Brown's Race Historic District
Explore Rochester's industrial past at Brown's Race Historic District, featuring the majestic High Falls and historic canal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Brown's Race Historic District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Rochester's industrial past at Brown's Race Historic District, featuring the majestic High Falls and historic canal.
"A beautiful location and rich history! Such a compelling glimpse into Rochester's past."
📸 Photo Walk Ready
Bring your camera for stunning shots of High Falls and the historic district.
🍺 Brews with a View
Grab a drink at Genesee Brew House for great High Falls views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Brown's Race Canal
Historic District
Explore the remnants of a 19th-century industrial waterway, a testament to Rochester's past.
High Falls Views
Overlooking Genesee River
Witness the majestic power of High Falls, a breathtaking natural spectacle in the heart of the city.
Genesee Brew House
Adjacent to Historic District
Enjoy local brews with a view of High Falls, a perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Best Photo Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Walk Ready
Bring your camera for stunning shots of High Falls and the historic district.
🍺 Brews with a View
Grab a drink at Genesee Brew House for great High Falls views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Paths
Discover hidden spots and scenic overlooks, including a 'billy goat path' near Low Falls.
💡 Understand the History
Learn about Rochester's industrial past powering the hydroelectric plant.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Walk Ready
Bring your camera for stunning shots of High Falls and the historic district.
🍺 Brews with a View
Grab a drink at Genesee Brew House for great High Falls views.
🚶♀️ Explore the Paths
Discover hidden spots and scenic overlooks, including a 'billy goat path' near Low Falls.
💡 Understand the History
Learn about Rochester's industrial past powering the hydroelectric plant.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Brown's Race Historic District for its rich history and the stunning natural beauty of High Falls. The area offers a compelling glimpse into Rochester's industrial past, with the Genesee Brew House providing a great spot to enjoy the views. Some find the historic district itself a bit limited in scope, but the overall experience is highly regarded.
"This was my first visit. Such a beautiful location and rich history!"
JYA
"Small Park at the edge of the two hundred year old working Brown's Race Canal powering RG&E Hydroelectric Plant. Across from the park is the Old Electric Trolley Barn."
Mark Alan
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Julián Isael Lopez Perez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brown's Race Historic District is located in downtown Rochester, NY. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
Yes, the district is very walkable, allowing you to explore the historic canal and surrounding areas on foot.
Absolutely! Many visitors from Toronto make day trips or weekend trips to Rochester, NY, to explore attractions like this.
The Genesee Brew House offers excellent vantage points for High Falls. The bridge adjacent to it is also a popular spot for photos.
Yes, there is a Low Falls. You can find it by exploring areas like Rose Garden park, where a small path leads to it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Brown's Race Historic District is an outdoor area and generally free to explore. There are no admission tickets required for the historic district itself.
As an outdoor historic district, Brown's Race is accessible at all times. However, individual businesses within or near the district, like the Genesee Brew House, will have their own operating hours.
Viewing High Falls from public areas like the bridge or the Genesee Brew House is typically free of charge.
While not always advertised, local tourism boards or historical societies may offer guided tours. It's best to check with Visit Rochester for current offerings.
The RG&E Hydroelectric Plant is a working facility and generally not open for public tours. However, you can learn about its history from the surrounding historic district.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge overlooking High Falls and the area around the Genesee Brew House offer iconic shots. Exploring the canal path can also yield unique perspectives.
Absolutely! Brown's Race Historic District is perfect for a photo walk, with its blend of industrial history and natural beauty.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light for photographing High Falls. Weekday afternoons can also offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may be restricted in urban areas and near infrastructure. It's advisable to check with the city of Rochester before flying a drone.
This area is ideal for landscape, architectural, and historical photography, capturing the dramatic falls and the preserved industrial structures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Genesee Brew House is right there and offers food and drinks. Rochester also has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants downtown.
Rochester is famous for its 'garbage plate,' a unique local dish. You can also find great Italian, and diverse culinary options. +2
The Genesee Brew House is a popular spot for craft beer with views of High Falls.
Many downtown Rochester restaurants cater to families. The Genesee Brew House can also be family-friendly depending on the time of day.
Forno Tony and FLX Plates are mentioned for their unique offerings. Rochester has a diverse culinary scene worth exploring. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage them to look for the old canal structures and discuss how things worked in the past. The open spaces around the falls provide room to move, and the visual spectacle of the water is often captivating for younger visitors. Consider a picnic lunch to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key spots include the Genesee Brew House for its elevated views and the bridge for classic shots. Don't shy away from exploring lesser-known paths for unique angles. The contrast between the powerful water, the historic brickwork, and the modern city skyline creates a rich tapestry for any photographer.
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Take time to read any interpretive signage and consider researching the specific industries that thrived here. The preservation efforts in the district allow for an immersive experience into a pivotal era of American industrialization.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Industrial Heart of Rochester
The district is also intrinsically linked to the RG&E Hydroelectric Plant, a modern marvel built upon the historical water power. This plant continues to harness the river's energy, showcasing the evolution from 19th-century water wheels to 21st-century hydroelectric power. The juxtaposition of old and new infrastructure is a fascinating aspect of the district.
Recent proposals for the development of the area, like those presented for Cornell University, highlight a vision for the future, blending historical preservation with modern architectural concepts. This ongoing evolution ensures that Brown's Race remains a dynamic and relevant part of Rochester's identity.
Capturing the Majesty of High Falls
For the best photographic opportunities, many recommend heading to the Genesee Brew House. Its elevated position offers panoramic views of the falls, making it a prime spot for capturing stunning images.
Beyond these main viewpoints, exploring the 'billy goat path' mentioned by locals can lead to more secluded and unique angles of both High Falls and the lesser-known Low Falls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit