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Top 24 Hotels Near Blue Cross Arena
100 Exchange Blvd Rochester, NY 14614
Hyatt Regency Rochester
Blue Cross Arena is walkable from Hyatt Regency Rochester, helping guests to arrive refreshed and on time before the on-site experience.
Lobby markets beside reception at Hyatt Regency stock drinks and travel essentials, giving guests immediate access without leaving the space. All guest rooms feature large flat-screen TVs, bedside USB ports, and Wi-Fi, letting guests unwind or stay connected with ease. Business centers staffed with support and equipped with printers provide reliable spaces for handling work or urgent tasks.
On-site dining, breakfast service, and valet parking combine with concierge support, simplifying daily routines during each stay.
Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown NY
Blue Cross Arena is a brief walk from Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown NY, a convenience that allows for a smooth and integrated daily flow.
Comfortable sofa clusters inside Hilton Garden Inn lobbies provide practical regrouping areas, letting families pause calmly after journeys. Every guest room provides televisions, sofa seating, and blackout drapes, blending entertainment ease with spaces designed for rest. Lobbies with sofa seating, natural light, and bar adjacency provide comfortable social areas that foster guest interaction.
Concierge support, complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, event rooms, fitness areas, and self-parking help simplify travel for every itinerary.
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown
This convenient ride to Blue Cross Arena enables Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown to offer a convenient and well-integrated lodging experience.
Hydration points near Hampton Inn lobby seating reflect attentiveness, letting guests refresh easily before moving on with confidence. All guest rooms provide blackout curtains, quiet climate systems, and plush mattresses, supporting environments that ensure restful sleep. Breakfast spaces with fruit stations, omelet counters, and pastries provide consistency, giving mornings dependable clarity each day.
Complimentary breakfast, pet services, Pavilion Pantry markets, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi connectivity create routines that remain consistent.
Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown
Reaching Blue Cross Arena from Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown is a simple drive, a feature that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
Guests in Courtyard lobbies notice bright finishes, polished floors, and comfortable seating, cues that create reliable first impressions. Each guest room presents ergonomic seating, ample outlets, and fast Wi-Fi, supporting professionals with reliable setups. At the fitness center, ellipticals, treadmills, and mats give travelers dependable setups to sustain exercise habits daily.
Guests access fitness centers, The Bistro, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor pools, dependable features that maintain daily comfort.
East Avenue Inn Downtown
For a trip to Rochester, East Avenue Inn Downtown's location a short drive from Blue Cross Arena is a foundational element of its practical charm.
Guests at East Avenue Inn Downtown may encounter unique design touches, boutique-style reception, and artisanal refreshments on arrival. Guest rooms often highlight eclectic design, curated amenities, and plush bedding for a polished and personalized impression. Shared spaces may highlight intimate dining rooms, curated lounges, and co-working areas that reflect boutique individuality.
A stay often presents complimentary Wi-Fi, yoga mats, laundry access, and family meals, keeping boutique routines balanced throughout travel.
School 31 Lofts at Colors Studios
For guests in Rochester, School 31 Lofts at Colors Studios is an easy drive from Blue Cross Arena, a position that makes for a convenient and fast-paced visit.
School 31 Lofts at Colors Studios often provides quick check-in, parking close to the entrance, and a simple lobby space focused on practical convenience. Guest rooms typically include blackout curtains, climate control, and streaming access, ensuring both privacy and entertainment options. Public areas often highlight guest laundries, vending corners, and modest lobbies that help guests maintain consistency during travel.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, compact breakfast areas, vending corners, and laundry support, supporting clear routines during each stay.
Staybridge Suites Rochester University by IHG
The journey from Staybridge Suites Rochester University by IHG to Blue Cross Arena is a straightforward drive, a benefit that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
Staybridge Suites cues The Social near seating and service stations, keeping movement orderly once complimentary appetizers and drinks begin. Suites often add a bedroom door and a second TV, improving privacy and keeping wind-down flexible when schedules differ. Computer alcoves with browser access and USB ports make quick uploads and ticket changes manageable near seating and the lobby printer.
With outdoor grills, a fire pit, and patio seating plus free Wi-Fi and a market, dinners and conversations feel relaxed and unhurried.
Hilton Garden Inn Rochester / University & Medical Center
Within Rochester, Hilton Garden Inn Rochester / University & Medical Center is a simple drive from Blue Cross Arena, which helps the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Community tables in Hilton Garden Inn receptions act as flexible hubs, creating shared spaces where groups can organize plans together. Suites contain spacious vanities, rainfall showers, and premium bath products, offering guests refreshment and comfort after long travel. Meeting spaces with audiovisual setups, whiteboards, and flexible tables ensure collaborative productivity for group travelers.
Complimentary internet, breakfast buffets, indoor pools, meeting spaces, and laundry facilities create convenience for extended guests.
Red Roof Inn Rochester – Airport
This easy drive to Blue Cross Arena helps Red Roof Inn Rochester – Airport guests get more connected to the Rochester area.
The pet-friendly greeting at Red Roof Inn is a standout feature, providing an inclusive and cost-effective solution for animal owners. Each guest room is thoughtfully laid out to maximize space, providing an open feel and clear pathways for moving around comfortably. Vending and ice machines are placed in accessible, well-lit alcoves, ensuring guests feel safe when getting a late-night snack or drink.
A complete travel solution includes free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, guest laundry, and premium cable channels for entertainment and ease.
Motel 6 Rochester NY - Airport
From Motel 6 Rochester NY - Airport, the brief drive to Blue Cross Arena is a core principle of accessibility efficient that defines the beginning of the stay.
At Motel 6, desk staff can confirm early check-in or late checkout policies, aligning property flexibility with diverse travel schedules. Each guest room includes climate control systems with heating and cooling, enabling guests to adjust comfort consistently across seasons. Vending corridors near main paths supply snacks, drinks, and small essentials, reducing extra errands and keeping routines on property.
From coin laundry to accessible rooms, paired with Wi-Fi and parking, properties provide inclusivity and convenience across locations.
Fairfield Inn Marriott Rochester Airport
The hotel's location is designed for uncomplicated travel, with Blue Cross Arena an easy drive away, ensuring a confident journey.
Fairfield Inn places tall communal tables with integrated outlets close to check-in, supporting short meetings and laptop use on arrival. Suites provide ergonomic desks, task lighting, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring travelers can remain productive throughout their visits. Indoor pool facilities include lounge seating, towel service, and bright décor, creating reliable leisure spaces that support balance and rest.
Amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness access, breakfast options, and meeting space ensure work and leisure needs are met predictably.
Best Western The Inn at Rochester Airport
From Best Western The Inn at Rochester Airport, Blue Cross Arena is an easy drive, a perk that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
Best Western welcomes arrivals with staffed desks, clear sightlines, and adjacent seating, helping newcomers orient and set simple next steps. Each guest room may include blackout shades plus sheers, allowing flexible light control for late sleepers and early risers alike. The lobby lounge softens acoustics with lighting and décor, turning check-in zones into relaxed orientation points for new arrivals.
With co-working nooks, printers, Wi-Fi, and small meeting pods, short work blocks progress while days remain compactly on site and clear.
Holiday Inn Express Rochester - University Area by IHG
The hotel's spot a direct run from Blue Cross Arena gives Holiday Inn Express Rochester - University Area by IHG guests a direct option for their daily commute.
Complimentary coffee service at Holiday Inn Express reinforces care signals, helping travelers refresh after long drives or flights. All guest rooms feature plush beds, blackout curtains, and efficient HVAC systems, delivering comfort and consistency every night. Meeting facilities configured with projection systems, movable tables, and lighting controls make events efficient and adaptable.
Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and indoor pools join with laundry and pet accommodations, creating dependable care for longer visits.
Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Brighton
The simple drive from Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Brighton to Blue Cross Arena in Rochester means the commute is genuinely efficient before the stay unfolds.
Courtyard reinforces attentiveness with infused water and beverage stations, rituals that provide relaxation after long travel days. Every suite offers rainfall showers, plush robes, and premium amenities, ensuring relaxation and consistency across visits. In the Bistro, Starbucks® coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and soft seating create rituals that help mornings feel dependable and smooth.
With 24/7 markets, business lounges, conference rooms, and breakfast service, travelers sustain productivity and practical routines.
Spark by Hilton Rochester University Area
In Rochester, Spark by Hilton Rochester University Area's well-connected location keeps Blue Cross Arena an easy drive, letting guests move with freedom.
