Top things to do in Brighton (New York)

A Complete Tour Guide to Brighton, New York

Brighton, New York, is a small but charming city located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, just a few miles away from the bustling city of Rochester. With its picturesque parks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, Brighton is the perfect destination for visitors seeking relaxation, entertainment, and adventure.

Parks and Recreation

Brighton boasts a number of lovely parks and recreational areas where visitors can spend an afternoon enjoying the great outdoors. Here are a few of the most notable options:

  • Persimmon Park: This 10-acre wooded park offers a half-acre open lawn with walking paths and a sitting area. It's the perfect destination for a picnic or a quiet stroll through nature. Source

  • Buckland Park: Buckland Park is a multi-use park with a lodge, trails, playgrounds, baseball fields, and courts for tennis and basketball. Whether you're traveling with kids or looking to get some exercise, Buckland Park is a great option. Source

  • Brighton Town Park: Brighton Town Park is a 28-acre wooded recreation site centered on a 12-acre pond and nature path. This green space includes two pavilions and a lodge for rent, making it a great spot for a family outing or a group gathering. Source

  • Meridian Centre Park: Meridian Centre Park is a public, 24-acre park along the Erie Canal with a boating and fishing dock, plus trails and sports fields. This is a great option for visitors who enjoy water activities or watching sports. Source

  • Corbett's Glen Nature Park: Corbett's Glen Nature Park is a secluded park full of native birds and wildlife. Trails run by meadows, wetlands, and waterfalls, making it a tranquil escape for hiking and birding. Source

  • Highland Park: Highland Park is a serene retreat with an arboretum and gardens. Spring-blooming flowers and trees line a 150-acre park with a castle, sunken garden, and amphitheater. It's the perfect destination for a peaceful walk or a romantic picnic. Source

  • Washington Square Park: Washington Square Park is a small, but lovely, park located in the heart of downtown Rochester. It's the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing and relax on a bench or take a stroll through the trees. Source

Cultural Attractions

Brighton is also home to a number of cultural attractions that visitors won't want to miss. Here are a few of the top options:

  • Susan B. Anthony Museum and House: This museum is devoted to the civil rights hero Susan B. Anthony. Artifacts and materials are displayed in Anthony's former home, which was also the site of her 1872 arrest. Visitors can learn about Anthony's life and her contributions to the women's suffrage movement. Source

  • The Strong National Museum of Play: This museum offers a historic, interactive look at toys and games from video-game exhibits to a walk down "Sesame Street." It's a great destination for families traveling with kids who need to burn off some energy. Source

  • George Eastman Museum: The George Eastman Museum is a museum of photos and film located in a 1905 mansion. It houses photography and film collections in a Colonial Revival mansion with a theater for rare screenings. Visitors can learn about the history of photography and filmmaking, as well as the life of George Eastman, the founder of Eastman Kodak. Source

  • Memorial Art Gallery: The Memorial Art Gallery is a sprawling collection from medieval to contemporary works, with paintings by Rembrandt and Monet. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, the Memorial Art Gallery is a great option. Source

  • Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse: The Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse was built in 1822 and features a 40-ft. tower and a lantern room with views. Visitors can climb the tower and learn about the history of the lighthouse, as well as the role it played in guiding ships through Lake Ontario. Source

Natural Attractions

Brighton is situated in a beautiful natural setting, and visitors won't want to miss out on its stunning natural attractions. Here are a few of the top options:

  • Sunken Garden: The Sunken Garden is a beautiful garden located in Castle Park. It's a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the various flowers and plants on display. Source

  • Charlotte Pier: Charlotte Pier is a great spot to enjoy Lake Ontario's panoramic views. Whether you're looking to do some fishing or just take a walk along the pier, Charlotte Pier is a must-visit destination. Source

  • High Falls: High Falls is a natural waterfall located in a historic district with a living history museum and visitor center. Visitors can enjoy the views of the falls and learn about the history of the area. Source

  • Lamberton Conservatory: The Lamberton Conservatory is a modern reconstruction of a 1911 building housing palms and ferns. It's a beautiful destination for visitors who love plants and flowers. Source

  • Chimney Swift Roost: The Chimney Swift Roost is a natural phenomenon that occurs when Chimney Swifts gather to roost in a specific location. Visitors can witness this amazing sight and learn about the behavior of these fascinating birds. Source

Conclusion

Brighton, New York, is a hidden gem of a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to spend a day in nature, learn about local history and culture, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Brighton is the perfect destination. With its scenic parks, cultural attractions, and natural wonder, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this charming city.