
Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Rochester, New York, United States
1. Genesee Valley Greenway
A 12.4-mile paved trail through Rochester's natural landscapes, promoting eco-friendly transportation and outdoor recreation.
- Bicycle-Friendly: Ideal for cyclists seeking a scenic and sustainable route.
- Accessible: Wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
- Educational: Incorporates historical markers and local flora & fauna signage.
2. High Falls Park
Experience the tallest waterfall in New York outside Niagara at this urban park, with a focus on preservation and education.
- Historic Attraction: Features historic buildings and a rich cultural heritage.
- Environmental Education: Offers educational programs about the local ecosystem and water conservation.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the falls and surrounding cityscape.
3. Seneca Park Zoo
A 40-acre zoological park dedicated to wildlife conservation, with a focus on sustainable practices.
- Animal Welfare: Dedicated to providing the best possible habitats for its animals.
- Educational Programs: Offers various educational programs and exhibits about wildlife conservation.
- Green Initiatives: Employs green initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and more.
4. Lake Ontario
Enjoy the stunning waterfront views of Lake Ontario, while participating in eco-friendly activities like kayaking or fishing.
- Nature Activities: Provides ample opportunities for exploring and enjoying nature.
- Water Sports: Offers kayaking, sailing, and fishing experiences.
- Wildlife Observation: Allows visitors to observe various species of birds and marine life.
5. Rochester Museum & Science Center
A museum dedicated to exploring science and technology in an interactive and sustainable environment.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on exhibits about various scientific topics.
- Sustainable Practices: Utilizes energy-efficient practices and encourages conservation.
- Education: Provides educational programs to inspire the next generation of scientists.
6. Finger Lakes National Forest
Explore the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of this national forest, with a focus on preservation and education.
- Nature Preservation: Protects various ecosystems and habitats for native wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails to explore the forest's beauty.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and guided tours about the forest's ecosystems.
7. Rochester Botanical Gardens
Explore over 150 acres of gardens showcasing various plants and ecosystems, with a focus on sustainability and education.
- Beautiful Landscapes: Features beautiful and unique landscapes and plant species.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about horticulture, sustainability, and conservation.
- Green Initiatives: Employs green initiatives like water-wise landscaping and composting programs.
8. Lake Canandaigua
Enjoy the beauty of Lake Canandaigua while participating in eco-friendly activities like boating or swimming.
- Nature Activities: Provides ample opportunities for exploring and enjoying nature.
- Water Sports: Offers boating, swimming, and fishing experiences.
- Wildlife Observation: Allows visitors to observe various species of birds and marine life.
9. Letchworth State Park
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Letchworth State Park, with a focus on preservation, education, and eco-friendly recreation.
- Nature Preservation: Protects various ecosystems and habitats for native wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails to explore the park's beauty.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and guided tours about the park's ecosystems.
10. Rochester Farmers Market
A weekly market featuring locally-grown produce, artisanal goods, and eco-friendly practices.
- Local Produce: Supports local farmers and sustainability by selling locally-grown produce.
- Artisanal Goods: Offers a variety of artisanal goods, such as jewelry, clothing, and home decor.
- Sustainable Practices: Promotes sustainable practices like composting and recycling.
11. Rochester Parkway Trail
A scenic trail that connects Rochester's neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions in an eco-friendly manner.
- Bicycle-Friendly: Ideal for cyclists seeking a scenic and sustainable route.
- Accessible: Wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
- Cultural Attractions: Connects various cultural attractions throughout Rochester.
12. Watkins Glen State Park
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Watkins Glen State Park, with a focus on preservation, education, and eco-friendly recreation.
- Nature Preservation: Protects various ecosystems and habitats for native wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails to explore the park's beauty.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and guided tours about the park's ecosystems.
13. Keuka Lake
Enjoy the beauty of Keuka Lake while participating in eco-friendly activities like boating or swimming.
- Nature Activities: Provides ample opportunities for exploring and enjoying nature.
- Water Sports: Offers boating, swimming, and fishing experiences.
- Wildlife Observation: Allows visitors to observe various species of birds and marine life.
14. Taughannock Falls State Park
Experience the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies at this stunning state park, with a focus on preservation and education.
- Historic Attraction: Features historic buildings and a rich cultural heritage.
- Environmental Education: Offers educational programs about the local ecosystem and water conservation.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the falls and surrounding landscape.
15. Finger Lakes Wine Country
Discover the beauty and sustainability of Finger Lakes Wine Country, with a focus on eco-friendly vineyards and wineries.
- Wine Tasting: Offers wine tastings and tours at various vineyards.
- Sustainable Wineries: Features eco-friendly wineries committed to sustainable practices.
- Scenic Landscapes: Provides beautiful and unique landscapes to explore.