Best time to visit Rochester

Best Time to Visit Rochester: A Month-by-Month Guide to Perfect Travel

Introduction

Imagine the thunderous roar of the Genesee River as it plunges over a 96-foot cliff, framed by a kaleidoscope of autumn leaves or the stark, crystalline beauty of winter ice. Picture yourself strolling through a world-class museum, the afternoon light filtered through a wall of glass, or wandering a vibrant street festival where the air hums with music and the scent of local cuisine. This is Rochester, a city of dramatic contrasts, where your experience is profoundly shaped by the turning of the seasons. Choosing the best time to visit Rochester is not merely about checking a weather forecast; it's about selecting the backdrop for your personal story. Will it be a tale of summer festivals on the shores of Lake Ontario, a romantic autumn escape through wine country ablaze with color, a cozy winter retreat into museums and warm cafes, or a spring awakening amidst blooming lilacs and rushing waterfalls? This guide is your key to that decision. We've dissected the year through the lenses that matter most: the capricious Great Lakes weather that can deliver a glorious sunny day or a moody, dramatic storm; the ebb and flow of crowds from bustling summer peaks to serene winter quiet; the fluctuation of prices that can make a luxury stay accessible; and the pulse of the city's event calendar, from the world-famous Lilac Festival to the intimate jazz in a downtown club. Your unforgettable Rochester adventure begins with a single, perfectly timed moment. Let's find yours.

Rochester Weather Overview by Season

Rochester's climate is a classic four-season drama, heavily influenced by its position on the southern shore of Lake Ontario. This "lake effect" is the star of the show, moderating temperatures but also delivering its famous signature: snow. Winters are long, cold, and snowy, with average highs struggling to reach the mid-30s (F) from December through February, and lows plunging into the teens. Snowfall is significant, often exceeding 90 inches, creating a pristine, if formidable, winter wonderland. Spring is a slow, reluctant awakening. March and April are damp and chilly, with lingering snow possible. May brings a sudden, glorious transformation as temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, though rain is frequent. Summer is Rochester's golden season—warm, humid, and lush. July and August see highs in the low 80s, with occasional spikes into the 90s. Evenings are comfortable, and lake breezes offer relief. This is also the sunniest period. Autumn is arguably the most spectacular season. September starts warm, cooling rapidly through October and November. Crisp, sunny days and cool nights are the norm, with humidity dropping. The fall foliage, peaking in mid-October, is a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and golds, especially dramatic in the surrounding Finger Lakes hills and the Genesee Gorge.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

Weather Snapshot: High: 32°F (0°C) | Low: 18°F (-8°C) | Snow, not rain, dominates. Expect over 20 inches of snowfall on average, with overcast skies and biting winds off the lake.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Deep off-season. The city is quiet, introspective, and embraced by locals. Tourist infrastructure is minimal, offering an authentic, unhurried glimpse of Rochester life.

Key Events & Festivals: First Friday gallery nights continue indoors. The Rochester International Jazz Festival's winter series offers cozy concerts. High Falls is often a frozen spectacle.

Hotel Price Range: $ - $$. Deep discounts are common, with many downtown hotels offering packages to attract visitors.

Best Activities: Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in Durand Eastman or Ellison Parks. Exploring the indoor wonders of the Strong Museum of Play or the George Eastman Museum. Cozying up in a coffee shop in the Neighborhood of the Arts.

Perfect for: The intrepid, budget-conscious traveler who loves museums, winter sports, and having cultural institutions almost to themselves.

February

Weather Snapshot: High: 34°F (1°C) | Low: 19°F (-7°C) | The coldest month, with persistent snow cover and short days. Lake-effect snow squalls are common.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Still very quiet. A sense of cabin fever begins to set in for residents, making friendly conversation in pubs and cafes easy and welcome.

Key Events & Festivals: Rochester's Winter Carnival features ice sculptures, polar plunges, and winter sports. The ImageOut Rochester LGBT Film Festival continues its winter programming.

Hotel Price Range: $ - $$. Prices remain at rock-bottom, with weekend getaway deals prevalent.

