Rochester is the third-largest city in New York State and has many things for visitors to enjoy. It has great museums and art galleries, as well as a fascinating industrial history and vibrant cultural scene. The city is located by Lake Ontario and is divided by the rushing Genesee River, with High Falls being a prominent attraction.
In addition to seeing the beautiful waterfall and nearby historic buildings, there are plenty of other activities in Rochester. Families can enjoy various attractions, and there are also many excellent restaurants and food markets to explore.
The city has numerous parks and waterways, and it is known for its outdoor activities and successful minor-league sports teams. Furthermore, Rochester hosts numerous music concerts, dance shows, and festivals throughout the year, making it even more attractive.
14. Strong National Museum of Play
Ideal for families with young children, the fantastic Strong National Museum of Play offers numerous hands-on activities and experiments. Located in the heart of Rochester, it’s conveniently close to many other main attractions in the city.
Educational and entertaining, the museum’s countless exhibits explore the past, present, and future of play, showcasing a variety of enticing toys and games. Some sections focus on storybooks and TV shows, while others highlight carousels and comic books or delve into video games and virtual reality.
The museum’s spacious modern building features Sesame Street sets for exploration, and the delightful world of the Berenstain Bears also captures a lot of attention alongside them.
13. Rochester Museum & Science Center
One of the top attractions in Rochester is the impressive Rochester Museum & Science Center. Located just a short drive from the city center along East Avenue, this massive complex is filled with enjoyable hands-on activities and interactive exhibits.
Established in 1912, the museum now occupies a modern and spacious building with three extensive floors covering local history, nature, as well as science and technology. From building cool robots to taking a virtual trip in a simulator, visitors can explore over 1.2 million artifacts and specimens spanning various fields of study.
Beyond the intriguing exhibits, guests can enjoy captivating science shows or gaze at the skies and stars in the state-of-the-art planetarium.
12. Frontier Field
Nestled in downtown, Frontier Field serves as the cozy home stadium for the Rochester Red Wings. Watching an exciting game in this beautiful ballpark is a delightful experience, and occasionally, you can catch firework displays, community events, and concerts.
Constructed in 1996, it replaced the team’s old Silver Stadium, which had been their home since 1929. From the ample seats and suites, passionate fans can now enjoy perfect views of the field and the distant sparkling skyline of the city.
Beyond supporting the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals, you can also attend various sporting events and shows at the arena. Numerous food stands offer a variety of tasty options, from classic hotdogs and hamburgers to fried calamari and roast beef sandwiches.
11. Susan B. Anthony Museum
The Susan B. Anthony Museum, once the residence of the renowned civil rights leader, provides a captivating glimpse into her life and lasting impact. Excellently preserved, the museum is filled with genuine artifacts, documents, and memorabilia, and guided tours take you through its warm and welcoming interior.
As one of Rochester’s most notable former residents, Susan B. Anthony dedicated decades of tireless efforts to abolish slavery and champion women’s rights. The historical house, located in the west of the city, allows visitors to explore exhibits highlighting her numerous campaigns, speeches, and achievements, showcasing personal items and original furniture from her time.
You’ll also discover details about her arrest in the front parlor for voting in the 1872 election and have the chance to view her old bedroom, where she sadly passed away in 1906 after spending forty years in the house.
10. Artisan Works
If you have a love for art and want to invest in unique, albeit potentially pricey, souvenirs, Artisan Works is the perfect destination. Situated just ten minutes’ drive east of downtown, this expansive warehouse is covered in captivating artworks, and artists create new pieces right before your eyes.
While the warehouse once played a role in producing weapons during WWII, it has transformed into a space dedicated to inspiring people through art. As you navigate its maze of levels and hallways, you’ll encounter a variety of colorful creations and themed rooms adorned with vintage automobiles and antique items.
In addition to admiring the impressive displayed pieces and inquiring about their prices, you can also witness master artisans at work. They are usually more than happy to share insights into the techniques and creative processes behind each of their art forms.
9. Rochester Public Market
The Rochester Public Market is a lively and vibrant event that offers more than 300 stands and stalls for visitors to explore. It is enjoyed by both locals and tourists and takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday in the Marketville Heights area.
Since its establishment in 1905, the market has experienced significant growth, offering a wide range of products. You can find fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as artisanal cheeses, meats, seafood, and handmade crafts and clothing. In addition to groceries, you can also indulge in baked goods, snacks, and hot coffee.
Throughout the year, the market hosts flower markets, flea markets, and food truck festivals. Live music performances enhance the enjoyable atmosphere.
8. Seabreeze Amusement Park
If you’re looking for an exciting and unforgettable experience, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on the Seabreeze Amusement Park. For over a century, it has been a favorite summer destination for people from Western New York. The park is located where Irondequoit Bay and Lake Ontario meet, providing cool breezes and a beautiful setting.
With over 25 thrilling rides and roller coasters, as well as arcades, acrobats, and a charming carousel from 1926, there is something for everyone. If you need to cool off, you can swim in the pools or slide down the waterslides surrounded by sunbathing areas, shops, and snack stands.