In Hilton arrivals, community tables and modular seating offer inviting hubs that encourage conversation and social connection easily. Guest rooms offer ergonomic chairs, large work desks, and Wi-Fi, providing professionals with functional setups to remain productive. Guests in the breakfast room enjoy cereals, waffles, and juices, helping mornings stay consistent and dependable across properties.
With EV parking, Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and 24/7 markets, travelers experience consistent convenience for both business and leisure.
Hampton Inn Rochester Irondequoit
Guests at Hampton Inn Rochester Irondequoit can rely on Blue Cross Arena being within easy reach as a key amenity that defines the stay.
Digital check-in systems at Hampton Inn streamline loyalty arrivals, providing recognition while removing unnecessary wait times. Guest rooms provide blackout curtains, premium bedding, and thermostats, ensuring personalized environments that support deep, restful sleep. Fitness studios with rowing machines, resistance gear, and stretching mats provide balanced setups that support wellness on trips.
EV charging, complimentary Wi-Fi, indoor pools, breakfast buffets, and business lounges ensure amenities stay reliable for modern needs.
Holiday Inn Express Rochester NE- Irondequoit by IHG
The journey from Holiday Inn Express Rochester NE- Irondequoit by IHG to Blue Cross Arena is an uncomplicated drive, a benefit that helps frame a convenient and well-organized stay.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies feature open layouts and bright décor, producing arrival clarity that feels consistent across properties. Suites add sofa beds, expanded seating, and multiple TVs, offering layouts that adapt well to groups or extended-stay travelers. Breakfast rooms stocked with cereals, fruit, and coffee ensure families and professionals enjoy straightforward morning routines.
Business spaces, hot breakfast, and reliable Wi-Fi combine with pools and laundry, balancing work, leisure, and everyday needs.
Quality Inn Rochester West
For guests in Rochester, Quality Inn Rochester West keeps Blue Cross Arena a simple cross-town drive, a location that supports an efficient itinerary.
Quality Inn positions charging nooks and small work surfaces near seating so quick emails and itinerary checks fit into arrival routines. Guest rooms provide sealed windows or sound-mitigating finishes where possible, reducing exterior noise for more reliable overnight rest. Vending corners and lobby markets provide batteries, toiletries, and snacks, meeting essentials for late arrivals and quick needs.
Amenities that combine Wi-Fi, breakfast, fitness, and meeting space help travel routines feel cohesive and efficient day after day.
Hotel on Monroe BW Signature Collection
For a trip to Rochester, Hotel on Monroe BW Signature Collection's location an easy drive from Blue Cross Arena is a foundational piece of its appeal.
At Hotel on Monroe BW Signature Collection, arrivals may highlight an efficient desk, vending machines, and accessible parking to support predictable travel rhythm. Accommodations may highlight hardwood finishes, compact layouts, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort and style during each stay. Shared spaces may feature breakfast rooms, vending access, and compact business corners that support both clarity and productivity.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and laundry facilities, maintaining practical convenience for guests.
Oakfield Hotel & Suites an Ascend Collection Hotel
Blue Cross Arena is a simple cross-town drive from Oakfield Hotel & Suites an Ascend Collection Hotel, a plan that ensures the pre-event journey is always a speedy one.
Guests at Oakfield Hotel & Suites an Ascend Collection Hotel may encounter a no-frills reception, modest lobby seating, and on-site parking for straightforward transitions. Rooms often feature plush bedding, modest seating, and climate control, providing consistent comfort and ease for traveling guests. Facilities typically present vending stations, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that create a functional base for everyday travel.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, guest laundry, breakfast spaces, and parking, helping visitors sustain reliable balance across trips.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Greece Rochester
The journey from Home2 Suites by Hilton Greece Rochester to Blue Cross Arena is a direct run, an advantage that contributes to a hassle-free visit.
With modular seating, bright finishes, and community tables, Home2 Suites produces flexible spaces that support connection and comfort. Every suite offers ergonomic seating, full dining tables, and kitchenware, helping guests maintain routines with ease while traveling. At the indoor pool, loungers, fresh towels, and soft lighting combine to create a relaxing hub where families can refresh together.
Guests enjoy breakfast service, laundry access, 24/7 markets, and business centers, combining flexibility with consistent comfort.
