One of the most eclectic, see-and-be-seen restaurant/bars in Rochester. The menu is ever-changing, but a few staples are always there, including the full pound hamburger. Other options often involve rabbit, duck, and squid, to give you an idea. Even the more pedestrian options are made with high-end ingredients.
With a name that means "slow", Lento prides itself on taking no shortcuts in the preparation of fine meals. Everything on the menu is made in-house, from primarily local ingredients whenever possible. (Check out the web site to see their list of local suppliers.) The care taken in preparation is reflected in the quality of the food.
Not an ideal destination for vegetarians, this offshoot of the other Max restaurants focuses firmly on red meat, with a bit of seafood for flavor.
Considered one of the top restaurants in Rochester, with an elegant atmosphere and a (French-inspired) menu to match. Popular as part of a night out at the Eastman Theatre.
This restaurant is owned by Wegmans and showcases what Wegmans chefs can do. The menu focuses on sushi and seafood, with some land-based entrees as well, but it changes seasonally. The cocktails are something special and are made with the freshest ingredients possible since the flagship Wegmans store is located across the street.
The food is only ok, heavy, traditional European—good for a business lunch or unadventurous out of town guests—but the desserts are spectacular, with emphasis on pies, tortes, tarts, cakes and specialty cheesecakes. Examples include their Baileys and Creme Torte and Caramel Pecan Cheesecake. The mere mention of a trip here for coffee and dessert will get Rochesterians salivating. A full dessert menu is available in the restaurant, but the cakes can also be ordered whole and picked up.
Rochester native Richard Reddington is a world-renowned chef, working in some of the best kitchens in San Francisco before opening his own restaurants in the Napa Valley. His original Redd earned a Michelin star for seven years in a row. But he closed that place in 2018 and returned home to open up a reimagined Redd here in Rochester. He's aimed for elevated cuisine in an "unpretentious" but energetic atmosphere—and largely succeeded, judging by the crowds. The menu is international in flavor but also includes his upscale versions of pizza and wings.
Creative contemporary Southern/American fare in a very cool renovated industrial setting. Enjoy the lively bar and its scintillating decor, the breezy and fresh patio, or the somewhat quieter upstairs dining room. Not a place for comfort food; in fact, the menu occasionally errs on the side of weirdness, but it changes seasonally so it's always worth taking a chance.
A casual and cozy spot on Park Avenue for intimate Italian-American dinners.
Nestled in Rochester's Swillburg neighborhood, near the Highland Park Diner, Rooney's doesn't look like much on the outside. Inside, though, is one of the city's best-kept secrets. Upscale dining in a rustic-romantic atmosphere makes this an excellent choice for anyone wanting to impress a guest. The menu is upscale American—veal, duck, lamb, swordfish, etc.
True to the name, Tapas 177 focuses on appetizers and shareables, but they also have a variety of entrees in the $30-35 range. On the drinks side, they specialize in huge martinis. The vibe promotes relaxation after a busy day at the office.
One of the most expensive restaurants in the entire Greater Rochester area. The menu represents all of the high-end standards without going overboard on the creativity. The service is regarded by locals as impeccable. Lunch is a prix fixe three-course menu.
The walls display various works of art created by local artists, and the stage area/dance floor has an entire roomful of furniture arranged on the ceiling. Drink specials and live entertainment are featured here nightly, presenting popular local and national musical artists.
This speakeasy-style bar serves up classic pre-Prohibition cocktails and inventive newly crafted ones with a sophisticated style.
The founders of this newspaper-themed tavern (with a speakeasy feel) call their establishment a "gastro-lounge", with a focus on custom cocktails and artisan foods.
Lux is something of an alternative bar in Rochester and trades on being in the South Wedge to add cred to the atmosphere. Lots of tattoos and piercings and a good PBR special. The back yard is great. They have hammocks in the summer time and a huge wood burning stove for the winter. This place is something you would expect to find in Brooklyn not Rochester.
Once a speakeasy during Prohibition, this joint was one of the first in the area to get a liquor license after it was repealed. Today, it's a wild and raucous neighborhood bar; there's no food, but folks come for the drinks and the atmosphere. The deck extends out onto the beach for a great view of Lake Ontario. Parking is non-existent; you'll have to jockey for a spot on the south side of Culver. 21+ only.
Great English beer, poor English food, friendly English staff. A unique atmosphere with reasonable prices, the Toad is an excellent place to get sloshed.
