The Folk Art Guild Guest Center

Workshops, Retreats, Family and Group Gatherings

At the heart of the Rochester Folk Art Guild, the Guest Center is where people come together.

This is where our community hosts workshops, welcomes visiting groups, and offers space for meaningful time away. From artist residencies and educational retreats to family gatherings and creative weekends, the Guest Center is open to anyone seeking connection, inspiration, or rest.

Whether you’re leading a program or joining one of ours, the Guest Center is a place where gatherings take root. We welcome facilitators, families, and organizations to host their own events here, just as we use the space for many of our workshops and public offerings. With overnight lodging and flexible meeting areas surrounded by 350 acres of farmland, forest, and working artist studios, the Guest Center offers a chance to experience the land, the rhythm, and the spirit of life at East Hill Farm.

Our Guest Facilities

Romeo

Named for the balcony that graces its second floor, Romeo is our main guest building. The first floor features a spacious gathering area for programs and meals, a fully-equipped kitchen, an accessible bedroom for two, and three full bathrooms (one accessible bathroom). The second floor offers dormitory-style lodging. Additional accommodations are available in our Four Winds cabins.

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The Land

Our 350-acre property encompasses hills, fields, forests, and streams. Enjoy hiking trails with stunning views of the Finger Lakes hills and valleys, abundant wildlife, and seasonal wonders like the Monarch butterfly migration.

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Craft Studios

The Guild is home to vibrant studios for pottery, woodworking, weaving, sewing, and more. Our artisans produce beautiful handcrafted items and offer classes, apprenticeships, and demonstrations.

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East Hill Gallery

Visit East Hill Gallery to explore and purchase the work of our talented artisans. Discover ceramics, turned wood, glass jewelry, hand-sewn clothing, eco-printed pieces, and more, all crafted with care and creativity.

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Services and Classes

Enhance your guest experience with our diverse range of classes and services, including yoga, pottery sessions, mindful chair yoga, reiki healing, seasonal workshops, sourdough bread baking, woodturning workshops, and more.

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Plan Your Retreat

Hosting your artist retreat at the Rochester Folk Art Guild means joining a community dedicated to conscious living, sustainability, and creativity. Our retreat center provides an inspiring environment for both group and individual artist retreats, offering a peaceful and creative space surrounded by nature. Whether you're organizing a workshop, planning a retreat, or seeking a personal artistic escape, our serene campus fosters creativity and connection. We aim to build a mutually beneficial relationship with retreat facilitators, grounded in trust and shared values. For more information or to start planning your event, please visit Host a Retreat or contact our program director at programs@folkartguild.org

Experience Our Community

While staying at our retreat center, guests are encouraged to unplug and fully engage with the natural surroundings and creative atmosphere. We do not provide televisions, and cell phone service may be limited in some areas, but wireless internet is available throughout the campus. Our residents live onsite and ask that all visitors help us to create a focused and mindful environment.

Explore and Connect

Discover the beauty and tranquility of East Hill Farm, where art, education, and sustainability come together. Join us for public events, workshops, and retreats that inspire creativity, personal growth, and a deeper connection with nature. Visit our full calendar to learn more about our public programming.

Contact Us

Ready to plan your retreat? Contact our program director at programs@folkartguild.org or click below to start your journey with the Rochester Folk Art Guild. We look forward to welcoming you and your group to our vibrant community.

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