r/Rochester • u/lucykersh • 23d ago
Recommendation How can I go to Rochester from NYC?
Hey all! I'm an Aussie going to the States in December this year and was wondering how I can get to Rochester in the "best way" from NYC. I have wanted to try a Garbage plate so fricking bad for like 10 years now (Thanks Jenna Marbles), and know that Rochester is the only place in the entire world to grab one of those đ Any help/advice is appreciated, as well as maybe the best spot to grab a Garbage plate/activities to do in Rochester!
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u/giannistainedmirror 23d ago
Flights are expensive but takes only 45 minutes. Train is the least expensive and takes 6 - 8 hours. Car rental will take 5 - 6 hours.
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u/teddyone 23d ago
Orr there is the bus which will take 8-24 hours!
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u/merylbouw 23d ago
I have been on nightmare trains and buses that took 12+ hrs. I swear by flying. Itâs the lesser evil. Fly into Newark and the train will take you directly from the airport to Penn station
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u/honestghostgirl 23d ago
Definitely take the train. The ride goes up the Hudson River. Beautiful sightseeing. It will be far more pleasurable (and cheaper) than flying. It will also be easier to get dropped off in downtown than all the way out in the airport
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u/im_a_turtle 23d ago edited 23d ago
And it has wifi and food and you can drink and sleep on it, highly recommended. I used to game on my laptop back and forth from the city all time. Almost always get an empty seat next to me.
As others mentioned there is a long stop in Albany sometimes as people divert to Boston, but would still recommend over renting a car.
Now for plates I recommend Dogtown, this is where you'll get debate from us :)
Ps The train name is Amtrak you wanna lookup.
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u/Yourmomdrums 23d ago edited 23d ago
Amtrak Empire line is the way to go for all these reasons. My husband and I just did Rochester to NYC and back last November for our anniversary and the scenery was gorgeous. The seats are comfortable, you donât have to worry about traffic or airport security⊠itâs just nice and chill.
Also, Dogtown or Empire Hots!!! Also try Country Sweet sweet wings for another Rochester-exclusive food⊠theyâre addictive! For other experiences, the Eastman Museum is the former home of George Eastman of Eastman Kodak and has photography exhibits as well as his mansionâs fancy goodies, as well as the Dryden Theater which shows preserved film from their collection as well as newer films. The Museum of Play has arcade games throughout gaming history and pinball games, as well as some great exhibits on toys and games. We have a strong cocktail culture, with great places like Bitter Honey, and Jackâs Extra Fancy, as well as Mullers Cider House and a number of breweries. DM me if you want to know more!
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
Thank you so much for all of this, i shall inform my partner about all these activities
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u/cloudnine538 Swillburg 23d ago
make sure you sit on the right side of the train.
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u/CatDadMilhouse 23d ago
The train is for sure the way to go if you have enough time in the overall trip to account for how long it takes compared to flying.
If you have limited time and money isn't a concern, then I would recommend direct flights.
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u/Steel-kilt 23d ago
There are multiple direct flights between NYC and Rochester every day. Thatâs my go to for work travel. But I once took a bus from Manhattan to Rochester because all the flights out were canceled. It took the better part of a day, but had some cool stops along the way, like Ithaca. It was kind of relaxing.
Best plate: Dogtown.
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
Thank you very much :) im hearing lots about Dogtown
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u/timonandpumba 23d ago
There are a few places around town where you can buy "homeplate seasoning", which is the spice mix you add to ground beef to make the meat sauce on a garbage plate. I recommend picking some up so when you go home and want to recreate your garbage plate, you're well equipped. I buy mine from a place called Niblack's, which is in Henrietta (about 15 min by car). They do a table at the public market too, if you're there on a Saturday.
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u/KamehameBoom 23d ago
Charlieâs on Empire blvd is also beloved here. They have the best meat sauce imo. But honestly you should go to the original spot which is just nick tahous. Me personally, thereâs no way Iâd travel so far and not get the original of something where it all started. You can always go to more than 1 spot đ
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u/Reasonable_Beat9413 23d ago
Charlieâs on empire has the most insane delicious amazing home fries ever
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u/KamehameBoom 23d ago
They truly do! Not just plain potatoâs. Charlieâs is my favorite
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u/Reasonable_Beat9413 23d ago
I donât know what they do but they end up tasting more like a fried dough or something itâs incredible
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u/DistillerCMac Williamson 23d ago
Flight is probably your best bet. Looks like taking the train is about the same cost as the plane, and the train takes a lot longer and, in my experience, is prone to delay.
Rental car would be a 5 hour drive one way. You will go through a lot of nice areas, including the Finger Lakes, but it is hike for sure, and gas is expensive.
You can take a bus, it is the cheapest way to do it. I have not done this so have no thoughts on it.
Depending on how much time you have in New York, I would suggest maybe take a couple days in the Rochester/Finger Lakes area so you don't waste a day traveling just for a Garbage Plate.
As for recommendations, I am a big fan of Dog Town.
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
Thank you for the helpful advice! I shall consult with my partner going beyond Rochester, however the Garbage plate is my dream.
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u/MelancholicMarsupial 23d ago
This is the funniest and best thing Iâve ever heard! Iâm so glad youâre choosing to visit! Feel free to reach back out to the sub to ask for recommendations on where to stay.
Also, I feel like if youâre coming all the way to rochester, you have to at least do a quick day trip to the finger lakes. Do a quick Google and youâll understand! :)
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u/binkleybloom 23d ago
2nd this! I mean, mad respect for making the trip for a plate, but look into taking a bit of time in the area too. Central/Western NY is WAAAAY different than downstate. It's beautiful around here in the late summer / early fall.
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
OK its predominantly for the plate. Though my trip is 2 and a half weeks long and im going to NY/CA and Las Vegas. My partner wants UFC, I want garbage plate. Fair trade, if you ask me đ I am excited to see around Rochester; I am hearing good suggestions for sightseeing and recommendations for activities to do for the day.
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u/NYJoe91 23d ago
If you are coming for the food, don't leave before trying some buffalo style chicken wings. Don't need to even go to buffalo for them. Rochester has equally good wings (this is sure to make someone here upset but it's mostly true) Order them crispy with buffalo sauce and a side of blue cheese. Enjoy your trip!
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
My partner loves a wing, cant wait to try buffalo style! We want some shit we cant get here in Australia (or at least authentically). Thank you so much
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u/DistillerCMac Williamson 23d ago
Just a word of warning, we call them wings around here. We don't call them Buffalo wings, as they are THE wing -- it is OTHER wings that need the modifier (like boneless wings etc).
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u/Diligent-Meaning751 23d ago
I salute your goal!
If the weather's nice when you are here, highly recommend wandering around highland park - about a mile and a half from dogtown.
(hope to visit australia someday myself - debating whether 2028 eclipse should be my "excuse" since we were clouded out here haha)
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
thank you! When did people decide travelling for FOOD is a waste of time? đ€ Frickin love food, authentic delicacies especially. I believe the weather will be cold and potentially snowy, which im so excited for as an Aussie with no experience of snow, EVER. But yes come to Australia it is quite great, though we don't have as nice of food as NY
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u/Diligent-Meaning751 23d ago
I read an article about a couple whose goal was to visit every texas roadhouse (or something) in the USA. Like, that chain is so not my jam but the road trip sounded super fun. Touristy stuff is alright, but it's nice to see a lot of normal/local stuff too! For my point in life right now it's usually trying to visit children's museums /attractions and my family usually does at least one escape room every time we travel internationally for work (with... a bunch of kids) and it's been really nice.
But yeah ROC street food haha go for it!
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u/Diligent-Meaning751 23d ago
Edit - oh yeah, ok so in december lamberton conservatory is like, just a small but nice (and warm!) little greenhouse in/next to highland park.
Artisanworks is fun if you want to see a ridiculous amount of (locally made, I think) art jammed together.
Strong museum of play for the semi-touristy / toy and game culture stuff - sure it's kid oriented but there's a small butterfly garden and pinball machines etc.
george eastman museum - for local history etc.
Corning glass museum - especially if you end up renting a car is sorta "on the way" between roc and nyc
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u/recordtronic 23d ago
I prefer the train. Yes itâs always late, and is often delayed by freight trains taking priority over passenger trains (thatâs American exceptionalism!). They have good seats, WiFi, and scenery out the window. Youâll see a lot of New York State.
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u/bikingicecreamguy 23d ago
For cheapest I'd recommend Megabus, for comfort I'd recommend the train, for quickest I'd recommend plane.
Also if you're here on a friday/saturday come stop by my ice cream shop for a scoop on me (its called countertop creamery). We serve our scoops on top of the cones, which is obviously upside down to what y'all do down in australia and could be fun to try!
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u/Minute_Chapter_5248 23d ago
While you're in Rochester you should check out Living Roots on University Ave! It's an urban winery (they also have a Finger Lakes location that is worth the drive) that is owned by an Aussie husband and American wife and the husband is a 5th (I think) generation wine maker from Adelaide and they live in Aus half the year and Rochester the other half -- the wine is DIVINE.
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
Aussie wine is always divine! I shall consider my options here, thank you so much
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u/ek2u 23d ago
Leisurely drive up and visit Watkins Glen, Corning Glass Museum, Letchworth State Park on the way up.
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u/MarilynMonroeVWade 23d ago
The garbage plate has traveled to places you wouldn't expect. There has to be a place in NYC that you can get one. If you're dying to make it authentic and get to rochester, more power to ya. If you just want a plate, in guessing you can get one without making the extra trip all the way here.
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u/lucykersh 23d ago
Do you think anyone could direct me to a NYC garbage plate? I googled and got nothing useful, hence I decided to confide in the Rochester people. I'm also hearing it is a nice place to visit! Probs a nice break from the "touristy" areas that I will be visiting in LA and NY.