Everhome Suites Rochester Greece
Guests at Everhome Suites Rochester Greece can rely on Blue Cross Arena being an easy drive as a key amenity that defines the stay.
Everhome Suites Rochester Greece typically features practical front-desk service, self-serve beverages, and parking options aimed at easy, reliable arrivals. Each guest room may include functional desks, ergonomic chairs, and Wi-Fi, supporting balance between productivity and relaxation routines. Shared spaces may include vending areas, modest breakfast rooms, and guest laundries that reinforce simple travel routines for visitors.
A visit may highlight Wi-Fi, vending access, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, giving travelers consistent routines during stays.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Rochester-Pittsford / Brighton, NY
The hotel's spot a direct run from Blue Cross Arena gives Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Rochester-Pittsford / Brighton, NY guests a simple way to manage their daily schedule.
Radisson places bar seating adjacent to reception, creating a low-effort unwind spot where travelers can sit and reorient after trips. Every guest room features a work surface, task lighting, multiple USB outlets, and sightlines that support in-room productivity. Lobby workspaces merge communal tables, individual nooks, and abundant outlets, making quick email checks and map reviews straightforward on site.
Between breakfast, market, fitness rooms, pool loungers, meetings, and parking, everyday plans remain low-friction and easy to manage.
Woodspring Suites Rochester Greece
From Woodspring Suites Rochester Greece, Blue Cross Arena is a simple drive, a choice that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
At WoodSpring Suites, lobby seating serves as a pause point, allowing companions to regroup while staff prepare keys or confirm details. Each suite provides stovetops, microwaves, and storage cabinets, letting extended-stay guests prepare meals on their own timeline. The lobby features practical layouts with seating close to reception, making waits easier during arrivals, checkouts, or busy times.
Between housekeeping refresh, refrigerators, stovetops, and storage, guests experience consistency that sustains long-term living.
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Blue Cross Arena Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Blue Cross Arena, Rochester's premier destination for live sports and entertainment. This guide is designed for fans and attendees looking to make the most of their visit, providing essential information on navigating the venue, understanding the surrounding area, and planning your trip from arrival to departure. We'll help you find nearby hotels, discover local attractions, and select the best dining options to complement your event experience. Prepare for a seamless and enjoyable visit to downtown Rochester.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Blue Cross Arena (Rochester, NY)
The Blue Cross Arena is strategically located in the heart of downtown Rochester, along the scenic Genesee River. This central position offers excellent accessibility, though it also means traffic can be a significant factor, especially on event nights. Major access routes include I-490, which runs directly south of the arena, providing easy connections to other parts of the city and the greater Rochester metropolitan area. Parking is available in several nearby garages and surface lots, with the CityGate Garage and the South Washington Square Garage being the most convenient for arena patrons. Rochester is served by the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), located about a 15-20 minute drive west of the downtown core, depending on traffic conditions. For those utilizing public transportation, the arena is a hub for several local bus lines managed by the Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RTS), making it accessible without a personal vehicle. Rideshare services are also a popular and efficient option, with designated drop-off and pick-up zones typically established on event days. To best navigate arrival, it's advisable to plan your route in advance and aim to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before event start times to allow ample time for parking, security, and finding your seats, thereby avoiding the most congested periods.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Blue Cross Arena
Several hotel clusters are conveniently situated near the Blue Cross Arena, primarily within walking distance or a very short drive in the downtown district. These range from boutique hotels to larger chain establishments, catering to various budgets and preferences. Many attendees choose accommodations in the immediate downtown area to maximize walkability to the arena and surrounding restaurants and entertainment venues. For those seeking more budget-friendly options or a wider selection, hotels can also be found a short drive away in areas like the East End or along the Henrietta corridor, though these would require transportation to reach the arena. Demand for lodging in the downtown core typically surges on nights with major concerts, Rochester Americans hockey games, or other large-scale events. To secure the best rates and availability, it's strongly recommended to book your hotel well in advance, especially if your travel dates coincide with known popular events. Utilizing hotel booking filters for "near Blue Cross Arena" or "downtown Rochester" can help narrow down choices effectively.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) is about a 15-20 minute drive away.
- Arrive 45-60 minutes early to secure parking and navigate arena entry smoothly.
- Explore the nearby High Falls District for scenic views and historic charm.
- Consider the RMSC Museum & Science Center for indoor activities on a rainy day.
