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City of Rochester

from 2023 Annual Issue of LIFESTYLE 4 Greater Rochester

from 2023 Annual Issue of LIFESTYLE 4 Greater Rochester, page 51

OAKLAND COUNTY GENESEE COUNTY

The City of Rochester was first settled in 1817. Rochester’s history is closely tied to the Clinton River and Paint Creek. Both tributaries provided the waterpower that made Rochester an early industrial center.

While those days are long past, these waterways still benefit city residents with scenic bike rides, fly fishing for trout, canoeing and kayaking. Rochester has matured into a city of great beauty featuring municipal parks, winding nature trails and access to everywhere.

Rochester is home to one of Michigan’s oldest Christmas parades, which is broadcast locally. The city also hosts the “Big Bright Light Show” for the Christmas season. The Show is a display of more than a million light bulbs on Main Street buildings that draws thousands of sightseers from all over the Metro Detroit area each night through the end of the season.

Downtown Rochester’s refurbished Main Street is host to a vibrant shopping district with its unique mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, cafes, specialty stores and service providers. Just off Main Street is one of Metro Detroit’s best bakeries, Give Thanks Bakery (the almond croissants are a must!). And, just around the corner is The Rochester Brunch House and Tonia’s Victorian Rose Tea Room. Minutes from downtown is Fogler’s Farm Market, cider mills, championship golf courses, hiking trails and Stony Creek Metropark.

Residents enjoy quiet streets, a broad range of housing options, fabulous schools and an active Older Persons Commission. Rochester is historic, vibrant, changing and is committed to being business-friendly and familywelcoming. Come take a look and enjoy!