Rochester Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Rochester

Rochester is New York's third-biggest city. The location of the Genessee River helped to establish Rochester as a mill town early in its history. English settlers arrived in the area that would become the city when the Iroquois tribe ceded their territory after the American Revolution.

The Eerie Canal construction in the 1820s helped the city grow into an urban center that would set the stage for its place as a milling and manufacturing center. In addition to wheat processing, commercial nurseries became popular in this city. Bausch & Lomb and Eastman Kodak had their start in this city in the late 19th century.

During the 20th century, manufacturing in the city waned. However, the food, technology, and imaging industries retain a significant presence in this city.

The inexpensive hydrolic power provided by the the Genessee River made Rochester one of the early industrial centers in the U.S. A visit to High Falls and the nearby Triphammer Forge Site is a great way to appreciate city's industrial heritage.

Rochester is host to several outstanding museums, including the Eastman Museum, focusing on photography, the Strong National Museum of Play with its emphasis on games and toys, and The Rochester Memorial Art Gallery, host to art in many popular mediums.

Take a self-guided walking tour to learn about the many exciting sights standing proudly in Rochester.