Rochester Road Trip: 3 Days of Fun and Adventure

Discover the charm of upstate New York in Rochester.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, Rochester offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes of Lake Ontario or visit the world-renowned Strong National Museum of Play. The city also boasts a vibrant food and music scene, making it a great destination for travelers seeking an authentic American experience.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Rochester Rendezvous

  • Begin the day with a cup of Joe at Java's Cafe, a quaint coffeehouse with a cozy vibe.
  • Pay homage to the city's pioneer, George Eastman, by visiting the Eastman Museum, a one-of-a-kind museum that celebrates photography and film.
  • Take a stroll down the charming cobblestone street of Park Avenue and check out its lively art galleries and vintage boutiques.
  • Get your fill of comfort food at The Gate House, a local pub offering hearty burgers and craft beer.
  • End the day on a high note with a show at the iconic Eastman Theatre, where you can catch a performance by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
  • Stay: The Strathallan Hotel, A DoubleTree by Hilton, a stylish historic property with a rooftop lounge boasting stunning views of Rochester.
Day 2

Exploring the Wonders of Rochester

  • Start off the day with a visit to the National Museum of Play, a quirky museum where you can indulge in gaming, learn about the history of toys, and even meet your favourite Sesame Street characters.
  • Take a stroll around the picturesque Highland Park, home to the beautiful Lamberton Conservatory and one of the country's oldest lilac festivals.
  • Discover Rochester's burgeoning food scene by having lunch at Cure, a trendy restaurant known for its inventive charcuterie boards and craft cocktails.
  • Treat yourself to some retail therapy at the iconic shopping destination of The Mall at Greece Ridge, where you can splurge on popular brands and unique finds.
  • Enjoy a nightcap at the trendy Radio Social, a bowling alley and bar with a retro vibe.
Day 3

Rochester's Hidden Gems

  • Discover the hidden gem of Rochester's food scene with a breakfast at the charming Highland Park Diner, a classic diner that serves up delicious comfort food.
  • Visit the impressive Memorial Art Gallery, home to an extensive collection of art ranging from ancient to contemporary.
  • Take a walk around the Genesee River Trail, a scenic route that offers scenic views of the river and the city skyline.
  • Stop by Foodlink's Curbside Market, a mobile farmers market that aims to provide fresh produce to underserved neighborhoods.
  • Have dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a popular restaurant with a funky atmosphere and finger-licking good BBQ.
  • Stay: The DelMonte Hotel Group's Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, a luxurious retreat overlooking the picturesque Rochester skyline.
  • End your stay in Rochester having indulged in its food, culture, and hidden gems. Bye for now, Rochester!

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.

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