Photo: Staybridge Suites Rochester University

These Rochester Hotels Make The Perfect Eclipse-Viewing Basecamp

Epic Stays
by Molly O'Brien Mar 1, 2024

Rochester, New York, is a prime spot for viewing the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse. The destination is predicted to showcase three whole minutes and 38 seconds of totality visible from the city. In fact, it’s set to be the largest city to be in the path of totality for this long — and close to major cities like NYC and Boston.

Rochester plans to host many eclipse-themed events during the weekend to celebrate the celestial phenomenon — with local businesses offering eclipse-themed beer, coffee, wine, and chocolate, and a myriad of cultural happenings across the city.

At the Rochester Museum & Science Center, visitors and locals can check out ‘Roc the Eclipse Festival,’ a four-day festival featuring themed activities, speakers, music, and food, and more. Listen to Keynote Speakers like American astronomer Phil Plait and popular TikTok influencer and educator known as the Groovy Geologist, Cate Larsen, who will be at the ROC The Eclipse festival. At the Strong National Museum of Play, there will be a three-day celebration themed around “playing with light,” with activities like a Lite Brite-like board and a mini display of space-themed toys. Get a groove on at the Soltality Music Festival on April 8 in Brockport — or, for those who can’t attend in person, listen to Rochester’s ROC the Eclipse playlist on Spotify. Here’s where eclipse chasers can stay the night on this unforgettable weekend in Rochester.

We hope you love these Rochester hotels! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Woodcliff Hotel and Spa

Photo: Woodcliff Hotel & Spa
Photo: Woodcliff Hotel & Spa
Photo: Woodcliff Hotel & Spa
Photo: Woodcliff Hotel & Spa

 

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  • Address: 199 Woodcliff Drive, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $149 per night

This historic property boasts inspiring views, luxurious rooms, and a range of upscale amenities. Book an all-inclusive getaway and dine at the award-winning Horizons Modern Kitchen + Wine Bar, or choose a treatment at the Spa at Woodcliff. Play a game on the 9-hole golf course, or embark on an adventure on one of the 70-plus acres of hiking trails right on-site and nearby.

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Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa (a Doubletree by Hilton)

Photo: The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa
Photo: The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa
Photo: The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa
Photo: The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa

 

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  • Address: 550 East Avenue, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $179 per night

This sophisticated property is hosting a dedicated eclipse package, with a room block reserved for April 5, 2024, through April 9, 2024. Guests must book a 3-night minimum to receive the discounted rate, and the stay even includes breakfast. On-site, guests can use upscale amenities like a well-equipped fitness center, full-service spa, rooftop bar, and steakhouse. The property is within a few blocks of landmarks like The George Eastman Museum, Memorial Art Gallery, and Rochester Museum & Science Center. And, of course — each visit begins with a signature (warm) DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookie.

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Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown

Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown
Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown
Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown
Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown

 

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  • Address: 155 East Main Street, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $154

This property in downtown Rochester is within walking distance of the Rochester Riverside Convention Center, close to the Blue Cross Arena At the War, and near The National Museum of Play. It boasts an indoor pool, fitness center, and a restaurant. Guest rooms are clean, bright and equipped with a microwave and a desk for getting work done.

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RIT Inn & Conference Center

Photo: RIT Inn & Conference Center
Photo: RIT Inn & Conference Center
Photo: RIT Inn & Conference Center
Photo: RIT Inn & Conference Center

 

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  • Address: 5257 West Henrietta Road, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $129 per night

This modern conference hotel boasts more than 10,000 square feet of meeting space, and is near the Rochester Institute of Technology and a quick drive from downtown. The rooms feel casual, with amenities like desks, flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers. Those who upgraded their room can have a Keurig, minifridge and microwave.

Guests can also enjoy an indoor and outdoor pool, a sauna, a whirlpool tub and a 24-hour fitness center. Dine at one of the on-site restaurants — including Petals restaurant, which serves traditional American fare, or grab a drink at Lobby Bar, which serves a variety of beer, wine and cocktails.