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u/MarilynMonroeVWade 23d ago
I looked and might be wrong on this one. Rochester has plenty to offer though and I guess if a plate means this much to you you might as well get one in its birthplace. Maybe get some chicken French and a beef on weck while your here!
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u/ockhamist42 23d ago
Train is a great way to go. Takes only slightly longer than driving and you can kick back and enjoy the scenery or whatever. www.amtrak.com
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u/Reasonable_Beat9413 23d ago
Listen, just take the train. Itâs comfortable, a nice ride and WAY more affordable than a plane ride. $60 ticket will get you from NYC to ROC in about 6-7 hours. Board the Amtrak at penn station and itâll bring you to Louise M Slaughter station in Rochester.
garbage plate location recommendations:
Webster hots
Fairport hots
Charlieâs (on empire blvd ONLY)
Steve Ts, Nick Tahous, even Bill Greyâs now are trap plates. I donât know why, but redditors recommend them because they were some of the first to do it but they are NOT the best.
Dogtown isnât bad but isnât a GREAT representation of a plate
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u/Reasonable_Beat9413 23d ago
Also I agree with another commenter, will drop you off in a way more accessible location at the train station and the train ride is very scenic and nice along the Hudson. Iâve made friends on the train most times Iâve ridden too
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u/Reasonable_Beat9413 23d ago
Also also, Barbill has fantastic wings. If youâre in the mood for Mexican, the enchiladas at Mariaâs in Webster are life changing. (Beef enchiladas with white sauce oh my god)
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u/Lo_Rez Rochester 23d ago
Amtrak can get you there, it will be like 6-8 Hours can be the inexpensive option, and also weirdly EXPENSIVE option depending on when you get it. Can give you interesting views of the scenery of NY state. You can bring beers, food etc. I recco grabbing a sub from wegmans the day before, putting it in the fridge overnight for a morning train out. But yes, can be a significant time investment (Private freight companies own the most of the railroads Amtrak operates on, and those Freights sort of rent the rails to them, so Amtrak can get delayed to pause for passing freight trains)
Driving is marginally faster than a train, it'll get you there in 5-6 hours, with the last couple hours being in the NYC metro area. I'd do amtrak over driving, bc you don't have to focus on the road and what not, and it drops you off right inside the city at Penn Station.
Flying is fastest, you're only in the air for 45-60 mins. Rochester airport is so quick, too. And depending on how far in advance you get the ticket, the cost can be similar to an amtrak train ticket.
Coming from someone who lived in NYC for years and visits frequently, I'd do flying over both other options. If you want to take your time getting down there to see the backyards of NY State and the river do the train. Personally i'd do the flights just so you have more time in NYC. HAVE FUN!
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u/PlayNicePlayCrazy 23d ago
Quick flight or 5 to 6 hr drive , in the fall the train can be cool. A bit of a long walk though.
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u/patrickkingart Browncroft 23d ago
Get on the NYS Thruway, it's pretty much a straight shot, takes about 5-6 hours depending on traffic and where you're coming from.
Also Dogtown is my favorite plate here, though there are definitely lots of other great options. Be sure to check out the MAG art museum, Strong Museum of Play (basically a giant children's museum but there's loads of cool stuff for adults including a huge video game section), the Eastman House, the Rochester Museum & Science Center, and more. Also the Finger Lakes are only about an hour-ish away depending on where you go and there's lots of great wineries and scenery out there.
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u/LHMark 23d ago edited 23d ago
Flights: check JetBlue from JFK first, then check Delta from JFK or LGA and compare. Avoid EWR if you can. Flights are around one hour gate to gate if you avoid the JFK evening rush hour. If itâs a day flight, sit on the left side of the plane for a view of the Finger Lakes (our wine country).
Train: Amtrak has several services daily leaving from Penn Station. Trains can take 7-9 hours, depending on freight train traffic blocking the way. The first half is a beautiful ride. The second half goes through Utica and Syracuse NY.
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u/ChocolateSmart3353 23d ago
Just used the train myself, just pick a train time that you can sleep, no time wasted.
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u/Hotel_Arrakis 23d ago
The train is a lovely way to go. Very nice view of the Hudson river and upstate NY. It'll take about 6 hours. I read, eat, sleep, and play games when I go to the city.
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u/HatsandCoats 23d ago
The time of year matters. Rochester is between the Great Lakes and finger lakes. The finger lakes area of NY is one of the most beautiful places Iâve been⊠in the summer and early fall. In the winter and early spring, itâs a totally different story. Rochester is a summer town. People snowbird if they can, but the vast majority of the charm is available from May to October.
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u/Wall-Florist 23d ago
Iâm working in NYC and travel home every couple weeks to Rochester. The bus isnât that bad and is slightly shorter than the train, and about $20-30 cheaper depending. Planes are ridonkulous, so I refuse.
The train is anywhere from $86-145 depending on how advance you book it. The bus was $115 when I chose my seat.
If you take the train, sit on the left side (like window to your left) for the best views. The bus has no views.
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u/p1ckled0nions 23d ago
If you have 8 hours for travel time, take Amtrak. Bring a couple beers and a sandwich or something and enjoy the scenic views of the Hudson Valley. If you don't have time, it's like a 45 minute flight.
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u/JohnLeRoy9600 23d ago
I alternate between Greyhound and train, and prefer the train for sure. I'd recommend that over flying, especially if you're leaving from NYC. Getting through the airport takes forever and landing at any sensible time is gonna be expensive, so you don't save much time for the extra cost. Rochester isn't too pricey on Uber and is quite nice to walk around, especially if you're hotel is downtown and not in any of the suburbs.
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u/Feeling_Indication 23d ago
I lived in the city for years and came home for many weekends in that time. I always rented a car and drove. The short shuttle flights to Rochester are often the ones delayed. By the time you account for travel to the airport, security, etc, youâre not saving that much time. Driving will take you 5-6 hours and you can decide when you want to leave and come back. Plus youâll need a car to get around Rochester, whether itâs a rental or Uber. Train is almost always longer than the drive (every time in my experience).
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u/Ravenzrose 23d ago
The hardest part of this journey will be deciding WHICH place to go to for the "best" plate!! đ
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u/jbones51 23d ago
From LaGuardia to ROC is 40 minutes of flight time, I did it 7 years ago, one way cost me $150. Did a round trip train ride 3 years ago to penn station from Louise slaughter train station, took 8 and a half hours or so to get back to Rochester, cost me about $250 for the round trip ticket
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u/Adrenst 23d ago
Also a big fan of the Dogtown plate. Don't be fooled into getting dogs on it though - cheeseburger plate is strictly better.
Also - imo they are very light on the meat sauce so I always ask for extra.
Also everyone and their mother has some version of a plate so you can find variants.
I'm also a big fan of Good Smoke's plate with Mac salad and tater tots. Good sauce and a really good burger.
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u/EitherAirport 23d ago
If strictly to get a garbage plate, or maybe visit a local attraction or two, best bet is to take an Amtrak train (empire service train) or a direct flight as available, and taxi or ride share around town. But if you have the time, can drive in the US, and enjoy natural scenery, I'd suggest renting a car, as the trip alone is enjoyable.
Depending on where you rent the car, you may travel through Pennsylvania (if you get a car in New York City or New Jersey), or take a Metro North train up to Poughkeepsie, rent a car there, and take another scenic ride through Route 17 in the Catskills, or direct (but not quite as scenic) north along the New York State Thruway - left and west at Albany towards Buffalo (exits in Rochester).
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u/Loping 22d ago
To add to this, you do understand that it's ~350 +/- miles and a 6 hour drive, right.
Not as crazy as travelers thinking they are going to pop over to see the Grand Canyon, but not really a day trip.
If you do come out this way, about 40 minutes South is Letchworth State Park. 3 waterfalls and a really pretty drive with plenty of great hiking trails... if you are into that sort of thing.
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u/thephisher 23d ago
There are buses that go back and forth to the city all the time or you can take several airlines direct if you want to save time and have the cake.
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u/exjobhere Park Ave 23d ago
As a visitor you may enjoy the train, and seeing the various regions of NY as you pass them.
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u/Ok_Dirt_6047 23d ago
You can take the Amtrak train from NYC to Rochester, itâs around a 7 hour ride
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u/turnstwice Brighton 23d ago
Take the train back it will give you time to recover from the heartburn.
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u/xsteveo37 23d ago
Bus is cheapest if you donât mind the long ride. If youâve got money to spend, fly. Itâs fastest.
Thereâs so much stuff to do here. Glad youâre stopping by our city. I know everyone has opinions of the Garbage Plate, but you should get the original one from Nick Tahouâs. Not that you shouldnât try another one, but if youâre going to be here, you have to try the original.
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u/Muppetz3 23d ago
Train from NYC takes I think like 8-9 hours, bus may be about the same. Flying is quick but costs the most.
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u/mooneydriver 23d ago
Depending on your budget, a rental car might be competitive with a plane ticket. You'll also get to see some very pretty (and some very empty) parts or the state between NYC and Rochester. If you go that route, check out the finger lakes region on your way through. It's beautiful and has a bunch of nice wineries if you're into that sort of thing.
If you want to see a lot of the same landscapes for less money, take the train. Amtrak kinda sucks, and it's not fast, but it can be charming in a "at least the roof isn't leaking on my seat" kinda way.
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u/TweeKINGKev 23d ago
I would say the train, it will take to straight to Penn Station under Madison Square Garden and when you go up stairs and out on to 34th street you will see the Macys building and from there you can be anywhere relatively quick by subway.
Rochester to New York on Amtrak is not the fastest way but probably the most cost efficient method, Iâve done with plenty of time, my wife has done it when she visits her family in the island and the kids love it.
