The Outdoors · Finger Lakes
A 97-foot waterfall right in downtown Rochester
High Falls drops 97 feet on the Genesee River in the middle of downtown Rochester — and the restored Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge gives you a front-row view.
Published June 21, 2026 · Last verified June 21, 2026
Most cities don’t have a waterfall downtown. Rochester does. High Falls drops 97 feet on the Genesee River right in the heart of the city. The Haudenosaunee called the river “Ge-ne-see,” meaning “pleasant banks,” and this stretch is where the banks turn dramatic.
This spot is also where Rochester’s early industry got its start. Mills along the river were powered by the falling water, and the city grew up around that energy. Today the falls are more for the eyes than the mills.
The best view is from the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge, an 1891 iron bridge that stands about 114 feet above the river. The city finished a big restoration and reopened it in December 2024 with new railings, overlooks, seating, and lighting. You can also catch the falls from the overlook in High Falls Terrace Park.
New York State is building a new state park around High Falls as part of the ROC the Riverway plan, with work expected over the next few years. The old mill-power view is becoming a public riverfront view, and Rochester gets to keep the waterfall in the middle of the story.
Where to see it
Walk the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge (off Browns Race / Platt Street) for the main view, or visit the overlook at High Falls Terrace Park. Both are in downtown Rochester and free to walk; check the City of Rochester pages for current hours and any construction notices.