Places to Visit This Summer

1. Niagara Falls

This amazing natural wonder is located just one and a half hours drive away from Rochester. So, if you are ever bored and need some cool breeze on the face this is the place to go. Niagara Falls is made up from three main falls the horseshoe falls (Canadian side), American falls and Bridal Veil Falls. In between Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls is Goat Island, which is another popular tourist spot. You can get a discovery pass for 40 $ which will give you access to Maid of the mist, a boat that will ferry tourists to the base of the American and Horseshoe falls, providing them with an iconic experience unlike any other and cave of the wind where you ride an elevator 175 feet (53 meters) deep into the Niagara Gorge. Then, clad in a bright yellow poncho and wearing the special footwear provided, you follow a tour guide over a series of wooden walkways to the famous “Hurricane Deck”, both of which I think are worth experiencing.

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2. New York City

Well this is a no brainer but if you are new here and haven’t visited the city yet then you are up for a ride! The city’s tall skyscrapers, iconic buildings like the Empire State, Statue of liberty, busy lighted streets, buzzing bars and night clubs and off course its structural beauty just adds to the vibe and will leave you amazed. Just around 6 hours car drive away is the one the tastiest street food hub and a plethora of food options to select from, be it Chinese, Mexican or Lebanese. Do try the falafel from one of the food trucks if you are into it!

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3. Letchworth State Park

Situated high above the canyons formed by the Genesee River just west of the Finger Lakes, this scenic beauty is also called as the "Grand Canyon of the East," and is one of the most scenically magnificent areas in the eastern U.S. The falls are around 600 ft high in some places and are surrounded by lush forests. It is known widely among hikers for its 66-mile-long hike trails. Letchworth has something to offer to everyone from the serious outdoor enthusiast to the casual picnicker, from the fine diner to the tent camper. And luckily the place is only an hour away from Rochester!

4. Finger Lakes Area

The finger lakes region is known for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, wineries and craft breweries. If you love swimming and want to beat the heat, then you can visit Robert H. Treman State Park where there is a stream-fed pool beneath a waterfall where swimming is allowed under lifeguard supervision. Although one of the most famous spot of finger Lakes is the Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike the gorge trail to go over and under the waterfalls that have left visitors spellbound.

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