Rochester on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Experience Rochester, USA without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

On a limited budget, a trip to Rochester, United States offers plenty of affordable options for tourists. Visitors can explore the numerous parks and gardens in the city, such as the Highland Park and the Genesee Valley Park. Budget-friendly dining options can also be found in the local food trucks and cafes.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into the Staybridge Suites Rochester University, a comfortable budget hotel close to popular attractions.
  • Visit the Strong National Museum of Play, a hands-on interactive museum that's perfect for all ages.
  • Stop by the Rochester Public Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce and unique crafts.
  • Grab lunch at The Little Theater Cafe, an intimate spot with a menu of delicious sandwiches and salads.
  • Take a stroll through Highland Park, home to a variety of beautiful gardens and walking trails.
  • Enjoy dinner at The Old Stone Tavern, a historic pub with classic American fare and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 2

Lakeside Adventure

  • Travel to nearby Lake Ontario and rent a paddleboard or kayak at Bay Creek Paddling Center.
  • Spend the morning exploring the scenic shoreline and spotting local wildlife.
  • Grab lunch at Abbott's Frozen Custard, a Rochester classic with creamy frozen treats and juicy burgers.
  • Visit the Genesee Brewery for a tour and tasting of their famous beer selection.
  • Head to Ontario Beach Park for a beautiful sunset over the water and grab dinner at the beachfront Bill Gray's.
Day 3

Art and History

  • Visit the Memorial Art Gallery, home to a wide collection of American and European art and exhibits.
  • Take a walking tour of the historic Mount Hope Cemetery, the final resting place of famous figures like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.
  • Grab lunch at John's Tex Mex, a colorful spot with authentic Mexican dishes and fresh margaritas.
  • Visit the George Eastman Museum, dedicated to the history of photography and the life of its founder.
  • Enjoy dinner at the Owl House, a vegan-friendly restaurant with innovative dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 4

Park Hopping

  • Spend the morning at Seneca Park Zoo, a compact zoo with a variety of animals from around the world.
  • Grab lunch at Roam Cafe, a chic spot for salads, sandwiches, and other cafe fare.
  • Visit Durand Eastman Park, a scenic park on the shores of Lake Ontario with hiking trails and a beach.
  • Explore Cobb's Hill Park, a popular spot for outdoor activities like running, disc golf, and picnics.
  • Enjoy dinner at The Gate House, a casual gastropub with an expansive menu of tasty dishes and drinks.
Day 5

Farewell Rochester

  • Spend the morning at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, featuring hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
  • Grab lunch at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, a vibrant spot with authentic BBQ and live music.
  • Head to High Falls, a stunning waterfall in downtown Rochester, for one last photo op.
  • Browse the shops at Eastview Mall, a large shopping center with a variety of stores and eateries.
  • Say goodbye to Rochester and head home with plenty of memories.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Rochester

Welcome to the city where the weather is never quite right, but the people are always friendly enough to make you forget about it. Rochester: where we measure seasons by how many layers of clothing we need.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Rochester Road Trip: 3 Days of Fun and Adventure

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.

The Ultimate Romantic Day in Rochester, NY

Rochester, situated in New York State, is an idyllic location for a romantic getaway. The region boasts stunning natural scenery, including the stunning Genesee River and numerous parks, gardens and trails. Experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy fine dining, luxurious hotels and an exciting nightlife.

Rochester Delights: 3 Days of Family-Friendly Fun

A family friendly trip to Rochester, United States offers a variety of fun activities for all ages. Start your journey by exploring the Strong National Museum of Play, which features interactive exhibits and displays that entertain and educate children. Take a stroll through the scenic Highland Park, where your family can enjoy picnicking, walking trails, and beautiful views of blooming flowers in the springtime. Wrap up your visit by heading to the Seneca Park Zoo to engage with over 90 animal species and participate in hands-on experiences.

Rochester in 48: Culture, Cuisine, and Nature

A trip to Rochester on a limited budget would include seeking out affordable accommodation, taking advantage of free attractions such as Highland Park and the George Eastman Museum, and sampling the city's diverse food options at local markets and budget-friendly restaurants. For transportation, walking or using the city's public bus system can also help keep costs down.