Top 15 Things to Do in Rochester, NY in 48 Hours: Your Ultimate Weekend Guide

Planning a weekend getaway to Rochester, NY? Whether you’re a foodie, an art enthusiast, or looking for an outdoor adventure, this vibrant city has a lot to offer. Here’s a guide to the top 15 things to do in Rochester, NY in just 48 hours, ensuring you make the most of your visit. I went during late September for the last weekend of Rochester’s Fringe Festival and it was the perfect time to go. It was warm during the day and would cool down just a little at night, so I’d highly recommend visiting Rochester in the Fall.

1. Visit the George Eastman Museum & Mansion

The George Eastman Museum is home to over 400,000 photographs and is surrounded by stunning lush gardens that you’ll want to explore for hours. As one of Rochester’s most iconic attractions, it’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend trip. Plan to spend at least three hours there.

Start with an hour exploring the photography galleries, which extend across three stories throughout the museum. Spend the second hour walking through the mansion to see various rooms, artifacts, and more. Finally, dedicate the last hour to exploring the gardens and the museum’s exterior. They’re absolutely gorgeous and ideal for taking pictures or simply relaxing. 

I made the mistake of thinking I could get through the entire museum in an hour and a half and ended up there for three. It was so worth it though!

2. Lunch at Branca Midtown

After your visit to the museum, you’ll definitely work up an appetite. For some of the best Italian food in the area, head to Branca Midtown for lunch. Known for its authentic cuisine, this popular spot offers everything from fresh pasta and pizza to delicious seafood. It’s a must-visit for foodies during your stay. I highly recommend you order the pepperoni and honey pizza and the caesar salad with grilled shrimp. Both were delicious and easily sharable.

There’s a bar area with TV screens if you want to catch a game, along with a spacious and cozy main dining area perfect for relaxing with friends. The service is excellent and so speedy. We were impressed by how quickly we were able to get in and out within an hour during lunchtime, making it an ideal spot for a quick yet satisfying meal!

3. Wine Tasting at Casa Larga Vineyards

For a peaceful afternoon, stop by Casa Larga Vineyards. You can sample local wines and enjoy small bites in a picturesque vineyard setting. It’s one of the best things to do near Rochester, NY for wine enthusiasts and is only about a 20 minute drive away from Downtown Rochester.

Sip award-winning wines in the inviting tasting room or enjoy the beautiful outdoor patio when the weather is warm.

On November 29th and 30th, Casa Larga will host a free Holiday Wine & Craft Market featuring over 30 local vendors. Also, you can look forward to the Ice Wine & Culinary Art Festival in spring 2025, so be sure to add both of these events to your calendar!

4. Cruise the Erie Canal on the Sam Patch Boat

Take a relaxing Sam Patch Boat tour along the Erie Canal. This leisurely cruise offers scenic views and provides fascinating insights into Rochester’s rich history. Be sure to arrive on time for this attraction, as the boat departs promptly! 

Pick-up is located at 12 Schoen Pl. in Pittsford, NY (about 15 minutes from Downtown Rochester). There’s a free parking lot directly across from the Sam Patch Boat booth, making it easy to park and then simply cross the street to board.

Once you’re on board, you can enjoy snacks and drinks, and feel free to roam around the boat at your leisure. The staff is incredibly friendly and eager to answer any questions you have about Rochester. 

I also had the pleasure of sailing with a wonderful group—some of whom traveled from as far as Phoenix, Arizona.

5. Enjoy A Flight at Black Button Distilling

Don’t leave Rochester without visiting Black Button Distilling. Their tasting room is a welcoming space where you can sample their handcrafted spirits through a guided tasting. You can also take a tour through the distillery to see how everything is made.

The bourbon cream is a local favorite and makes for a perfect souvenir to take home or enjoy during your visit. It’s sweet and tastes like dessert in a glass, making it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It reminded me a bit of spiked egg nog, so we stocked up on a few bottles in preparation for the upcoming holiday season.

In addition to the bourbon cream, be sure to explore their small-batch bourbons, gins, and vodkas.

The distillery is very spacious and perfect for groups or a solo date.

6. Savor Dinner at Nosh

For a solid dinner spot with an upscale bar, Nosh is the perfect choice. You’ll find a creative menu featuring their taquitos and ahi nachos, which quickly became favorites at our table—we even ordered a second round of both! The table next to us had a massive tomahawk steak that looked incredible and ideal for sharing among four to five people.

Don’t skip dessert; the fried dough nibs are next-level delicious and definitely worth a try.

7. Laugh Out Loud at Shotspeare

Shotspeare at The Fringe Festival is wildly popular and a must-see for anyone who loves theater and drinks. This entertaining twist on Shakespeare’s classics invites the audience to take shots and join in on the fun, creating an interactive experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. Get there in a timely manner, if you want to sit close to the stage.