Best Activities: Ice skating at the outdoor rink at Manhattan Square Park. Visiting the Rochester Museum & Science Center for interactive exhibits. Taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the photonics labs at the University of Rochester (with advance booking).

Perfect for: Winter festival enthusiasts and couples seeking a quiet, romantic weekend filled with indoor culture and warm firesides.

March

Weather Snapshot: High: 43°F (6°C) | Low: 26°F (-3°C) | A turbulent month. Snowstorms can still occur, but thawing begins. Mud and lingering ice are common. Rain probability increases.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Quiet, with a growing sense of anticipation. Spring Break for colleges may bring a slight uptick, but overall it's a transitional, slow period.

Key Events & Festivals: The RIT Big Shot photography event (if scheduled). Maple Sugar festivals in the surrounding countryside as the sap begins to run.

Hotel Price Range: $ - $$. Still very affordable, a last chance for low-season rates before spring.

Best Activities: Witnessing the power of the Genesee River as winter ice breaks up at the Lower Falls. Exploring the Lamberton Conservatory in Highland Park for a tropical escape. Catching a Rochester Americans hockey game as the season winds down.

Perfect for: The flexible traveler who doesn't mind unpredictable weather and wants to experience the raw, changing power of the Gorge.

April

Weather Snapshot: High: 56°F (13°C) | Low: 37°F (3°C) | True spring arrives, fitfully. Days can be warm and sunny or cold and rainy. Snow is rare but not impossible early in the month.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Light crowds begin to appear, especially on sunny weekends. The city starts to stir from its winter slumber, with patios opening tentatively.

Key Events & Festivals: The Rochester International Film Festival. Earth Day celebrations at the Seneca Park Zoo. The beginning of the Rochester Public Market's outdoor season.

Hotel Price Range: $$ - $$$. Prices begin their steady climb out of the off-season trough.

Best Activities: Hiking the trails of Letchworth State Park as the waterfalls swell with spring melt. Visiting the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House. Browsing the Rochester Public Market for early spring produce and crafts.

Perfect for: Gardeners, film buffs, and hikers eager to hit the trails before the summer crowds, equipped with waterproof boots.

May

Weather Snapshot: High: 68°F (20°C) | Low: 48°F (9°C) | Glorious and green. The landscape explodes with color and life. Rain is frequent but often brief, making everything lush.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Busy and festive! The city is fully awake. The Lilac Festival draws massive crowds, creating a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere citywide.

Key Events & Festivals: The crown jewel: The Rochester Lilac Festival, a 10-day celebration in Highland Park with music, food, and over 500 varieties of lilacs in peak bloom.

Hotel Price Range: $$$ - $$$$. Prices peak during the Lilac Festival. Book many months in advance.

Best Activities: Wandering the intoxicatingly fragrant paths of Highland Park. Taking a boat tour on the Erie Canal from Pittsford. Exploring the art installations at the annual "Flour City Station" festival.

Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, and festival-goers who want to experience Rochester at its most fragrant and celebratory.

June

Weather Snapshot: High: 77°F (25°C) | Low: 58°F (14°C) | Early summer perfection. Warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings. Humidity begins to rise but is generally comfortable.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Very busy. The tourist season is in full swing, with families and festival attendees filling the city. A palpable energy of summer fun is everywhere.

Key Events & Festivals: The world-renowned Rochester International Jazz Festival takes over downtown for nine days of incredible music. The Park Ave Festival also kicks off the summer street fair season.

Hotel Price Range: $$$ - $$$$. High demand leads to premium prices, especially during Jazz Fest weekends.

Best Activities: Attending multiple Jazz Fest shows in unique venues. Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Genesee River or Irondequoit Bay. Visiting the Seabreeze Amusement Park as it opens for the season.

Perfect for: Music aficionados, families starting summer vacation, and anyone who thrives on the energy of a city in full summer swing.

July

Weather Snapshot: High: 82°F (28°C) | Low: 63°F (17°C) | The warmest month. Hot, humid days are common, often broken by refreshing thunderstorms. Lake Ontario beaches are ideal.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Peak season. Crowds are at their thickest, especially around the 4th of July. The atmosphere is classic summer: lively, relaxed, and outdoors-oriented.

