When I started planning my New York weekend getaway with my friend Jana of Whiskynsunshine.com, everyone kept asking, “Are you going to Niagara?” But here’s the thing – sometimes the best destinations are the ones hiding in plain sight. Standing on the rooftop of the Genesee Brew House, watching a 96-foot waterfall cascade through downtown Rochester, I realized we’d stumbled onto something special.
Rochester isn’t trying to be the next big tourist destination, and that’s exactly what makes it perfect for a girlfriends getaway. While everyone else is fighting crowds at the famous spots, you’ll be discovering world-class museums, sipping craft beer with waterfall views, and bowling in a historic warehouse that feels like the coolest secret in upstate New York.
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Getting there couldn’t have been easier – I had a smooth flight into Rochester airport (ROC), while Jana drove down from her home in upstate New York. Both options put us right in the heart of everything within minutes.
Waterfalls Without the Crowds
Let’s talk about High Falls, because this might be Rochester’s best-kept secret nature spot. A 96-foot waterfall plunging through the middle of downtown? Yes, please. Unlike its famous cousin to the west, you can actually get close to this waterfall without being swept away by tour buses and souvenir shops.
Jana and I spent a good hour just taking in the views from different angles. The best spot? Hands down, the rooftop of the Genesee Brew House. We grabbed local beers and watched the water crash over the falls while the sun set behind us. It felt like having a private viewing of one of nature’s best shows.
???? Insider Tip: Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced that High Falls will become a New York State Park, so visit now before it becomes more widely known!
The falls are completely free to view, centrally located, and incredibly photogenic. No entrance fees, no timed tickets, no crowds – just you, your bestie, and a stunning natural wonder in an urban setting.
Museums That Actually Surprise You
I’ll be honest – when our itinerary included The Strong National Museum of Play, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But walking into this place was like stepping into the world’s most sophisticated playground. This isn’t just about nostalgia (though seeing toys from my childhood was amazing). It’s about rediscovering the joy of play as an adult.
Jana and I spent hours exploring the interactive exhibits, trying out vintage arcade games, and yes, acting like kids again. One of the most meaningful exhibits was the Sesame Street display – seeing Big Bird and other beloved characters brought back so many childhood memories. It felt especially poignant knowing that public broadcasting funding has faced cuts recently, making places like this even more important for preserving these cultural touchstones that shaped so many of us.
The museum spans more than a city block with two full floors of hands-on experiences. What really sold me was learning about The Happiest Hour – their adults-only evening events that add a sophisticated twist to the museum experience. Perfect for girlfriends who want to play without the actual kids around.
???? Pro Tip: The Strong Museum is huge – plan for at least 2-4 hours, and wear comfortable shoes!
The George Eastman Museum was our other cultural highlight, and what a contrast. Housed in George Eastman’s stunning 1905 Colonial Revival mansion, this is the world’s oldest photography museum. Eastman was the founder of Eastman Kodak Company.
Walking through the historic gardens and exploring the mansion felt like stepping back in time to Rochester’s Gilded Age.
The museum houses over 400,000 photographs from 14,000 photographers, including the largest collection of daguerreotypes outside of France. Even if you’re not a photography buff, the mansion itself is worth the visit – those rooms are Instagram gold.
Our third museum stop was the Memorial Art Gallery, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting much after already being wowed by two incredible museums. But this place completely surprised me. With 5,000 years of art history spanning from ancient relics to contemporary masterpieces, it felt like taking a world tour without leaving Rochester.
What I loved most was how approachable everything felt. The 14-acre campus is a stunning public art space that draws both locals and visitors, and with over 12,000 objects in their permanent collection, there’s something for every taste.
Jana gravitated toward the contemporary pieces while I found myself mesmerized by the ancient artifacts. The gallery’s well-balanced collection meant we could wander for hours without ever feeling overwhelmed or bored.
???? Museum Tip: The Memorial Art Gallery is open until 5 p.m. and offers free admission passes for many visitors – check when you arrive. It’s the perfect way to end a day of cultural exploration.
Craft Beer Culture Done Right
Rochester’s brewing scene surprised me in the best way. The Genesee Brew House isn’t just another brewery – it’s one of America’s largest and oldest continually operating breweries. The 9,200 square-foot space combines interactive exhibits with a pub-style restaurant, all while offering those incredible High Falls views I mentioned.
