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22 Nov 2025
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10 Best Places For Weekend Getaways Rochester, NY

Weekend Getaways from Rochester, NY: Itinerary Overview

Discover the best weekend escapes from Rochester, NY with this carefully curated itinerary, taking you through some of the most breathtaking and iconic destinations in the region. Begin your journey with the awe-inspiring vistas of Letchworth State Park, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," where you can hike scenic trails along dramatic waterfalls and deep gorges. Venture on to the legendary Niagara Falls State Park for unforgettable views and thrilling boat rides that put you at the heart of this natural wonder. Delight in the rolling hills and vineyards of Finger Lakes Wine Country, where you can savor award-winning local wines and soak in serene lakeside scenery.

Continue your adventure with a visit to the fascinating Corning Museum of Glass, where hands-on exhibits and glassblowing demos await. Marvel at the 19 waterfalls and stone bridges along the trails of Watkins Glen State Park, a must-see for nature lovers. Explore the lush gardens and elegant mansion at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, and embrace outdoor excitement at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort, whether you're visiting for winter sports or summer adventures. Step back in time at the authentic Genesee Country Village & Museum, and explore the unique natural formations at Chimney Bluffs State Park. Finally, unwind lakeside at Seneca Lake State Park, where recreational activities and scenic beauty complete a perfect weekend escape from Rochester.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Letchworth State Park

    Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' Letchworth offers stunning scenery, including breathtaking waterfalls and deep gorges, plus scenic hiking trails and abundant wildlife.
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    Niagara Falls State Park

    Home to the iconic Niagara Falls, this park delivers awe-inspiring views, thrilling boat rides like Maid of the Mist, and beautiful walking paths along one of the world's natural wonders.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Finger Lakes Wine Country

    Famed for its picturesque vineyards and award-winning wineries, this region provides wine tasting experiences, serene lakeside views, and opportunities for relaxation in a beautiful rural setting.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Corning Museum of Glass

    This world-renowned museum showcases stunning glass art and offers interactive exhibits and live glassblowing demonstrations, making it a fascinating destination for visitors of all ages.
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    Watkins Glen State Park

    Famous for its dramatic gorge and 19 picturesque waterfalls, this park features scenic hiking trails and stone bridges, offering unforgettable nature photography and outdoor adventures.
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    Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park

    Explore beautifully maintained historic gardens and a Victorian mansion, providing visitors with an elegant glimpse into the past, as well as tranquil walking paths and vibrant horticultural displays.
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    Bristol Mountain Ski Resort

    This resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, as well as ziplining and scenic chairlift rides in warmer months, making it a year-round destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
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    Genesee Country Village & Museum

    One of the largest living history museums in the country, it brings the 19th century to life with historic buildings, period-dressed interpreters, and hands-on activities for all ages.
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    Chimney Bluffs State Park

    Known for its unique and dramatic clay rock formations along Lake Ontario, this park offers striking landscapes, hiking trails, and unforgettable views of the natural shoreline.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Seneca Lake State Park

    This park offers scenic lakeside views, family-friendly playgrounds and splash pads, opportunities for boating and fishing, and relaxing picnic areas along the beautiful Seneca Lake shoreline.
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Restaurants

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    Good Luck

    4.6
    $$$$

    Good Luck

    Celebrated for its inventive New American cuisine and lively atmosphere, Good Luck is a must-visit in Rochester.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    The Red Dove Tavern

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Red Dove Tavern

    Located in Geneva near the Finger Lakes, this restaurant offers locally sourced, creative dishes in a cozy setting.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    FLX Table

    4.5

    FLX Table

    A unique communal dining experience in Geneva, focusing on seasonal ingredients and regional wine pairings.
    4.5
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    Barrelhouse 6 Distillery

    4.8

    Barrelhouse 6 Distillery

    Combines lakeside views with craft spirits and a locally inspired menu, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
    4.8
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    Dinosaur Bar-B-Que - Rochester, NY

    Dinosaur Bar-B-Que - Rochester, NY

    A legendary stop in Rochester, offering mouthwatering barbecue in a lively, rustic setting.
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Hotels

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    The Inn on Broadway

    3.5

    The Inn on Broadway

    A boutique hotel in downtown Rochester, offering elegant rooms and historic charm close to top attractions.
    3.5
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    The Statler Hotel at Cornell University

    4.6

    The Statler Hotel at Cornell University

    Located in Ithaca, this upscale hotel provides luxurious accommodations and exceptional service in the heart of the Finger Lakes.
    4.6
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    Geneva On The Lake

    4.3

    Geneva On The Lake

    A lakeside resort in Geneva, known for its beautiful setting, romantic ambiance, and fine dining.
    4.3
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    Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

    4.5

    Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

    Overlooking Seneca Lake, this highly rated hotel features comfortable rooms and easy access to Watkins Glen State Park.
    4.5
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    Chalet of Canandaigua

    4.9

    Chalet of Canandaigua

    An elegant bed-and-breakfast nestled in the hills, offering gourmet breakfasts and tranquil surroundings near the Finger Lakes.
    4.9
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Jack Johnson: SURFILMUSIC Tour 2026

    Jack Johnson: SURFILMUSIC Tour 2026

    For more information on ground rules, parking and venue policies, visit the CMAC Events website.
    Map IconConstellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center: CMAC in Canandaigua (12.7 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Jul 2026
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    Red, White & Boom! Featuring the R.P.O.

