The content below provides supplemental information for the second edition of my award-winning book, Day Trips Around Rochester, New York. Each chapter is digitally enhanced to provide maps, photos, and links to help you plan your day-trip adventures.
If you like what you see here but have yet to purchase the book, consider buying a copy, especially if you enjoy underlining and doodling notes in the margins. I’m eager to hear about your experiences with the book, so don’t hesitate to contact me on social media or via email with any feedback, questions, or ideas. To receive updates and timely day-trip inspiration, sign up for my newsletter.
Section 1 – Day-Trip Destinations
These day trips include carefully chosen breakfast, lunch, and dinner options at some of the most popular local restaurants and unique experiences and events that make each destination special. You’ll find various ideas to help you make the most of your time and create lasting memories.
CHAPTERS
A perfect day in Rochester would include a visit to one of its world-class museums, spending time in its exceptional parks, and seeing both High Falls and Lake Ontario.
Letchworth has something for everyone, from hiking one of the park’s 29 trails and picnicking beside a waterfall to taking a scenic drive.
Of the five Finger Lakes closest to Rochester, Canandaigua Lake and the city’s historic downtown have the most to offer visitors.
Nestled in the hills at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake, Naples is known for its beautiful surroundings and annual Grape Festival.
Auburn offers a full day of immersive experiences. Follow this guide to make the most of your time exploring the city’s rich culture.
One hour from Rochester, Penn Yan is a unique day-trip experience due to the significant presence of Old Order Amish and Mennonite communities.
Hammondsport offers a charming getaway brimming with scenic beauty, delicious dining, unique shopping, and exceptional wines.
Corning’s Gaffer District features nearly one hundred boutiques, specialty and antique shops, art galleries, glass studios, and restaurants.
Situated midway between Rochester and Syracuse on Route 5 and 20, Geneva feels like the center of the Finger Lakes region.
The heart of the village of Watkins Glen is the 1.5-mile-long gorge, a truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring showcase of nature’s beauty.
Seneca Falls, on historic Route 5 and 20, is the birthplace of the Women’s Rights movement and is the inspiration for It’s a Wonderful Life.
Spend a day in the City of Ithaca, exploring the waterfalls, restaurants, shops, and festivals that make this Ivy League college town unique.
The Village of Skaneateles is the perfect place to get away and enjoy the pace of lake life, surrounded by unique boutiques and restaurants.
A day trip to Syracuse should include a walk through its squares, exploring renowned museums, and indulging in delicious local food.
Ranked as one of the “Top Ten Small Towns,” spend a day in Lewiston, with its excellent shops, restaurants, and Niagara River views.
Visitors travel far and wide to see Niagara Falls State Park, America’s first state park, and we are fortunate to drive there in 90 minutes.
Explore Buffalo’s Delaware Park
Delaware Park combines Buffalo’s cultural and recreational offerings along a two-mile path that winds around lakes, gardens, and meadows.
From Canalside to Outer Harbor and RiverWorks to Silo City, there are a dozen excellent day trips from Rochester along Buffalo’s waterfront.
From Vidler’s to the Aurora Theatre to the Roycroft Arts & Crafts movement, the early 1900s are alive and well on Main Street in East Aurora.
Section 2 – Water
Surrounded by abundant freshwater sources, we are fortunate to have many opportunities to connect with nature and revitalize our minds and bodies. Take some time to explore and appreciate our lakes, creeks, rivers, and canals, which offer an ideal mix of activity and tranquility.
CHAPTERS
Explore The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail
The Lake Ontario Seaway Trail runs along the southern Lake Ontario shoreline, from Fort Niagara in Youngstown to Fort Ontario in Oswego.
At Genesee Valley Park, the river merges with the Erie Canal and continues north through Rochester before reaching Lake Ontario.
Explore the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
Enjoy each canal town along the 115-mile stretch between the Cayuga-Seneca Canal and the Niagara River, with Rochester at the heart.
Explore New York’s Finger Lakes Region
The Finger Lakes region is a popular tourist destination, featuring 11 lakes, charming cities and villages, and scenic farmland.
Not all waterfalls are hidden in dark ravines. Many of the region’s most stunning waterfalls can be viewed from the road or a short walk.
Gorge trails call out from their deep, dark, and cool caverns. If you haven’t already, start checking these spectacular trails off your list.
On a hot day, you can stand under a waterfall, swim in a lake, or wade through a creek at one of these refreshing natural swimming holes
Section 3 – Land
Enjoy the beauty and wonders of the natural world by making the most of the many biological, zoological, horticultural, geological, and historical experiences offered by our parks, gardens, and farms. Our region is filled with unique and fascinating places to discover.
CHAPTERS
These carefully designed gardens, often cultivated for decades or even centuries, display exceptional collections of flowers and trees.
Nature Centers and Preserves Around Rochester
The various nature centers, preserves, and management areas all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all.
Beyond the gorge trails, nature centers, and gardens, these exceptional parks offer unique experiences and amenities worthy of exploration.
Farms & Farmers’ Markets: Your Guide to Locally Grown Produce
Exploring local markets and roadside produce stands is a great way to immerse yourself in the community and support family farms.
Section 4 – Culture
Rochester’s theaters, museums, and events offer opportunities to celebrate the region’s unique identity and cultural heritage. Join tours or explore independently to learn about the customs and traditions that make Rochester unique and appreciate the city’s rich and varied experiences.
CHAPTERS
Rochester is home to world-renowned museums and thought-provoking galleries. You can spend weeks exploring our rich cultural heritage.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a show on stage or screen. Experience diverse artistic expression, from Broadway productions to classic movies.
Have fun finding these fun roadside attractions—shoe trees, a skeleton army, a metal dragon, a shark girl—within two hours of Rochester.
Rochester, NY Events & Activities: Your Guide to Year-Round Fun
From Rochester’s annual events and festivals to seasonal activities, I’ve curated a list of the best things to do around Rochester all year.
Every book review is essential and can make a big difference! Reviews help people decide if this book is right for them. They can also help libraries and booksellers choose whether to recommend a book to their patrons. Please share your candid review on Amazon or on the website of whichever bookseller you purchased from. Thank you for taking the time to do this. I appreciate you, as will those who read your review!