The past serves the future.
YOUNG URBAN PRESERVATIONISTS
(YUPs)
of The Landmark Society of Western New York
We are an emerging generation of preservationists in the greater Rochester region dedicated to promoting inclusive, modern, and innovative preservation practices to help revitalize communities and our built environment. And we have fun doing it!
VOLUNTEER WITH YUPs!
Looking for ways to get involved with YUPs? We meet monthly to discuss and plan events, volunteer opportunities, and social gatherings. Join us and help us get involved in our communities and preservation efforts! Email yup@landmarksociety.org for our current meeting schedule. We’d love to see you there!
We are planning for 2026! Let us know if you are interested in getting involved!
As we head into spring, the season of renewal and rebirth, the Young Urban Preservationists (YUPs) are shaking off winter and gearing up for a productive, fun, and collaborative year ahead. Like the landscapes and historic places we care about, YUPs are ready to bloom—and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting one!
UPCOMING YUP EVENTS:
Architecture in the Wild
These are our “wildly” popular walking tours through the Rochester Brainery. Tickets for each walking tour go on sale approximately 2 months prior to the event and must be purchased through the Rochester Brainery at https://rochesterbrainery.com/collections/young-urban-preservationists.
Doors Open Toronto Trip (May 23–24, 2026)
Each spring, Doors Open Toronto offers free access to hundreds of remarkable buildings rarely open to the public - and others that typically charge admission. While its impossible to see everything (we wish!), YUPs are busy at work planning a curated itinerary for the day to explore many of the participating buildings as a group. We will also be coordinating a self-pay dinner with those who travel with us for the evening of Saturday, May 23rd. We will also provide attendees with hotel accommodation recommendations and a list of other “must see” places around Toronto should you decide to extend your trip.
REGISTRATION OPEN APRIL 27th - MAY 4th!
Day Trip to Buffalo (Summer 2026)
We’re planning a day trip to Buffalo to explore the city’s unique and impressive architecture.
More information and registration to come!
Bikes, Beers & Buildings (Summer 2026)
A YUPs fan favorite returns! We’re excited to bring back Bikes, Beers & Buildings this summer! This is a scavenger hunt through Rochester by bike. We provide clues, you provide the brain power. Teams will bike around the city, following the provided clues to get from stop to stop. Snap a group usie or selfie at each stop and return to the brewery as quickly as possible. Trophies will be awarded to the first three teams to return with all the correct stop locations and photo proof. Ticket purchase will also include a commemorative pint glass and a drink ticket.
More information and registration to come!
Rochester Organ Tour (Fall 2026)
Did you know the Rochester area has an extensive collection of historic organs (yes, the musical kind!). YUPs are working on a tour to many of the places the house these beautiful instruments - with musical demonstrations!
More information and registration to come!
Art Deco Architectural Lecture & Tour
Do you love Art Deco architecture? This event is calling you! Join YUPs for a presentation on Art Deco architecture followed by a walking tour to see some of Rochester’s best examples of the style.
More information and registration to come!
West Sparta Cemetery Restoration Fundraiser (Fall 2026)
The West Sparta Historical Society is working to restore historic headstones but needs additional funding to complete the project. The YUPs hope to support this effort with a fall fundraiser to include pumpkin sales and “scary” cemetery tours. We’re especially eager to connect with farmers or gardeners willing to grow pumpkins for the cause. If that’s you - please reach out to yup@landmarksociety.org!
Have another idea? Want to plan a tour, volunteer opportunity, or creative event tied to historic preservation and community revitalization? We want to hear from you! YUPs meet on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM, and all are welcome! Email yup@landmarksociety.org to receive meeting details.
We hope to connect with you soon!
The YUPs Team
