There are numerous fascinating sights to discover while driving around Western NY, the Genesee Valley, and the Finger Lakes region. I actually have a list of over 40 roadside attractions located near Rochester that you might want to explore. But, if you only have time to see a few, I recommend these eight.
1. Second Coming House of Prophet Isaiah
Niagara Falls
The house of Prophet Isaiah is now a spectacular piece of spiritual eye candy, with thousands of bright-hued, hand-carved surfaces continually painted and repainted by its owner.
Sadly, Prophet Isaiah Henry Robertson died on January 25, 2020. As a result, according to The Buffalo News, “the Kohler Foundation—a nonprofit organization that preserves art environments around the country—has bought the house and donated it to the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area.”
According to TripAdvisor, “Prophet Isaiah’s Second Coming House” ranks No. 36 among the 112 things to do in Niagara Falls.
Learn more at Roadside America
2. The Mushroom House
Perinton
Private property but still great roadside-eye-candy! Located on the way to, but just outside, Powder Mills Park.
Find more information on Roadside America
3. Lyndonville Shoe Trees
Lyndonville
Footwear has found its way into these branches for several decades. Successfully catching your shoes in the branches will grant a wish or good luck.
4. Canandaigua City Pier Boat Houses
Canandaigua
Take a walk or drive down the Canandaigua City Pier and check out Boathouse Row.
Interesting fact: Homeowners are prohibited from actually living in these boathouses—they are for daytime use only.
Learn more from My Finger Lakes
5. I Love NY Sign
Geneva
With Seneca Lake as a backdrop, the I Love NY sign outside the Finger Lakes Welcome Center is a must-stop photo op!
Learn more about the Welcome Center
6. Griffis Sculpture Park
East Otto, Rohr Hill Road
The main Mill Valley Road site is definitely something that needs to be explored on foot over several hours. But the Rohr Hill Road site is something you can enjoy just by looking out the car window.
7. Extreme Christmas Lights
Rochester Area, Seasonal
Because December is the darkest month, we welcome these grand displays of holiday lights to brighten the night. These homeowners and communities go all out to celebrate the season, so let’s get out there and celebrate with them!
Find these Rochester-area neighbors with extraordinary Christmas lights during the month of December.
Explore More
Our 3 Favorite Neighborhoods with Spectacular Christmas Light Displays: 2024 Edition
Enjoy our favorite extreme Christmas lights around Rochester! These homeowners and communities go all out to celebrate the holiday season.
8. The Big Metal Dragon
East Bethany
Near the intersection of two country roads just off US-20, you find this metal dragon rising from the Earth.
Find more details at Roadside America
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Off-the-Beaten-Path Books
New York Off the Beaten Path®
by Randi Minetor
Unknown Museums of Upstate New York: A Guide to 50 Treasures
by Chuck D’Imperio
Secret Places: A Guide to 25 Little Known Scenic Treasures of New York’s Niagara-Allegheny Region, Including the Beautiful, the Bizarre, the Special, and the Sublime
by Bruce Kershner
Secret Buffalo: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure
by Elizabeth Licata
Where are your favorite roadside attractions near Rochester?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
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People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy.
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Enjoy the Journey Together!
