When Canadians think of New York State, they likely think of the hubbub of New York City, big-box shopping in Buffalo and the touristy Niagara Falls.
Yet across the border, just a few hours from Toronto and 90 minutes from the Falls, lies Rochester, a lesser-known gem with attractions to entertain families, couples, friends and solo travellers of all ages.
In partnership with Visit Rochester, we look at what Canadian visitors can do in and around the city this summer.
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Explore nature
Those looking for a relaxing lakeside holiday can bike along the shores of Lake Ontario or go kayaking on the Erie Canal or the Genesee River, coasting past spectacular cliffs before reaching the base of one of Rochester’s three waterfalls. You can even squeeze in some freshwater fishing along the way.
Nature lovers who prefer being on land can take advantage of the many hiking trails in the area, including Letchworth State Park (otherwise known as the Grand Canyon of the East), which features cliffs towering nearly 200 metres high. Hikers have access to more than 100 kilometres of trails that weave through lush forests, deep gorges and past roaring waterfalls. Adventurers can go horseback riding while taking in the impressive scenery.
Go on a culinary adventure
While Rochester may be popular for its “garbage plate” (traditionally served as a choice of hamburgers or hot dogs on top of home fries and macaroni salad, then topped with a “meat hot” sauce), there are many more culinary creations to try.
The city is known for its craft cocktail scene, craft breweries, cideries and distilleries. Be sure to stop at Genesee Brew House, one of the oldest-running breweries that survived Prohibition, for a pint with a rooftop view of High Falls, a 29-metre waterfall in downtown Rochester, or check out another scenic culinary spot like Marge’s Lakeside Inn for a beachfront view and some live music.
Another hot spot: the Rochester Public Market. “It’s one of the oldest public markets in the U.S., continually operating since 1905. They’ve got fresh produce vendors, craft vendors and artisans, as well as surrounding coffee shops and cafes,” says Diana Keating, director of tourism and marketing at Visit Rochester.
Discover art and one-of-a-kind museums
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There’s no shortage of museums in Rochester that pay homage to the city’s history and culture. The George Eastman Museum is the world’s oldest photography museum and a leading archive of film and photography. Founded in 1913, the Memorial Art Gallery affiliated with the University of Rochester offers one of the largest collections of art by depth and breadth, covering the last 5,000 years.
The Strong National Museum of Play is an interactive play space, learning experience and history museum all in one. “It’s the only museum that tells the history of play and studies play, and combines it in this way of being both a history museum and a fully interactive museum,” says Shane Rhinewald, the museum’s senior director of PR.
“The Strong likes to say, whether you’re nine months or 90, there’s something for everyone,” Keating says.
While there is plenty of entertainment for young kids at the Strong — like Reading Adventureland, which features appearances by beloved characters like Curious George — teenagers and grown-ups will be particularly enthralled by the eGameRevolution exhibit, which explores the history and evolution of electronic games. And at the Strong, the games are meant to be played, so everyone is welcome to step into the video arcade for some nostalgic fun.
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Peek into the past
History buffs may know that Rochester was home to several key American figures of the suffragist and abolitionist movements.
Visit the home of Susan B. Anthony, a leading women’s rights activist, and stand in the very parlour room where she was arrested for casting a vote in a presidential election.
You can also go on a self-guided walking tour and learn about the incredible life and work of Frederick Douglass, who escaped slavery and fought for abolition as a writer and statesman.
Visit scenic wineries
Rochester may be one of the United States’ first boomtowns, but it’s also close to the Finger Lakes region, a picturesque area of rolling hills and beautiful shorelines notable for producing some of the top wines in the world.
With over 100 wineries in the Finger Lakes region, there are plenty of wine tours to enjoy — be sure to try a sampling of the Rieslings, for which the area is known internationally.
Take note of live events
“We have 140 annual festivals and events every year,” Keating says.
Festival season kicks off with the Rochester Lilac Festival, a free event with tastings and arts and crafts vendors spread out through Highland Park amongst 1,200 lilac bushes, and the season continues with the Rochester International Jazz Festival.
The Rochester Fringe Festival, one of the largest and most successful in the country, takes place in September, and there’s more on the calendar for the rest of the year.
“We like to joke that if you can’t find anything to do, you’re not looking hard enough!” Keating says.
Ready to go? Check out VisitRochester.com/bordering-on for more trip ideas.
