Powers Building
A Gilded Age architectural marvel in downtown Rochester, featuring a breathtaking multi-story atrium filled with lush greenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter for enjoying the atrium
Powers Building
Best Time
Quieter for enjoying the atrium
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Gilded Age architectural marvel in downtown Rochester, featuring a breathtaking multi-story atrium filled with lush greenery.
"One of the most beautiful buildings in Rochester with an expansive and impressive atrium."
✨ Explore the Atrium
Don't miss the stunning multi-story atrium, a peaceful garden escape within the building. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Architectural Details
Admire the intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Atrium
Interior
A multi-story botanical oasis with lush ferns and hostas, offering a serene escape and stunning architectural views.
Intricate Gilded-Age Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the detailed craftsmanship and historical grandeur that defines this iconic Rochester landmark.
Rooftop Views (Limited Access)
Rooftop
Experience panoramic city vistas from the rooftop, a secret spot for urban explorers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Rochester's Architectural Gem
Uncover Hidden Spaces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Explore the Atrium
Don't miss the stunning multi-story atrium, a peaceful garden escape within the building. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Architectural Details
Admire the intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Hidden Secrets
Look for hints of underground tunnels and rooftop access, often featured in local urban exploration content. :mag:
☕️ Cafe in the Atrium
Enjoy a coffee or snack at Sapporo's cafe nestled within the atrium's greenery. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Explore the Atrium
Don't miss the stunning multi-story atrium, a peaceful garden escape within the building. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Architectural Details
Admire the intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Hidden Secrets
Look for hints of underground tunnels and rooftop access, often featured in local urban exploration content. :mag:
☕️ Cafe in the Atrium
Enjoy a coffee or snack at Sapporo's cafe nestled within the atrium's greenery. :coffee:
🚗 Convenient Parking
Utilize the adjacent parking garage with a second-floor walkway for easy access. :parking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Powers Building for its stunning and expansive atrium, often described as a hidden garden oasis. The intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out is a major highlight, making it one of Rochester's most beautiful historical landmarks. While primarily an office building, its public spaces offer a peaceful and visually rewarding experience.
"I lived in Rochester all my life and for the first time i visited the powers building , never new it was that beautiful inside , strongly encourage anyone to visit and look at Rochester's history"
John Carter
"This is one of the most beautiful buildings in Rochester. It also has a hidden gem - one of the most expansive and impressive atriums around. From inside and out, there's absolutely nothing that isn't short of spectacular!
The first floor has retail which includes a tailor, an optometrist, and much more. It also has quite a few sculptures and art pieces. Entrances off of State Street and Main Street lead to the atrium. The atrium itself has another hidden gem in the form of Sapporo's cafe, which will be covered in a later review. Ferns and hostas proliferate throughout this multi-story extravaganza. You really feel like you're in a whimsical garden while walking through the space. Being that it's mostly professionals in the building it's nice and quiet. A perfect spot to read a book or simply have a seat and relax. No matter the weather, you'll leave this space feeling brand new. It's truly remarkable."
Teddy Sainphor
"This building is beautiful! The atrium lunch area is amazing. I would love to work in this building. The parking garage is conveniently located next door with a walkway on the 2nd floor attached so you don't have to go outside. If you have a chance you should go and check out the companies that are inside this building and see the architecture!"
Megan MacAnn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Powers Building is located in downtown Rochester at 39 State St. It's easily accessible by car, with a convenient parking garage next door. Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes stopping nearby.
Yes, there's a parking garage conveniently located next to the Powers Building. It even has a second-floor walkway that connects directly to the building, so you don't have to go outside.
Absolutely! If you're in downtown Rochester, the Powers Building is a central landmark and easily walkable from many surrounding areas.
For exterior shots, try approaching from Main Street or State Street to capture its grand facade. The atrium offers fantastic interior photo opportunities.
The Powers Building is in the heart of downtown Rochester, close to other historical sites, shops, and restaurants like Squatchos vegan pizza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general entry to the Powers Building, including its stunning atrium, is typically free. You can walk in and explore the public areas.
While the building houses offices, the public areas like the atrium are generally accessible during business hours on weekdays. It's best to check for any specific event hours if you're planning a visit.
Access to the rooftop is usually restricted and not part of public tours. However, urban explorers sometimes share glimpses of the views online.
Official guided tours may not be regularly scheduled, but the building's historical significance and architecture are often highlighted during local city tours.
The atrium is a public space within the building, so there is no admission fee to enter and enjoy its beauty.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the spectacular multi-story atrium filled with plants, art, and sculptures. The first floor also features retail spaces.
Yes, the atrium is described as a quiet and relaxing spot, perfect for reading a book or simply sitting and enjoying the ambiance.
The building houses various professional offices, including law firms, and retail spaces like a tailor and an optometrist.
While specific accessibility details aren't widely published, large public buildings like this generally aim for accessibility. The atrium is spacious.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas like the atrium, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the businesses and individuals working there.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Sapporo's cafe is located within the atrium, offering a convenient spot for a coffee or snack.
There are several dining options nearby. Squatchos, a vegan pizza shop, is located across the street and is highly recommended.
The atrium serves as a pleasant lunch area, especially with the cafe on-site and the general quiet atmosphere.
Squatchos offers a unique vegan pizza experience, and its proximity to the Powers Building makes it a great stop for lunch.
Sapporo's cafe, located in the atrium, is a good spot for coffee and light refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
The multi-story atrium with its lush greenery and architectural details is a prime photography location. The exterior facade is also very photogenic.
Drone usage in urban areas is often restricted and requires permits. It's unlikely to be permitted for casual visitors.
Architectural photography, interior shots of the atrium, and urban exploration style photos are popular.
While generally permitted in public areas, be mindful of private offices and individuals. Avoid intrusive photography.
Daytime hours will offer the best natural light filtering into the atrium, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific children's attractions, the sheer beauty and scale of the atrium can be captivating for all ages. Consider pairing a visit with a stop at a nearby family-friendly eatery or a walk through other downtown points of interest.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the detailed craftsmanship and imagine the building in its original context. Its survival and continued prominence make it a key site for understanding the city's historical trajectory and architectural evolution.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and lighting to showcase the building's grandeur. The contrast between the historic architecture and the vibrant plant life in the atrium is particularly photogenic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Powers Building
This building stands as a testament to Rochester's prosperous past and its commitment to preserving historical landmarks. Its intricate design and the sheer scale of its atrium have earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, often cited by locals and visitors alike.
While its primary function is now as an office building, the Powers Building remains a focal point for those interested in Rochester's history and architecture. Its enduring beauty continues to captivate, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the city's downtown core.
Exploring the Powers Building Atrium
Visitors often describe the atrium as feeling like a secret garden, a stark contrast to the urban environment outside. The space is well-maintained and offers a unique visual experience with its soaring height and abundant plant life. It's an ideal location for quiet contemplation, reading a book, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Within the atrium, you'll also find Sapporo's cafe, providing a convenient place to grab a coffee or a light snack while you soak in the surroundings. The combination of natural beauty and architectural design makes the atrium a memorable part of any visit to the Powers Building.
Urban Exploration and Hidden Features
These glimpses into the building's hidden aspects, such as underground tunnels or the expansive rooftop, add a layer of intrigue to its already rich history. While these areas are not typically open to the public, they fuel the fascination with the Powers Building's secrets and its place in Rochester's urban lore.
For those interested in the building's more adventurous side, following local urban exploration content can provide unique perspectives. It highlights how even well-known landmarks can hold undiscovered elements, making them subjects of ongoing curiosity and discovery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit