Gina & Ben
Things To Do
George Eastman Museum
This is one of my all-time favorite places! The George Eastman Museum is where the founder of Eastman Kodak lived in Rochester. The house and property are beautiful and after numerous trips growing up (my mom was very patient with me), I can guide almost a full tour with a fair amount of knowledge for each room. Definitely worth an afternoon.
Genesee Brew House
This brewery quickly became one of Ben's favorite spots in Rochester. Grab a pint of Genny Cream Ale or Genny Light and head up to the rooftop area to relax with views of High Falls and the Rochester skyline.
The Vesper
My mom's Godson, Joe, owns this yummy spot in downtown, near The Strong Museum. There's always fantastic cocktails and specials, we love going here when we're in town.
The Strong Museum
I grew up going to The Strong Museum - it's obviously a great place for kids, but I would say it's almost equally as cool and fun as an adult. I think almost every kid in Rochester has a memory of playing in the miniature Wegmans grocery store, it was easily the highlight of every trip. I HIGHLY recommend playing around in here if you have spare time!
Cafe Sasso
A small art-filled coffee shop that my dad has become a regular at. They have delicious coffee, great food and there's a few cute little shops nearby. Ben is a HUGE fan of the artisan olive oil and vinegar shop next door, and I love the small trendy clothing boutique next to that!
Jim's On Main
My dad used to take me to the original location of Jim's (near his house) on weekends after church, or sometimes if he just felt like it! I ordered the same thing almost every time (ham and cheese omelette with hash browns and hot coco - in fact, anyone who goes to a diner for breakfast with me usually laughs that I still order hot coco with my breakfast instead of coffee even in my 30's. This is the new location since the original has since closed. It's still run by the family that opened it and you'll see their photos on the wall. You won't get a better diner breakfast or lunch (there's no dinner hours) - I love Jim's!
Nick Tahou Hots
Ever heard me talk about a Garbage Plate? This is the place to get one. If you have a hangover or are just super hungry, this is a Rochester delicacy that can't be missed.
Schoen Place
Schoen Place is a little restaurant and shopping area right on the Erie canal which is a great place to relax on a sunny day. There's a walking trail along the canal, and boats available to rent as well.
Half Pint Pub
This tiny Irish pub is on Park Ave and is a damn delight! It's cozy and great for a night of beer drinkin'. Tibbels family, I suspect you'll want to spend a moment or two here
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Fantastic BBQ in downtown Rochester! They've since expanded down to the NYC metropolitan area, absolutely worth the line.
Mount Hope Cemetery
This is where Fredrick Douglass and Susan B Anthony are both buried! According to my mother and Gary, it's a delightful little walking area with a great slice of history. (It was their pandemic walking route!)