Discover the best restaurants, lesser-known attractions, secluded hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and more. Plan your next adventure with our diverse selection of guides that cater to epicureans, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking unique experiences.
Hiking Trails
Escape to secluded trails less traveled, offering a rustic haven to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Transcending Places
Transform your travels with destinations that transport you beyond the ordinary. Immerse yourself fully in the journey and be present in the moment.
Easy Waterfalls
Experience the region’s most stunning waterfalls without challenging trails! Witness their majesty from the road and short pathways.
Gorge Trails
Discover the Finger Lakes region’s stunning, glacier-formed gorges and beautiful waterfalls on unforgettable trails that will connect you with the wonders of nature.
Extreme Christmas Lights
Get into the holiday spirit with stunning displays of Christmas lights! Check out our favorite extreme light shows to brighten up your December nights.
Highly Recommended Restaurants
Discover the best dining experiences with our curated list of top restaurants, cafes, and pubs, backed by over 40 years of culinary expertise and community recommendations.
Things to Do
Unleash the fun with our comprehensive list of 132 exciting activities for all seasons. From museums to outdoor adventures, there’s something fun for everyone.
Hidden Places
Unlock the secrets of Rochester with enchanting waterfalls, hidden gardens, and breathtaking vistas.
New York State Parks
Discover the natural wonders surrounding Rochester with our guide to the nearest state parks in New York, all within a two-hour drive. Learn how to access the parks for free.
Explore More
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.
This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
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
Which is your favorite day-trip guide?
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!
