While the obvious answer to this question is probably "nothing," I have found that there are a few great things to do in the Flower City no matter what your budget is. Whether it be a brutally cold winter evening or a sunny spring day, there is always something to do to get you out of the Rochester blues.
1. Visit the Erie Canal.
"I've got a mule and her name is Sal..." Once you've taken a little boat cruise down the best man-made body of water in all of existence, you'll know how to finish this song.
2. The Lilac Festival
Although I have heard mixed reviews for this year, the Lilac Festival brings people from all over to wake up and smell the flowers...and fried food...always fried food.
3. Strong National Museum of Play
Oh, shut up. You know you want to go through the little mini Wegmans and scan fake groceries. It's a riot and you can't deny the simple pleasures in life.
4. The Finger Lakes
In my opinion, the Finger Lakes region is severely underrated. We are surrounded by these spectacular bodies of water and each one offers something a bit different. Conesus Lake is my personal favorite, but everyone who has visited a fair few has a favorite.
5. Coffee
The one thing that I see in Rochester that I haven't seen in any other city is the unique hipster coffee shop scene. I can name five great coffee shops that offer a little something that is unique to the community. It may sound kind of stupid, but there are so many different places and you can make a weekend (or even a weird date) out of visiting all of them. Between Java's, Pour, Starry Nites, Spot, Boulder Coffee Co, and many more, you're bound to find a favorite!
6. Park Avenue
HIPSTERS UNITE! Park Ave is one of my favorite places to go, especially in the summer time. Just walking down this cute, artsy street is entertaining. There are excellent restaurants, shops (Parkleigh is a must-see), and other quirky and cute places, so you really can't go wrong. Also, Stever's Candies is my favorite place in the whole world and it is conveniently located on Park Ave where you can watch them make their heavenly candies. Also, there's another festival in the summer (because that's the only time we can do anything outdoors) called the Park Ave Fest and it is a people-watching extravaganza!
7. Sporting Events
Between the Amerks, Knighthawks, Red Wings, Rhinos, and some other minor league sports, there's something for everyone!
8. Jazz Festival
The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival is a truly unique event that brings in people from all over the country. This festival is a staple in the Rochester community, and when it's happening, you'll definitely hear a lot about it.
9. The Eastman House
Museums aren't just for nerdy people. I love museums, especially those based in rich people's houses. George Eastman's house is on display for all to see (for a small fee, of course) on East Avenue and it sounds like a bore, but it is definitely a sight to see even if you're just going for the giant staircases and luscious garden.
10. The Highland Diner
This may seem odd, but this is so important. I would consider myself a milkshake lover, so this is the place to go on a date if you want to travel back in time to the old diners of the 50s. It's something straight out of "Grease," and I wouldn't have it any other way.