Romantic Rochester: A 5-Day Love Escape
Discover love in the charming city of Rochester, USA.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
A romantic trip to Rochester, United States offers a charming escape with a wonderful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a variety of romantic activities, such as strolling through the picturesque Highland Park or touring the iconic George Eastman Museum, couples can bond over shared interests while surrounded by the city's captivating scenery. Rochester's thriving food and wine scene caters to couples seeking delicious, intimate dining experiences that are sure to make their trip unforgettable.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Check-in at the luxurious Rochester Marriott Mayo Clinic Area hotel
- Head to La Vetta for some Italian cuisine
- Quench your thirst with an artisanal beer at Forager Brewery
- Explore the Rochester Art Center
- Indulge in some chocolates from Sweet Jules Gifts
- Catch a show at the historic Chateau Theatre
- Start with a hike in the beautiful Quarry Hill Nature Center
- Visit the impressive Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program
- Take a yoga class at Yoga Tribe
- Have a fresh and healthy meal at Tonic Local Kitchen & Juice Bar
- Get a relaxing massage at the Sövare Spa
- End the day with a cozy bonfire at Silver Lake Park
- Explore the vibrant, colorful murals of the Rochester Mural Project
- Tour the historic Mayowood Mansion
- Visit the Plummer Building, a stunning piece of architecture
- Head to the Olmsted County History Center to learn about Rochester's past
- Catch a performance at the Rochester Civic Theatre
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at The Redwood Room
- Take a scenic drive to nearby Lanesboro and enjoy a bike ride along the Root River Trail
- Stop for lunch at the charming Old Village Hall Restaurant & Pub
- Visit the town of St. Charles and see the beautiful Elba Fire Tower
- Drive to Red Wing and explore the unique shops and restaurants on Main Street
- Tour the historic Red Wing Shoe Company Museum
- End the day with a romantic dinner at the picturesque St. James Hotel.
- Before you leave, grab breakfast at Cafe Steam
- Take a final walk through the amazing Rochester Farmers' Market
- Visit the Rochester Public Library and grab some reading material for the trip home
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Zumbro River
- Have a farewell lunch at The Loop
- Depart Rochester with memories to last a lifetime.
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.