Upper Falls
Discover Upper Falls: Rochester’s Riverside Renaissance Neighborhood
Where the roar of historic waterfalls meets modern urban energy, Upper Falls is emerging as one of Rochester’s most compelling neighborhoods for those who crave authentic industrial character with downtown convenience. This riverside district, stretching along the dramatic Genesee River gorge, offers unparalleled historic atmosphere, outdoor recreation, and revitalization momentum—all at prices that remain surprisingly accessible compared to other downtown-adjacent areas.
A Neighborhood Where History Meets Reinvention
Upper Falls’ landscape tells Rochester’s industrial story through:
Converted 19th-century mills now housing loft apartments with exposed brick and timber beams
Workers’ cottages that sheltered generations of factory employees
Massive abandoned industrial complexes awaiting creative reuse
New mixed-income developments rising along the river
The area’s heritage shines through in:
✔ Cobblestone streets near the High Falls
✔ Original factory signage preserved on buildings
✔ The 1842 Susan B. Anthony Dam still controlling the river
Urban Adventure at Your Doorstep
Residents enjoy:
5-minute walk to High Falls’ restaurants and entertainment
Direct access to the Genesee Riverway Trail
10-minute stroll to downtown offices and nightlife
Breathtaking gorge views from apartment windows
Emerging neighborhood assets:
✔ New microbreweries in industrial spaces
✔ Artist studios in converted factory buildings
✔ Riverside patio dining with waterfall views
Community Shaping the Future
The Upper Falls Neighborhood Association drives progress through:
Historic preservation advocacy
Clean-up initiatives along the gorge
Partnerships with developers for sensitive reuse
Arts programming celebrating industrial heritage
Recent signs of transformation:
✔ New market-rate apartments in former factories
✔ Improved pedestrian connections to downtown
✔ Increased police patrols along the riverwalk
Why Urban Pioneers Are Flocking Here
Most dramatic natural setting near downtown
Authentic industrial character you can’t replicate
Walkable urban lifestyle with parking available
Below-market prices for downtown proximity
Front-row seat to neighborhood transformation
For those who want more than just an apartment—but a chance to live in Rochester’s most iconic industrial landscape—Upper Falls offers the ultimate urban adventure. Here, your morning run winds past roaring waterfalls, your home could be a converted factory space, and your backyard is the spectacular Genesee gorge.
Ready to be part of Rochester’s next great neighborhood? Let’s explore Upper Falls’ unique living spaces together.
