Rochester Rush: 2 Days of Fun, Food, and Family
Uncover endless family fun in Rochester, where every moment leaves lasting memories.
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Rochester, United States offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its diverse range of attractions. Families can explore the Strong National Museum of Play, known for its interactive exhibits and extensive toy collections, which guarantees an immersive experience for kids of all ages. Additionally, families can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Genesee Riverway Trail, perfect for biking or walking, or indulge in outdoor activities at Ontario Beach Park, complete with sandy beaches, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check in at The Strathallan, a luxurious hotel with a captivating blend of charm and modern elegance.
- Start your day with a visit to the Strong National Museum of Play, where kids (and kids-at-heart) can let their imaginations run wild.
- Lunchtime at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a must! Sink your teeth into their finger-lickin' ribs and sip on their tangy, award-winning sauces.
- Discover the world of strange and unusual at The National Museum of Play's Toy Hall of Fame, where you'll find quirky and nostalgic treasures.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Genesee Riverway Trail, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the picturesque views.
- End the day at Comedy @ The Carlson, where laughter is the language spoken. Enjoy a night of side-splitting jokes and rib-tickling performances.
- Indulge in a delectable breakfast at Jine's Restaurant, a local favorite serving mouthwatering pancakes and fluffy omelets.
- Unveil Rochester's hidden gem, the George Eastman Museum, a treasure trove of photography and cinema history.
- Savor a farm-to-table lunch at The Owl House, where inventive vegetarian and vegan dishes will satisfy even the most dedicated carnivores.
- Explore High Falls, a stunning 96-foot waterfall located in the heart of the city. Snap some envy-inducing Instagram shots!
- Treat your taste buds to an authentic Garbage Plate at Nick Tahou Hots, a Rochester specialty that blends flavors in a messy, irresistible way.
- Conclude your trip by catching a captivating performance at the Geva Theatre Center, where local talent takes the stage with passion and flair.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Rochester, United States by plane is to fly to Greater Rochester International Airport, which is located about 4 miles southwest of downtown Rochester. There are several major airlines that offer regular flights to and from Rochester, including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, and Southwest. Non-stop flights are available from many cities across the US, including New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, and Orlando.
Car
To get to Rochester, United States by car, you can take the New York State Thruway (Interstate 90). Rochester is located approximately 70 miles east of Buffalo and 90 miles west of Syracuse. From New York City, it takes about 6 hours to drive to Rochester, and from Boston, it takes about 5 hours.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Rochester, United States at this time. The nearest Amtrak station is located in Buffalo, New York, which is approximately 70 miles west of Rochester. From Buffalo, you can take a bus or rent a car to get to Rochester.
Boat
While there are no direct boat services to Rochester, United States, you can take a cruise along the Great Lakes and dock at the Port of Rochester. The Port of Rochester is located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario and offers docking for recreational boats and small cruise ships. From the Port of Rochester, you can take a bus or rent a car to get to downtown Rochester.
Bus
One of the most convenient ways to get to Rochester, United States by bus is to take a Greyhound bus. The Greyhound bus station is located in downtown Rochester, near the Rochester Transit Center. Greyhound offers several daily bus trips to and from Rochester, with connections to major cities across the US.