The Rochester-Erie Canal Region

Near the junction of the Genesee River and the Erie Canal grew the industrial city of Rochester. Early mills near the High Falls of the river processed the rich bounty of the Genesee Valley, the "Granary of the Nation," and made Rochester into the "Flour City." The water power was quickly harnessed for manufacturing uses and the Erie canal provided cheap access to markets back east.

Note: For purposes of this travel guide, the Rochester / Erie Canal region is considered to comprise the counties of Monroe, Wayne and Orleans. Under the New York State "Vacationland" scheme, the first two are included in the Finger Lakes region, and the latter is part of the Niagara Frontier.

Today Rochester is the World's Image Center, home of such technological giants as Eastman Kodak, Bausch & Lomb and the birthplace of the Xerox. Kodak founder George Eastman's House is now home to the International Museum of Photography. The pioneer days are not forgotten, however, at the Genesee County Village near Mumford (left). Here you can return to the more peaceful rhythms of the 19th Century and interact with characters dressed in period costume who stroll among the beautifully restored buildings. The village also features a Nature Center and a Gallery of Sporting Art. Wayne and Orleans County are still largely rural, and the moderating influence of Lake Ontario allows many fruit orchards to blossom near the shoreline. Harvest festivals of every variety are a top attraction here. The lake itself is a mecca for serious fishermen, with many contests throughout the season.

Index of things to do in the Rochester/Erie Canal area Or check by category Attractions Museums Parks & Historic Sites

Index of Sponsors in the Rochester/Erie Canal area Or check by category Accommodations Dining Shopping Tourism Info.

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