In Your “Cozy & Romantic” Eclipse Phase? This Itinerary is For You.
Are you in your “cozy and romantic” phase of life right now? Does “hygge” sound like it fits your vibe? When you visit Rochester in 2024 for the Total Solar Eclipse, follow an itinerary that is tailor-made for someone seeking a sweet, soft and memorable journey along the path of totality awesome.
Make lifetime memories as you enjoy quality time with a loved one, partake in solar-themed events, and dine on delicious food leading up to the eclipse. This trip promises a romantic retreat with front-row seats to a once-in-a-lifetime cosmic event.
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Welcome to Rochester! Start your romantic getaway with a hands-on experience at Scents by Design, a pour-your-own candle and custom fragrance bar.
Be sure to pick up some lunch! Rochester is known for its amazing restaurants and has something to fit every flavor palette.
After your meal, move on to a little something sweet. Make a stop at Laughing Gull Chocolates which crafts high-quality chocolates with locally sourced ingredients, and partake in one of their workshops, tasting events or pairings. Visit Hedonist Artisan Chocolates to try their unique and innovative truffle flavors. Or stop into Stever’s Candies. They’ve been making homemade chocolate treats and confections since 1946!
Since you’re in town for a celestial event, allot some time to learn more about what’s going on in the sky. See the stars on your next stop to the Strasenburgh Planetarium, located at the Rochester Museum & Science Center. This Planetarium boasts new state-of-the-art projection systems which provide clear pictures of the stars above and a memorable experience no matter your age.
The grounds of the Rochester Museum & Science Center are also home to multiple historic gardens, including the Garden of Fragrance. Stop and smell the roses as you stroll through the eight different flower beds that are filled with fragrant and flowering herbs.
To end your evening, enjoy dinner and live jazz at Astor on Main, located inside the Hyatt Regency. Tune into the rhythm of smooth jazz and enjoy the menu which offers soothing comfort fare.
Head back to your accommodations for the night (Rochester has many great overnight options to choose from!) to get some well-deserved shut-eye.
Sunday, April 7, 2024
Good morning! T-1 day until the big event. Kick off your Sunday with breakfast or brunch at some of our favorite local spots, including Simply Crepes, Brown Hound Downtown, CRISP, Jines, Locals Only, and Neutral Ground Coffeehouse.
No trip is complete without a little shopping, and everyone is sure to find something they love at Record Archive. While this store specializes in vintage vinyl, you’ll find everything from retro clothing to Rochester souvenirs and even beer and wine!
You also can’t go wrong with some boutique hopping on Park Avenue, where you can then grab a quick bite to eat when you get hungry.
In the afternoon, take in the sights, sounds, and history of the Erie Canal. Stroll the canal path in the villages of Pittsford, Fairport, Bushnell’s Basin, Spencerport or Brockport, visit the area businesses, bring your bikes or rent a kayak to take in the view together.
End the night by enjoying a romantic dinner together. You can’t go wrong with upscale options like Veneto Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta, Black & Blue Steak and Crab, Next Door by Wegmans, Tournedos Restaurant, The Revelry, Velvet Belly and more.
After dinner, visit Cobb’s Hill Park where you’ll find the perfect spot to watch the sunset over Rochester, NY. The sun will set on this day around 7:45 pm—don’t miss it!
Monday, April 8, 2024
It’s Eclipse Day! There are countless activities happening throughout the community, so keep checking back for updates on where to find eclipsed-themed events!
We know today is going to be one for the books, so start your morning off right with a full breakfast for two.
This morning may be the best time to recharge via a quick couples’ trip to the spa. Or, take in some local art at Flower City Arts Center or Artisan Works to harness your creative energy and tap into your inner selves ahead of a monumental afternoon.
Grab some lunch at a restaurant of your choice, and then prepare for the show of a lifetime.
Choose your spot, depending on if you’d prefer a backdrop of city skylines, shoreline views of Lake Ontario, or lush greenery and gardens. Don’t forget to plan some extra time for travel, both to and from your viewing spot. Traffic is expected to be busy and you don’t want to miss the moment.
The Eclipse starts at approximately 3:20pm—be sure that you’re both in place and ready to watch when the magic starts!
After the Eclipse, there’s plenty still to do! Book an extra night and stay in Rochester to continue exploring at your leisure.