Rochester, at the southern edge of Lake Ontario, is where the Finger Lakes meet the Great Lakes. Though cities are perhaps not what most visitors associate with the Finger Lakes Region, Rochester, one of the northern gateways to the lakes, is a surprisingly agreeable city with a distinguished history that's well worth a visit for its trio of excellent museums, fine restaurants, and enjoyable festivals. The third-largest city in New York State, Rochester was an early boomtown and industrial giant in the early 19th century when it ranked as the flour-milling epicenter of the U.S. and the Erie Canal permitted the large-scale shipping of grain and flour to New York City. The city today is perhaps best known for the modern corporate success stories that got their start here, including Eastman Kodak, Xerox, and Bausch & Lomb. An extremely livable, family-friendly and attractive small city, which many contend feels more Midwestern than East Coast, Rochester has an enviable surfeit of gardens and parks but is predominantly characterized by its residents' modesty and industry.

While in Rochester, be sure to visit the Susan B. Anthony House, which is a National Historic Landmark. The house is the site where Anthony was arrested for the "crime" of voting! A short drive from Rochester to the Finger Lakes Region will take you into the heart of New York's wine country. Large corporate wineries and some smaller, family-owned vineyards offer tours and wine tasting opportunities.