However, one of the most beloved attractions is the wooden Jack Rabbit roller coaster, which has been operating since 1920 and is the oldest one still running in the United States.
7. George Eastman Museum
The George Eastman Museum is a truly fascinating place to visit. It provides a detailed look into the history and evolution of photography and cameras. The museum is named after George Eastman, the founder of the Kodak Company, who played a significant role in making photography accessible to the general public.
It houses a remarkable collection of photographs, films, and other cinematic objects. The museum was first opened to the public in 1949 and is located within Eastman’s beautiful 1905 Colonial Revival-style mansion.
In addition to experiencing the lifestyle of an entrepreneur, visitors can explore exhibits that demonstrate the advancements in photography and film technology over the years.
Alongside admiring stunning vintage photographs and the mansion’s remarkable architecture, visitors can also enter a camera obscura and enjoy film screenings in the museum’s theater.
6. Erie Canal Trail
A great way to explore more of the city and its surroundings is by walking, jogging, running, or cycling along the beautiful Erie Canal Trail. This trail follows the southern boundary of Rochester and takes you past stunning scenery and historic sites that are centuries old.
Along the way, you’ll find countless attractions, amenities, and communities. The trail stretches 365 miles, connecting Albany to Buffalo, and mostly follows the path that was once used to tow the historic canal. You can take breaks at beautiful parks and peaceful nature spots or visit the charming towns and quiet villages along the route.
As you leisurely stroll along the trail, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the canal and encounter historic buildings, restaurants, and waterfront cafes. In winter, adventurous individuals can even cross-country ski and snowshoe on the snow-covered sections of the trail.
5. Memorial Art Gallery
The Memorial Art Gallery is a cultural institute in the city that houses a remarkable collection of artifacts and artworks from around the world. It is a delightful experience to explore its bright and spacious galleries, as they are filled with ancient drums, Egyptian mummies, and other fascinating objects.
Since its establishment in 1913, the gallery has amazed visitors with its impressive paintings, photos, and sculptures. It now has two floors filled with over 12,000 artworks, including African artifacts, thought-provoking modern installations, as well as masterpieces by famous artists such as Monet, Cezanne, and Matisse.
The gallery is located on the University of Rochester campus, occupying a beautiful old building surrounded by lush grounds and a sculpture park. Along with viewing its diverse collection that spans many centuries, visitors can also participate in talks, workshops, and festivals held within its expansive complex.
4. Seneca Park Zoo
The Seneca Park Zoo is a popular attraction for families, boasting a diverse collection of over 300 animals, birds, and reptiles. Located in a beautiful area by the Genesee River, the zoo offers daily activities such as feeding sessions, keeper chats, and close encounters with the animals.
Having opened in 1893, it is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, with spacious enclosures and displays that cover a large portion of the park. Visitors can explore habitats resembling rocky coasts, where sea lions, snowy owls, and Canada lynx can be found, as well as sections dedicated to African elephants and Asian orangutans.
The zoo is also known for its educational efforts, organizing enjoyable festivals and interactive events throughout the year to raise awareness and promote conservation.
3. Highland Park
Highland Park, located in the southern part of the city, is a sprawling area filled with beautiful greenery and gardens. One of its main attractions is the enchanting arboretum and well-maintained landscaping.
As you stroll around, you’ll be delighted by the variety of pretty plants, colorful flowers, majestic trees, and charming shrubs on display. The park spans across hills and valleys, and its paths wind through groves of old oak, pine, and magnolia trees, often accompanied by cheerful azaleas and pansies.
Although the park features many themed gardens, it still maintains its natural appearance, thanks to the talented landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed it in the 1880s. Inside the park, you’ll find significant historical sites and cultural landmarks, such as the Lamberton Conservatory and the Gothic-style Warner Castle.
Additionally, the park’s spacious outdoor amphitheater hosts music concerts and free movie screenings during the summer, as well as events like the Lilac Festival and Shakespeare in the Park.
2. Ontario Beach Park
Ontario Beach Park is a popular and beautiful place to spend time. It is located at the entrance to the Genesee River and is a 20-minute drive north of town. People enjoy swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and playing volleyball on the sandy beach. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, especially during the sunny summer months.
In addition to relaxing on the beach and exploring the green areas, visitors can also play basketball, pickleball, and softball. There is a pier for fishing, as well as playgrounds, pavilions, and picnic areas. The park also offers a 1905 carousel and a modern marina for people to enjoy.
1. High Falls
Surprisingly, there is a beautiful natural sight in the middle of downtown. High Falls, which played a crucial role in the city’s history and development, is now a popular spot for taking incredible photos and enjoying the view. Located on the Genesee River, this waterfall is nearly 100 feet tall, and there is a large gorge at its base.
The rushing waters used to power mills and factories, but now they generate hydroelectric power for the city and surrounding areas. From the well-known Pont De Rennes bridge and the Terrace Platform, visitors can appreciate the stunning falls and capture their picturesque white waters in photographs.
Additionally, the nearby museum and visitor center provide more information about the falls and their significance to Rochester.
