Things To Do
in Greece
Greece is a suburban town on the shore of Lake Ontario just west of Rochester, New York, known for parks, residential neighborhoods, and lakeside recreation. It combines quiet family-friendly streets with convenient access to Rochester's cultural and dining amenities. Outdoor lovers appreciate nearby beaches, trails, and state parks, while shoppers and diners use several plazas and local restaurants.
The town is an easy base for exploring western New York attractions including museums, wineries, and scenic drives along the lake.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the quaint streets of Greece's historic center, where charming architecture meets vibrant local culture. Stop at a cozy café for a fresh pastry and a cup of coffee while mingling with friendly locals. The morning sun casts a warm glow over the picturesque buildings, making it an ideal time for capturing memorable photos.
After lunch at a local diner, delve into the town's history by visiting the Greece Historical Society and Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits that highlight the rich heritage of the region, including artifacts and stories from the past. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby parks, enjoying the scenic beauty and perhaps encountering some local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its classic American fare for a delightful dinner. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers while savoring delicious dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a nearby ice cream shop, indulging in a sweet treat while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day with a refreshing nature walk at Greece Canal Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. The morning air is crisp and invigorating, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths lined with lush trees and vibrant wildflowers. Keep an eye out for local bird species as you enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.
After your walk, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park's designated area, surrounded by nature's tranquil beauty. You can bring your own food or grab something from a local market for a delightful outdoor dining experience. Following lunch, consider renting a kayak or paddleboat to explore the canal, providing a unique perspective of the park's landscape.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot in the park to watch the sunset over the water, painting the sky in beautiful hues of orange and pink. Afterward, head back to town for a casual dining experience at a popular barbecue joint known for its mouth-watering ribs and sides. End the night with live music at a nearby venue, enjoying the local talent and vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕️Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-18 |
| 🚗Local taxi / rideshare (short trip) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Lake Ontario with accessible beaches and parks
- Quiet, family-friendly suburban environment with convenient access to Rochester
- Good base for exploring western New York attractions and outdoor activities
- Affordable compared with larger metropolitan areas
- Limited late-night nightlife within the town itself
- Car-dependent — public transit options are limited compared with big cities
- Winter weather can be severe with lake-effect snow affecting travel
- Fewer high-end dining or specialized shops compared with bigger cities
Places to Visit in Greece
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide vistas, sunsets over the water, and seasonal ice formations in winter make the shoreline ideal for landscape and sunset photography.
Mix of hardwood forest, beaches, dunes, and a lake — great for nature, woodland, and macro photography.
Diverse habitats with ponds, woodlands and open spaces; excellent for birding and nature shots, especially at dawn.
Architectural detail, murals, and urban scenes a short drive away provide variety beyond natural landscapes.
Food in Greece
Greece Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Rochester creation of home fries, macaroni salad, meat (hot dogs, hamburgers, or sausage), and a distinctive hot sauce — find it at local plate shops and diners when you drive into Rochester.
Must-Try!
Buffalo/Rochester-style chicken wings are ubiquitous; try them at local pubs and wing joints with a variety of sauces and rubs.
Greece has several family-run Greek restaurants serving gyros, souvlaki, moussaka and spanakopita — good options for traditional flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers markets in Greece and nearby Rochester offer fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses and prepared foods — ideal for picking up picnic supplies in spring through fall.
These plazas host delis, pizzerias, and small eateries for takeout, fast casual meals, and bakery items popular with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shake hands for introductions in formal settings; casual hellos and nods work among neighbors. Use please and thank you—courtesy is appreciated.
Suburban residents value privacy and quiet; keep noise reasonable especially in residential areas and after dark.
Observe local traffic rules and be patient—the area is car-centric and parking rules are enforced in busy areas.
Safety
Tipping in Greece
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in the U.S. applies: restaurants 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service, $1–2 per drink at bars, $2–5 for valets or bellhops, and 10–20% for taxi/rideshare drivers depending on service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; small businesses may prefer card or contactless payment. Carry a small amount of cash for markets, tips, or very small purchases. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are commonly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool to mild temperatures with budding trees and blooming parks; variable weather so layer up and expect occasional rain. Great time for wildflowers and migratory birds.
Warm and humid, perfect for swimming, beach days and outdoor festivals. Peak season for farmers markets and lakefront activities; pack sun protection and insect repellent.
Crisp, colorful foliage draws visitors for scenic drives and hikes; cooler nights and comfortable daytime temperatures. Ideal for photography and apple/cider season.
Cold with snow and freezing temperatures common; opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and dramatic icy shoreline scenes. Prepare for winter driving and periodic lake-effect snow.
Greece at Night
Hiking in Greece
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive wooded trails, lakeside paths and varied terrain suitable for walking, birdwatching and trail photography; some rugged sections but generally family-friendly.
Multiple loop trails around ponds and wetlands with good opportunities for wildlife viewing and easy-to-moderate hikes.
Multi-use trails for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing that traverse scenic areas in Monroe County and connect several parks.
Lakeside trails with dune and beach scenery; excellent for summer walks, sunrise photography and birdwatching during migration seasons.
Airports
How to reach Greece by plane.
About a 15–25 minute drive from central Greece; regional airport with domestic flights and convenient ground transportation via taxi, rideshare or rental car.
Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours west by car; larger selection of flights including some international connections. Good alternative if searching for different airline options or fares.
About 1 to 1.5 hours east by car; another regional option with domestic flights and car rental services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families living in single-family homes and suburban neighborhoods, attracted to good schools and parks.
There is a notable population of retirees who choose the area for its quieter lifestyle and proximity to medical services.
Commuters who work in Rochester's healthcare, education and tech sectors live in Greece for convenient commuting.
The town includes African American, Hispanic/Latino and Asian communities, with more diversity found closer to Rochester.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is popular in upstate New York; local rinks and youth programs are common and professional/IHL/AHL teams in Rochester draw fans.
Friday night high school football and nearby college teams are community focal points in the fall.
Lacrosse has a strong presence in the region with youth leagues and collegiate interest.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Greece.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at diners, Mediterranean restaurants and many cafés — expect salads, veggie sandwiches, Greek mezze, and sides; larger grocery stores and markets stock plant-based essentials.
Vegan choices exist but may be more limited; look in Rochester for dedicated vegan/vegetarian restaurants and check menus ahead of time. Many places will accommodate substitutions.
Gluten-free menus and options are increasingly common, especially in breweries and newer restaurants; communicate your needs to staff and consider bakeries or markets that label gluten-free items.