Since living in the city of Rochester during my junior and senior year I’ve had plenty of time to explore. Through lots of trial and error, late nights and long days, these are just a handful of places that I’ve really enjoyed making memories at! 

  1. Irondequoit Bay State Marine Park

    Irondequoit Bay State Marine Park — This has been one of my go to summer spots for a quick beach day. Located right near Seabreeze amusement park that’s nestled right on Lake Ontario, there is a beautiful walk to a lighthouse, a Bill Gray’s with an Abbott’s Frozen Custard and a spectacular sunset view. You’ll be happy I didn’t gatekeep this one! 

  2. The Playhouse// Swillburger — One building but an arcade, bar and amazing restaurant all in one! Family Friendly during the day, but 21+at night, get your pinball and burger cravings in. I started going here this summer and already consider it a goto for something fun to do.
  3. The Pittsford Canal — Walking the infamous Erie Canal, starting right in Pittsford is the perfect place if you’re looking for a running spot or somewhere to stroll at sunset. With plenty of places to choose from for dining, a gelato spot for a sweet treat, and cute little hidden gems stores, there are plenty of things to do in this spot on the weekends. If you’re feeling up for the challenge, you can bike the trail and as I always encourage it’s so much better if you bring a furry friend, dogs are welcome!
  4. Insomnia Cookies — On Mount Hope Avenue in the city, is home to what I think are some of the best cookies I’ve ever had in my life. Insomnia serves you warm cookies, of so many different flavors, until very late into the night. They’re the perfect midnight snack or mid study session pick me up. Nazareth often does events where you can get Insomnia cookies right on campus so give them a try before you make the trip yourself!
  5. Tai Chi Bubble Tea — Sticking with the food theme, Tai Chi Bubble Tea is perfect if you’re getting sick of your usual coffee, smoothie, or energy drink kick. With so many options to choose from, ordering there never gets boring. I personally recommend their spicy ramen or regular miso ramen if you’re under the weather or want a hearty soup to fill you up.
  6. The Lucky Flea — If you love to thrift and/or support local businesses you should definitely make it to the Lucky Flea. On Sundays, changing location per the season, the Lucky Flea has vendors from all over the city and even further around set up tents and showcase their merchandise. I particularly love going in the summer when they are located next to the Village Gate Plaza and I can shop in the sun with a lemonade in hand!
  7. George Eastman Museum — While I don’t visit this spot regularly, I do think that if you decide to venture in the city and do tourist activities, this should be one of them! I had no idea that George Eastman was the founder of Kodak (the camera company) and really brought film into the mainstream. The house is absolutely beautiful to look at from a design and architectural standpoint, while also showcasing his many accomplishments in museum format.
  8. Downtown waterfalls

    Genesee Brewery and the waterfalls downtown — Grab some food, some drinks or both at the infamous Genesee Brewhouse. When the weather’s nice it’s a beautiful view if you walk to look at the small waterfalls in the city that surround so many restaurants amidst the city life.

  9. And lastly any movie theater! As soon as the new movie theater in Pittsford Plaza opens, I highly suggest you see your movies there because of the convenient location but also because of all the amazing new amenities that have been circulating. There’s nothing quite like buttery popcorn and a much awaited film to get you excited and out of your dorm room.