Though it might not have the notoriety of bigger cities like NYC, Chicago, or LA, Rochester, NY still offers lots of fun stuff to do for all kinds of people. The city, which is home to some 210,500 people, provides lots of great options for both the people who live there and those who are in town visiting. But when it comes to things to do Rochester NY residents and guests alike should certainly check out a few of the top options.

See a Concert

Waterstreet Music Hall, the Westcott Theater, and Blue Cross Arena are great places to catch all kinds of music acts. With everything from small local bands to major performing artists, Rochester offers something for every music lover. And, one of the best things to do Rochester NY residents like to enjoy is heading to small bars and restaurants that feature open-mic nights.

Go Rock Climbing

Though there is not a major mountain right in the city, one of the most fun things to do in Rochester today is go rock climbing. Rock Ventures and the Red Barn Climbing gym are both great options for anybody who wants to get a bit of a sweat going while enjoying their time in the city.

Grab Some Grub

Like every other city, Rochester is known for a few certain dishes. Of course, there are several different places, including Jeremiah’s that advertise having the best wings in Rochester, grabbing some BBQ and a beer at Dinosaur’s is a lot of fun, and grabbing a garbage plate from Nick Tahou’s is a great way to end a night out. There are all kinds of restaurants in the city, and even the several public markets have some tasty foods to try.

Catch a Game

Most of the Rochester newspapers advertise and provide coverage for the professional sports teams in the area. No matter what time of the year someone visits the city, they can head out to catch a professional baseball, basketball, hockey, or lacrosse game. Plus, Rochester is just a short drive from the other major college and professional teams in Syracuse and Buffalo.

Enjoy a Wine Tour

Rochester’s proximity to the Finger Lakes wine region makes it a great place to stay for people who want to try out different drinks from local wineries while enjoying the breathtaking views of the lakes. Going on a wine tour with friends is one of the most fun things to do near Rochester NY because it allows people to get out away from the city. Right now, during the fall months, heading around the different lakes to see the brilliant foliage is a great way to spend a free weekend afternoon.

There are certainly lots more things to do Rochester NY residents and guests can enjoy, including visiting museums, zoos, and amusement parks. Heading online or picking up a local paper that features an events calendar is the best way to plan a fun-filled time in and around the city.