Key Events & Festivals: Fourth of July celebrations with fireworks over the Genesee River. The Corn Hill Arts Festival. The Clothesline Festival at the Memorial Art Gallery.

Hotel Price Range: $$$ - $$$$. Consistently high. Last-minute bookings will be expensive and limited.

Best Activities: Cooling off at Charlotte Beach or Durand Eastman Beach on Lake Ontario. Attending an outdoor concert at the CMAC performing arts center in nearby Canandaigua. Exploring the food truck scene at various city parks.

Perfect for: Sun-seekers, beach lovers, and families wanting the quintessential Rochester summer experience of lake, festivals, and fireworks.

August

Weather Snapshot: High: 80°F (27°C) | Low: 62°F (17°C) | Similar to July, with warm days and mild nights, though the heat often begins to moderate by month's end.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Still very busy, but with a slight sense of winding down as schools prepare to resume. Weekend festivals keep the energy high.

Key Events & Festivals: The Park Ave Summer Arts Festival. The Greek Festival. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival in nearby Watkins Glen (a short drive).

Hotel Price Range: $$$ - $$$$. Remains in peak pricing territory.

Best Activities: Day-tripping to the Finger Lakes wineries for tastings and vineyard views. Biking the Erie Canalway Trail. Catching a Rochester Red Wings minor league baseball game at Frontier Field.

Perfect for: Foodies, wine enthusiasts, and cyclists looking to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding the city.

September

Weather Snapshot: High: 72°F (22°C) | Low: 54°F (12°C) | Arguably the finest weather. Warm, sunny days, cool, crisp nights, and low humidity. The first hints of fall color appear late in the month.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Crowds thin significantly after Labor Day, creating a more relaxed, local vibe. The pace is perfect, with summer's warmth lingering but without the frenzy.

Key Events & Festivals: The Clothesline Festival (early Sept). The Rochester Fringe Festival, a multi-day explosion of performing arts. Apple harvesting begins at local orchards.

Hotel Price Range: $$ - $$$. Prices begin a welcome descent from summer peaks, offering better value.

Best Activities: Attending innovative Fringe Festival performances in unexpected venues. Apple and pumpkin picking at nearby farms like Wickham Farms. Hiking in Letchworth State Park under perfect skies.

Perfect for: Culture seekers, couples, and outdoor adventurers who want ideal weather and fewer people.

October

Weather Snapshot: High: 60°F (16°C) | Low: 43°F (6°C) | Crisp, cool, and spectacular. Foliage peaks in mid-October, painting the Gorge and hills in fiery hues. Nights are cold.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: A secondary peak! "Leaf peepers" flock to the region, especially on weekends. A festive, autumnal atmosphere prevails, focused on harvest and Halloween.

Key Events & Festivals: Oktoberfest celebrations. The Halloween-themed "Boo-levard" at Seabreeze. Haunted houses and ghost tours in the city.

Hotel Price Range: $$ - $$$. Weekend rates can spike due to foliage tourism, but weekdays are more reasonable.

Best Activities: The ultimate fall foliage drive or hike through Letchworth State Park. Visiting the Genesee Country Village & Museum for their Halloween events. Sipping hot cider on a farm market hayride.

Perfect for: Photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who considers autumn the most beautiful season.

November

Weather Snapshot: High: 48°F (9°C) | Low: 34°F (1°C) | A gray, transitional month. Leaves fall, temperatures drop steadily, and the first significant snow can arrive by Thanksgiving. Rain and wind are common.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Quiet again. The post-foliage, pre-holiday lull sets in. The city turns inward, preparing for winter and the upcoming holiday season.

Key Events & Festivals: The annual "Holiday Bright Lights" display at Ontario Beach Park begins late in the month. Small Business Saturday promotions.

Hotel Price Range: $ - $$. A great value window opens between fall and the holiday rush.

Best Activities: Visiting museums without crowds. Catching a Broadway show at the Auditorium Theatre. Enjoying a pre-Thanksgiving feast at one of Rochester's excellent farm-to-table restaurants.

Perfect for: Budget travelers and culture vultures looking for low prices and empty galleries in a contemplative atmosphere.

