Rochester is well-known for influential thinkers like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. While these leaders changed the nation, Rochester has retained its hometown charm. With a low cost of living and quality public schools, Rochester is one of America's most livable cities and a great place to raise a family.

Native Americans first settled the area, but lost their claim to the land through various conflicts and treaties. Shortly after the American Revolution, English-Puritan immigrants arrived and settled the city. Rochester's population and economy grew rapidly and by 1834, it was one of the country's first boomtowns. Rochester now boasts a population of more than 200,000.

An important component of the city's growth was the completion of the Erie Canal. Today the canal remains an engineering marvel and the center of history. The Canalway Trail runs right through Rochester and crosses the Genesee River Trail. Both of these city parks are perfect for walking, running, and cycling. The Genesee Riverway Trail provides pedestrian access to waterfalls, gorges, bridges, and other parks.

Rochester has more than 12,000 acres of parkland. All offer amenities, such as playgrounds, athletic courts, pools, and ice-skating rinks. Rochester also offers many museums and opportunities to explore the performing arts. The Rochester Museum & Science Center is dedicated to exploration and curiosity. RMSC also includes a planetarium and large nature center.

The Rochester Contemporary Arts Center invites you to enjoy a large variety of mediums and artists. If you prefer the performing arts, check out the Auditorium Theatre for shows. Rochester boasts two historical film theaters: the Little Theatre, founded in 1928, and the Cinema Theater, established in 1949. The Cinema Theater is one of the oldest continuously operated movie theaters in the country. Hosting several film festivals each year, Rochester welcomes you to take in both classic and contemporary work.

The Corn Hill Arts Festival features many artistic mediums, as well as music, food, and spirits. The biggest event of its kind, the Lilac Festival has brought beauty and pomp to Rochester since 1889.

If you have some free time and one of the city's 140 festivals isn't taking place, you'll want to check out the Public Market. Occupying North Union Street since 1905, this market includes 300 vendors offering specialty foods, fresh produce, breweries, and coffee shops.

Don't feel like grabbing a bite at one of the cafes? There are many other great places throughout the city to dine. Swan Market is a well-known German Deli, and Dinosaur Bar-B-Que serves up a mean brisket. For something Italian, you'll want to stop by Pasta Villa; for something lighter, Sinbad's Mediterranean Cuisine.

Locals know there's always something delicious to eat, and a great event to check out. But it can be hard to enjoy your city when you're stuck at home doing chores. If your trees seem to have you constantly pulling out the ladder and trimmers, allow LawnStarter to help. We are Rochester's premier coordinator of every type of tree care. From routine trimming and pruning, to disease management and emergency removal, we have just the pro for your job. Download LawnStarter's convenient app, set your preferences, and let us handle the rest. Put down the clippers and pick up a glass at any one of Rochester's 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries.