When exploring Rochester’s residential areas, you’ll find unique boutiques, cozy bookstores, and whimsical shops scattered among restaurants and cafes. Here’s your insider’s guide to where locals satisfy their shopping cravings.
East & University Avenues
The East Avenue Historic District and the Neighborhood of the Arts, including Village Gate, form a lively cultural center for art enthusiasts, with an array of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops along University and East Avenues, like:
- Akimbo Bookshop
- Arena’s
- Craft Company No.6
- A Horse with Wings
- Image City Photography Gallery
- Living Roots Wine & Co.
- The Op Shop
- Record Archive
- Stacy K Floral
- Sweet Poison Cupcake Boutique
- The Unreliable Narrator
- Wisteria Flowers & Gifts
- Writers & Books
The gift shops at the George Eastman Museum, Memorial Art Gallery, Rochester Museum and Science Center, and The Strong National Museum of Play also provide exceptional shopping opportunities.
Park & Monroe Avenues
In the Park Avenue Historic District, located north of I-490 between Park Avenue and Monroe Avenue, you can find an enchanting blend of specialty shops and culinary delights set against the backdrop of Victorian-style homes. Along Park Avenue, you’ll find a wealth of treasures inside:
- F. Oliver’s
- Figgy Studio & Shop
- Mansawear
- Parkleigh
- Salty Boutique
- Statement Boutique
- Stever’s Candies
On Monroe Avenue, discover eclectic keepsakes in:
- Aaron’s Alley
- Archimage
- Little Shop of Hoarders
- Poster Art
- Stem Rare & Exotic Plants
- Eclipse Boutique
Venture into Upper Monroe to find something fabulous at:
- Archivist Books
- Arhaus
- Homegrown & Handmade Market
- Luci & Dona
- More Fire Glass Studio
- Peppermint
- The Vegan Butcher
South & South Clinton Avenues
In the South Wedge and Swillburg neighborhoods, nestled north of Highland Park and east of the Genesee River, you can find a variety of charming shops along South and South Clinton Avenues, like:
- Axom Home
- Bookeater
- Bradley James Designs
- Happy Earth Tea
- Hedonist Artisan Chocolates
- Hipocampo Children’s Books
- Little Button Craft
- Marilla’s Mindful Supplies
- Stuart’s Spices
- Women of Color New York
As you unearth one-of-a-kind treasures, take a moment to appreciate regional specialties at the cafes and restaurants scattered along your shopping adventure. You’re sure to work up an appetite shopping like a local!
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Where are your favorite places to shop in Rochester?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
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. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
