bt. in 1868: New Hampshire granite
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Powers Building

4.6
·106 reviews·Rochester, United States

A Gilded Age architectural marvel in downtown Rochester, featuring a breathtaking multi-story atrium filled with lush greenery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Quieter for enjoying the atrium

CrowdLow
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bt. in 1868: New Hampshire granite

Powers Building

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Quieter for enjoying the atrium

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Gilded Age architectural marvel in downtown Rochester, featuring a breathtaking multi-story atrium filled with lush greenery.

4.6
(106 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful buildings in Rochester with an expansive and impressive atrium."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Explore the Atrium

Don't miss the stunning multi-story atrium, a peaceful garden escape within the building. :evergreen_tree:

📸 Architectural Details

Admire the intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 106 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Atrium

The Grand Atrium

Interior

A multi-story botanical oasis with lush ferns and hostas, offering a serene escape and stunning architectural views.

Intricate Gilded-Age Architecture

Intricate Gilded-Age Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Marvel at the detailed craftsmanship and historical grandeur that defines this iconic Rochester landmark.

Rooftop Views (Limited Access)

Rooftop Views (Limited Access)

Rooftop

Experience panoramic city vistas from the rooftop, a secret spot for urban explorers.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Rochester's Architectural Gem

The Powers Building, a stunning piece of Rochester's history, boasts an impressive atrium and intricate architecture. Visitors often overlook its beauty, making it a true hidden gem. Plan your visit to explore its grandeur and learn about its past.

Uncover Hidden Spaces

Beyond its main entrance, the Powers Building holds secrets like underground tunnels and a captivating rooftop view, hinted at in viral TikToks. While not always publicly accessible, these elements add to the building's mystique and encourage exploration.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter for enjoying the atrium
Crowd
Low
When
During local art events
Why
Experience art installations
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#RochesterNY #HiddenCity #SecretEntrance #UndergroundMystery #ViralDiscovery
@howtowhatnow
125.3K likes • 2.6M views

✨ Explore the Atrium

Don't miss the stunning multi-story atrium, a peaceful garden escape within the building. :evergreen_tree:

📸 Architectural Details

Admire the intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out. :camerawithflash:

#RochesterNY #HiddenCity #SecretEntrance #UndergroundMystery #ViralDiscovery
@howtowhatnow
29.9K likes • 946.9K views
Powers building check in with a Dan Fan
scottgrove
11 likes • 228 views

🤫 Hidden Secrets

Look for hints of underground tunnels and rooftop access, often featured in local urban exploration content. :mag:

☕️ Cafe in the Atrium

Enjoy a coffee or snack at Sapporo's cafe nestled within the atrium's greenery. ☕

Powers Building. Good ol fashioned guilded-age dick measuring contest 😂😂 #fyp #architecture #rustbelt #city #funny #history #historical #tour #thnx4rollin #haveagooddayandabettertomorrow
adambikesrochester
18 likes • 571 views

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Explore the Atrium

Don't miss the stunning multi-story atrium, a peaceful garden escape within the building. :evergreen_tree:

📸 Architectural Details

Admire the intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out. :camerawithflash:

🤫 Hidden Secrets

Look for hints of underground tunnels and rooftop access, often featured in local urban exploration content. :mag:

☕️ Cafe in the Atrium

Enjoy a coffee or snack at Sapporo's cafe nestled within the atrium's greenery. ☕

🚗 Convenient Parking

Utilize the adjacent parking garage with a second-floor walkway for easy access. 🅿️

What Travellers Say

4.6
(106 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Powers Building for its stunning and expansive atrium, often described as a hidden garden oasis. The intricate Gilded Age architecture both inside and out is a major highlight, making it one of Rochester's most beautiful historical landmarks. While primarily an office building, its public spaces offer a peaceful and visually rewarding experience.

