Autumn in Rochester

Autumn in Rochester offers a variety of unique seasonal activities, such as scenic train rides, leaf-peeping in arboretums, fall bird migrations, and ghost walks. From pretty to paranormal, take advantage of them while you can!

1. Observe changing foliage during Autumn in Rochester

Pick a place with tree diversity—it may even be your own neighborhood. Observe the autumn changes once a week, maybe on your way home from work or on Sunday mornings.

I have a few favorite places I like to frequent in the fall because of their dramatic displays:

2. Witness the autumn migration

Massive migrations of waterfowl, wading birds, and raptors come back through New York on their way south toward open waters. These areas around Rochester are dedicated to giving them a safe harbor to eat and rest. Bring your binoculars!

3. Take a drive

You don’t have to be in the Catskills or Adirondacks to find an inspiring view. Pick any slow road leading out of Rochester. There are lots of scenic overlooks to enjoy along the way.

My personal favorite! Take County Road 21, 12, 33, 34, or 36 to Naples. Stop at the “jump off” in Ontario County Park, Harriet Hollister, or Bristol Mountain.

Lake Ontario Seaway Trail east to Huron or west to Olcott

Route 96 to Seneca Falls and Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

Route 15-15A loop around Hemlock Lake

Drive through Letchworth from Mt. Morris to the Glen Iris Inn.

Route 20 east to Skaneateles or Lafayette or Cazenovia

Route 98 to Salamanca and Little Rock City

Route 20A west to East Aurora

Route 19 to Rushford Lake

Seriously, I could keep going! If you have a favorite, let us know in the comments. And check out our Google Maps, pinned with overlooks and scenic vistas.

View the map separately on Google Maps.

4. Take a hike

A walk anywhere in a park or forest, along a lake shore, or in your own neighborhood is satiating enough! I love a combination of tree diversity, water elements, moments of canopy and vista, and a bench to take it all in. Try these!

5. Ride the rails on a heritage train

If you want to relive the transportation of yesteryears, there are four heritage train museums around Rochester offering a unique and immersive experience. Each museum takes you back in time to witness the evolution of rail transportation through the ages, from the early steam engines to the modern electric trains. You will get to see and even ride on some of the well-preserved vintage trains that were once the backbone of the transportation industry. These museums are perfect for train enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.

6. Follow the river

Spend time along the Genesee River as it courses through the City of Rochester.

7. Get above the canopy

There is nothing like leaf-peeping from above the tree line!

8. Take a ghost tour

Ghosts are active all year, but something about October piques our interest in the paranormal. From storytelling to investigating, these night trips help explore Rochester’s other side.

9. Or a haunted hayride

These may scare you more than the ghost tours!

Powers Farm Market (Pittsford) *least scary

Verhulst Haunted Hayride (Spencerport) *scariest

10. Fun on the farm

Grab some cider and donuts, get lost in a corn maze, and pick your favorite pumpkin on family farms around Rochester. There are also harvest festivals, like Genesee Country Village’s Agricultural Fair.

What are your favorite ways to enjoy autumn in Rochester?

I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.