The city settlement began in the 18th Century and flourished due to the launch of the Erie Canal. This attracted mass settlements by the Germans, Italians, and dominant Yankees, who made it a center of multiple movement reforms like abolitionism and women’s rights. The city was famous for American photography, with its headquarters at Eastman Kodak. Following the movement away from steel, chemical and hard goods manufacturing, the cities along the Great Lakes were renamed “rustbelt cities.” Having been a settlement for former Rochester residents, 8 places in New York were named after Rochester, including Rochester in Indiana, Rochester in Texas and Rochester Lowa, to mention a few. By 1830, the city population had grown to over 9,200 residents. It, therefore, became the original boomtown initially known as “the Young Lion of the West.” However, it was later referred to as “The Flour City” based on the numerous flour mills situated along the waterfalls on Genesee River, currently known as the Brown Race area of downtown Rochester. As much as the flour industry was thriving, the vegetable, flower and tree industries were also taking hold, thanks to the German immigrant with exceptional planting skills. It was surrounded by flowers and became a significant supplier to neighboring California Orchards and the Royal Gardens of Tokyo. The name, therefore, changed from “The Flour City” to “the Flower City.” These were some of the major developments that transformed Rochester into what it is today.

East or West, home is best. But sometimes, there’s this urge to break the monotony and boredom of a common space. Worry not. Rochester is filled with endless outdoor activities to relax and free the mind. Located at the corner of Mt. Hope Avenue, the Warner Castle Sunken Botanical Garden feels like a perfect escape portal filled with peace, tranquility and beauty. It’s also perfectly designed for weddings or even photography. Walk up the stairs and enjoy the Warner Castle, then hike through Highland Parks Forest on your way out. Something you should try.
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1800, The Highland Park in Rochester is a major attraction, especially during The Lilac Festival in May. It has so much to offer other than the lilacs. Every path, vista and relationship between water and land was purely intentional. Enjoy a fantastic ambiance and walk through a distinct collection of flowers and trees. You get to enjoy something different during different months, starting from the smoke bush collection in June, flowering trees and Magnolias lilacs in May and autumn foliage around the Sunken Garden in early November. An awesome experience you should look forward to.
You can also enjoy hiking at Corbett’s Glen Nature Park, one of the best natural areas in Rochester. It covers 2 miles of 8 feet wide trails, a boardwalk area, a deck viewing area and a seating area overlooks Postcard Falls. Enjoy a walk down steep slopes forested with large oaks and other tree species through a stone tunnel entrance. This is a short but worthy two–hour experience with family and friends.