There are limitless ways to enjoy your visit in Rochester, NY for the PGA Championship. Read on for our list of things to do during your stay and start adding these activities to your trip itinerary.
1. Go out to Eat
Refuel after a day on the course at one of our mouth-watering local restaurants. From fine dining to budget-friendly options and everything in between, there’s something for everyone to indulge in. Head to the Genesee Brew House for a meal and drink with a view of High Falls, the 96-foot waterfall that runs through downtown Rochester. Don’t forget to experience Rochester’s famous garbage plate, a unique mashup of ingredients and a must-try. See a full list of restaurants here.
2. Visit a Museum
Rich in arts, culture and history, Rochester museums offer something for everyone. Play your way through The Strong Museum, home to the National Toy Hall of Fame, visit the home and famous sight of the arrest of suffragist Susan B. Anthony at the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, or head to the oldest photography museum in the world at the George Eastman Museum. With many other museums to explore you’re sure to find ones to add to your trip itinerary.
3. Cruise the Erie Canal
Sit back, relax, and admire the beauty of the Erie Canal while on a boat tour. The Colonial Belle and the Sam Patch Tour Boat offer interpretive cruises, sharing the rich history of the canal while cruising through the scenic waters. After your cruise, grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of the many local businesses along the canal in Pittsford and Fairport. Local favorites in Pittsford include Erie Grill, Label 7, Neutral Ground, and Copper Leaf Brewing. In Fairport, visit Smokin' Hot Chicks, Iron Smoke Distillery and Tin Cup Social.
4. Visit the Lilac Festival
Experience the Flower City in full bloom at the Rochester Lilac Festival, a free 10-day festival happening from May 12-21 at Highland Park. The festival features more than 1,800 photo-worthy lilac bushes in addition to free live music, an abundance of food options, a Wine Expo and a Beer Expo, an Art in the Park show, and more. If you’re utilizing public transportation for the PGA Championship, plan to take a PGA shuttle from Oak Hill to Monroe Community College and then board a shuttle to the Lilac Festival from there.
5. Quench your thirst- visit a winery or brewery
Sip your way through Rochester; a city that has been named one of the best cities for beer in the country. The Greater Rochester area is home to more than two dozen breweries with award-winning brews. Enjoy a refreshing glass of wine at Living Roots Wine & Co., located in Rochester’s Neighborhood of the Arts, or at Casa Larga Vineyards in Fairport, specializing in Italian varietals and Ice Wine. Take a short drive to Deer Run Winery, just 30 minutes from Rochester or head to 20 Deep Winery for a winery with brewery vibes. The award-winning Finger Lakes wine region is a short drive away.
6. Take home a souvenir
Shop away at local boutiques, various retailers and other specialty shops in Rochester. Our small towns offer charming local shops with remarkable finds. A unique shopping experience awaits at Record Archive, home to the most extensive collection of vinyl in the Northeast with more than 250,000 new and vintage vinyl. Cleo + Kin, a locally-owned boutique, features a wide selection of finds including homemade jewelry, women’s clothing, and gifts that make for the perfect souvenir. For unique Rochester-branded items including mugs, shirts, wall prints and more, visit Peppermint. For a traditional shopping experience with national brands, visit the multiple malls in the area including Greece Ridge, Marketplace Mall, or the upscale Eastview Mall in Victor which holds the only Von Maur department store in the Northeast and DICK’s House of Sport, a favorite for golfers. Be sure to check out their golf simulator during your visit!
7. Play like a pro – enjoy a round at a local golf course
Tee up in the same city as some of the worlds’ best golfers during the PGA Championship excitement. Visit our wide range of golf courses at great value and book through the Rochester Golf Trail for advance tee times, nearby accommodations, and customized packages. Discover course suggestions to get out on the greens while in Rochester and work on perfecting your swing with the golf simulators at Dick’s House of Sport Rochester.
8. Get outdoors
Rochester is home to beautiful scenery that’s well-worth exploring outdoors. Enjoy a hike at one of our many parks and hiking trails, bike around the city or at one of our many trails, or spend time paddling out on the water.