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Staybridge Suites Rochester University, an IHG Hotel

Photo: Staybridge Suites Rochester University
Photo: Staybridge Suites Rochester University
Photo: Staybridge Suites Rochester University
Photo: Staybridge Suites Rochester University

 

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  • Address: 1000 Genesee Street, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $139 per night

This extended-stay hotel is just a few minutes from the University of Rochester, downtown Rochester, and overlooks the scenic waters of the Genesee River.
At “social hour,” dive into one of the free appetizers and drinks served in the common area, or enjoy the complimentary breakfast each morning — a daily, hot, fresh meal included in each stay.

Relax outdoors by the gas fire pit, which has a view of the river, or get a workout in at the on-site gym. Or, get some work done in the 24-hour business center. Rest in one of the guest suites equipped with a full kitchenette, a dining area, a sofa bed, a TV, and a DVD player.

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Hilton Garden Inn Rochester – University & Medical Center

Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester University & Medical Center
Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester University & Medical Center
Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester University & Medical Center
Photo: Hilton Garden Inn Rochester University & Medical Center

 

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  • Address: 30 Celebration Drive, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $169 per night

This pet-friendly property is located in a shopping complex adjacent to the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Approachable but contemporary rooms feature amenities like flat-screen TVs, minifridges, Keurig coffee makers, and microwaves. The suite-style rooms also feature separate sitting areas with pull-out sofas.

Dine at the modern Italian restaurant Grappa, which has a bar and is outfitted with a terrace. Exercise at the well-equipped gym or swim at the indoor pool. There’s also a business center and multiple meeting rooms for business travelers to stay productive.

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Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester-Pittsford/Brighton, NY

Photo: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester-Pittsford/Brighton, NY
Photo: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester-Pittsford/Brighton, NY
Photo: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester-Pittsford/Brighton, NY
Photo: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rochester-Pittsford/Brighton, NY

 

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  • Address: 2835 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $129 per night

This property is located just 15 minutes from downtown Rochester destinations like High Falls and the Rochester Museum & Science Center and 10 miles from the shores of Lake Ontario.

On-site, exercise in the on-site fitness center or use the business center, which features fax and copy services. Indulge in complimentary coffee and cookies in the lobby, and enjoy a hot breakfast buffet each morning.

Rest in one of the 67 spacious on-site rooms and suites, which boast modern amenities like free WiFi, flat-screen cable TVs, a mini-refrigerator, a work desk, a sleeper sofa, and a coffee maker.

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Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Rochester West/Greece

Photo: Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester West/Greece
Photo: Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester West/Greece
Photo: Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester West/Greece
Photo: Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester West/Greece

 

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  • Address: 400 Paddy Creek Circle, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $119 per night

This property is near the Greater Rochester Airport, one mile from Highway 52 and Cascade Lake Park, and two miles from the Mayo Clinic Buildings.

It features amenities like a well-equipped, 24-hour fitness center with cardiac equipment and free weights. There’s also a cozy back courtyard with a fire pit, and an indoor pool and hot tub. Dine on a complimentary hot breakfast,

Retire to one of the bright, spacious and modern guest rooms which feature flat-screen TVs and strong, free WiFi. Each room has a refrigerator and a microwave, meaning the ultimate comfort in cooking and relaxing.

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Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

Photo: Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown
Photo: Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown
Photo: Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown
Photo: Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

 

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  • Address: 101 South Union Street, Rochester, New York State, United States
  • Rates from: $173 per night

This Downtown Rochester property is near The National Museum of Play, Blue Cross Arena At the War, and Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Rooms are vibrant and light-filled, equipped with amenities like comfortable beds and televisions. Work out at the fitness center or go for a dip in the indoor pool. Gather at Park Place — a trendy outdoor meeting space — or grab a bite or drink at Lila’s Lobby Bar, which serves cocktails and small plates.

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