Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, New York, the East End is one of the city’s most dynamic and culturally rich neighborhoods. Known for its lively arts scene, historic landmarks, diverse dining, and exciting nightlife, this district is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re exploring the world-class Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, grabbing a craft cocktail at a trendy bar, or enjoying a live performance at one of the many theaters, there’s always something happening in the East End.For those traveling from New York City, Albany, Buffalo, or beyond, taking Amtrak to Rochester’s East End is an easy and enjoyable way to visit. The Rochester Amtrak Station (ROC) is located just minutes from the East End, making it convenient for travelers to arrive by train and explore this energetic and artistic neighborhood.
Getting to Rochester’s East End via Amtrak
A stress-free and scenic way to reach Rochester’s East End is by taking Amtrak to Rochester, which offers direct service from major cities across New York State.Amtrak Routes Serving Rochester
🚆 Empire Service – Runs between New York City and Niagara Falls, stopping in Rochester, Albany, Syracuse, and Buffalo.
🚆 Lake Shore Limited – Travels between Chicago and New York City, with a stop in Rochester.
🚆 Maple Leaf – Connects New York City to Toronto, stopping in Rochester along the way.How to Get from the Rochester Amtrak Station to the East End
🚖 Taxi or Rideshare – Uber and Lyft services are readily available for a quick 5-minute ride.
🚍 RTS Public Transit – Local buses provide affordable public transportation to the East End.
🚶 Walking – The East End is about a 15-minute walk from the Amtrak station, offering a pleasant stroll through downtown Rochester.By taking Amtrak to Rochester, visitors can relax and enjoy the scenic ride along the Erie Canal before stepping into one of the city’s most vibrant cultural districts.
Exploring the Arts & Entertainment Scene
The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra & Kodak Hall
The East End is home to the renowned Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), one of the country’s premier symphonies. Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, an architectural masterpiece, serves as the orchestra’s home and hosts orchestral performances, jazz concerts, and Broadway-style productions.🎻 Live orchestral concerts featuring classical, jazz, and pop performances.
🎭 Broadway tours, ballet performances, and special events throughout the year.
🏛 Guided tours of the historic Eastman Theatre, an iconic venue dating back to 1922.Visitors can experience world-class music in a stunning setting, making this a must-visit for music lovers and culture enthusiasts.
The Eastman School of Music
Located in the heart of the East End, the Eastman School of Music is one of the world’s most prestigious music schools.🎶 Free and ticketed student performances showcasing the next generation of musical talent.
📚 Music lectures, masterclasses, and community events open to the public.
🎼 Beautiful public spaces where visitors can soak in the school’s rich history and musical ambiance.Whether attending a formal recital or simply walking through the campus, the Eastman School adds a unique artistic energy to the East End.
The Little Theatre
For film lovers, The Little Theatre is a must-visit attraction in the East End.🎬 Independent and foreign films shown daily in an intimate, historic setting.
🎭 Film festivals, live music, and special screenings featuring Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
☕ On-site café with local coffee and pastries, perfect for a pre- or post-movie snack.As one of Rochester’s oldest independent movie houses, The Little Theatre offers a unique and artistic movie-going experience.
Dining and Nightlife in the East End
The East End is one of the best places in Rochester for food, craft cocktails, and nightlife.Top Restaurants in the East End
🍽 Good Luck – A stylish eatery known for large shareable plates, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
🍕 The Gate House – A cozy spot featuring wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, and locally sourced ingredients.
🍣 Shema Sushi – One of the best places for authentic sushi and Japanese cuisine in Rochester.
🥘 Dinosaur Bar-B-Que – A must-visit for slow-smoked barbecue and Southern comfort food.From elevated fine dining to casual eats, the East End offers something for every taste.
Cocktail Bars & Breweries
🍹 The Spirit Room – A Prohibition-style bar featuring handcrafted cocktails and live poetry nights.
🍺 The Daily Refresher – A hip bar with a massive whiskey selection, rotating craft beers, and signature cocktails.
🍷 Rohrbach Brewing Company – One of Rochester’s top craft breweries, serving German-style beers and pub fare.With its mix of trendy cocktail bars and historic taverns, the East End is the perfect place to enjoy a night out in Rochester.
Annual Events & Festivals in the East End
The East End is home to some of Rochester’s biggest annual events, making it a great place to visit year-round.🎨 First Friday Art Walks – Monthly self-guided tours of local art galleries, studios, and exhibitions.
🎶 Rochester Jazz Festival – One of the largest jazz festivals in the country, featuring hundreds of artists and performances.
🍺 East End Festival – A lively street festival with live music, food vendors, and craft beer.
🎭 Fringe Festival – A celebration of theater, comedy, and performing arts, drawing performers from around the world.These events highlight the East End’s vibrant arts and cultural scene, making it a fantastic place to visit any time of the year.
Things to Do Near the East End
While exploring the East End, visitors can also check out these nearby attractions:🏛 Strong National Museum of Play – One of the best children’s museums in the U.S., featuring interactive exhibits, classic arcade games, and a toy hall of fame.
🌳 Highland Park – A scenic park known for its botanical gardens and the annual Lilac Festival.
🚶 Genesee Riverway Trail – A picturesque walking and biking path along the Genesee River.Pairing a visit to the East End with these attractions makes for a memorable day in Rochester.
Lodging Options Near Rochester’s East End
For visitors planning to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodations near the East End.🏨 Luxury Stay: The Strathallan – A boutique hotel with rooftop dining and beautiful city views.
🏡 Boutique Stay: Inn on Broadway – A historic hotel with elegant rooms and fine dining.
🛏 Budget Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown – A comfortable and convenient option close to the East End.These accommodations offer easy access to the best of Rochester’s arts, culture, and dining scenes.
Plan Your Visit
Before heading to Rochester’s East End, here are a few helpful tips:✅ Check Event Schedules – Many venues offer live music, theater performances, and special events year-round.
✅ Take Amtrak for Easy Travel – Avoid parking and traffic by arriving by train.
✅ Explore Nearby Attractions – Plan to visit museums, parks, and local landmarks.
✅ Make Dinner Reservations – Popular restaurants in the East End can book up quickly on weekends.
Conclusion
Rochester’s East End is the city’s cultural and entertainment epicenter, offering a vibrant mix of arts, music, dining, and nightlife. Whether you’re attending a concert, enjoying a craft cocktail, or exploring the neighborhood’s historic charm, the East End promises an unforgettable experience.🚆 Take Amtrak to Rochester, explore the energy of the East End, and immerse yourself in one of New York’s most exciting districts!
