In Your “Outdoorsy & Active” Phase? Plan an Eclipse Getaway That’s Always on the Move!
During the Total Solar Eclipse taking place on April 8, 2024, you can plan an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, fun, and outdoor activities. We have so many area attractions that are perfect for enjoying the solar eclipse while on-the-go. Just make sure you plan enough time to stop and enjoy the big moment!
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Start your day bright and early by heading to one of Rochester's beautiful parks or nature reserves. With over 12,000 acres of parkland, you will have plenty of options to choose from. For a stunning view of the city and the Genesee River, start at Highland Park or Mount Hope Cemetery. Or rent a bike and traverse the path along the historic Erie Canal.
After working up an appetite with your morning activity, swing by the Mercantile on Main for lunch. Here you can choose between several different kitchens and food types in a modern and urban food court.
Head over to the Rochester Museum & Science Center for an afternoon filled with interactive exhibits and learning about the solar eclipse. Don't forget to check out their Strasenburgh Planetarium show, where you can experience star and celestial shows up-close.
End your first day in Rochester with a delicious dinner at The Owl House, a vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurant known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere. Or explore our other area vegan and vegetarian offerings.
Be sure to make a reservation for your preferred accommodation ahead of time as rooms are filling up quickly for this weekend!
Sunday, April 7, 2024
Grab a bite on-the-go this morning and start your day by chasing waterfalls! The Rochester region is surrounded by water and waterfalls can be found in the city, county, and nearby region too! Check out our guide to some of the best viewing spots in the area—from High Falls (a 96-ft fall in the middle of downtown) to the three major waterfalls found in Letchworth State Park, the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
Stay nearby the water for lunch at one of our river, canal, or lake-side restaurants. A local favorite is the fare at the Genesee Brew House, overlooking High Falls.
Rochester is also known as the “Flower City” with a rich tradition of floral cultivation and an international reputation for horticultural excellence. Take an afternoon stroll among the flowers and gardens at Highland Park’s Lamberton Conservatory, George Eastman Museum, or Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden located in The Strong National Museum of Play.
Select from any one of our amazing local restaurants for a nice sit-down dinner, and head back to your accommodations for the night.
Monday, April 8, 2024
It’s the big day! Start off with a refreshing recharge at one of our area spas. Book a treatment at The Spa at Woodcliff, which features only environmentally-friendly products, and stay for a quick round of golf (if the weather allows!) after your visit. Or enjoy The Spa at the Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel, and plan to stroll around the quaint town of Pittsford, NY after your treatment.
After your morning zen, fuel up for the day with a hearty lunch at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. This popular restaurant is known for its mouth-watering barbecue and lively atmosphere.
Sneak in a quick climb before the afternoon’s big event at RocVentures Climbing Gym, the largest indoor climbing and ropes course center in North America. Reach up to 38-ft and belay down with the help of their expert staff.
Then, get in place to witness the Total Solar Eclipse. Pick a park, outdoor space, or one of our area events. Plan to arrive before 3pm—parking and traffic is expected to be busy during this time! Experience 3 minutes and 38 seconds of calm and still as the moon eclipses the sun during this once-in-a-lifetime event.
With so much to see and do in our beautiful city, don’t forget to #TakeTuesdayToo so you have extra time to explore!
