Experience Rochester’s fall colors and vibrant autumn adventures
The hills and flatlands of Rochester in Western New York on the southern shore of Lake Ontario bring to life a vibrant palette for a fall weekend getaway.
The Finger Lakes region is one of the most popular foliage destinations in the United States, and this getaway is as simple as booking one of Delta’s daily non-stop flights from Atlanta.
Where to stay
Secluded in the rolling hills outside of downtown Rochester, Woodcliff Hotel and Spa embraces the quietness of the region with stunning views, bespoke itineraries and a dining experience worthy of a Michelin star. It’s only a 30-minute drive from the airport. Curated hotel packages — wellness, romance, spa — enhance your experience.
You can also create your own itineraries targeting area interests like wine trails, hiking routes or historical sites. Start early and grab a complimentary coffee at the Craftsman Café. Return for a relaxing evening at the indoor pool and s’mores fireside.
What to do
Your fall bucket list grows exponentially in Rochester.
The landscape bursts with oranges and reds, with peak season being mid-October. Although the Erie Canal is not open for navigation because of its seasonal drain — a reason to return in the spring — its tow path delivers an up-close stroll along the water. The Erie Canalway Trail is a 14-mile path between Genesee Valley Park and Fairport, partially paved and completely accessible.
“Fairport is the center of accessible recreation. We have been helping individuals of all abilities to enjoy the waterway and cycling trail,” says Peter Abele with Erie Canal Boat Company.
Nearby Letchworth State Park, known as the Grand Canyon of the East, is a gold mine for foliage views. The Genesee Riverway Trail extends to Rochester’s High Falls, a breathtaking 96-foot waterfall in the downtown space.
During autumn, local farms buzz with festivals and fall favorites like apples, pumpkins and hay rides, all accompanied by hot cider and doughnuts. Wickham Farms, Stokoe Farms, Long Acre Farms and Powers Farm Market are community favorites.
For historical buffs, schedule a tour of the Susan B. Anthony Museum and House where the suffragist lived most of her life. It’s a modest home, compared to the mansion of George Eastman, founder of Eastman Kodak, also available for touring and part of the George Eastman Museum.
Eastman’s personal home showcases his opulent lifestyle in Rochester while the photography museum, the world’s oldest, archives the history of film, cinema and photography.
Walk the 196-acre Victorian-era Mount Hope Cemetery with its hills, valleys and unconventionally placed graves. A self-guided tour (via smartphone) provides endless stories of stone symbolism. Susan B. Anthony and abolitionist Frederick Douglass are interred here.
A Saturday afternoon drifting down the Genesee with Riverie River Cruise ends the day perfectly. A no-step entry makes it easily accessible; the ride is slow-paced, and the live music, energizing.
For the kid in everyone, The Strong Museum of Play features a century of toys — it’s home to the National Toy Hall of Fame — and interactive experiences will have you on your hands taking on Twister.
Where to eat
For casual dining, Genesee Brew House is one of the oldest continually operating breweries in America. Arrive hungry and order the Genny Plate. It’s a cheeseburger or hamburger with a base of French fries and macaroni salad and a topping of meat sauce. Or you can substitute the burger for Zweigle’s red and white hot dogs.
Fine dining is as close as the Woodcliff hotel’s Horizons Modern Kitchen + Wine Bar, and it is dinner when the chef shines. Share the sweet and savory baked brie and follow that with the entrée of your choice. I chose the beef tenderloin, and even though I ordered it well-done, the chef didn’t scoff and delivered perfection.
A night out in the city doesn’t get any better than Branca, an Italian eatery that will have you debating whether you took a wrong turn and landed in Italy. With an extensive menu, two orders of meatball starters and the pepperoni and honey pizza will satisfy your Italian cravings.
For more additions to your fall itinerary, visit www.visitrochester.com.
