The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Canandaigua to Rochester

Canandaigua and Rochester, two cities in Upstate New York, are not only known for their rich history, but also for their natural beauty and numerous attractions. A road trip from Canandaigua to Rochester – a distance of about 25 miles – is perfect for those seeking adventure or a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The halfway point between both cities is Victor, NY, where visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip between Canandaigua and Rochester.

Visit the Strong National Museum of Play

The Strong National Museum of Play, located in Rochester, is the perfect place for families and kids. It houses the largest collection of toys, games, and play-related artifacts in the world. Visitors can learn about the history of toys, explore different toy collections, and get hands-on experience with games and toys. One of the popular exhibits is the National Toy Hall of Fame, which celebrates and highlights iconic toys that have had a significant impact on American culture.

Interesting fact: The Strong National Museum of Play has more than 500,000 toys and artifacts in its collections.

Explore the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park

The Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, located in Canandaigua, is a 50-acre estate featuring nine unique gardens, a mansion, and a greenhouse complex. Visitors can walk through the beautiful gardens, admire the architecture of the mansion, and learn about the history of the Frederick Ferris Thompson family, who once owned the estate. Throughout the year, the site hosts many events, including art shows, wine tastings, and concerts.

Interesting fact: The Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Take a Hike at Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park, located about 40 minutes south of Rochester, is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East." The park has three major waterfalls, numerous hiking trails, and offers spectacular views of the Genesee River Gorge. Activities include hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and hot air ballooning. The park is open year-round and offers camping and lodging options for visitors who want to explore the area further.

Interesting fact: Letchworth State Park is known for its history of being a sacred place for the Seneca Nation of Indians.

Visit the George Eastman Museum

The George Eastman Museum, located in Rochester, is home to the largest collection of photography and film in the world. The museum is named after George Eastman, the inventor of roll film and the founder of the Eastman Kodak Company. The museum’s collection includes over 400,000 photographs, 28,000 motion picture films, and four million archival objects. Visitors can explore the historic mansion, gardens, and exhibitions that showcase the art of photography and film.

Interesting fact: The George Eastman Museum was the first museum dedicated to photography in the world.

Immerse Yourself in Art at the Memorial Art Gallery

The Memorial Art Gallery, located in Rochester, is a university museum that is known for its extensive collection of art from around the world. The gallery houses more than 13,000 works of art, including European, Asian, and American art. Visitors can explore the permanent collections, attend special exhibitions, and participate in hands-on workshops and lectures. The gallery also hosts concerts, films, and events throughout the year.

Interesting fact: The Memorial Art Gallery was founded by Emily Sibley Watson as a memorial to her son, James Averell, who died at a young age.

Conclusion

A road trip from Canandaigua to Rochester is a perfect way to explore the beauty, culture, and history of Upstate New York. The trip can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day depending on how much time visitors spend at each stop. Along the way, visitors can experience the diversity of attractions from world-famous museums, beautiful state parks, and historic sites, to local shops and restaurants. Whether visitors are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, a road trip from Canandaigua to Rochester is sure to deliver.