December

Weather Snapshot: High: 37°F (3°C) | Low: 24°F (-4°C) | Winter is here. Snowfall becomes regular, creating a festive blanket. Days are short and cold, but the city sparkles with holiday lights.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Moderate and festive. Locals and some tourists come downtown for holiday shopping and events. A warm, communal spirit defies the cold.

Key Events & Festivals: The "Holidays at the Market" at the Public Market. The "Nutcracker" ballet performance. The Genesee River's "Parade of Lighted Boats."

Hotel Price Range: $$ - $$$. Prices rise for the holiday period, especially around Christmas and New Year's Eve.

Best Activities: Ice skating at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park. Touring the holiday light displays at various parks. Cozying up for a holiday concert at the Eastman Theatre.

Perfect for: Families and romantics seeking a classic, snowy holiday experience full of twinkling lights and festive cheer.

Peak vs. Shoulder vs. Off-Season Analysis

Understanding Rochester's seasonal rhythms is the key to balancing your budget, comfort, and desired experiences. Peak Season (June-August) delivers the quintessential Rochester summer: long, sunny days, vibrant festivals like Jazz Fest, and full access to lake activities. The atmosphere is electric, but you pay for it. Crowds are substantial, hotel rates are at their annual zenith, and restaurants require reservations. This is the time for maximum energy and guaranteed warm weather. Shoulder Seasons (May & September-October) offer the sweet spot for many. May boasts the sublime Lilac Festival and blooming landscapes, while September and October provide near-perfect weather, stunning fall foliage, and major cultural events like the Fringe Festival. Crowds are manageable (except during specific festival weekends), prices are more reasonable than summer, and the overall experience is often more relaxed and immersive. This is arguably the best time to visit Rochester for a blend of great weather, events, and value. Off-Season (November-April) is a world apart. From the stark beauty of the frozen Gorge to the cozy refuge of world-class museums, this period is for the discerning traveler. Crowds are nonexistent, allowing for intimate exploration. Hotel prices plummet, often by 40-50% compared to summer peaks. The trade-off is weather: cold, snow, and limited outdoor access. However, if your idea of travel involves having the George Eastman Museum nearly to yourself, enjoying winter sports, or experiencing the city's authentic, unhurried pace, the off-season provides a unique and deeply rewarding Rochester.

Best Time for Specific Traveler Types

Best for Budget Travelers: Target the deep winter months of January and February. Flight and hotel deals are plentiful, and you'll have Rochester's incredible museums—the Strong Museum, the Eastman Museum, RMSC—practically to yourself. Embrace the cold as part of the adventure.

Best for Honeymooners: The romantic ideal is late September to mid-October. You'll be gifted with the "sweet spot" of warm days, cool nights, breathtaking fall colors in the Finger Lakes wine country, and the cultural spark of the Fringe Festival, all with thinner crowds than summer.

Best for Families: Late June through August is the easiest choice. Schools are out, the weather is reliably warm for Seabreeze Amusement Park and lake beaches, and kid-friendly festivals abound. For a less crowded alternative with still-good weather, consider late August, just before school starts.

Best for Culture Seekers: Your calendar should revolve around festivals. Prioritize June for the Jazz Festival and September for the Fringe Festival. These world-class events transform the city into a cultural playground. Shoulder season weather makes venue-hopping a pleasure.

Best for Outdoor Adventurers: For hiking and water sports, June and September offer ideal temperatures and fewer bugs. For the most spectacular scenery, October for foliage is unbeatable. For serious winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, January and February provide reliable snow cover in the parks and gorge.

