THINGS TO DO DURING THE PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

There are limitless ways to enjoy your visit in Rochester for the PGA Championship. Read on for our list of things to do during your stay and start adding these activities to your trip itinerary.

1) Visit the Lilac Festival

Experience the Flower City in full bloom at the Rochester Lilac Festival, a free 10-day festival happening from May 12-21 at Highland Park. The festival features more than 1,800 photo-worthy lilac bushes in addition to free live music, an abundance of food options, a Wine Expo and a Beer Expo, an Art in the Park show, and more.

2) Cruise the Canal

The Erie Canal is opening early just for the PGA. Enjoy sitting along the tow path and visiting the picturesque communities (Brockport, Spencerport, Fairport, Pittsford, and more) that it runs through. Canal cruises are available on the Colonial Belle or Sam Patch canal boats. Cruises are available in Fairport and Pittsford: colonialbelle.com sampatch.org

3) Get Outside

There are more than 10,000 acres of parkland in Monroe county, and this is a great time of year to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the greater Rochester area. Enjoy a hike at one of our many parks and hiking trails, bike around the city or at one of our many trails, or spend time paddling out on the water.

4) Quench Your Thirst Sip your way through Rochester; a city that has been named one of the best cities for beer in the country. The Greater Rochester area is home to more than two dozen breweries with award-winning brews. The award-winning Finger Lakes wine region is just short drive away.

5) Explore the Village of Pittsford

The Village of Pittsford is hosting a variety of events and celebrations to coincide with the PGA. Walk the historic streets of Pittsford and visit the unique boutiques, shops and restaurants they have to offer. Learn more at villageofpittsford.com.

6) Go Out to Eat Refuel after a day on the course at one of our mouthwatering local restaurants. From fine dining to budgetfriendly options and everything in between, there’s something for everyone to indulge in. Don’t forget to experience Rochester’s famous garbage plate, a unique mashup of ingredients and a must-try. See our Dining Guide in the front of this magazine for a full list of recommended eateries.

7) Bring Home a Souvenir Shop away at local boutiques, various retailers and other specialty shops in Rochester. Our small towns offer charming local shops with remarkable finds. A unique shopping experience awaits at Record Archive (33 1/3 Rockwood St, Rochester, NY 14610) home to the most extensive collection of vinyl in the Northeast with more than 250,000 new and vintage vinyl. For unique Rochesterbranded items including mugs, shirts, wall prints and more, visit Peppermint (145 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14620). For a traditional shopping experience with national brands, visit the multiple malls in the area, including Greece Ridge (271 Greece Ridge Center Drive, Rochester 14626), Marketplace Mall (One Miracle Mile Drive Rochester14623), or the upscale Eastview Mall (7979 Pittsford-Victor Road, Victor 14564), which holds the only Von Maur department store in the Northeast and DICK’s House of Sport, a favorite of golfers. Be sure to check out the golf simulator during your visit!