Explicitly intended as a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, ROAR offers a surprisingly broad menu for an entertainment venue. But the real attractions are the performances. It's most well known for its frequent drag shows, but you might also find line dancing, dinner shows, or just a live band on stage.
formerly Lola's Bistro and Bar
Turcott's Taproom is an English-style pub.
Goth/alternative dance club with a distinct no-judgement atmosphere. Come as you are, as long as how you are is ready to move on the dance floor. Generally a safe place for people who might get some side-eye out on the street.
You can get meals here—with waitstaff, no less—but the drinks are the attraction. In keeping with the name, drink prices fluctuate based on popularity, just like stock prices. Keep an eye on the price ticker; buy low and sell high!
Although Rohrbach's is a bit out of the way, their beer is worth the trip. Certainly the highlight is the Scotch Ale, and if you don't want to travel all the way to the actual brewpub, any number of establishments in the city will have it on tap, including Frontier Field. However, if there, do try as many of the beers as possible, as it is some of the best craft-brewing in upstate NY. You can get a sampler of glasses before you decide. The food is also quite good and leans toward German fare such as sauerbraten and bratwurst.
Great location in the South Wedge neighborhood just across the street from the Genesee River. Swiftwater is one of the most popular and fastest growing Rochester breweries. They typically have around a dozen of their beers on tap as well as a guest tap for cider. Like most breweries their focus is IPAs and they do them very well, but you won't be short on variety when you visit here.
Dressy, sophisticated, and urbane, Flight might be the most well known wine bar in the city. As you might guess, they specialize in wine "flights"—tastings of a selection of wines based around a theme. You can try three different wines made from the same grape, or perhaps three different grapes from the same region. It's not just wine, either: cheese, chocolate, and even olive oil are presented in flights of three.
This cider-only bar has a dozen ciders on tap and over 100 more in bottles, as well as knowledgeable staff who can help you make a selection. As far as bar food goes, the house specialty is kettle corn, presented in seasonal varieties.
Black Button uses local ingredients to make corn whiskey, wheat vodka, and gin at their distillery. Tours and a tasting bar are the amenities available for visitors.
The only dedicated comedy club in Rochester at the moment, tucked in behind Radio Social in an old manufacturing facility. Strong lineup of comedians, including occasional well-known national figures.
An independently owned coffee shop with regular live music. Their web page lists upcoming acts. Drinks and snacks are typical coffee shop prices. Free WiFi on the premises.
A coffee shop with a great open-minded atmosphere and an LGBTQ+ gift shop. The coffee, smoothies, and pastries are temptations. Grab a board game and enjoy.
Another downtown coffee shop, more popular with the art house crowd, as well as those headed to (or from) the Eastman Theater. They also sell a variety of large homemade cookies in a variety of styles. At lunch time, an adjacent cafe-style restaurant serves for soup and sandwiches. Local art adorns the walls and local bands of questionable quality occasionally perform. Other locations at RIT and the Public Market as well as the YMCA in Pittsford.
A coffee roaster and full service coffee and espresso bar. Joe Bean has been mentioned among the best coffee shops in the country. They serve some food as well, but the real attraction is the java, which is fair trade and eco-friendly, and roasted right in-house. The focus at Joe Bean is on coffee education; they believe that good coffee can be savored and analyzed like good wine, and they even offer classes on how to make your own.
This property was the site of the first downtown motel in the United States, first opened in 1954 as part of the "Treadway Inn" chain. The motel had its ups and downs, and though a complete renovation in 2014 brought renewed life, it was finally torn down in 2019 and replaced with this brand-new Courtyard. The owner has aimed for more of a full-service feel here compared to the typical Courtyard by Marriott, and hopes are that the popular Erie Grill (the previous hotel's upscale eatery) will be returning soon. In the meantime, Courtyard's signature Bistro offers a selection of hot breakfast and dinner items in a casual, communal space.
Pool, fitness center, lobby lounge—all these things are fine, but the main attraction here is that it's right outside the Strong National Museum of Play. If you're headed there with kids from out of town, it'd be hard to beat this location. And do keep that fact in mind if you're looking for a quiet night's sleep without kids.
The developers of this five-story property converted three existing historic buildings into a modern 106-room hotel, in the process uncovering and restoring some unique architectural details dating back nearly a century. Their on-site restaurant is Drifters, featuring higher-end comfort food made with local ingredients, and a wine list heavy on Finger Lakes vintages.
A fairly generic mid-priced hotel; its main calling card is its proximity to Strong Memorial Hospital and the adjacent College Town retail/lifestyle center.