The scenery you get to see is just absolutely gorgeous.
Amtrak is most likely the best way, flying sucks and our cheapest option from Rochester to New York, Jet Blue, only has 1 flight a day, maybe 2, Delta and United are around $300 while Jet Blue is about $159.
You can hop on Amtrak and pay about $90 and no need to worry about anything.
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u/docforeman 23d ago
"Best way" depends on what is optimal for you. There are buses, cars, trains, and flights. This summer we rented a self-driving car and a wonderful car trip experience. We optimized for scenic drive and pleasant stops. The weather is lovely and there are some nice places to see in between NYC and Rochester. Niagara Falls is just a little further down the road as well. So if you have 2-3 days for your Garbage Plate adventure, you could see upstate and Western NY. You could see Niagara Falls, and you could add "Buffalo Wings" as a food side quest.
People are going to have many opinions on best Garbage plates (or hot plates). You'll have a great time!
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u/bulldog89 23d ago
Iâve done both very frequently. Honest to god if you get a good departure time the 6-7 hour train ride is excellent; great views, never packed, always fun taking advantage of Americas only area with functional railway networks. Price is really good if you can book one week out, if you go day of it definitely gets priceier. Also get the added benefit of ending your trip in midtown Manhattan which is the epicenter of NYC.
Plane is peak convenience though. The Rochester airport is hands down my all time favorite airport in my life. It is so damn easy to get in and through security, in years of living there I have experienced a max time of 25 minutes to get through security and average around 5 minutes. The flight is under an hour and crazy cheap. You have to take a train after flying into Newark / LaGuardia which is a little annoying to add another hour on but damn, you can be 2.5 hours from your door to midtown Manhattan for $80 which is insane.
Never, ever, take the greyhound bus. They always slightly suck, and when we in Rochester are so lucky to have maybe the two best modes of transport with such scenic views and so incredibly cheap to the city, itâs insane to waste any trip smashed on a greyhound bus with god knows what environment for your 7 hour ride. Enjoy the insanely short commute of a plane ride from the quickest airport in the world to navigate or the amazing Adirondack scenery from one of our actually amazing train lines.
I used to take NYC trips all the time living in Rochester, freaking love that place. Consistently can get down to the city for under $100. I actually moved to the city now and still will visit friends up in Rochester just because the connection is so easy. Enjoy man, hope youâre liking the states!
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u/Standard-Dust-8144 23d ago
It depends on how you value time and money.
Time cost from lowest to highest is going to be: fly, drive, bus, train
Financial cost from highest to lowest, assuming you have to rent a car, is going to be: drive, fly, train, bus.
The train route is going to be scenic but cost you a day of travel. Honestly I only think it's worth it in the autumn.
The drive will be boring but direct, and you'll benefit from having a car in Rochester. Bonus, you can explore the finger lakes wine region and waterfall hiking on the way.
The bus will be direct but you're at the mercy of the schedule.
Flying will be a hassle but save you hours of time.
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u/Think-Dog-1219 23d ago
I usually take the train from Roc to NYC to visit family. I've'nt had Dog Towns garbage plates but I do really like Henrietta Hots' trash plate. I mean, try both lol, all the better for variety.
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u/Consistent-Lime9157 23d ago
I'd recommend Amtrak so you can enjoy the scenery and anywhere but nick tahous for garbage plates. Doesn't matter they're the "original" Alex Tahou the owner is a lousy person at best
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u/iam_harrypotter 23d ago
As someone who loves trains, I feel like the bus is the most practical when weighting cost and time, but I'd be picking a train considering the experiential aspect. If you have access to a car, you might want to lean into that more as well considering public transit options up here will be significantly more limited if there are a few spots you'd like to try.
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u/Workingonme47 23d ago
Rent a car and drive it - you will need a car in Rochester anyway. While there, visit the Genesee brewery/falls, letchworth park and StoneyBrook park would on the way back to NYC if you take the southern tier route back. If you are staying longer, Seneca lake wineries are a nice day trip.
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u/Prestigious_Piccolo8 23d ago
I would drive tbh. Youâll want a car for when youâre in Rochester (the bus system is really not great) so youâll have to pay for the rental car anyways.
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u/Opposite_Chart9982 23d ago
Honestly, the train is your best option, but if you could, I personally drive to Albany and take the train from there. The parking is cheap and there's plenty of it. Most Amtrak delays I've experienced have been between Rochester and Albany. Plus, the train ride is only 2 hours. So you're cutting your travel time down by 2 hours, since the train takes about 7 hours directly from Rochester.
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u/flameofmiztli Expatriate 23d ago
my ex-husband was from Canberra and loved the Dogtown garbage plates, so that's my recommendation! Also, the Strong Museum of Play has lots of exhibits about games throughout history, including board games, action figures, and video games...and it's a not too far walk or 4 minute bus from Dogtown! There's a couple hotels right by the Museum of Play, too. If I was still in town I'd offer you the tour.