- The CityGate Garage offers convenient, covered parking directly across from the arena.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive at the Blue Cross Arena at least 45 to 60 minutes before the scheduled start time, especially for popular events. This buffer allows ample time to navigate downtown traffic, locate your chosen parking spot, and pass through security checkpoints without feeling rushed. Familiarize yourself with the arena's clear bag policy and any prohibited items before you leave your hotel to expedite entry. Once inside, take a moment to explore the concourse, locate restrooms, and perhaps grab a pre-event snack or drink. This window is also ideal for meeting up with your group if you've arrived separately.
During the Event
Once the event begins, focus on enjoying the performance or game. The arena offers various concessions and amenities throughout its concourses. If you need assistance at any point, arena staff and ushers are readily available to help with seating, accessibility questions, or any concerns you may have. Keep track of scheduled intermissions or breaks, as these are good times to visit concession stands or restrooms to avoid peak queues. For larger events, be mindful of when the main act or game is expected to conclude to begin planning your exit strategy.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting the Blue Cross Arena after a major event can involve some delays, particularly if multiple events are concluding simultaneously. Be patient as crowds disperse. If you parked in a busy garage, consider waiting a few minutes after the main rush to depart, or have a designated driver who can navigate traffic while others relax. Rideshare pickup points can become congested; check the arena map for the most efficient pickup zones. Alternatively, take a short walk to a nearby street to find a less crowded pick-up location. A post-event stroll along the nearby Genesee Riverway Trail offers a more relaxed way to leave the immediate vicinity.
Things to Do Near Blue Cross Arena
Walkable
High Falls Gorge & Pontoon Boat Tour
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Rochester at High Falls, a spectacular 96-foot waterfall cascading into the Genesee River Gorge. The area offers stunning viewpoints from the pedestrian bridge and walking trails that allow you to get up close to the powerful falls. During warmer months, consider taking a narrated pontoon boat tour that explores the river's history and offers unique perspectives of the gorge and city skyline. It's a refreshing way to connect with Rochester's natural heritage, just a short walk from the arena's hustle and bustle.
Gorge Trail access · 0.4 miRoc City Market
Located just a few blocks from the arena, Roc City Market serves as a vibrant hub for local food vendors and artisanal shops. This indoor market is perfect for a casual bite before or after an event, offering a diverse range of culinary options from quick snacks to more substantial meals. Beyond food, you can browse unique handcrafted goods and local products. It’s an excellent spot to soak in some local flavor and discover Rochester's creative spirit in a lively, accessible atmosphere that’s easy to navigate.
East Main Street · 0.2 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Rochester Museum & Science Center
The Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC) offers engaging exhibits for all ages, blending science, technology, and local history. Explore everything from interactive science displays to a planetarium and a historic village. It's an ideal destination for families or anyone curious about the world, providing an educational and entertaining experience away from the typical event crowd. A visit here can easily fill several hours, offering a stimulating break or a complementary activity to your arena visit.
490 S Clinton Ave · 1.0 miStrong National Museum of Play
Home to the World Video Game Hall of Fame and an extensive collection of toys and play-related artifacts, the Strong National Museum of Play is a truly unique attraction. This museum is renowned for its interactive exhibits that appeal to both children and adults, fostering learning through play. Whether you're interested in the history of gaming, iconic toys, or simply want to relive childhood memories, this museum provides an immersive and fun experience. It's a fantastic option for a rainy day or a family outing.
1 Manhattan Square Dr · 0.7 miBeyond the Event: For those venturing slightly further, the historic East End offers a concentration of cultural attractions, including the Eastman Museum of Photography and Film and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. The nearby Neighborhood of the Arts (NOTA) district buzzes with galleries, studios, and live music venues, showcasing Rochester's vibrant arts scene. Consider these areas for a more extended exploration of the city's cultural landscape.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Blue Cross Arena
Inside & Adjacent
Champions
Conveniently located within the Blue Cross Arena concourse, Champions offers a classic arena sports bar experience. This is the perfect spot to grab a burger, fries, or other pub fare while catching pre-game excitement or enjoying a quick meal without leaving the venue. With multiple screens often showing sports, it provides a lively atmosphere that complements the energy of the event you're attending. It's an easy, no-fuss option for refueling during your visit.