"I lived in Rochester all my life and for the first time i visited the powers building , never new it was that beautiful inside , strongly encourage anyone to visit and look at Rochester's history"

John Carter

"This is one of the most beautiful buildings in Rochester. It also has a hidden gem - one of the most expansive and impressive atriums around. From inside and out, there's absolutely nothing that isn't short of spectacular!

The first floor has retail which includes a tailor, an optometrist, and much more. It also has quite a few sculptures and art pieces. Entrances off of State Street and Main Street lead to the atrium. The atrium itself has another hidden gem in the form of Sapporo's cafe, which will be covered in a later review. Ferns and hostas proliferate throughout this multi-story extravaganza. You really feel like you're in a whimsical garden while walking through the space. Being that it's mostly professionals in the building it's nice and quiet. A perfect spot to read a book or simply have a seat and relax. No matter the weather, you'll leave this space feeling brand new. It's truly remarkable."

Teddy Sainphor

"This building is beautiful! The atrium lunch area is amazing. I would love to work in this building. The parking garage is conveniently located next door with a walkway on the 2nd floor attached so you don't have to go outside. If you have a chance you should go and check out the companies that are inside this building and see the architecture!"

Megan MacAnn

What People Like

Spectacular atrium
Beautiful architecture
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited public access to some areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Powers Building is located in downtown Rochester at 39 State St. It's easily accessible by car, with a convenient parking garage next door. Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes stopping nearby. TikTok

Yes, there's a parking garage conveniently located next to the Powers Building. It even has a second-floor walkway that connects directly to the building, so you don't have to go outside. Reddit

Absolutely! If you're in downtown Rochester, the Powers Building is a central landmark and easily walkable from many surrounding areas. Instagram

For exterior shots, try approaching from Main Street or State Street to capture its grand facade. The atrium offers fantastic interior photo opportunities. Instagram

The Powers Building is in the heart of downtown Rochester, close to other historical sites, shops, and restaurants like Squatchos vegan pizza. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general entry to the Powers Building, including its stunning atrium, is typically free. You can walk in and explore the public areas. Reddit

While the building houses offices, the public areas like the atrium are generally accessible during business hours on weekdays. It's best to check for any specific event hours if you're planning a visit. Reddit

Access to the rooftop is usually restricted and not part of public tours. However, urban explorers sometimes share glimpses of the views online. TikTok

Official guided tours may not be regularly scheduled, but the building's historical significance and architecture are often highlighted during local city tours. Instagram

The atrium is a public space within the building, so there is no admission fee to enter and enjoy its beauty. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the spectacular multi-story atrium filled with plants, art, and sculptures. The first floor also features retail spaces. Reddit

Yes, the atrium is described as a quiet and relaxing spot, perfect for reading a book or simply sitting and enjoying the ambiance. Reddit

The building houses various professional offices, including law firms, and retail spaces like a tailor and an optometrist. Reddit

While specific accessibility details aren't widely published, large public buildings like this generally aim for accessibility. The atrium is spacious. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in the public areas like the atrium, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the businesses and individuals working there. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Sapporo's cafe is located within the atrium, offering a convenient spot for a coffee or snack. Reddit

There are several dining options nearby. Squatchos, a vegan pizza shop, is located across the street and is highly recommended. Instagram

The atrium serves as a pleasant lunch area, especially with the cafe on-site and the general quiet atmosphere. Reddit

Squatchos offers a unique vegan pizza experience, and its proximity to the Powers Building makes it a great stop for lunch. Instagram

Sapporo's cafe, located in the atrium, is a good spot for coffee and light refreshments. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The multi-story atrium with its lush greenery and architectural details is a prime photography location. The exterior facade is also very photogenic. Reddit

Drone usage in urban areas is often restricted and requires permits. It's unlikely to be permitted for casual visitors. TikTok

Architectural photography, interior shots of the atrium, and urban exploration style photos are popular. TikTokReddit

While generally permitted in public areas, be mindful of private offices and individuals. Avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

Daytime hours will offer the best natural light filtering into the atrium, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Reddit

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