But here’s what I loved most: the history you can actually taste. Learning about Genesee’s long brewing tradition while sipping their beer and watching that waterfall? That’s the kind of authentic experience you can’t get at tourist traps.
???? Local Secret: Ask your server about the best time to catch sunset views from the rooftop – the timing changes seasonally, and locals know exactly when to head up.
Rohrbach Brewing offered a completely different vibe. As Rochester’s first craft brewery (established in 1991), their Beer Hall near the Public Market feels authentically local. You can easily walk from the market to the brewery – no driving required after sampling!
Unique Experiences You Won’t Find Elsewhere
Now, let me tell you about Radio Social, because this place is unlike anything I’ve experienced. Picture this: a bowling alley, restaurant, bar, and music venue all housed in a historic Stromberg-Carlson warehouse. The industrial chic atmosphere made our evening feel special, not just another night out.
Jana and I aren’t exactly bowling pros, but something about the space made it feel less about striking and more about laughing until our sides hurt. The food was surprisingly good too – elevated comfort food that paired perfectly with craft cocktails. A Peach Caprese Salad was featured on the Daily Specials sheet and it was a highlight of the meal. Plates are designed to be shareable and enjoyed by all.
???? Booking Tip: Make reservations for both bowling and dining – Radio Social gets busy, especially on weekends!
The Riverie Downtown River Cruise was another highlight that caught me off guard. This isn’t some massive tourist boat – it’s an intimate 90-minute journey along the Genesee River and Erie Canal that launched just in 2023. Seeing Rochester from the water gave us a completely different perspective on the city’s geography and history.
The boat holds a smaller group, so it felt more like a private tour than a crowded tourist experience. Jana and I could actually have conversations with other passengers and the crew, learning local stories and hidden gems we never would have discovered otherwise.
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History That Hits Home
Visiting the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House was one of those experiences that gives you chills. Standing in the actual parlor where she was arrested after attempting to vote in 1872 made history feel immediate and real. This isn’t a recreation – this is the actual house where one of America’s most important activists lived and worked.
I was particularly moved by seeing Anthony’s personal belongings and learning about her daily life. The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience feel personal rather than academic.
???? Planning Note: Tours are guided and fill up, especially on weekends. Book tickets in advance online to avoid disappointment.
Mount Hope Cemetery became an unexpected highlight of our trip. As the oldest Victorian municipal cemetery in the country, it’s where both Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass are buried.
But beyond the historical significance, the cemetery is simply beautiful – Victorian architecture, mature trees, and peaceful walking paths.
We opted for self-guided exploration, which let us wander at our own pace and discover hidden corners. It’s the kind of place that invites quiet conversation and reflection – perfect for deepening friendships.
Where to Wine, Dine, and Unwind
Flight Wine Bar became our go-to spot for unwinding after busy days of exploration. The chic atmosphere, extensive wine selection, and charming patio made it feel like our own little discovery. The cheese and charcuterie boards were perfect for sharing while we debriefed our daily adventures. Make a reservation for Saturday nights that feature a live Jazz music.
Simply Crepes in nearby Pittsford elevated our brunch game completely. The sophisticated French-inspired menu and charming village setting made it feel like a special occasion meal. Jana ordered their signature sweet crepe while I went savory with a Huevos Rancheros crepe– both were incredible.
???? Foodie Find: Simply Crepes offers both sweet and savory options, plus excellent coffee. Perfect for lingering over brunch and planning your day.
The Rochester Public Market was a delightful surprise – a true community gathering place that’s been serving locals since 1905. We wandered between vendors selling fresh produce, ethnic specialties, and local crafts. It felt authentic in a way that many “public markets” in tourist destinations don’t.
Angelina’s Restaurant provided the perfect cozy dinner setting with American comfort food done right. Their Bucatini and Peters Biscuits were outstanding, and the intimate atmosphere made it easy to catch up on everything we don’t usually have time to discuss in our busy lives.
We also couldn’t leave Rochester without trying Dinosaur BBQ, a local institution that’s become synonymous with the city’s food scene. The smoky, tender ribs and casual atmosphere made for a fun, messy dinner. Sometimes the best girlfriend moments happen over napkin-covered plates and sticky fingers! I highly recommend the Family Stylin’ meal that feeds 2-3 people with ribs, chicken, pork or brisket, and 2 sides. It’s a lot of food and a great opportunity to sample more items.
