Rochester City Hall Old Federal Building
Discover Rochester's hidden history beneath its streets and admire the architectural grandeur of its City Hall, a former bank tower with stunning tile...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access
Rochester City Hall Old Federal Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Rochester's hidden history beneath its streets and admire the architectural grandeur of its City Hall, a former bank tower with stunning tile ceilings.
"Cool building with fascinating history and impressive architecture."
🎯 Explore the Underground
Venture beneath downtown to discover the abandoned subway tunnels, a unique urban secret. :flashlight:
🦅 Watch the Falcons
Look up to spot the peregrine falcons nesting on the building's rooftop. :bird:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abandoned Subway Station
Beneath downtown Rochester
Explore the eerie remnants of a once-bustling subway station, a hidden piece of Rochester's urban history.
Vaulted Tile Ceilings
Interior of City Hall
Admire the intricate and beautiful vaulted tile ceilings crafted by master artisan Rafael Guastavino.
Peregrine Falcon Nesting Site
Rooftop of City Hall
Observe the majestic peregrine falcons that call the top of City Hall their home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Rochester's Hidden History
A Glimpse of the Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Underground
Venture beneath downtown to discover the abandoned subway tunnels, a unique urban secret. :flashlight:
🦅 Watch the Falcons
Look up to spot the peregrine falcons nesting on the building's rooftop. :bird:
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
Don't miss the stunning vaulted tile ceilings by Rafael Guastavino. :building_construction:
📅 Check for Tours
Join a historical society tour for in-depth knowledge and access. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Underground
Venture beneath downtown to discover the abandoned subway tunnels, a unique urban secret. :flashlight:
🦅 Watch the Falcons
Look up to spot the peregrine falcons nesting on the building's rooftop. :bird:
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
Don't miss the stunning vaulted tile ceilings by Rafael Guastavino. :building_construction:
📅 Check for Tours
Join a historical society tour for in-depth knowledge and access. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Rochester City Hall to be a 'cool building' with significant historical and architectural appeal, particularly its unique vaulted ceilings and the intriguing abandoned subway station. While some note minor upkeep issues like debris at the entrance, the helpfulness of staff, especially in the clerk's office, is often praised. Renovations are underway, promising an enhanced future experience.
"In the middle of renovations. Once completed it should look great. A lot of cigarette butts and debris at the entrance. Building owners need to pay better attention to some easy details."
William Powers
"Officers are usuall nice and the people in the clerk's office are very helpful."
Eyvette Walker
"Cool building"
Shaun Wright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rochester City Hall is located in the heart of downtown Rochester. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available around Rochester City Hall. Consider the Times Square Building garage for convenient access.
Access to the abandoned subway tunnels is typically limited to guided tours organized by historical societies. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding these special tours.
Walking is a great way to explore downtown Rochester and discover its hidden gems, including City Hall and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the exterior and public areas of Rochester City Hall is usually free. However, special tours or access to specific historical sections may require tickets or reservations.
Operating hours for the public areas of Rochester City Hall typically align with standard business hours on weekdays. It's advisable to check the official city website for the most current information.
Yes, the historical society often conducts guided tours that offer unique insights into the building's history, including its underground subway station.
Visiting the exterior and public areas of Rochester City Hall is generally free. Tour fees, if applicable, will vary and should be confirmed with the tour provider.
The old subway station is not typically open for public access outside of special organized tours. These tours provide a rare opportunity to see this historical site.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the impressive vaulted tile ceilings by Rafael Guastavino and learn about the building's history as the Lincoln First Bank Tower. +1
A unique feature is the presence of peregrine falcons nesting on the rooftop, offering a chance for wildlife observation.
While specific accessibility details may vary, most public areas of modern city halls are designed to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the building management for precise information.
It was built in 1973 as the Lincoln First Bank Tower and has a fascinating history, including the abandoned subway station beneath it. +1
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in public areas, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or ask for permission if you plan extensive photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The vaulted tile ceilings inside offer stunning architectural shots. The exterior provides a grand view, and the surrounding downtown area offers urban photography opportunities. +1
Photography inside the abandoned subway station is usually only possible during organized tours, which often have specific rules about photography.
While personal photography is generally allowed, professional or commercial photography might require permits. Always check with building management if unsure.
Mornings often provide softer light for exterior shots, while interior architectural details can be photographed throughout the day, depending on lighting conditions.
Searching social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram with hashtags like #RochesterNY and #CityHall can provide great visual inspiration. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit to coincide with a historical society tour if available and age-appropriate. These tours can offer engaging stories about the building's past.
🏛️ History Buffs
Explore the building's transformation from the Lincoln First Bank Tower to its current civic role.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Rochester Subway
Designed by architects George Heins and Christopher LaFarge, the subway station itself featured stunning vaulted tile ceilings crafted by the renowned artisan Rafael Guastavino.
For those interested in uncovering this hidden history, keeping an eye out for tours organized by the Rochester Historical Society is key. These tours offer a rare glimpse into the subway's past and the stories it holds.
Architectural Gems of City Hall
Beyond its immediate visual appeal, the building's history is intertwined with the city's development. Its transformation from a bank tower to a civic center reflects Rochester's evolving urban landscape.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and the stories embedded within the architecture. The combination of Guastavino's artistry and the building's historical context makes Rochester City Hall a noteworthy landmark.
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