Located in western New York between Buffalo and Syracuse, Rochester is a high-tech powerhouse with a thriving arts scene. From festivals to sports, history to nature, culture to cuisine, there’s plenty to experience during each of our region’s four seasons. So take a closer look at the city we call home. We’re sure you’ll come to love it as much as we do.
The city of Rochester has several distinctive neighborhoods. We’ve highlighted a few here, but these and others are worth discovering for yourself. To learn more, check out the Experience Rochester guide.
Looking for arts, entertainment, or something yummy to eat? Downtown has you covered. Swing by the Blue Cross Arena for Rochester Americans hockey game or catch a show at Geva Theatre. During the winter, enjoy outdoor concerts or ice skating at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at Manhattan Square.
You’ll find live music, coffee shops (including Java’s, a favorite among locals and Eastman School students alike), theaters, and festivals—all in the city’s East End. The Eastman Campus is located in this neighborhood, which is a quick shuttle ride from the River Campus.
Stroll along the city’s scenic riverwalk and see a majestic waterfall in the middle of downtown Rochester. The High Falls district is also where you can catch a Red Wings game at Frontier Field or visit the Genesee Brewery to try some local flavors.
NOTA is home to the Memorial Art Gallery, George Eastman Museum, and ARTWalk, a permanent urban art trail that connects the arts centers and public spaces within the neighborhood with sculpture, mosaics, and landscaping.
Visit the unique restaurants, shops, and nightlife that line this popular street. While you’re there, you may want to take the short trip to the Rochester Museum and Science Center (featuring the Strasenburgh Planetarium) or the beautiful Cobb’s Hill Reservoir.
One of the city’s fastest growing and most eclectic neighborhoods, the South Wedge features urban residential living and historic architecture alongside hip restaurants and cafes, one-of-a-kind shopping, and local farmers’ markets.
College Town is just a short walk or bike ride from the River Campus. In addition to the Barnes & Noble that houses the University bookstore, you’ll find restaurants, banking, and shopping. Visit the College Town directory for a complete list of businesses.
The University also offers shuttle service to College Town so students can enjoy the area and amenities even when they’re not up for the walk.
There are two parks within walking distance of the River Campus—Highland Park and Genesee Valley Park—as well as the historic Mount Hope Cemetery.
Home to the annual Lilac Festival in May, Highland Park is a beautiful, 150-acre park that’s a 30-minute walk or five-minute drive from campus. The park includes the Lamberton Conservatory, where visitors can see a beautiful collection of plants from around the world. It also has several memorials and gardens, as well as a natural skating rink in the winter.
GVP is right alongside the River Campus and has three intersecting waterways: Red Creek, the Genesee River, and the New York State Barge Canal. The park is 800 acres, with several trails, including some along the river and canal. The park also features softball diamonds, multi-use/soccer fields, a cricket pitch, and two 18-hole golf courses.
The University is located next to Mount Hope Cemetery. The cemetery prides itself on its landscaping and is the final resting place of Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglass, other famous people who lived in Rochester. The cemetery is open seven days a week and offers self-guided walking tours.
Out and about
Rochester and the surrounding area boast a number of attractions, sites, and activities. For example, you can:
See the Visit Rochester website for more fun and exciting things to do in and around Rochester.