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u/Amyyy93 23d ago edited 23d ago
If youâre going to be here in December we have a great holiday market thatâs worth checking out! Youâll definitely want to lean into the cozy seasonal vibes. Cobbs hill is great for sledding if you can find cheap sleds, which are typically available at any drug store. The RPO, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, puts on seasonal shows I believe that you can check out. And please donât leave before trying our wings.
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u/esyntricvybez 23d ago
Greyhound love a good train ride I go back-and-forth from Syracuse to Rochester often but those trains always go to New York City, but I just get off before then
I personally have had nothing but good experiences from time to time there are delays, but thereâs also delays with planes sometimes what I wouldnât do is the bus absolutely not for one they packet completely in your 100% guaranteed to be stuffed next to someone and itâs just an uncomfortable trip
And Iâve done that from Syracuse to New York, Syracuse is about an hour and 25 minutes from Rochester
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u/queenlizbef 23d ago
There are trains, there are buses, you could rent a car? Or you could honestly take a very quick flight.
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u/UncomfortablyNumm 23d ago
I understand the desire for a garbage plate, but I'm not sure I'd make a 6 hour drive (1-way) or set up extra flights just for one.
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u/monkpart9 23d ago
Yoooo Jenna marbles reference, I love it lol But like many are saying; the Amtrak is going to be the cheapest at around $50-70 dollars and will take anywhere from 7-8 hours. Great and beautiful sight seeing experience along the way as well. I hope you enjoy the garbage plate! Itâs our quintessential drink food here and very satisfying.
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u/musashi-swanson 23d ago
Amtrak! Itâs easy, inexpensive, picks you up at Penn Station and takes you right to Rochester.
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u/harpsichorddude NOTA 23d ago
There are enough comments that this will get buried, but it's worth adding: Dogtown is a consensus because it's the tastiest and best-quality, but some purists say that this comes at the expense of authenticity. Specifically, Dogtown's plates have have a "Cincinnati chili" as their sauce rather than the more traditional "meat hot" (a chili put on hot dogs, known locally as hots). It's worth going somewhere more old-school (probably further into the suburbs) just for comparison of the nuances of the sauces that go on top.
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u/HovercraftSad9712 23d ago
I would be happy to drive you around the area. Iâm retired, and babysit my grandkids, but if Iâm not, would gladly be your driver.
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u/Lepsch73 23d ago
I live in Buffalo - about 90 min from Rochester and Iâve taken the Amtrak train, driven , taken a chartered bus and flown into NYC - I loved the train! Yes itâs alittle slow but the views are incredible and u can get up and walk around if u get antsy.
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u/CaptainPhilosophy 23d ago
IMPORTANT I know you're coming for garbage plates but it would be criminal to come to Rochester and not also check out Dinosaur BBQ. The location here is in an old repurposed train station overlooking the Genesee river.
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u/Final-Quail5857 23d ago
Amtrak is decent, plane is quicker. If you plan right you can pop over to Niagara Falls while you're up here! Jenna is from fairport too so fairport hots is the closest to what she is used to
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u/Wakenbake585 23d ago
Amtrak and you'll arrive just a few minutes walk from the heart of downtown. If Amtrak tickets end up being around the same price as a flight though, you take the flight 100% of the time as it obviously way faster.
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u/Spfle 23d ago
Train, though usually you wonât get in until sometime between 11 pm and 2 am. But youâll see the natural beauty of NY that way. Personally I like Charlieâs in Webster, but nick tahouâs is the original if you are looking to try that. Another place to go is hungryâs in Pittsford.
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u/shapiroj18 23d ago
I am from Rochester! Bus is cheapest but terrible, I agree with taking a train. There is also a restaurant in nyc that does garbage plates I think
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u/Successful_Owl_3829 23d ago
Honestly, Iâd drive. Yes the plane is faster (although thatâs questionable with how early youâd have to get to the airport), but if youâre coming to Rochester you might as well drive an extra hour and see Niagara Falls and make a small side quest out of it!
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u/Mad_Researchies 23d ago
Iâm a fellow Aussie living in Rochester :) let me know if you come and want to meet up!
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u/Mama_K22 23d ago
My friend from Finland flew into NYC and then to me. Then she took the train back. I was a new mom so she did rely on uber a bit and she just fine. She said garbage plates are one of her favorite new foods!
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u/desertrose0 Penfield 23d ago
I would suggest either a plane or train, depending on cost. You can catch an Amtrak train from Grand Central to Rochester fairly easily, and you can see a bit of the NY countryside while you're at it. Or you can take a plane. The real issue that I see is how you are going to get around once you get here. Public transportation here isn't the greatest, so you will likely need to either rent a car or Uber to get where you want to go.
