Coming from the tropical country of Cambodia, I grew up seeing my family and neighbors visit the local market every day for fresh produce and groceries: everything from fish, meat, vegetables, and spices to countless other essentials. Our markets were always lively and bustling with the sounds of bargaining, the aroma of food from nearby stalls, and the simple joy of human connection.
Studying in the U.S. has been quite a shift from that familiar scene. As an RIT student, my go-to grocery spots are Walmart, Wegmans, and Aldi, which are conveniently accessible via RIT shuttles and public buses. Shopping here is undoubtedly convenient, with options ranging from in-person to online, and everything from groceries to household items, clothes, and electronics under one roof. Walmart, in particular, feels like a one-stop shop for nearly all your daily needs.
Still, as convenient as these stores are, they lack something I have grown to value: freshness, a sense of community, and that human connection I associate with local markets back home. To my pleasant surprise, Rochester Public Market offers a refreshing alternative.
What is Rochester Public Market?
The City of Rochester Public Market is a must-visit for a vibrant, community-centered shopping experience. Located at 280 North Union Street, this historic market has been a staple in the community since 1905. You’ll find everything from fresh local produce and international goods to meats, seafood, dairy, baked treats, and specialty items, sold across three covered outdoor sheds and one fully indoor shed.
Open year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the market offers a unique blend of local flavor and global variety. Saturday is the busiest day, with the most vendors. You can visit from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays, and from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
How Can You Get There?
The Public Market is accessible via the public 41 bus, followed by a short walk from the bus stop. Public bus fare is just $1 each way. For students living on campus, RIT shuttle buses often run to the market on weekends during the academic year. Check CampusGroups for updated schedules and announcements.
Alternative? If getting there is a challenge due to time or transportation, keep an eye out for Curbside Market events, which are occasionally held on campus at SHED. These events also offer fresh produce, bringing a bit of the market experience directly to you.
Beyond Just a Market
To me, Rochester's Public Market is more than just a place to shop. It’s a community space where you can find unique local products you won’t see in big-name stores, from seasonal fruits grown by local farmers to handmade accessories and artisanal foods from small brands.
Beyond groceries, the market also hosts garage sales, flower markets, live music, and community-centered events, offering a rich and engaging experience for anyone, especially international students or those new to Rochester. It’s a great way to explore the local culture and connect with the community.
Stay updated on events through the City of Rochester Public Market's Instagram.
About the author
Soursdey (Hi)! I’m Tika — a Fulbright scholar from Cambodia studying for my Masters in Business Administration (MBA). I’m endlessly inspired by the intersection of business, technology, and education. This life-changing chapter in Rochester is more than just a degree — it’s a journey of discovery, growth, and adventure. Come along as I share my digital grad school diary filled with moments, travels, and sparks of inspiration.