The Perfect Home Base
Staying at the Woodcliff Hotel & Spa in nearby Fairport was one of our best decisions. This boutique property offered the luxury amenities we wanted (hello, spa treatments!) without the impersonal feel of chain hotels in more touristy areas.
The spa treatments were exactly what we needed after days of walking and exploring. Being able to book massages and then relax by the pool created the perfect balance between adventure and restoration.
???? Accommodation Advice: Woodcliff is about 15-20 minutes from downtown Rochester attractions, but the peaceful suburban setting and full-service spa make it worth the short drive.
Getting There and Getting Around
One of Rochester’s biggest advantages is how accessible and navigable it is. My flight into ROC was quick and easy – the airport is small enough that you’re not dealing with the chaos of major hubs, but large enough to have good flight options. Enterprise rental car pickup was seamless, and we were at our hotel within 20 minutes of landing.
Travel Tip: Search Skyscanner for the best airline and hotel rates before you book.
For Jana, the drive from elsewhere in upstate New York was straightforward and scenic. Rochester’s compact layout means most attractions are within 15-20 minutes of each other, and downtown areas like Park Avenue are totally walkable.
Unlike sprawling tourist destinations where you spend half your time in transit, Rochester lets you pack in diverse experiences without the logistical headaches.
Perfect 48-Hour Rochester Timeline
Downtown Core Cluster:
- Day 1 Morning: The Strong National Museum of Play (plan 2-3 hours)
- Day 1 Lunch: Genesee Brew House with High Falls views
- Day 1 Afternoon: Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, then Mount Hope Cemetery
- Day 1 Evening: Radio Social for bowling and dinner
Market District & Cultural Triangle:
- Day 2 Morning: Rochester Public Market exploration
- Day 2 Mid-Morning: Rohrbach Brewing Beer Hall
- Day 2 Late Morning: George Eastman Museum and gardens
Waterfront & Exchange District:
- Day 2 Afternoon: Riverie Downtown River Cruise (90 minutes)
- Day 2 Happy Hour: Flight Wine Bar
- Day 2 Evening: Angelina’s Restaurant or Dinosaur BBQ
Luxury Base & Suburbs:
- Hotel: Woodcliff Hotel & Spa (Fairport) – spa treatments and refined accommodations
- Brunch Option: Simply Crepes (charming Pittsford)
- Bonus Cultural Stop: Memorial Art Gallery
Optional Evening Enhancement:
- Sunset viewing at Cobbs Hill Park Reservoir
- Downtown stroll along Park Avenue and Neighborhood of Play
Pro tip: This geographic clustering minimizes drive time and maximizes experience time, with most attractions within 20 minutes of each other.
Rochester Revealed
After three days of exploring Rochester with Jana, I keep thinking about how this city delivers experiences that feel both sophisticated and authentic. There’s no manufactured tourist experience here – just genuine local culture, world-class attractions, and the kind of discoveries that make you feel like an insider.
While everyone else is fighting crowds at the famous spots, Rochester offers the luxury of actually enjoying your vacation. You can have meaningful conversations at museums, linger over wine without feeling rushed, and discover places that will become your own special memories.
Skip the tourist traps this time. Sometimes the best destinations are the ones everyone else hasn’t discovered yet – and Rochester is definitely one of them. Jana and I are already planning our return trip for the Happiest Hour event, and trust me, that says everything about this unexpectedly wonderful city.
???? Final Tip: Visit Rochester’s official website (visitrochester.com) for current event listings and seasonal activities. The city offers different experiences throughout the year, from winter festivals to summer concerts.
Note: A BIG thank you to Visit Rochester for inviting Jana and I to experience Rochester during our girls weekend getaway. It was my first time to this part of the state, but it won’t be the last. All experiences and attractions were provided for research purposes. All opinions are my own.
Need Help Planning a Family Road Trip? Start with these family vacation planning resources:
- Travel Love Language – Help to Identify, Understand, & Plan Vacations
- How to Budget for a Cheap Road Trip in 11 Simple Steps
- 25 Healthy Road Trip Snacks to Fuel Your Next Adventure
- Essential Tips for an Enjoyable Cross-Country Road Trip with Your Family
- What You’ll Need for a Fun Family Road Trip + Weekend Packing List
- Road Trip Preparation – 12 Things To Do Before You Leave, So You Can Enjoy It
- Banish Boredom with 50 Fun Road Trip Games to Play in the Car
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