A Sports Fan’s Travel Guide to Rochester, NY (Best Things To See, Eat, & Do)
Planning a trip to the Flower City?
Whether you’re staying awhile or road tripping your way through Western New York, you’ll find that Rochester hosts a wonderfully vibrant sports scene enjoyed by travelers and locals alike.
Today’s post is all about the best things to see, eat, and do in Rochester, NY for sports fans.
Rochester has a plethora of pro and college sports to enjoy, all of which I’ll be outlining in this post along with other recommendations for nearby restaurants and attractions to help you plan your perfect day or afternoon in the city.
I’ll also be including maps and links to all relevant information you’ll need to make your trip a success!
I’ve lived in Rochester for several years now and some of my favorite memories from my time here come from supporting local teams and exploring the surrounding areas.
This article is based on my own personal experience as a college student living in the area as well as the experiences of my peers, both local and non-local.
On a related note, if you happen to be an incoming student at one of the area’s many colleges, definitely bookmark this post for when you need ideas of what to do over the weekend!
With all that said, here is the ultimate sports fan’s guide to visiting Rochester, NY.
#1: Go To A Red Wings Game
If you’re in the area during spring and summer, definitely catch a Rochester Red Wings Game.
Who are the Red Wings?
The Red Wings are a minor league baseball team and triple-a affiliate of the Washington Nationals (as of June 2022).
Where do they play?
They play at Innovative Field in downtown Rochester, which offers a great view of downtown and a plethora of food options both inside and outside the stadium.
What’s the experience at Innovative Field like?
I’m biased, but it’s really fun.
You’ll be greeted by a large statue of a horse made entirely out of baseball gloves (see image below) and enjoy dozens of food options, including a cousin of the Rochester classic “Garbage Plate” called a “Trash Can.”
Source: Google Images
Related: How To Spend A Day In Buffalo, NY For A Bills Game
Innovative Field offers a convenient experience for fans with a ton of restrooms on each level, phone charging stations (these are a lifesaver), and plenty of friendly ushers to help you find your seats or answer questions.
Best things to eat at a Red Wings game?
I’d stop by Home Plate, located right behind, well, home plate for a Trash Can, which is a cup filled with fries, meat sauce, and macaroni salad.
I also really enjoy Say Cheese, which offers multiple delicious options for mac n’ cheese lovers like myself. View the full list of available concessions at Frontier Field here.
What should I bring?
You’re in luck - I have an entire article on 12 essentials to bring to a baseball game that details exactly what you should bring to stay safe, prepared, and comfortably enjoy the game.
What is there to do nearby?
A lot! If you’re wondering what to do before or after the game, some of my favorites within walking distance or right near downtown include:
Nick Tahou Hots - a restaurant widely regarded as home of the original Rochester Garbage plate.
Susan B. Anthony House & Museum - home of the famous civil rights leader.
High Falls - a really cool waterfall in the middle of downtown Rochester.
Abandoned Subway System - exactly what it sounds like.
Rochester has an abandoned subway tunnel system underneath the city filled with cool art and graffiti.
I’d save this for daytime, and be sure to visit in a group!
Genesee River Trail - a nine mile long trail that connects many parks in the area along the Genesee River.
Related: How To Spend A Day In Downtown Rochester, NY For A Red Wings Game
#2: Go To An Amerks Game
My next recommendation is to catch a Rochester Americans (Amerks for short) game during fall, winter, and early spring.
Who are the Rochester Americans?
The Amerks are a minor league hockey team that plays in the American Hockey League (AHL).
They are the official AHL affiliate of the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres.
Where do the Amerks play?
They play at Blue Cross Arena in downtown Rochester, which features a really cool view overlooking the abandoned subway system and river.
The arena has a ton to do nearby thanks to its central location.
What’s the experience at Blue Cross Arena like?
It’s awesome. Like I mentioned, you get an awesome view of the river outside the arena that serves as a great spot to get a picture.
Definitely stop by the team store near the lower level entrance for some really cool Amerks, Sabres, Buffalo Bills, and Rochester Knighthawks merch (more on the Knighthawks later).
Last time I went to a game, I got a super cool official Amerks puck that serves as a really cool memento from a game the Amerks won in overtime over the Utica Comets in the AHL playoffs.
Speaking of, let’s talk about the actual game experience.
Blue Cross Arena does some really awesome effects when it comes to lighting, sound, and even smoke (yes, actual smoke) during games that really elevate the experience.
If you’re around in April, May, or June and the Amerks are in the playoffs, there’s no better time to catch a game.
Seriously, there is nothing quite like playoff hockey and the Rochester crowd is a very passionate one.
Best things to eat at a Rochester Americans game?
You can get a wide range of classic concessions at Blue Cross, including hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, fries, pretzels, and more.
You can also with an iconic Rochester Garbage plate at “Unique Food Offerings.”
You also can’t go wrong with a classic pizza and bottle of coke, my game watching meal of choice.
What is there to do nearby? Everything!
Blue Cross Arena’s central location downtown means you have a plethora of activities to spend your day doing before heading to the game.
Here some of my favorites that are also close to the arena:
Dinosaur BBQ - an iconic Rochester BBQ spot around the corner from Blue Cross.
This place gets extremely busy around game time and on Friday and Saturday nights, so make reservations in advance.
Genesee Brewhouse - brewhouse and restaurant with a gorgeous view of High Falls!
Strong Museum of Play - a must do for anyone visiting Rochester.
Besides the interactive exhibits for kids and adults, there’s displays on old toys and video games, plus a gorgeous little butterfly garden to walk through.
