Starting to get bored around campus? Turn your attention to the City of Rochester, which offers plenty to explore. While this list is in no way exhaustive, it encompasses some of my favorite things, which I have curated here for you.
If you’re looking to really understand Rochestarian culture, your first stop off campus should be to try a garbage plate at one of the many restaurants that offer them. Invented by Alexander Tahou and trademarked by his son, Nick, the garbage plate is a meal consisting of basically everything in the kitchen on a plate: burgers, hot dogs, fries, macaroni salad, and more. Have dietary restrictions? Never fear! Many restaurants, including my favorite, dogTown, have vegan and vegetarian options.
Next up: sports. The Rochester Red Wings, Rochester’s minor league baseball team, have a few games left to catch in September, but the baseball season will begin again in April and continue throughout the summer. The stadium isn’t far from campus, and tickets are pretty cheap, making a Red Wings game a perfect way to spend an evening. Many of the games also offer giveaways of hats, magnets, and more, making game attendance a good way to build up your Red Wings merch.
Although the baseball season is ending, hockey’s season is about to begin. The best place to catch a game in Rochester is at Blue Cross Arena, home of the American Hockey League Rochester Americans (Amerks). Located just off the Genesee Riverway Trail, the Amerks’ stadium is one short bus ride away. The RTS 15 is the most direct, but the 17 will also work. Both pick up on the far side of the pedestrian bridge on South Plymouth Avenue. The crowd at Amerks games always makes for an enthusiastic environment, especially since the team made a deep playoff run last year. The stadium also offers an array of booths before games with giveaways like light up sticks and stickers.
But, if neither of those teams fit your vibe, consider checking out an RIT hockey game. Tickets are inexpensive, and joining in their chants and traditions is a lot of fun.
In addition to sports, Rochester has several scenic spots — notably High Falls — a 96-foot waterfall in the middle of the city. The Pont de Rennes bridge provides a great overlook of the falls, and the Genesee Brewery is right next door, providing a great two-for-one in terms of iconic spots.
If you’re looking for films, The Little Theatre downtown and the Dryden Theatre at Eastman are great spots to catch both independent films and films from festivals on top of your usual releases. Both buildings have rich histories, and, excitingly, student discounts. Best of all, both are easily accessible using the Orange Line. Additionally, the Little and Dryden offer amazing live music as well as films. But if you’re looking for a more classic movie theater, Movies 10 is accessible along the Green Line on weekends, and tickets run between $5 and $11.
Last, but certainly not least, go check out the Public Market. The market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, but I have found Saturday mornings to be the most convenient time to head to the market to pick up some fresh produce from local vendors. You can also stop by the cafes in the area to get coffee and breakfast, or to just spend a morning in the city. There are plenty of other stores nearby as well, so it’s a great spot to spend as much — or as little — time as you want.
Rochester is home to many attractions, and, while this is by no means everything that the city has to offer, I hope you can use it to figure out what interests you the most. From the Planetarium to shows at Eastman to the public library, you will certainly never be bored. Remember, shuttles, public transportation, and bikes are your friends.
Happy exploring!