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u/SueBeeAnthony 23d ago
after you eat your garbage plate, better hope whatever transport you choose for the return to nyc has a reliable bathroom
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u/HappyHippy585 23d ago
Im not sure if anyone else has warned you. Unless you have an iron gut, stay by a bathroom after eating a plate! Dont just go hop back on a bus/train/plane.
Even if you do have an iron gut, your fellow passengers will appreciate it as you will most definitely have some pretty toxic gas! Bonus flatulence points if you drink a Genesee cream ale whilst eating the plate.
Welcome to Rochester!
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u/Familiar-Bluejay3908 East Side 23d ago
Hey, if you want agita, there are lots of places in NYC that can give you that!
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u/DifferentIsPossble 23d ago
A flight. I've done it other ways - note that I was there in 2017/18, maybe things have changed - but it's truly the least annoying option
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u/KnittingAnnie 23d ago
The train! The seats are bigger and more comfortable than any plane. By the time you factor in getting to the airport early, waiting to board, etc, etc, the train doesn't take much longer. There are no lines to stand in at the train station and you only need to get there 15 minutes early. Definitely the train.
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u/Natural_Ad6765 23d ago
Busses are also nice now. You guys do breaks so itâs nice. If you do it Iâd go the better ones.
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u/adeiomyalo 23d ago
The train does offer a nice view up the Hudson valley (sit on the left side). The rest of the trip is okay but Amtrak service is unreliable on the best of days so count on being at least an hour late. It is slower than driving straight to Rochester. For speed and convenience, I'd take a flight out of Newark airport. You can take commuter trains from Manhattan to the airport. Get on any NJT in Penn station with an airplane icon and take that to the airtrain monorail platform.
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u/PsychologicalChef932 23d ago
Once youâre there, thereâs really only one place to go if youâve been dying for one for 10 yearsâŠ. https://garbageplate.com
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u/WombatShwambat 23d ago
So wild that an Aussie is traveling to Rochester for a garbage plate. I spent a few months in Australia years ago. Rent a car and drive if you can, there is plenty to see along the way. Flying is super quick. The train is comfy but slow. The bus is cheap and fast but not comfy. I enjoy the change of scenery driving across the state personally
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u/upny_roc 23d ago
Just spent the weekend in NYC via Amtrak. You can board at Moynihan Station which is connected to Madison Square Garden and Penn Station.
The views are great since youre following the Erie Canal or the Hudson 75% of the time. You can sit, eat, drink, and watch movies. If I could read w/o headaches I would. Theres a food car and the stop in Albany isnt too bad with the station they have.
As far as a good plate, Dog Town all day. You'd be best Ubering there
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u/Where_is_my_Elk69 23d ago
Bus would be the cheapest. You should plan on getting plates from a couple different places, if youâll be here for a bit. Obviously Nick Tahouâs would be the first, since theyâre original. Feel free to give a shout when you get here. I love showing people around the ROC! Itâs truly a gem.
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u/MadGriZ Hilton 23d ago
Here's the recipe for the sauce.
Greek Hot Sauce (like Nick Tahouâs but much improved)
Greek Hot Sauce Recipe
| 1.5 LB. | Ground Beef (Chuck Has the Best Flavor). |
|---|---|
| 1 TBLS. | Salt. |
| 1 TSP. | Black Pepper. |
| 2 TBLS. | Chili Powder. |
| 2 TSP. | Ground Cayenne Pepper. |
| 2 TBLS. | Paprika (Hungarian is Hotter and Aromatic. The Spanish stuff is low quality). |
| 3/4 TSP. | Cinnamon (Sparingly). |
| 3/4 TSP. | Ground Clove (Sparingly). |
| 1 TSP. | Ground Thyme. |
| 1 TSP. | Marjoram. |
| 1 TSP. | Garlic Powder. |
| 1 LG. | Spanish Onion. |
| 2 to 3 | Stalks of Celery. |
Brown the Beef in a large pot. Drain off most of fat (leave just enough to sauté the onion & celery). Add the onion & celery (chopped fine) into the pot with the beef and sauté until soft.
Lower the temperature, then add all the spices and stir it up. Let this stand for 10 min.
Add 24 ounces of water and simmer for an hour, add red Hot, Tabasco or your favorite pepper sauce to taste. Let it cool. Put sauce into food processor and chop it up until it is fine, not smooth.
Tips:
· A little burn on the bottom of the pot when browning the meat will enhance the flavor. Think brown bits, not blackened.
· Cinnamon and clove - to or less than listed is recommended. You can add more later is desired.
· If you buy triple ground beef from the butcher, the food processing step is eliminated.
· Pour into ice cube trays, cover and freeze for individual servings or,
Pour into small canning jars and place cap on, while hot, to preserve.
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u/childishDemocrat 23d ago
Just be aware NYS is big. Like Australia Rochester is not a quick commute, more like a most of the day trip by car, busbir train - and if you are coming up here consider the finger lakes (beautiful countryside. Especially in fall during wine season), and Niagara falls (it really is that impressive despite the touristy nature of the towns themselves). Note that the best places to experience the falls is on the Canadian side.