Twenty-five-story upscale hotel connected via enclosed walkway to Rochester Riverside Convention Center; with the 2020 closure of the Radisson Riverside hotel, the Hyatt is now the primary hotel of choice for conventioneers. One of the tallest buildings in Rochester.
Romantic, turn of the century, old world city architecture inside the Inner Loop. Gracious low-key service. Beautifully decorated suites, artfully articulated interior finishes. Beloved by its many guests. Highly regarded, wonderful on-site restaurant, Tournedos (see #Eat).
The former Rochester School 31 has been converted into some unusual uses since the 1980s. It's now got a television studio on the first floor and several whimsical loft-style hotel rooms on the second floor.
Designed for extended stays, this hotel is just across the river from the University of Rochester's River Campus (there's a pedestrian bridge nearby). That makes it very popular for graduation and homecoming weekends. Each unit has a full kitchen and living room.
The only traditional hotel near the Neighborhood of the Arts, the Strathallan is almost legendary around Rochester. In the early 2000s, it started to lose its reputation as the best large hotel in Rochester, but a $10 million renovation and expansion project in 2012 seems to have restored its former glory. Now affiliated with Hilton's DoubleTree brand, the hotel has added a pool, as well as new meeting space on its top floor, with some beautiful views of the city. Char Steak and Lounge (see #Eat) is the hotel's upscale restaurant.
formerly Rochester Plaza Hotel
On the west side of the river is this seven-story hotel, not connected to the convention center, but still within walking distance of High Falls or the Blue Cross Arena.
Directly across the street from Rochester International Airport. Stay and Fly package available with free airport transportation.
100% non-smoking studio suites. Indoor pool and spa, free Wi-Fi access, complimentary breakfast.
Holidome
A nice hotel with an incredible six-story glass arboretum (the hotel was called the "Holidome" when it was a Holiday Inn). Well worth stopping in just to see the foliage and landscaping inside.
If you really want to stay close to the airport, this is your hotel. Easy walking distance to the terminal. Other than that, it's a standard 2-star hotel.
Established in 1905, the public market features over 300 stalls where independent sellers ply their wares, from cheap locally grown produce to handmade crafts and other curiosities. Many vendors even sell prepared foods, with regulars lining up early to place their orders. Great fun to just walk around, but good luck getting out without buying anything. Often overlooked by locals, yet always super-crowded; get there early for the best selection, or late for the best prices. Outside of normal market hours, the Market regularly hosts community garage sales, food truck rodeos, and free concerts.
Owned by two thousand locals who've invested in this cooperative, the market is open to anyone who wants to buy their groceries from a community oriented and democratically controlled business. They moved to the new location on South Ave in 2017.
One of three very good local chocolatiers, Andy's Candies has been distributing sweets since 1917. The original Hudson Avenue location is only a factory now; to buy chocolates, head to this retail location in Greece (or the second location at Eastview Mall in Victor).
Great gift shop with an eclectic selection. They sell children's toys, cards, jewelry, incense, stones, musical instruments, chimes, housewares, unconventional clothing items, and more. All at a variety of price points; it's not all cheap kitsch and it's not all pricey luxury. Well worth a stop in to browse, if nothing else.
The legendary Bop Shop made its name at the Village Gate but has been at this larger location on Monroe Avenue since 2012. The shop is still crammed to overflowing with vinyl records, cassette tapes, and compact discs covering every era and every style. True music-lovers can spend hours pawing through the racks and uncovering treasure after treasure—albums they either never knew existed, or haven't seen in decades. The staff are all highly knowledgeable collectors and they love to talk music with customers. Often hosts jazz concerts; see web site for schedule.
Quite simply, Cheesy Eddie's makes great cheesecakes in a variety of flavors. In addition, their carrot cakes are widely considered the best in the area by a wide margin—deliciously moist with a perfectly balanced cream cheese frosting. Or try the Delights: two cookies sandwiching a dollop of cream cheese frosting.
This outlet location near Palmer's Market and Lori's Natural Foods is more convenient for south-siders.
There are a few good comic shops in Rochester, but Comics Etc. has long been one of the best. Booted from the Village Gate, the shop still has legions of loyal customers who tout the extensive back-issue selection and dedicated service.
Housed in a converted firehouse, this store is unique and probably one of the most unusual stores you will ever go to. Everything is handmade and for sale. Very artsy and not mass marketed.
