100 Things to Do in Rochester Before You Die

Book excerpt: Rochester is known as the cultural capital of Western New York because of its world class museums, music, and more. Take your own tour of this affordable, accessible gem with 100 Things to Do in Rochester Before You Die, a local’s lowdown on what makes this place so remarkable no matter the month or the weather. Explore the arts scene by learning how the city became the birthplace of amateur photography or by dancing at one of the world’s largest jazz festivals. Get playful at the world’s largest toy store or thumb through the largest vinyl record collection in the Northeast. The picture-perfect canalside villages along the Genesee River provide the ideal landscape for adventure and contemplation whether it’s by the 96-foot waterfall or the Erie Canal along the city’s southern border. Follow in the footsteps of historical icons like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. Round out your visit with some of Rochester’s best food, maybe even the iconic, celebrity-endorsed Garbage Plate, which is as messy as it sounds. With insider tips and suggested itineraries by subject and season, freelance journalist and author Robin L. Flanigan takes you on a whirlwind tour—from the obvious to the obscure—of the place she proudly calls home. From the heart of the city all the way to Lake Ontario, this comprehensive guide to Rochester will have you planning your next visit right away.