4 Relaxing Day Trips From Rochester, NY
Rochester residents and visitors exploring the northeast region find plentiful parks and interesting history in the “Festival City.” Apart from the frequent local events and delicious restaurants and breweries, many travelers and locals seek out day trips from Rochester, NY, to fully experience the area. Check out these four nearby destinations for unforgettable views and relaxing natural settings.
The Finger Lakes
A perfect day trip from Rochester, NY, these iconic freshwater lakes draw visitors all year-round who flock to the wineries, the water, or the trails. Fishing, boating, and water sports opportunities abound, and it’s easy to find places to bike, hike, or golf as well. For those who find relaxation in cultural experiences, the Finger Lakes offers attractions like the Corning Museum of Glass and the George Eastman Museum. To top it off, this region is known for its top-tier food scene and over 100 local wineries. Unwind with a delicious meal and a glass of Reisling in this tranquil destination.
Where to Spend the Night
1. Holiday Hill Campground
Situated within the Finger Lakes region and just 40 miles from Rochester, Holiday Hill Campground is an ideal stopping point on day trip from Rochester, NY. Attractions near this convenient location include Widmer Winery, Harriet Hollister Park, and more. Enjoy the pool, putt-putt course, and fishing ponds right on the campground. Best of all, travelers can choose between RV hookup sites, rustic cabins, and deluxe cabins.
2. Seneca Lake Resorts
Right on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, Seneca Lake Resorts offers lakeview cabins of varying sizes that make the perfect home base for a relaxing trip in the Finger Lakes. No matter the size of your family or whether you brought pets along, there’s a lovely cabin calling your name at this idyllic waterside resort. Or, bring your RV to one of the convenient RV sites. Enjoy the beach, get out on a boat, or ride a bike to take in the natural beauty of the region.
Niagara Falls
One of the most popular day trips from Rochester, NY, is Niagara Falls, and for good reason. Commonly viewed as one of the natural wonders of the world, this awe-inspiring waterfall pours 1.5 million gallons of water over its edge per second. The magnitude of this waterfall is impossible to comprehend without seeing it firsthand—and even then, it’s hard to wrap your head around.
In addition to seeing the falls, visitors to Niagara Falls can explore various local attractions and activities from hiking trails to wineries. Get an up-close experience by booking a whirlpool jet boat tour, or explore from above in a helicopter tour. This destination deserves a spot on the bucket list for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Where to Spend the Night
1. Niagara Hartland RV Resort
Conveniently situated between Niagara Falls and Rochester, this family-owned and operated resort is speckled with shady trees and tranquil waterside sites. Swim, fish, or kayak right on the campground, or explore the many trails by bike. Families can find endless activities and overwhelming beauty at this resort, where they can choose between an RV site or a rustic campsite.
2. Cherry Hill Campground
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle? Cherry Hill Campground boasts an impressive 63 acres, giving every visitor plenty of space to spread out and decompress. Hike right on the campgrounds, and enjoy the ease of a short drive to Rochester and Niagara Falls. Choose between tent sites, RV spots, or rustic cabins as a peaceful home base during your New York travels.
Newark
Immerse yourself in a thriving art scene and a melting pot of various cultures with a day trip from Rochester, NY, to Newark. Situated along the historic Erie Canal, Newark combines small-town charm with plenty of cultural significance and lots of activity options. Stroll through the Newark Museum of Art, catch a game at the Prudential Center, or explore historic landmarks like the Ironbound District during your visit to this picturesque and conveniently-located town.
Where to Spend the Night
1. Whispering Winds Campground
This campground alone is worth taking the day trip from Rochester, NY. Featuring more than 80 acres of beautiful landscapes, Whispering Winds Campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, and adorable waterside cabins. Spend a day at the campground’s three ponds, go for a swim in the pool, take a swing at the driving range, or play at the arcade. Families and couples alike can find peace and quiet alongside endless recreation opportunities at this scenic campground.
Watertown
One of the best day trips from Rochester, NY, for unwinding with nature and history is Watertown. There’s something for everyone in the 1000 Islands area! Adrenaline-seekers can whitewater-raft on the class III or IV rapids of the Black River or zip-line for a whole new perspective, while history buffs can explore the many stunning mansions downtown. Take the kids to New York State Zoo, or visit in the fall to get the full experience at the historic Burrville Cider Mill.
Where to Spend the Night
1. Sun Outdoors Association Island
Spend the night at this unique destination, located on its own 65-acre island! Sun Outdoors Association Island is the ideal homebase for your day trip from Rochester, NY to Watertown. It offers fishing and kayaking, and the serenity of the island can help visitors unwind from even the most stressful of days. Relax by the pool, rent a golf cart, and enjoy the sunsets over the water at this scenic resort. No RV? No problem—book a single room or a waterfront cottage to make the most of the island views.
2. Chaumont River RV Park and Campground
Prefer rivers to lakes? This campground features lush woods as well as the beautiful Chaumont River, which means it’s well-equipped for outdoor activities of all types. Hike, kayak, fish, or boat from this relaxing campground near Rochester, NY. RV sites, cabins, and tent sites make it easy to choose your own outdoor adventure.
Whether your brand of relaxation involves hitting the hiking trails or sipping wine, there’s something for every taste near Rochester. These day trips from Rochester, NY promise to help you unwind and gain a renewed appreciation for nature and New York culture. Snag your Campspot for the perfect day trip and adventure.
Libby Thompson is a freelance writer living in Denver, Colorado. Having grown up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, hiking and camping have been cornerstones of her life since childhood. Rain, snow, or shine, you can usually find her outdoors on a paddle board, a hiking trail, or a pair of skis. Libby can be reached via email at libby@libbywrites.com.
Image credits: Adobe Stock – Debbi Truax, Holiday Hill Campground, Seneca Lake Resorts, Niagara Hartland RV Resort, Cherry Hill Campground, Whispering Winds Campground, Sun Outdoors Association Island, Chaumont River RV Park and Campground