The Greater Rochester region is in the path of totality for the Total Solar Eclipse. Learn more and plan your eclipse visit today!

Read More

Winter Activities

Rochester is a true four-season destination that embraces our cold and snowy winters. With the right jacket and boots, you can tackle the many winter activities that are available like a born-and-raised Rochesterian.

Hit The Slopes

Just a short drive from Rochester, you can hit the slopes to ski or snowboard at either Bristol Mountain or Swain Ski Resort. Bristol Mountain is a premier ski resort in the Finger Lakes that offers 1,200-foot vertical rise, high speed quads, and state-of-the-art snowmaking on 38 trails. Located south of Rochester, Swain offers 35 trails, five lifts, and 13 lodging units. There is something for every age and ability at the region’s mountain resort destinations. 

Explore The Parks

Monroe County has more than 12,000 acres of parkland that are perfect for a winter walk, hike, sledding, snowshoeing, or bird watching. Mendon Ponds Park is the largest of all parks in Monroe County at a sprawling 2,500 acres and 30 miles of self-guided trails. It is just one of the beautiful public parks open and beautiful to explore during the winter months.  

Visit The Public Market

The City of Rochester Public Market is open year-round, sun or snow! Be sure to stop by the market on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday mornings to stock up on local, homegrown seasonal items and flavors. Warm up with a hot meal from one of the many food vendors or coffee from Java’s Café or a chai from the Chai Guy. 

Ice Skate In The Heart Of Downtown 

During the winter, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park turns into an outdoor ice-skating rink that is nestled between the buildings that make up Rochester’s iconic skyline. The rink has a cozy warming shelter and skate rentals are available. Be sure to check out the rink during the annual ROC Holiday Village as it is a magical component to the festive festival. 

Seasonal Winter Events 

Don’t miss out on the following seasonal events that welcome the chilly weather to the Rochester and Finger Lakes region. 

Outdoor Winter Dining

As the temperature drops, Rochester restaurants heat up with creative and unique outdoor dining options that embrace our city’s snowy climate. Check out Visit Rochester’s Outdoor Winter Dining Guide to see what spots are offering outdoor dining options. 

Search the limitless businesses that offer winter activities with the listings below.