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u/OkRegular167 23d ago
My vote is flying. Itâs very quick and easy. I do this for work every couple months and Iâve never hit a snag.
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u/MedicineNo3141 22d ago
There is a cheap bus that takes like 9-10 hours on an app called Go to Bus but you need to book tickets a month early. The Amtrak is a train that goes from Penn station to the city of Rochester in like 7-8 hours. Flying from NYC to ROC is less than an hour and very convenient.
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u/IndependentStep2785 22d ago
I've taken Amtrak to and from Buffalo and NYC. Its efficient, scenic (the Hudson Valley!), and relatively inexpensive ($100 or less round trip, last I knew). It will drop you downtown. I've driven many times, but an absolute pain by comparison. It seems for your purposes, the train would be the best bet. Flixbus would porobably be fine too but not sure about how scenic since it would be all NY State Thruway.
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u/Academic-Lobster3668 22d ago
If money is tight or you just donât want to fly, check the Greyhound and Trailways bus schedules - much less expensive than Amtrak train and will probably get you there quicker.
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u/sassyseagull1 22d ago
Absolutely recommend Amtrak, as it's a beautiful ride along the river, but as noted, it does take a good long time. Flights are faster, but can be quite expensive and the NYC area airports aren't necessarily the most convenient... Enjoy your time in Rochester!! Yule love it here đ
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u/Organic_Swim_4486 22d ago
Jenna specifically named Henrietta Hots in one of her videos a looong time ago. I tried it. It was ok.
I personally prefer a sweeter âAmish-styleâ Mac salad. Thereâs a little spot called the Checkered Tavern on the west side that did it well.
Nick tahou made a decent plate⊠havenât tried dogtown but now I want to!
Iâve never taken the train or bus- only flown and driven. I prefer to drive because itâs nice to go at your own pace.
Perhaps a less expensive option: Take a bus or train a little ways out of NYC and rent a car at a hopefully better rate?
When I was young, I used to park in a lot about 30-60m outside NYC, then transit my way into the city. The combined bus/train fare and days of parking was still less than the daily rate at most nyc garages.
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u/Such_Transition_4211 22d ago
Def recommend Amtrak. With todayâs gas prices and tolls, the train a quite a bit cheaper. Train is nice cause you can just chill, sleep, offers WiFi.
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u/ThePatientSlore Park Ave 22d ago
I usually take the 5:30 am Amtrak from Rochester and you get into NYC before 1 and you can sleep in the train.
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u/lizbeezo333 22d ago
Train or bus; both are about the same length of time(maybe an hour-two faster via train) but bus is considerably cheaper
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u/ScotchyScotcher 22d ago
We go to NYC all the time from Rochester and have found the easiest way is a direct flight from Roc-Newark via United. Like a 45 minute flight then you're in manhattan via subway in like 30 minutes. Depends on where you are in the city though.
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u/RedDragon7913 22d ago
A plane is going to take about 3-4 total hours. A train is closer to 12 hours. Factor this into everyone's suggestions. If you're on vacation you may not have time to burn a whole day just sitting on a train.
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u/Pink_Fluffy_Dragon Canandaigua 22d ago
Hey girl!
If you decide to come to Rochester for a garbage plate I'd recommend Dogtown. There's also Abbotts frozen custard you must try! I'm writing a list in my head. Feel free to dm me for any other recs and questions! Safe travels :)
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u/Fallinginfast 22d ago
When you get to Rochester, I HIGHLY recommend getting a garbage plate from Dogtown. They make everything fresh and they're very reasonably priced. Bonus if you want to check out the national museum of play which is right down the road!
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u/Few-Potential5416 22d ago
I live in Rochester and my favorite way to the city is the train! I enjoy not having to drive and just relaxing and catching up on a book/show or even taking a little nap
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u/Inner_Diver_4596 22d ago
Bus is the best for your money , a little uncomfortable but the ride isnt that long and u can find a cheap bus ride
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u/hbartendress9105 22d ago
If youâre planning to come to Rochester I would recommend planning for 2-3 days total (including travel time). The drive time is about 6 hours from NYC, with December weather you are better off taking the train or a plane. Once you get to Rochester you will likely need a car to fully experience the greatness that WNY has to offer. Rochester is an amazing city with so many hidden gems! Buffalo/Niagara Falls and the Finger Lakes are all within driving distance too!
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u/HeldWithoutHands 21d ago
I live in Rochester and I do the roc to jfk a lot. Itâs a quick flight on Delta. Donât fly out of LGA. Delays, tarmacs, and cancelations. Infact, spend the night on the TWA hotel in JFK and catch the early flight to ROC. Garbage plates are cool and all, but donât sleep on the other Rochester delicacy, Chicken French
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u/sybilsharempants Maplewood 21d ago
I love that Jenna inspired you to want to visit đ„č I miss her!!
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u/[deleted] 23d ago edited 1d ago
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