Money-Saving Timing Strategies

To stretch your dollars in Rochester, timing is your most powerful tool. Flight Booking: For summer travel, book flights 3-4 months in advance. For off-season visits, last-minute deals can appear, but booking 6-8 weeks out is generally safe. Mid-week flights (Tuesday-Wednesday) are consistently cheaper. Rochester's airport (ROC) is a hub for low-cost carrier Southwest, so monitor their sales. Hotel Hacks: In peak season, look for hotels just outside the immediate downtown core, like in the Brighton or Pittsford areas, which offer better value and free parking. Use the off-season to your advantage: call hotels directly and ask about unpublished "winter getaway" packages that often include museum tickets. For summer festivals, if downtown is booked or pricey, consider staying in a Finger Lakes town like Canandaigua, a scenic 30-minute drive away. Flight Price Patterns: Expect high fares around major holidays, the Lilac Festival, and Jazz Fest. The most expensive months are typically May, June, and July. The cheapest months are January, February, and November. Local Transportation: Rochester is a driving city, but the RTS bus system is reliable for major corridors. In summer, consider the FREE downtown trolley that connects key attractions. For ultimate savings, visit in the off-season and use ride-share services sparingly, as many museums and restaurants cluster in walkable districts like the Neighborhood of the Arts.

Festival & Events Calendar

Rochester's soul is expressed through its festivals, each shaping the city's rhythm. Planning your visit around one can define your trip. May: The Lilac Festival is non-negotiable for flower lovers—book everything a year in advance. June: The Rochester International Jazz Festival dominates downtown; stay within walking distance of the venue cluster. July: The Corn Hill Arts Festival and Clothesline Festival offer fantastic local art; they're crowded but free. August: The Park Ave Fest is a massive street party; go early to avoid the biggest crowds. September: The Rochester Fringe Festival is eclectic and thrilling; buy tickets for headline acts early, but enjoy many free outdoor shows. October: While not one single event, the fall foliage draw creates a weekend festival atmosphere in parks and farm country; reserve rental cars and B&Bs early. December: The various holiday light displays and markets create a month-long celebration. Visiting during a major event means embracing higher prices and crowds for an unforgettable communal experience. For a quieter cultural fix, target the shoulder-season months just before or after these mega-events.

Practical Monthly Packing Guides

Packing for Rochester means preparing for its mercurial weather. Winter (Dec-Feb): This is serious cold. Pack a heavy, insulated coat, waterproof boots with good traction, thermal layers, gloves, a hat, and a scarf. The wind off Lake Ontario is biting. Indoor spaces are well-heated, so layering is key. Spring (Mar-May): The most unpredictable season. Pack a waterproof jacket, umbrella, comfortable walking shoes that can handle mud, and multiple layers—a t-shirt, sweater, and light coat. Include a warm hat and gloves for early spring. Summer (Jun-Aug): Pack light, breathable clothing, shorts, t-shirts, and a sun hat. However, always include a light sweater or jacket for cool evenings, a rain jacket for sudden thunderstorms, and comfortable walking sandars or shoes. Don't forget swimwear for the lake! Autumn (Sep-Nov): The ideal layering season. Bring jeans, long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, a medium-weight jacket, and a warm coat for late autumn. A beanie and gloves are useful for October evenings and November days. Sturdy shoes or boots are perfect for leaf-covered trails. Year-Round Essentials: Sunglasses (snow glare is real), a reusable water bottle, and a daypack for explorations. For cultural sites, casual smart attire is fine; there are no strict dress codes.

Sample 7-Day Itineraries by Season

Spring (May): Day 1: Arrive, explore the High Falls district. Day 2: Immerse in the Lilac Festival at Highland Park. Day 3: Day trip to Letchworth State Park for hiking and waterfalls. Day 4: George Eastman Museum and the Memorial Art Gallery. Day 5: Boat tour on the Erie Canal from Pittsford, dinner in the village. Day 6: Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, followed by the Public Market. Day 7: Departure. Summer (July): Day 1: Arrive, head to Charlotte Beach for sunset. Day 2: Seabreeze Amusement Park. Day 3: Explore the Strong Museum of Play (all day). Day 4: Day trip to Finger Lakes wineries. Day 5: Kayak the Genesee River, evening at the Corn Hill Fest. Day 6: Rochester Museum & Science Center and a Red Wings baseball game. Day 7: Departure. Autumn (October): Day 1: Arrive, stroll through the Park Ave neighborhood. Day 2: Full-day foliage drive and hike in Letchworth State Park. Day 3: Genesee Country Village & Museum. Day 4: Apple picking and cider tasting at a local farm. Day 5: Downtown day: Central Library, minor league hockey, and a ghost tour. Day 6: Relaxed day at the Lamberton Conservatory and dinner in the South Wedge. Day 7: Departure. Winter (February): Day 1: Arrive, cozy dinner in the East End. Day 2: Strong Museum of Play. Day 3: Cross-country skiing in Durand Eastman Park, visit the Zoo. Day 4: George Eastman Museum and a photonics tour at U of R. Day 5: Rochester Museum & Science Center, evening concert at Eastman School. Day 6: Winter Carnival activities or a day trip to nearby snow tubing park. Day 7: Departure.

Conclusion

So, when is the best time to visit Rochester? The answer lives in your priorities. If you dream of festivals, lake breezes, and long sunny days, claim your spot in the vibrant peak of summer. If your heart beats for fiery foliage, crisp air, and world-class culture with room to breathe, set your sights on the golden shoulder seasons of May or September-October. And if you are a seeker of quiet depth, profound value, and the stark beauty of a city in winter repose, the off-season will welcome you with open arms and empty galleries. Rochester is not a one-note destination; it's a symphony in four movements. Each season composes a different experience around its enduring themes: the roaring majesty of the Genesee Gorge, the inspiring legacy of its museums, and the innovative spirit of its photonics heart. Choose your season, pack accordingly, and prepare to write your own story against a backdrop of unforgettable seasonal beauty. Your perfect Rochester moment is waiting.

FAQ - Best Time to Visit Rochester

What is the absolute best month to visit Rochester for good weather and fewer crowds?

September is the champion for this balance. The summer heat and humidity have faded, leaving warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable nights. The oppressive crowds of peak summer have dissipated, especially after Labor Day, yet the city is still buzzing with the energy of the Fringe Festival. It's the sweet spot where you can enjoy outdoor activities and festivals in nearly perfect conditions without the peak season price tag and congestion.

Is Rochester worth visiting in the winter?

Absolutely, if your interests align with the season. Winter offers a unique and deeply rewarding Rochester experience. You'll encounter dramatically lower prices on flights and hotels, and have world-class museums like the Strong Museum of Play and the George Eastman Museum almost to yourself. The frozen beauty of the Genesee River Gorge and High Falls is spectacular, and activities like cross-country skiing in the parks are quintessentially Upstate New York. Just come prepared for serious cold and snow.

When should I book hotels for the Lilac or Jazz Festival?

As early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months in advance. These are Rochester's two biggest tourist draws, and downtown hotel rooms sell out completely or become prohibitively expensive. If downtown is booked, look at hotels in nearby suburbs like Brighton, Pittsford, or Greece, but book those as soon as your plans are firm as they also fill up quickly during these peak events.

What is the rainiest season in Rochester?

Spring, particularly April and May, tends to be the wettest season in terms of rainfall frequency and volume. However, summer months can see heavier, albeit shorter, thunderstorms. The fall is generally drier, with crisp, sunny days, though November can be gray and damp. Always pack a light rain layer regardless of the season, as the Great Lakes weather is famously changeable.

Is October too cold for visiting the Finger Lakes wineries?

Not at all! October is one of the most popular times to visit the Finger Lakes wine region. The days are often crisp and sunny, perfect for driving and enjoying the stunning fall foliage that blankets the vineyards. While you'll want a jacket or sweater, especially for early morning or evening, the tasting rooms are cozy and welcoming. It's a magical experience to sip a local Riesling while looking out over hillsides of red and gold.

When is the worst time to visit Rochester?

"Worst" is subjective, but the most challenging time for most travelers is late March through early April. This is the "mud season"—the snow is melting, the landscape is brown and barren, the weather is highly unpredictable (with lingering snow or cold rain), and there are few major events to offset the gloom. It's the least visually appealing and most temperamental period. If you dislike gray, damp, and muddy conditions, avoid this window.

What's the best time for photography in Rochester?

For iconic shots, two periods stand out. Mid-to-late May offers the breathtaking bloom of the Lilac Festival in Highland Park, a unique and fragrant spectacle. Mid-October provides the dramatic fall foliage, especially within the Genesee Gorge at Letchworth State Park and along the Finger Lakes hillsides. The contrast of the colorful leaves against the dark rock and white waterfalls is a photographer's dream. For urban photography with great light, September's clear skies are also excellent.