We’re all getting a little stir-crazy at this point. Here are some ideas to get away from the news, from other people, from the daily rut—from it all!
Take a Hike Along These Less Traveled Hiking Trails
They are more secluded, rustic, and even in the best of times, are excellent places to immerse yourself in nature.
Put In at One of These Car-Top Launches Along Rochester’s Waterways
Find a new water trail and paddle your way to solitude.
Explore Our Incredible Creeks
Find peace of mind along the shores of our beautiful creeks. These creeks impact us in such subtle ways they sometimes disappear into the background of our lives. Our tributaries are the source of our fresh water and life for our lakes.
Photograph the Image City
These “Quintessential Rochester” places are the ones we photograph and share. The places where Rochester’s historic foothold was established.
The buildings that make up our skyline. The vistas that fill tourist must-see lists & “wish you were here” postcards.
Spend time finding these photo-worthy destinations around Rochester.
Find These Quirky Rochester-Area Roadside Attractions
Here are a few unusual things to see as you’re out exploring.
Spend a day checking out these unique & unusual roadside attractions—shoe trees, a skeleton army, a metal dragon, a shark girl—within 2.5 hours of Rochester.
Find Solitude in Our Favorite Quiet Places
During the best of times, we know the importance of staying active, seeking out fresh air and sunshine (with sunscreen), and connecting with nature. It’s critical to spend time outside.
Here are a few spots that I can recommend where there’s ample space to spread out.
Get Away to These Other Great Lakes
Rochester is well-known for our 11 Finger Lakes and 2 beautiful Great Lakes, Ontario and Erie.
But there are even more fantastic, fresh-water lakes out there to discover!
Witness the Geologic History of the Rochester Area
These day trips into Rochester’s geologic history, filled with drumlins, fossils, house-sized boulders, and a meromictic lake, will leave you awe-struck!
Explore Rochester’s Murals & Graffiti
A thought-provoking expression of history, experience, and perspective told by some of the world’s most talented artists.
Explore More
50 Hidden Places Around Rochester
From secret gardens to enchanting waterfalls, exploring hidden places around the Rochester area is the ultimate way to add some spice to your travel experiences.
9 Lake Ontario Lighthouses in New York
These lighthouses along Lake Ontario in New York are within a two-hour drive of Rochester. And where there’s a light there’s a sweeping view!
132 Things to Do Around Rochester
We’ve pulled together a list of fun and unique things to do around Rochester, NY, within two hours of home—perfect for quick getaways.
60 Day Trips within 30 Minutes of Rochester
Sometimes you just need a fun, spontaneous adventure or quick getaway to refresh your day. Try one of these day trips within 30 minutes of Rochester.
Where are your favorite spots to get away from it all?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Help Support My Work
People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.
I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.
If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.
Thank you for supporting my efforts to keep producing meaningful and helpful content.
Thank you!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
