Rochester's History & Hidden Stories

World-class photography and film museum in the restored mansion of Kodak's founder. Rochester's cultural jewel.

Tip: The gardens are free and beautiful in season. Allow 2–3 hours for the museum itself.

Mt. Hope is a stunning Victorian cemetery where Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass are buried. The ruined chapel is hauntingly beautiful.

Tip: Pick up a walking tour map at the main gate. Visit in autumn for the best atmosphere.

The 96-foot falls on the Genesee powered Rochester's flour milling industry and earned it the name 'Flour City.'

Tip: The Pont de Rennes bridge gives the best view. Combine with Brown's Race Historic District nearby.

19th-century industrial raceways that powered Rochester's mills. A free walk through the city's industrial origins. 4.5 stars.

Tip: The pedestrian bridge has gorge views. Best combined with a High Falls visit.

The largest living history museum in New York — 68 restored buildings, costumed interpreters. 4.5 stars.

Tip: About 20 minutes south in Mumford. Allow half a day. Worth the admission price for history lovers.

Tropical plants, cacti, and small animals inside Highland Park. Only $4 admission. 4.5 stars.

Tip: The holiday poinsettia show and spring lily display are annual highlights.

Rochester is one of the smallest US cities that ever had a subway. Portions of the abandoned tunnel are still visible.

Tip: You can see parts of it from the Broad Street bridge area. Not officially open to explore — view from above.

Where the Erie Canal once crossed the Genesee River on an aqueduct — now Broad Street sits on top of it.

Tip: The aqueduct structure is visible from the river trail. A small but fascinating piece of infrastructure history.

Rochester has multiple Olmsted-designed parks — Highland, Genesee Valley, and Seneca. A rare collection for any city.

Tip: Highland Park in lilac season and Genesee Valley Park along the river are the best starting points.