Arts District - This article is on Rochester sports, but the Flower City has a fully bloomed arts scene that’s certainly worth exploring.
Near the arena, be sure to check out the Rochester Contemporary Art Center and Memorial Art Gallery.
Related: How To Spend A Day In Downtown Buffalo, NY For A Bisons Game
Also Related: How To Spend A Day In Downtown Rochester, NY For An Amerks Game
#3: Go To An RIT Hockey Game
My third recommendation for sports fans visiting Rochester is to attend a hockey game at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
Who are the RIT Tigers?
RIT is the largest university in the Rochester area and is home to two NCAA division 1 men’s and women’s ice hockey teams.
The men’s team plays in the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA) and the women’s team plays in College Hockey America (CHA).
Where do the Tigers play?
The Gene Polisseni Center is home to both teams, and is located right on RIT’s campus. RIT itself is technically in Henrietta, a suburb just outside of Rochester.
What’s the experience at the Gene Polisseni Center like?
Boy does RIT have some of the most passionate college hockey fans out there.
Beware of the pep band in section 117 and the Corner Crew (RIT’s student section) in 118 as they’re known to be “loud and obnoxious at hockey games.”
I can confirm that’s 100% not an exaggeration and it absolutely makes the game atmosphere that much better.
Related: How To Spend A Day In Downtown Buffalo, NY For A Sabres Game
As for the GPC, you have the option of picking up your tickets at the box office but I find it much more convenient to purchase online and have them scanned on your phone.
You’ve got options for concessions on both levels, and don’t forget to stop by the team shop on the lower level near the entrance.
Best things to eat at an RIT Game?
I always see a ton of people eating the popcorn and can confirm that it’s really good!
Personally, I always get my usual coke and slice of pizza. If you’re at the games often enough, I suggest buying a “souvenir soda.”
For $5, you’ll get a cool reusable RIT hockey cup and a soda. You can bring the cup to future games for a discount on your soda each time.
Other than those, you’ve got options for concessions on each level with all the classics - pretzels, candy, pizza, popcorn, and more.
What is there to do nearby?
Some great options for dining or hanging out before the game on or near RIT’s campus include:
Global Village Cantina and Grille - right on campus and only a few minutes walk from the Gene Polisseni Center. Perfect for lovers of either Asian or Mexican cuisine.
Midnight Oil - coffee shop where you can get your Starbucks fix, located directly across from Cantina and Grille.
MacGregor's Grill & Tap Room - down the road and around the corner from campus. Inside you’ll find a cool bar area and with lots of TVs. Perfect for watching a game!
Lovin’ Cup Bistro - a restaurant just off RIT’s campus with live music and a charming outdoor seating area with string lights.
Related post: 8 Awesome Gift Ideas For College Hockey Super Fans!
#4: Go To A Knighthawks Game
The next recommendation I have for you is to attend a Rochester Knighthawks game.
Who are the Knighthawks?
The Knighthawks are Rochester’s professional lacrosse team. They play in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) in the Eastern Division.
Where do the Knighthawks play?
Like the Amerks, they play at Blue Cross Arena in downtown Rochester.
Things to do/food/what’s it like?
I’ve already covered the food, experience, and nearby attractions to Blue Cross Arena in the section on the Rochester Americans, so I’d refer back to that as all of that information is relevant for the Knighthawks as well!
#5: Go To A Rochester NY FC Game
My final suggestion for sports fans visiting Rochester is to attend a Rochester NY FC game.
Who is RNYFC?
Previously known as the Rochester Rhinos, RNYFC is a professional soccer team.
They play in MLS Next Pro, which is a brand new minor league associated with Major League Soccer (MLS).
As of June 2022, RNYFC is the only MLS Next Pro team to not be affiliated with any MLS team.
Where does RNYFC play?
They play at John L. DiMarco Field at Monroe Community College.
Places to eat and things to do near Monroe Community College?
MCC is located near some of Rochester’s finest parks and green spaces, and I’d highly recommend hiking or exploring them if you’re in town for an RNYFC game.
You’ll need a car to get there from MCC, but here are my top nearby recommendations:
Genesee Valley Park - sits right along the Genesee River with lots of bridges, pathways, and trails to explore.
It connects with the Erie Canal and Riverway Trail leading you towards University of Rochester and downtown. Great for biking, hiking, or a picnic!
Highland Park - the prettiest park in Rochester!
In the spring, it’s full of flowers and trees in full bloom and plenty of rolling hills to play frisbee and have a picnic on.
Plus, it’s home to the Lamberton Conservatory, a beautiful indoor botanical garden with lush tropical greenery and a turtle roaming around inside.
Jay’s Diner - not too far away you have Jay’s Diner, a classic 50’s style diner that’s been around since its days as a soda shop in the 1940’s.
Perfect for grabbing a milkshake, burger, fries, and classic diner cuisine.
Outro & Closing Thoughts
So that wraps up my travel guide for sports fans visiting Rochester, NY!
From hockey, baseball, lacrosse, and soccer, Rochester has a fantastic sports scene that is absolutely worth exploring during your visit to the Flower City.
If you want to save this post for later while you’re trip planning, just use the red button in the corner of each image to save it directly to Pinterest.
I hope this post helped make planning your trip to Rochester easier and that you found some great recommendations when it comes to sports, dining, and other attractions in and around the city.
Safe and happy travels!
Thanks for reading my post “A Sports Fan’s Travel Guide to Rochester, NY (Best Things To See, Eat, & Do)”
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