Rochester is the second-largest economy in New York State. Commonly known as 'The World's Image Centre, it was also once known as 'The Flour City,' and more recently as 'The Flower City'. The climate of Rochester is in the humid continental climate zone, it has four distinct seasons, often with cold and snowy winters. Autumn ushers in brilliant foliage colors, and summer provides comfortable temperatures in the low- to mid-80s.

An article on 'USA Today' called Rochester a "serendipitous and surprising getaway.' Once you visit Rochester, you'll be charmed by its beauty and as well as the hospitality and friendliness of its people. Famous sites blend perfectly with its historic canal towns and neighborhoods to create a variety of attractions to visit. You can cruise, hike or ride a bike, on the Erie Canal path and visit great restaurants, quaint villages and shops along the way. You will soon discover why Rochester is made for Living...for a weekend or a lifetime.

'Shop 'til you drop.' This common saying certainly applies to Rochester. Being a shopper's paradise, Rochester is something not to be missed. You will find a thriving collection of discount stores and outlet centers all around the city. From fine handcrafted jewelry, to elegant styles in footwear, Rochester has it all. You can also find some of the finest selections of French wines in the country and other parts of the world in Rochester. If you are looking for an unusual gift for a friend or loved one, you will find an abundant array of beautiful, intricate gifts available to suit your needs.

Parks are in abundance in the Rochester area and normally offer year-round recreation. Whether you are interested in hiking, running, a casual stroll, picnics, fishing, photography or reading a book under a tree, there is always something for everyone.

The Memorial Art Gallery, part of the University of Rochester, is one of the finest art museums in the country. Its collection of about 11,000 works spans 50 centuries of world art and includes masterpieces by artists such as Matisse, Monet, Homer, Cassatt and Cézanne. Guides, special events and exhibitions are offered all year round.

Rochester is home to an astoundingly diverse collection of restaurants. You will find everything from upscale dining restaurants, diners and family joints to regional and national chains, all of these are dedicated to making your dining a 'never to forget' experience. Fine dining restaurants serve multi-course meals or creative new dishes.

Hotel accommodation is designed to fit the budget for all visitors. Visitors, depending on their budget can choose their accommodation from a wide array of local hotels, bed and breakfast inns and resorts, to the more familiar upscale national chain hotels. Whatever your choice, you will experience excellent hospitality on a first-hand basis.