Experience Rochester's Best in 1 Day

Experience history, art, and innovation in Rochester, USA.

22 April 2023

Rochester, United States is a city with a rich history and an active cultural scene. Visitors can explore world-class museums and galleries, take in a live performance or attend a festival downtown. Nature lovers will enjoy the city's many green spaces, including a scenic riverfront park and a beautiful botanical garden.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring the Flour City

  • Start your morning at the Rochester Public Market, where locals gather for fresh produce, flowers, and street food.
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Highland Park, home to over 1200 lilac bushes, breathtaking views, and peaceful walking trails.
  • Get your history fix at the George Eastman Museum, showcasing photography and film history through exhibitions, galleries and archives.
  • Enjoy a late lunch or early dinner at Nick Tahou Hots, a local institution famous for its Garbage Platea deliciously messy combination of home fries, mac salad, meat, and sauce.
  • End your day with a drink at The Old Toad, a cozy British-inspired pub offering a wide selection of hand-pulled ales and authentic pub fare.
  • Tip: Rochester is known for its dessert scenetry the frozen custard at Abbott's or the homemade ice cream at Pittsford Farms Dairy.

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.

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.

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.

4 Days of Family-Friendly Fun in Rochester

A family-friendly trip to Rochester, United States offers a multitude of fun-filled activities for all ages. Explore the Strong National Museum of Play, a renowned interactive museum with exhibits dedicated to toys, video games, and play areas. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Highland Park, home to beautiful gardens and an enchanting Victorian-style greenhouse, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. Don't miss out on visiting the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment guarantee a memorable day for the whole family.

Experience Rochester's Best in 1 Day

Rochester, United States is a city with a rich history and an active cultural scene. Visitors can explore world-class museums and galleries, take in a live performance or attend a festival downtown. Nature lovers will enjoy the city's many green spaces, including a scenic riverfront park and a beautiful botanical garden.