2026 Inside Downtown Tour

Inside Downtown Tour 2026

Saturday & Sunday
September 12–13 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Step inside Rochester’s skyline to journey across three centuries of extraordinary architecture at the 2026 Inside Downton Tour. This special weekend experience offers exclusive opportunities to explore remarkable interiors, uncover hidden details, and experience downtown Rochester from a new perspective.

To enrich your experience, we’re partnering with local restaurants and bars throughout Center City—after your day of exploration, continue the adventure with a memorable meal and raise a cold drink to Rochester’s architectural legacy!

Join us for two days of discovery and gain access to the places that shaped—and continue to shape—the city.

Print programs and Entry Pass obtained at Headquarters
First Federal Plaza Lobby

Banner image photo credit: Debi Bower of Day Trips Around Rochester.

Tour Locations & Sights

Begin your journey at Tour Headquarters, located in the lobby of First Federal Plaza.

Your first stop takes you behind the scenes at First Federal Plaza‘s Warm 101.3 Studios, where tour guide and radio personality Patrick Rivers will lead an exclusive look inside the station and share stories from Rochester’s airwaves. Then head to the very top of the building for rare access to the former Changing Seasons revolving restaurant and take in spectacular panoramic views of Rochester.

Next, step into the historic Reynolds Arcade, located just next door. Described by Rochester City Historian Joseph W. Barnes as “the center of Rochester downtown life for more than a century,” this landmark offers a glimpse into the city’s rich architectural and cultural history.

The Wilder Building, Rochester’s very first skyscraper designed by Warner & Brockett in the Romanesque Revival style, will offer tours of an exclusive posh clubhouse.

Then make your way to Rochester’s iconic Powers Building. Discover the stunning enclosed grand courtyard, admire the historic grand staircase, and explore floors five through seven—including a look at the building’s hidden sixth-floor mezzanine.

Your next destination is the Academy Building Lofts, where you’ll tour the elegant lobby and selected apartment spaces within the building that originally served as Rochester’s public library.

Explore select private apartments in The Rockford, Rochester’s Old City Hall.

At The Hochstein School, enjoy exclusive access to spaces rarely open to the public, including the Grand Auditorium, private dance and music studios, and even practice rooms where students refine their craft.

Finally, experience modern downtown living at the brand-new Plymouth Avenue Townhouses, showcasing contemporary residential life in the heart of Rochester, and witness the transformation of the Washington Street Rowhouses House into modern living, combining all the best of the past with future.

Need a Break?

Grab a coffee or a bite at Founder’s Café inside the Academy Building Lofts, or relax with a drink and a meal at Christopher’s in the First Federal Plaza lobby.

Tour Map - Plan Your Journey

How Will This Work?

Tour tickets may purchased in advance, or at the Tour Headquarters, located in the First Federal Plaza Lobby. Your ticket is good both days of the tour, with a limit of one visit to each site.
If you have purchased your ticket(s) online, bring your ticket receipt (email receipt) to Tour Headquarters to receive your Entry Pass to the tour, required to enter each building and receive discounts at participating restaurants and bars.
Be sure to check your spam folder so you don’t miss that important email!
Young children/babies will be refused entry to the. Children over 12 years, where requested. They must have their own full-price ticket.
Prior to the tour dates you will receive a second email with reminder information. You may also choose to pick up a print copy at Tour Headquarters.
We regret that portions of this tour contain buildings that may not be entirely physically accessible, may require steps to enter, and may have narrow passageways.
Parking on city streets IS FREE on weekends. DO NOT PAY street meters on weekends. More information on paid, parking garages may be found HERE.