Rochester's only riverside educational and entertainment center
Spectacular sights inside
View a key to the exhibits.
Center at High Falls
Press a button and meet the legends of Rochester. Set a water wheel in motion. Or sit in a taxi and get to know the city. There is something for everyone here at the Center, where history is happening. A simulated raceway and thundering falls are just some of the interactive 3-D exhibits that show how geology, technology, culture and creativity influenced the life that flourished at High Falls way back when.
Behind the walls of these massive stone buildings, you'll find a 40-foot high glass atrium, interpretive programs and activities, the Triphammer Grill Restaurant, banquet facilities... even a gift shop stocked with unique items from Rochester and High Falls.
Brown's Race Market
In the 40-foot atrium in the Brown's Race Market you'll find the Triphammer Grill Restaurant and spectacular sights of the Genesee River Gorge. On the second floor, you'll see some of the most unusual and exciting banquet and meeting rooms in all of Rochester. The terraced decks on each floor offer breathtaking open-air views of the Genesee River Gorge and River Of Light laser, light and sound show. Full meeting, banquet and catering services are available for corporate, community, educational, private and tour groups. Multi-purpose program, exhibit and classroom space is also available. Call (585) 325-2030 for more information.
Outrageous scenes outside...
Triphammer Forge
You will find an early iron forge and multi-level views of actual 1816 factory ruins.
Pont De Rennes
You can walk or bike along the 858-foot long bridge over the Genesee River Gorge for a thrilling look at the falls.
Granite Mills Commons
You might want to picnic in the park next to the gorge, with its authentic ruins of the old Granite Flour Mill's foundation (circa 1850) and millstone from the Moseley and Motley Milling Company.
Be enchanted by an indoor forest!
The lights come up when night falls over the city
During the summer season a light and sound show illuminates the falls that helped to make Rochester a boomtown during the 1800's. Dynamic laser light shows are also occasionally shown on summer evenings telling the story of Rochester with exciting light and music. To find out when the next show is scheduled, please call (585) 325-2030.
Explore the mysteries & histories of Rochester
How did Rochester get the name "Rochester"? How many years of glacier activity did it take to form the falls and the Genesee River? What does Rochester look like from a helicopter? Why was Rochester called "The Flour City? And where can you find answers?
At High Falls, where you will:
See the Genesee River rushing over a 96-foot cliff. Walk through Rochester's past, and future. Learn all about the famous people who have lived in Rochester. Spend a relaxing afternoon in the park at Granite Mills Commons or on the 858-foot long Pont De Rennes bridge. Stand in Triphammer Forge and see actual 1816 factory ruins. Walk across historic footbridges and peek beneath the street at a replicated 240-foot section of the original raceway used to power mill wheels.
With its interactive exhibits and 3-D displays, the Center at High Falls is fun for kids of all ages.
How to get to High Falls:
60 Browns Race, Rochester, NY 14614
- 490 East to Downtown West/Plymouth Avenue exit; left onto Plymouth Avenue; right onto Platt St.
- 490 West to Clinton Avenue (Exit 16); follow Clinton Avenue through Downtown Rochester past Main Street; turn left onto Andrews Street; right onto State Street; right onto Platt Street.
Public parking is available in the High Falls Garage.
Admission is free
- Self-guided tours
- Advanced reservations (at least 10 business days) are required for groups of ten or more.
- For current events, directions and operating hours, visit the High Falls web site at www.centerathighfalls.org.
Funding for these projects has been provided by the City of Rochester, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (1986 EQBA, local assistance and local resource grant awards) and private contributors.