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ROC List: Rochester Explore!

24 items

Amy Agnitti

Whether you're new to Rochester or just looking to explore your own backyard, this list is your guide to the best of the city. 🗽 Icons: These are the must-dos—like the Strong Museum of Play and other classic Rochester experiences that define the c...

Sections

ROC List: Icons

ROC List: Treasures

ROC List: Icons

Fun, educational, and uniquely Rochester! These are the signature spots and standout events our city is known for—locally beloved and recognized far and wide. Whether you're a visitor or a lifelong Rochesterian, this list highlights the must-see land...

Highland Park is one of Rochester’s most stunning outdoor spaces, with so much to explore in every season! Designed by the legendary Frederick Law Olmsted—the same landscape architect behind New York City's Central Park—this park is a true local trea...

Highland Park

The Strong National Museum of Play is a must-visit for kids and adults alike! Home to the Toy Hall of Fame and Video Game Hall of Fame, it’s full of hands-on exhibits, classic arcade games, and playful nostalgia. Don’t miss the Butterfly Garden, Pinb...

The Strong National Museum of Play

Seabreeze Amusement Park is a Rochester gem and one of America’s oldest, continuously operating parks—open since 1879—perfect for family fun or a nostalgic day out . And don’t miss the star attraction: The Jack Rabbit Wooden Roller Coaster! Built in ...

Seabreeze Amusement Park

Memorial Art Gallery is a cultural gem in Rochester, blending exceptional indoor exhibitions with beautiful outdoor spaces. Explore a diverse collection of art—from ancient to contemporary—then step outside to stroll through the lush sculpture garden...

Memorial Art Gallery

The Rochester Public Market is a beloved local institution—and at some point, every Rochesterian finds their way there! It’s the best place in the city for unbeatable deals on fresh produce, meats, seafood, flowers, and more. You'll also find amazing...

Rochester Public Market

The George Eastman Museum is a cultural gem in Rochester. Once the stately home of Kodak founder George Eastman, it now showcases stunning outdoor gardens and historic architecture. Inside, don’t miss the classic Dryden Theater, a beautiful venue for...

George Eastman Museum

Geva Theatre Center is Rochester’s premier professional regional theater—and truly one of the best-attended in New York State! Its two intimate stages place you constantly close to the action—you’re never more than 50 feet from the performance, so th...

Geva Theatre

Rochester International Jazz Festival is one of the world’s leading jazz festivals, bringing downtown to life every June with hundreds of shows, including many free outdoor concerts. It features top talent from around the globe—past acts include Taj ...

Rochester International Jazz Festival

Cobbs Hill is the go-to spot for a peaceful walk and one of the best views of the Rochester skyline—especially at sunset! It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the scenery. Just beyond, you’ll find Washington Grove, a quiet, wooded escape with...

Cobb's Hill Park and Washington Grove

If you are visiting Rochester, definitely take time to spend about half a day on Park avenue! Eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes - and sit outside for the best people watching if weather permits! My faves are Jines, Verns, Furoshiki, Dorado,...

Park Avenue

ROC List: Treasures

A collection of fun, unique, and slightly off-the-beaten-path experiences in Rochester, NY. These hidden gems may not make every tourist brochure, but they’re beloved by locals and full of charm, creativity, and character. From cozy bookshops and ind...

One of the best ways to explore the different Rochester neighborhoods! (And I'm not just saying that because I'm one of the guides!) You get a sampling of signature dishes, tasty cocktails, wines/beer and dessert. You also get a knowledegabl;e and fr...

Flower City Food Tours

The Lucky Flea occurs every Sunday in the Grove section of downtown Rochester.Here you will find a carefully curated selection of thrift and vintage vendors. It's heavier on the clothing, but you can also find some home goods. If you get hungry there are a variety of food trucks and if you want something a little stronger, you can...

The Lucky Flea Market

This is a beer destination! There is a gift shop, a brewery for tours (make an appointment ahead of time) and a pub-style restaurant with views of the Genesee River and Falls! Check out their iconicbre ws and their seasonal ones like the Orange Honey...

Genesee Brew House

Every May, for the past 23 years, Rochester holds its Annual Dachshund Parade! It is held in the beautiful Washington Square Park. It begins with songs and oompah music, a fashion show, dog and people treats, networking for Dachshunds (sniffing, expl... So fun!

Rochester Dachshund Parade

The city of Rochester has a bunch of “hidden gem” wine bars within the city limits! Some have live music, some have a beautiful water view…try this tour to get a “taste” of each and get chauferred in a luxury vehicle! Very affordable too!

City of Rochester Wine Bar Tour

This company offers so many options for a Erie Canal boat tour! Options include daytime tours, history tours, birding tours, “sip and sail” with libations, kiddie cruises or tours with live music! There's something for everyone! I've gone a bunch of ...

Erie Canal Tour - Corn Hill Waterfront and Navigation Foundation

Most people check out the George Eastman House when visiting Rochester—but don’t miss the Susan B. Anthony House & Museum! This historic home is where she was famously arrested for voting in 1872 and later served as the headquarters of the Nation...

Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

Record Archive is a must-visit for music lovers! Explore their massive collection of vintage vinyl—the largest in the Northeast—plus tons of quirky and fun items throughout the store. Keep the good vibes going with a drink during one of their happy h...

Record Archive

If you love architecture and history, you’ll love “Architecture on the Go” walking tours from the Landmark Society! Each tour explores a different Rochester neighborhood with fascinating stories and unique architectural highlights—some even follow an...

Architecture on the Go!

This is a small and accessible art gallery featuring both renowned and emerging g artists. The yearly highlight is their 6x6 exhibit every June. While you are here, enjoy the park next door and stop by Capri Wine Bar across the street!

Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo)

I’ve enjoyed shows at Blackfriars Theatre for years—it’s one of Rochester’s hidden gems! The intimate venue means there’s not a bad seat in the house, and the quality rivals that of much larger productions (and I see a lot of theater!). In addition t...

Blackfriars Theatre

Black Button Distilling is Rochester’s first grain-to-glass distillery since Prohibition! Book a tour or swing by for Trivia Night or one of their many special events. In the Tasting Room, you can sample their full lineup of spirits—crafted with locally sourced ingredients—and discover why Black Button has fans across the country. My personal favorites? The Bespoke Bourbon Cream and the Lilac Gin—both are a must-...

Black Button Distilling

The Little Theatre is one of my all-time favorite Rochester treasures—and I once even sold a ticket to Ryan Gosling here! 🎬 This historic, independently operated theater opened on October 17, 1929, just days before the infamous stock market crash. D...

The Little Theatre

Rochester has so many cool, niche bookstores and this us just one of many! Bookeater is both bookstore and cafe. Check out their webpage for the special events they host as well!

Bookeater