A comprehensive craft and hobby shop, founded in 1974. They specialize in radio-control vehicles and model trains, but they carry much more than just those. Great place to find hard-to-find parts and accessories for all fine-detail hobbies.
In 2014, Fleet Feet Rochester was named one of the top 50 running stores in the country. Probably the best place in the region to get running shoes, precisely fitted to your feet and gait. The owners also run YellowJacket Racing, so they really know their stuff, and they tirelessly promote running (and walking) for fun and fitness. There's another store in Victor and one in Buffalo (Fleet Feet Syracuse has different owners).
A nice selection of new and used books, with some older items that one simply can't find in large chain bookstores. Of particular interest is the selection of books covering both historical and modern Rochester.
Right next door to their sister ice cream shop, Hedonist has a variety of creative chocolate confections, changing seasonally. The raved-about specialty is their salted caramels.
The "Great, Great House of Guitars" has a huge selection of new and used records, CD's, and cassettes, most of which you won't be able to find anywhere else. The store is also a shrine to music and musicians, with an extensive collection of instruments for sale. Some of the biggest rock and pop musicians in the world go out of their way to come to this store, because of the selection and the knowledgeable, well-connected staff. The proof is on the walls, which are *covered* with photos and memorabilia from those visits.
Open since 1994, Krudco is the oldest skateboarding shop in the state. Aaron Costa's little shop has been the center of the Rochester skateboarding scene from the start, so it's a great place to meet fellow skaters as well as buy equipment and apparel. Conveniently, the store is just steps from the ROC City Skatepark.
An organic and natural-food superstore; incredible selection and very good service.
In 2023, this long-standing game store moved to a new 28,000-sq-ft (2600-sq-m) location, making it (as far as anyone can tell) the largest game store in the country. (Maybe even the world; it's hard to find reliable data.) Inside is an enormous game room ($10 per person, which comes back to you as store credit) but also shelves upon shelves of board games, card games, roleplaying games and accessories, LEGO sets, puzzles, and disc golf supplies. Regular board gaming, RPG, and CCG events attract scores of players.
Epitomizing the Park Avenue vibe, Parkleigh is a gift shop par excellence and a local institution. One of the oldest retailers of MacKenzie-Childs ceramics, they also specialize in gourmet coffee and tea. You'll also find toys, games, books, jewelry, apparel, stationery, and all kinds of sweets and treats. (Note: the MacKenzie-Childs store is across Goodman Street at 235 Park Ave; its hours are the same except it's closed on Sundays.)
A Rochester icon with probably the biggest selection of used vinyl records in the city. It doesn't have a great selection of newer records, but it will wow you with its extensive collection of used records. The Record Archive also hosts many concerts on a stage located in the middle of its spacious warehouse. Famous among locals for the dancing-record-guy commercials.
The candy and chocolate at Stever's is made fresh daily, in small batches, so you know you're getting the freshest goodies possible. Their specialty is sponge candy, a Western New York favorite.
A huge selection of both macro and micro brews from all over the world, plus home-brewing supplies. Also has a large display filled with good cigars. Word to the wise: the owners are quite stand-offish, especially to first time customers and some of the beers are not that fresh. Watch out for dust! Another store is in Batavia.
In the highly regarded Pittsford Plaza, Century Liquor has a very large selection of wine and liquor, including vintage. Receives tour buses from the nearby vineyard- and winery-laden Finger Lakes, which is the second largest wine producing area in the U.S.
Wide selection of imported, domestic and New York wines and very helpful staff. Off-street parking.
By car
Because Rochester is so close to Lake Ontario, the New York State Thruway (Interstate 90) doesn't pass through the city: it runs a few miles to the south, through the southern suburbs.
By train
By bus
By boat
With the Erie Canal, Genesee River, Lake Ontario, and Irondequoit Bay, waterways are a rare but not unheard-of method of getting to Rochester.
By car
Six major rental agencies have desks at the Greater Rochester International Airport: Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, and National.
By bus
The area bus system is the Regional Transit Service (RTS), run by the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA).
By foot
Downtown Rochester is very walkable, at least for eight months out of the year. Traffic is light outside of rush hours, and crosswalks are plentiful.
By bicycle
Rochester has (outside the winter months) a bike-share program operated by Veo.
By taxi
You can hire a taxi, but you'll need to call ahead to have one pick you up unless you're at the airport or the Amtrak station.50 to/from the airport).
By boat
Most boating in Rochester is exclusively recreational in nature, but you may find it a convenient way to travel between destinations.
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