Blue Cross Arena - Concourse Level · On siteLegends Bar & Grille
Also situated within the arena, Legends Bar & Grille provides another on-site dining option for event attendees. Serving a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees, it’s designed for convenience and quick service. Whether you're looking for a place to meet your group before heading to your seats or want to grab a bite during an intermission, Legends offers a comfortable setting and familiar menu choices to enhance your overall arena experience.
Blue Cross Arena - Main Level · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
The Owl House
The Owl House is a beloved Rochester restaurant known for its creative and delicious menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and accommodates various dietary needs, including extensive vegetarian and vegan options. Its cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for a relaxed meal before or after an event. The thoughtful preparation of their dishes and friendly service ensure a satisfying dining experience that stands out.
75 Marshall St · 0.6 miDinosaur Bar-B-Que
Famous for its authentic, slow-smoked barbecue, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que offers a lively atmosphere and generous portions. Located in the vibrant East End district, it's a great spot to gather with friends for some classic Southern-style ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. The energetic vibe, often accompanied by live music, makes it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy hearty food and a fun night out before or after an event.
345 East Ave · 0.7 miLocal & Elevated Picks
TRATA
TRATA is a contemporary American restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on wood-fired pizzas, crafted cocktails, and a well-curated wine list. Its modern decor and energetic ambiance make it a stylish choice for a pre-event dinner or a celebratory meal. The menu features a range of refined dishes alongside gourmet pizzas, providing options for diverse palates in a chic setting.
527 South Ave · 0.9 miEdibles Restaurant
Edibles Restaurant is celebrated for its farm-to-table approach, sourcing local ingredients to create a menu that is both fresh and innovative. This charming eatery offers a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a more intimate dining experience. Known for its seasonal specials and artful presentation, Edibles provides a taste of Rochester's burgeoning culinary scene and is a rewarding choice for those seeking quality cuisine.
1000 Elmwood Ave · 1.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Downtown parking garages can fill up rapidly; consider pre-purchasing parking or arriving earlier than usual on event nights.
- RTS bus routes converge downtown, offering an affordable transit option if you prefer not to drive into congested areas.
- Weekend evenings, particularly Fridays and Saturdays, tend to be the busiest for both arena events and surrounding nightlife.
- Be aware of street closures or detours that may be implemented on event days to manage crowd flow.
- Consider walking across the pedestrian bridge to the High Falls area for scenic views before or after your event.
Weather & Seasons at Blue Cross Arena
- Winter: Rochester winters are cold, with average temperatures often below freezing, and snow is common. Visitors should pack warm layers, including heavy coats, hats, and gloves. Short walks from parking or transit to the arena are manageable, but plan for slower movement and potential slippery conditions on sidewalks. Arena events offer a warm respite from the elements.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer offer pleasant, mild weather with temperatures gradually warming. Light jackets or sweaters are usually sufficient for evenings. This season is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like High Falls before your event, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for navigating the downtown area. Rain showers are possible, so checking the forecast is wise.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer brings warm to hot temperatures, with occasional humidity. Lightweight clothing is recommended, and staying hydrated is important, especially if participating in outdoor activities before arriving at the arena. Indoor arena spaces will be air-conditioned, providing a cool escape from the heat. Sunscreen and hats are advisable for any daytime exploration.
- Fall season: Fall in Rochester is characterized by crisp air and beautiful foliage, with temperatures gradually cooling. Layers are key, as mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons might be milder. It’s a comfortable season for walking around downtown and enjoying pre-event activities. Be prepared for the possibility of rain as the season progresses.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur year-round, with heavier precipitation more likely in spring and fall. Snowfall is typical from late November through March. During inclement weather, prioritize covered parking or direct transit access to minimize exposure. Always check road conditions and event-specific advisories if severe weather is predicted.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary tenant: Rochester Americans (AHL Hockey)
- Neighborhood: Downtown Rochester
- Nearest airport: Frederick Douglass ROC
- Parking: Numerous downtown garages & lots
- Walkable district: Yes, highly walkable downtown
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Various convenience stores downtown
- Pharmacy: CVS/Walgreens nearby
- Urgent care: Rochester Regional Health Urgent Care (various locations)
- Downtime: High Falls, riverwalk, downtown parks
- Pro tip: Utilize rideshare or public transit to avoid downtown parking complexities on busy event nights.

