Things to do in Rochester, NY

On the southern shore of Lake Ontario lies the city of Rochester in New York. It lies in the Finger Lakes region, a popular spot for vacationers in New England who like the outdoors. A visit to Rochester offers tourists with a wide range of activities they can indulge in.

Hiking in Mendon Ponds Park

If you are up for some hiking, Mendon Ponds Park is the place to be. It provides outdoor activities for both summer and winter months. During the hot months, the pond provides an excellent venue for swimming. In the winter, Mendon Ponds Park is excellent for country skiing and other cold weather activities.

Attend City Festivals

Rochester is also known for its great festivals during the summer months. The Rochester Harbor Fest is an annual celebration held during the first weekend of June at the Genesee River. It offers live entertainment and food tents – a good way to know more about its culture and the people.
The Maplewood Rose Garden Festival is another tourist attraction. It is held during the height of the blooming season. The festival features more than 300 varieties of roses in the garden.

A Visit to the National Museum of Play

A visit to the National Museum of Play can bring out the child in you. It is the ideal destination for someone who is interested in the history of toys. It accepts only 20 people at a time, which makes the trip more intimate than other museums. The sight of classic collections alone can make your visit to the museum a worthwhile one.

Shopping/Dining

Rochester is the ideal destination for shopaholics. Considered as a shopper’s paradise, the city offers suburban malls such as the Eastview Mall, Marketplace Mall, Pittsford Plaza, and the Mall at Greece Ridge. Bargain hunters also troop to this place, given the wide array of discount stores and outlet centers. Located on the east side of Rochester, the Waterloo Premium Outlets has approximately 100 stores.

The scenic area along the Erie Canal is a haven for boutiques and specialty shops. There are also stores lined up in the historic Main Streets. Park, Monroe, and University Avenues are home to a unique combination of shops, cafes, service businesses, restaurants, pocket parks, artwork, and intriguing residences.
If you are looking for souvenirs or other gifts, the local museums and attractions offer one-of-a-kind treasures and excellent souvenirs. If you are passionate with antiques, you can find a guide to over 65 antique shops across Rochester.

The Public Market, which is more than a 100 years old, is a place for bargains. You can find discounted items every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. You can also find fresh food, ethnic delicacies, and specialty items. Throughout the year, you can participate in various events such as “Greatest Garage Sales Ever,” “Holidays at the Market,” and “Homegrown at the Market.”

Enjoy the Great Outdoors
The great outdoors of the Rochester and Finger Lakes region offer a bevy of activities for tourists who are looking for some fun outdoors. Activities include hiking, biking, paddling, skiing, and others.

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