24 Hours in Rochester, New York
Discover the town of Rochester in Western New York state, located near Lake Ontario, and a community bursts with opportunities and experiences. And if you only have a few hours to explore, here are some of the best to add to your itinerary.
Many airlines have a direct flight into Rochester, so it’s an easy getaway, especially from the Atlanta area. And in the fall, the colors explode. 🍂 Known as one of the best destinations for colorful foliage, Rochester welcomes you with open arms.
200 Years of the Erie Canal
The Erie Canal celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2025. And if you’re in Rochester from May through November, take to the water in a kayak - or walk the tow path - and enjoy the serenity of the waterway. The Erie Canal Boat Company has everything you need for kayaking and biking, and since they are the only adaptive paddle and cycling center in the United States, the launch and departure is easy for all ability levels. Located in Fairport, it’s a must-do during the warmer months. The canal is non-navigable during the winter months (seasonal draining for maintenance thus reducing the water’s level exposing the river bed).
Kayaking from Fairport on the Erie Canal
Mount Hope Cemetery
An 196-acre Victorian cemetery might be an odd stop, but its history shares the story of Rochester and its prominent players. As much a garden as a cemetery, the terrain is jagged and not accessible for everyone; book a walking tour with a docent or use the self-guided smartphone tour. Learn about the headstones and the symbolism of the carvings. It won’t take long to be amazed at the assembly of headstones, no rhyme or reason to the plots.
Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass are buried here. Ask about the number of “I Voted” stickers on Anthony’s grave during the presidential election when Hilary Clinton ran for president. For more information, visit the Friends website.
Over 400,000 are buried at Mount Hope.
Genesee Country Village
Located about 20 miles from Rochester, the Genesee Country Village and Museum is a living history venue that shares the history of the area.
Spanning over 600 acres and is known as the largest living history museum in New York State. It recreates a 19th century rural community with over 68 historical buildings. Structures - homes, farmhouses, churches, inns - have been moved to the location and assembled.
Costumed interpreters bring history to life. The museum is open Thursday though Sunday during the winter months.
Discover the schedule and list of upcoming events on its website.
A living history experience at the community general store.
The STRONG Museum of Play
Definitely make time for play at The Strong Museum of Play. Home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame, the Strong walks you through every childhood memory of your favorite toy. It’s upstate New York’s largest year-round attraction.
Two floors share hands-on, interactive exhibits with the world’s largest collection of toys and games. Grab a shopping cart for Wegmans (a Rochester original founded in 1916) and then head over to Sesame Street for a must-have selfie in front on the steps. One of the coolest spaces - multiple tiny libraries in little comfortable nooks for reading when taking a break from all the play.
Outdoor play area at The Strong.
Memorial Art Gallery (MAG)
The Memorial Art Gallery located in downtown Rochester offers a collection of impressive work with a permanent collection of over 12,000 works spanning centuries. Inside, discover Money, Cezanne, Matisse, Georgia O’Keeffe and Rembrandt. Stop by the full-size Italian Baroque organ discovered in the 1970s in an antique shop in Italy.
A magnified view of thousands of spools, American Gothic
Eat Heartily
Genesee Brew House, Mulconry’s Irish Pub & Branca
For casual dining, Genesee Brew House is one of the oldest breweries in the United States. Gather friends and enjoy a creme ale while inhaling a Genny Plate. The Genny Plate is the brew house’s version of the regional iconic garbage plate, beginning with a base of French fries and macaroni salad. The remaining - usually spicy meat sauce plus onions - is piled high to devour, and will prove that your eyes are bigger than your stomach.
While in Fairport, you can’t miss Mulconry’s Irish Pub where the shepherd’s pie is just short of heavenly. Go hungry, order a pint and ask about the 17 year placard behind the bar. Authentic as an afternoon in a Dublin Ireland pub.
For an elegant evening, head to downtown Rochester to Branca, an Italian eatery that will have you planning your next trip to Italy. Authentic fare is served slowly, enjoying a dinner without rush. Start with the meatballs; in fact, make them your full meal. You’re welcome.
The Genny “Dog” Plate.
