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A beautiful small city that sits just south of Lake Ontario, Rochester boasts historical attractions, delicious dining, and picturesque landscapes.
1. Genesee Brew House
A great location with great food and even better beer. The Genesee Brew House sits along the Genesee River directly across from High Falls and has been operating since 1878, making it the oldest brewery in the state of New York. Stop by the tasting bar for $4 flights of various beers with a portion of the proceeds going to different local charities. After finding your favorite beer, head upstairs and enjoy a seat on the patio overlooking the city of Rochester. Definitely order the pierogies for an appetizer, they were absolutely amazing!
2. Seabreeze Amusement Park
A small, family-friendly amusement park located steps from Lake Ontario, Seabreeze has been in operation since 1879. Thrill rides, picnic pavilions, games, food, and even water slides make for a great day trip just outside of the city. The highlight of Seabreeze is definitely the Jack Rabbit, the oldest continuously operating roller coaster in the United States. When it was built in 1920, it was the fastest coaster in the world with speeds of 50 mph. Ride everything all day for $32 or if you are only interested in riding the Jack Rabbit, pay just $14 for a spectator pass and $3.50 for a single ride ticket. Parking is free!
3. Park Avenue
Located close to downtown Rochester, Park Avenue runs east to west from Alexander Street to East Avenue. Shops, restaurants, boutiques, bars, salons, and cafes all line this lively street which is also surrounded by plenty of historic buildings that give this area a unique charm. You can find just about any type of food you might be hungry for including Thai, Mexican or Italian cuisine. While you are out an about madke sure to stop by Dogtown for a garbage plate, a staple of Rochester, which is basically a hodgepodge of greasy greatness. Chose between a hot dog, burger or both and mix in your sides for a mountain of a meal covered in Rochester’s special hot sauce.
4. Seneca Park Zoo
Tucked away in the small town of Irondequoit just outside of Rochester, Seneca Park Zoo is home to over 90 species including lions, rhino, penguins and of course African elephants. This small zoo is AZA-accredited and provides top-notch care to all of their residents all while participating in critical research, breeding and education. During your visit make sure to stop by any scheduled educational chats or strike up a conversation with a keeper to learn more about the care of the animals and conservation in range countries.
5. Ontario Beach Park
Wake up early and revel in the serene coastline of Lake Ontario. Grab some breakfast and a coffee to enjoy the slight lake breeze in this beautifully kept park. Take a walk out to the end of the pier and watch as sailboats leave the Port of Rochester Marina on the Genesee River. If you are visiting during the day or evening, there are plenty of options for food and drink such as Jetty at the Port, Windjammers, or Pelican’s Nest that all have an amazing waterfront atmosphere.
Be sure to check out my other post on Niagara Falls for another option not to far from Rochester, New York.