Rochester This Week – 7/21/26
Auburn adventures, a century of innovation, and Indigenous arts—plan this week’s day trips around Rochester.
Debi’s Field Notes
My daughter and I share birthdays this weekend—just one day apart. When she lived at home, we’d fall asleep together on her birthday and wake up on mine. Even though she’s an adult now, we still lean into sharing that time together.
It’s also one of those mid-summer weekends when it feels like there’s something happening in every direction. Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk along Lake Ontario, a day exploring a historic city, or a festival that brings history to life, there are plenty of reasons to take a day trip.
Rediscover Hamlin Beach
Hamlin Beach State Park recently completed a major transformation of Area One, adding lakeside pathways, a walkable pier, and oversized lounge swings overlooking Lake Ontario. Pair the updated waterfront with seven miles of biking and walking trails for an easy summer day trip.
Explore Hamlin Beach State Park →
Spend a day exploring Auburn
Auburn offers a full day of history, culture, and lakeside scenery. Tour Harriet Tubman’s home, visit the Seward House Museum, stop at downtown breweries and restaurants, then unwind along the shores of Owasco Lake.
Step into America’s first century
Genesee Country Village & Museum recreates a nineteenth-century community across more than 600 acres, with historic homes, working shops, costumed interpreters, heritage livestock, gardens, and miles of village streets to explore.
This weekend’s Centennial Expo: America’s First 100 Years (July 25–26) celebrates the nation’s first century through inventions, transportation, craftsmanship, and the innovations that transformed everyday life between 1776 and 1876.
Explore Genesee Country Village & Museum →
Featured Event
Ganondagan Indigenous Music & Arts Festival
July 25–26 | 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Experience two days of Haudenosaunee music, dance, art, storytelling, traditional foods, and cultural demonstrations at Ganondagan State Historic Site, where the annual festival celebrates the living cultures of the Haudenosaunee.
Learn more about the festival →
Looking for even more ideas?
Browse the full events guide →
See you out there,
Debi
