Travel is a very broad word. For some people travel is across an ocean while others may consider it going to the next town over. One of my goals has been to always encourage people to become tourist in their own town. This weekend we decided to be tourists in our own home town and ROC the Weekend. We did have a swim meet on one day but I have compiled a great list of Fall Tips for Rochester, NY.
Where to Go
VerHulst Haunted Hayrides: Olivia was finally of age to start doing haunted hayrides and has been begging to go. VerHulst is a great introduction to a spookier hayride and is a wonderful environment. There are decorations, food trucks and hot apple cider for you to enjoy while you wait for your ticket to be called. TIPS: Ticket windows open at 6pm and I recommend getting there around that time. We arrived around 7:00pm and didn’t get on our ride until about 8:15pm. This was fine for us as we grabbed some snacks while we waited. This is cash only with an ATM on site.
Powers Farms: I have been taking Olivia here for years. This has become a tradition in my household. What I really appreciate about Powers Farms is that it doesn’t feel too big. There are cute things to do without it feeling like a zoo. They have great food options, an animal feeding zoo, a hayride and the famous teepees. TIPS: Try the donuts! Our favorite is the sour cream but the sweets are not to be missed. Remember to purchase your hayride tickets inside with your donuts and cider.
Kirby’s Farm Stand: My family normally ends up buying our pumpkins. I love this farm stand and frequent it throughout the year. They have cute decorative pieces, treats along with their produce for purchase. TIPS: Free hayrides to their pumpkin patch and orchard on the weekends from 12-5. Don’t forget to try the apple cider slushee!
Letchworth State Park: The famed Grand Canyon of the East is an absolute must during the fall season. In fact, fall is my favorite time of year to visit. Seeing the beautiful fall foliage in the park is an instagram addict’s dream! TIPS: Go earlier in the morning. The light will be perfect for photos and less crowds. Book lunch at the Glen Iris Inn for post walk/hike treat!
Where to Eat
Highland Park Diner: It doesn’t get anymore classic Rochester without a trip to the Highland Park Diner. This box car classic is so nostalgic and packed with seasonal dishes too!
Jimmy Z’s: When in Rochester, a garbage plate is a must. My favorite plate in all of the land is from Jimmy Z’s in Brockport. They feature the plate in three different sizes so you can give it a try without feeling overwhelmed with the princess plate. TIP: Try switching out the home fries for tator tots! You won’t be disappointed!
Mangia Mangia: This is Olivia’s favorite Italian Restaurant in the area. Their homemade sauces and gnocchi are not to be missed. They do serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with seasonal specialities. TIP: Get the gnocchi. Once you try it and love it, you can buy their fresh gnocchi to take home. I promise you won’t be able to get enough of it!
I hope some of these fall favorites inspire you to try something new and local. Please let me know if you have any questions on these Rochester hot spots. Thank you all for joining me in my first ROC the Weekend Series!
Links to Venues:
VerHulst: http://www.verhulsthalloweenhayride.com/location/
Powers Farm: http://powersfarmmarket.com
Highland Park Diner: https://m.facebook.com/Highland-Park-Diner-115852435103504/
Kirby’s Farm Market: http://kirbysfm.com
Letchworth State Park: https://www.newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/2015/04/letchworth_state_park_waterfalls_spectacular_views_in_grand_canyon_of_the_east.html
Mangia Mangia: https://www.mangia-food.com
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