What Is the Best Thing to Do in Rochester?

Rochester has a long and storied history as one of New York’s premier tourist destinations. From its roots as the site of the Lockport Canal to its surge in population growth and industry, Rochester has been a destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The city is known for its numerous outdoor activities and attractions, but visitors sometimes find that they don’t know the best way to experience all that Rochester has to offer. If you’re looking for an amazing day trip or weekend getaway, here are a few suggestions for activities that will make your time in Rochester especially memorable.

Visit the Strong Museum of Play

The Strong National Museum of Play is a wonderful destination for anyone who wants to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. This massive museum is dedicated to the study of play, toys, and games throughout history. The museum’s interactive exhibits mean visitors of all ages can explore the history of gaming and play, while immersing themselves in the unique culture behind some of the most beloved toys in history. It also offers educational experiences featuring interactive exhibits that bring the museum’s collection to life. The Strong is a must-visit any time you’re in Rochester—after all, where else can you explore a life-sized street corner built out of Legos?

Take a Cruise on Lake Ontario

Rochester is located on the shores of Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, so it should come as no surprise that one of the best things to do there is to take a cruise on the lake. There are many companies that offer sightseeing, dinner, and even overnight cruises on Lake Ontario, giving visitors an up-close view of the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. Depending on the duration of your cruise, you could visit one of the many ports along the lake or even take a tour of the Niagara Gorge to see its impressive waterfalls. Cruising on Lake Ontario is a great way to see the sights and experience Rochester in a very special way.

Check Out the Mount Hope Cemetery

Mount Hope Cemetery is one of the oldest public cemeteries in the country and is also one of the most famous attractions in Rochester. This sprawling cemetery offers visitors a stunning view of the surrounding area and showcases some of the city’s most notable historical figures. It is also home to a wide variety of plants, birds, and animals, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore and enjoy. A self-guided tour is available for visitors who want to explore Mount Hope Cemetery at their leisure or take a guided tour if they want to learn more about its history.

Learn About Native American Culture at Ganondagan State Historic Site

Ganondagan State Historic Site is unparalleled when it comes to its educational value. The site is home to one of the only remaining Seneca towns, which was destroyed by Europeans in 1687. It is now a living history museum that focuses on teaching visitors about Native American culture through engaging programs and interactive exhibits. Visitors can learn about how the Seneca people lived prior to colonization, as well as their current culture, by visiting Ganondagan State Historic Sites.

Explore the Corn Hill Neighborhood

Corn Hill was one of Rochester’s first middle-class neighborhoods, and today it remains a charming corner of this city. Visitors can explore this historic district by walking around its many quaint streets lined with Victorian-era homes, vintage shops, and galleries. Taking part in one of these tours is a great way to get a glimpse into Rochester’s past and admire the city’s beautiful architecture. Of course, no visit to the Corn Hill neighborhood would be complete without stopping by Corn Hill Landing and taking a stroll along its picturesque walking path.

Try Something Uniquely Rochester – Wacky Rochester Bar Crawl by Let’s Roam

Finally, travelers who want to try something completely unique and experience Rochester in an entirely new way should check out “Wacky Rochester Bar Crawl by Let’s Roam.” This two-hour scavenger hunt will take adventurers on an unforgettable journey through some of Rochester’s most iconic bars and taverns with an experienced guide. Along the way you’ll solve challenges and challenges set by locals with no two hunts ever being exactly alike. By using Let’s Roam app technology you can compete with other groups as you track your progress against their team in real-time. It’s an especially great activity for larger groups which allows you to buy tickets for up to 10 people per team. Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time with Wacky Bar Crawl By Let’s Roam before heading to Rochester!

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if you prefer outdoor activities or cultural experiences—there is something for everyone to enjoy in Rochester. Whether it’s exploring Mount Hope Cemetery or taking part in a bar crawl across town, there are plenty of amazing activities that make Rochester a must-visit destination in New York State. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable trip or just want to check out what makes this city unique, you won’t be disappointed if you choose to spend some time in this upstate gem!