The atmosphere is vibrant and lively, with performances that keep you laughing and engaged throughout the night. Expect to be swept up in the action as you cheer on the actors, enjoy their comedic interpretations, and connect with fellow audience members. Whether you’re a Shakespeare fan or a casual theatergoer, Shotspeare is an unforgettable evening filled with humor.

8. Breakfast at Pearson’s

Start your second day right with a hearty breakfast at Pearson’s. It’s the perfect spot for fueling up before another day of exploring the best things to do in Rochester. I ordered about five items to really get a good sense of what breakfast is like at this restaurant. 

My favorites of the bunch were the waffles, which were incredibly fluffy, and the locally made syrup tasted extra special. I also loved the coconut latte and the pressed juice, which I took to go.

9. Warner Castle & the Sunken Gardens

If you need a break from the city, escape to Warner Castle and the Sunken Gardens at Highland Park. This serene destination is one of the most peaceful and free things to do in Rochester. The gardens are lush and the grounds are so beautifully landscaped. You can take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, where you’ll see vibrant flowers and unique plant species.

Bring a book to enjoy in the shade or catch up with a friend while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. The charming architecture of Warner Castle adds to what feels like an enchanting atmosphere.

It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or simply unwinding in nature. 

Don’t forget your camera—the views are so inspiring and I couldn’t leave without taking a ton of beautiful photos!

10. Discover the Memorial Art Gallery

No visit to Rochester is complete without a trip to the Memorial Art Gallery. Featuring over 5,000 years of art, this museum has something for every taste, and it’s one of my favorite cultural attractions in the city. You’ll love wandering through the diverse collections. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, this is a space you’ll want to spend at least two hours in.

Don’t miss the upstairs area of the museum. I thought I was blown away by the first floor exhibits, but then I went upstairs and was in absolute awe. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another period of time. After exploring the exhibits, take a moment to relax in the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum. 

11. Live Music and Bites at Brown Hound

After exploring the gallery’s impressive collection, stop by Brown Hound Bistro, located within the Memorial Art Gallery. One of the best menu items is their chicken and waffles. The portions are huge, so I’d recommend sharing it. Sometimes there’s a live band, which adds to the inviting atmosphere and makes for a memorable dining experience as well. 

12. Sip a Beer with a View at Genesee Brew House

Next, enjoy a cold brew with a view at Genesee Brew House. This venue is huge and includes a store on the lower level, a dining space and patio on the second floor and an outdoor area on the roof. 

Heads up, if you’re only ordering drinks you can only sit at the bar or on the roof. From the rooftop patio, you can take in the stunning sights of High Falls, one of Rochester’s natural wonders.

The combination of refreshing craft beer and breathtaking scenery is the perfect relaxing thing to do in Rochester. If you’re more of a cider person, I really enjoyed the mango cider they have on tap and highly recommend it. With a diverse selection of house-brewed beers, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal specialties, there’s something for every palate.

13. Explore Quirky Art at Artisanworks

If you’re into offbeat and interactive art, Artisanworks should be high on your list of things to do in Rochester. This unique museum is known for its constantly changing exhibits, which showcase a diverse array of artistic styles and mediums, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations. 

One of the highlights of Artisanworks is the opportunity for visitors to create their own art, whether through organized workshops or spontaneous art-making sessions throughout the space.

The museum’s vibrant atmosphere encourages creativity and collaboration, making it a wonderful spot for artists and art lovers alike. As you wander through the eclectic galleries, you’ll discover a mix of pieces created by both local and international artists.

I was truly inspired by the art coming from every direction—even above me! It was such an engaging and memorable experience, unlike anything I’ve encountered elsewhere.

14. Play and Dine at Radio Social

Only minutes away from Artisanworks is Radio Social, the perfect spot for some lighthearted fun. There’s so much to do, so go with a group of friends. From bowling and arcade games to a welcoming outdoor area, it’s ideal for an entertaining evening.

The food and drinks are not to be missed either. I loved the hummus and pita, which made for a delicious appetizer, and the smash burger was juicy and satisfying. If you order fries with your burger, one serving is large enough to share between two or three people. The cocktails are also really delicious. 

With its unique blend of activities and great food, Radio Social guarantees a night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and good eats.

15. Cirque Du Fringe & Daedalum

Finally, don’t miss Cirque Du Fringe at the annual Rochester Fringe Festival. The show is a mix of acrobatics, comedy, and interactive performances that will leave you amazed. After that, explore Daedalum: Architects of Air, an immersive sensory experience of light and color.

I highly recommend you purchase your tickets for these events in advance, as they’re in high demand. The wait time for the line into Daedalum was easily about 30 to 45 minutes on the last Saturday of the festival.

These experiences are among the top things to do in Rochester during the festival season, so you won’t want to miss them, but just prepare accordingly!

Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply looking to relax, this 48-hour itinerary ensures you won’t miss any of the top attractions in Rochester, NY.

Plan your weekend getaway now and discover why Rochester is one of the best places to visit in upstate New York! If you enjoyed this guide on the top things to do in Rochester, let me know below!

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