Greater Rochester International Airport: where to stay, areas and…

Greater Rochester International Airport is less than 4 miles from downtown, about a 10-minute drive, so anyone with an early flight or a short layover can stay right next to the terminal without wasting time. If you want to visit the historic center along the Genesee River, with the Blue Cross Arena and the museums, you'll sleep better downtown. Business travelers heading to RIT or the hospital district will find more choice and lower prices in Henrietta, a few minutes south, also convenient for the airport.

Airport area

The Fairfield Inn is about 1.3 km from the terminal; the Marriott is 5 miles away with a free shuttle.

Best for: anyone with an early flight or a business layover who doesn't want to travel further

Pros

Extremely short distance from the terminal to the Fairfield Inn
Free shuttle for those choosing the slightly farther Marriott

Cons

No restaurants or bars within walking distance
Possible takeoff noise in more exposed rooms

Recommended hotels in this area

Fairfield Inn by Marriott Rochester Airport: A few steps from the terminal, handy for anyone who doesn't want to wait for a shuttle.
Rochester Airport Marriott: Full-service hotel with a free shuttle, 5 miles from the terminal.

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Historic center

City centre · By car or rideshare the airport is about 10 minutes away; there is no direct rail connection.

Best for: anyone who wants to stay within walking distance of the Genesee River, the Blue Cross Arena and the museums

Pros

Walking distance from the Genesee River and the Blue Cross Arena
More restaurants and evening spots than elsewhere

Cons

Parking is almost always paid
Higher prices than in the airport area

Recommended hotels in this area

The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa, Tapestry Collection by Hilton: In-house spa and rooftop bar with city views, among the best-rated in Rochester.
Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown, NY: More affordable than the Strathallan while staying within walking distance of downtown.

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Henrietta and the university area

Neighbourhood · About a 15-minute drive from the airport and 6 miles from downtown, near the Thruway exit.

Best for: anyone traveling on business to RIT or the hospital district and looking for lower prices

Pros

More affordable prices than downtown
Easy highway access, convenient with a rental car

Cons

A car is needed; a commercial area with no evening life within walking distance
Far from the museums and the river downtown

Recommended hotels in this area

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Henrietta: Generous breakfast and good value for money, near shops and restaurants.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Rochester Henrietta, NY: Suites with kitchen and EV charging, handy for longer stays.

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