    Red, White & Boom! Featuring the R.P.O.

    Fans will celebrate America's birthday with the RPO and enjoy stirring Sousa spectaculars, favorite toe-tappers, and inspiring anthems as the orchestra performs favorite red, white and blue melodies complete with fireworks!
    Map IconConstellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center: CMAC in Canandaigua (12.7 mi)
    Calendar Icon3 Jul 2026
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    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Canisius Golden Griffins Hockey

    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Canisius Golden Griffins Hockey

    The event will take place at Gene Polisseni Center in Rochester.
    Map IconGene Polisseni Center in Rochester (25 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Dec 2025
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    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Mens Hockey

    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Mens Hockey

    The event will take place at Gene Polisseni Center in Rochester.
    Map IconGene Polisseni Center in Rochester (25 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Jan 2026
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    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Robert Morris Colonials Hockey

    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Robert Morris Colonials Hockey

    The event will take place at Gene Polisseni Center in Rochester.
    Map IconGene Polisseni Center in Rochester (25 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Jan 2026
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    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Niagara Purple Eagles Hockey

    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Niagara Purple Eagles Hockey

    The event will take place at Gene Polisseni Center in Rochester.
    Map IconGene Polisseni Center in Rochester (25 mi)
    Calendar Icon24 Jan 2026
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    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Bentley Falcons Hockey

    RIT Tigers Men's Hockey vs. Bentley Falcons Hockey

    The event will take place at Gene Polisseni Center in Rochester.
    Map IconGene Polisseni Center in Rochester (25 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Feb 2026
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Narrowsburg NY. Get a nice Airbnb or Vrbo. Go when theres a show at Woodstock (now called Bethel Woods). Its only :20 away. Super cute little town on the Delaware river. Very ...

    Best long weekend trips

    Narrowsburg NY. Get a nice Airbnb or Vrbo. Go when theres a show at Woodstock (now called Bethel Woods). Its only :20 away. Super cute little town on the Delaware river. Very ...

    /r/Rochester
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    51 votes, 74 comments. My husband and I have been here about a year and are venturing out more these days. We just got married but are postponing our

    r/Rochester on Reddit: Looking for Small Town Getaways/Day Trips

    51 votes, 74 comments. My husband and I have been here about a year and are venturing out more these days. We just got married but are postponing our

    /r/Rochester
  • Reddit Icon

    The flx region is massive in terms of geography, so Id say pick one lake and stick to it if you only have a weekend. I would say Seneca, especially the more southern portions ...

    Weekend getaway suggestions

    The flx region is massive in terms of geography, so Id say pick one lake and stick to it if you only have a weekend. I would say Seneca, especially the more southern portions ...

    /r/Rochester
  • Reddit Icon

    Koa in Watkins glen, or koa Lundys lane Niagara Falls Ontario are both great weekend getaways. ... There are some really nice beaches near there in the summer too... I think i...

    Weekend Getaway

    Koa in Watkins glen, or koa Lundys lane Niagara Falls Ontario are both great weekend getaways. ... There are some really nice beaches near there in the summer too... I think i...

    /r/Rochester
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    So far I got Corning Museum of glass and Niagara falls (US/Canada) on my list. What others would be fun?

    Spring/summer day trips for 20 somethings?

    So far I got Corning Museum of glass and Niagara falls (US/Canada) on my list. What others would be fun?

    /r/Rochester

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A classic road trip anthem that captures the joy and freedom of hitting the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    An easygoing tune perfect for cruising through scenic landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    A heartfelt song about returning to familiar places, ideal for those exploring upstate New York.
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    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    Tracy Chapman - Fast Car

    A reflective track for contemplative drives through the countryside.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Rusted Root - Send Me on My Way

    Upbeat and adventurous, this song brings a playful spirit to your travels.
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    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Encourages independence and adventure, fitting for a weekend getaway.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

    A feel-good, energetic song that pairs well with stunning vistas and happy memories.
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    WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance

    WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance

    A high-energy pop track to keep spirits high on your journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Laid-back and melodic, it's all about friendship and scenic drives.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Kanye West - Send It Up

    Kanye West - Send It Up

    Fun and upbeat, this song adds a burst of energy as you explore the great outdoors.
    Listen on Spotify
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