Rochester New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rochester, New York.
1. The Strong National Museum of Play
IMMERSIVE FAMILY FUN
The Strong National Museum of Play is a dynamic, interactive museum celebrating the history and importance of play for children and adults alike. Visitors explore exhibits featuring classic toys, digital games, and even a recreated Wegmans grocery store for hands-on learning. The museum also houses the prestigious National Toy Hall of Fame and beautiful outdoor gardens.
2. George Eastman Museum
PHOTOGRAPHY & CINEMA HISTORY
The George Eastman Museum, located in the historic mansion of Kodak's founder, is the world's oldest photography museum. It features extensive collections of cameras, photographs, and film, along with lush formal gardens and rotating exhibits. Daily film screenings and special events round out the visitor experience.
3. Seabreeze Amusement Park
LAKESIDE THRILL RIDES
Seabreeze Amusement Park, perched on the bluffs north of Rochester overlooking Lake Ontario, is one of America's oldest amusement parks. It offers classic wooden roller coasters, a vintage carousel, and lively water rides, providing fun for the whole family. The park's scenic setting also makes it a great spot for picnics and summer festivals.
4. Highland Park
ICONIC URBAN GREENERY
Highland Park is a vibrant 150-acre city park famed for its annual Lilac Festival, showcasing the country's largest collection of lilacs with over 12,000 blooms. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the park also features the historic Lamberton Conservatory, memorial gardens, and picturesque walking paths. Seasonal highlights include spring blossoms and a skating pond in winter.
5. Rochester Museum & Science Center
SCIENCE & DISCOVERY HUB
The Rochester Museum & Science Center captivates visitors with interactive exhibits on science, technology, and local history. Its adjacent Strasenburgh Planetarium offers fascinating star shows and astronomy programs. Families can engage in hands-on learning, from engineering experiments to regional ecological displays.
6. Seneca Park Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION FOCUS
The Seneca Park Zoo introduces visitors to animals from around the world, emphasizing conservation and education. Guests explore modern habitats for elephants, lions, red pandas, and many other species, while educational programs foster a connection to nature. Ongoing expansion projects ensure innovative exhibits and a continually evolving experience.
7. National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
WOMEN'S RIGHTS LANDMARK
The National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House preserves the legacy of the legendary suffragist and her pivotal work for women's rights. Visitors tour her restored home, explore exhibits on her activism, and learn about the national movement for equality. The site remains an inspiring testament to Susan B. Anthony's enduring impact.
8. Mount Hope Cemetery
VICTORIAN HISTORIC GRAVES
Mount Hope Cemetery, the first municipal Victorian cemetery in the United States, offers a tranquil setting with rolling hills and centuries-old trees. It is the final resting place of notable figures like Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass. Guided tours highlight the cemetery's artistry, architecture, and history.
9. Memorial Art Gallery
MASTERWORKS SPANNING MILLENNIA
The Memorial Art Gallery is home to an impressive collection spanning more than 5,000 years, from antiquity to contemporary works. Visitors admire European masters, eclectic African artifacts, and innovative modern pieces spread across stunning gallery spaces. Rotating exhibitions and community events keep the museum vibrant throughout the year.
10. Rochester Public Market
BUSTLING FARMERS MARKET
The Rochester Public Market has been a community staple since 1905, offering an energetic atmosphere where local vendors sell fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and artisanal products. Shoppers and food lovers mingle among colorful stalls, enjoying unique finds and multicultural flavors. Special events, food trucks, and live music enhance the lively market experience.
11. Shopping
RETAIL & ANTIQUE FINDS
Shopping in Rochester offers a mix of modern malls, independent boutiques, and vintage treasures. The Mall at Greece Ridge and Eastview Mall provide extensive retail options, while Park Avenue brims with chic shops and galleries. For antiques and local specialties, Village Gate and the Rochester Public Market are must-visit locations.
12. Dining
CULINARY VARIETY & LOCAL FLAVOR
Dining in Rochester delivers a diverse and vibrant food scene, from classic diners to gourmet farm-to-table restaurants. Beloved stops include Dinosaur Bar-B-Que for barbecue, Good Luck for innovative American cuisine, and Nick Tahou Hots for the local Garbage Plate specialty. Neighborhoods like Park Avenue and the South Wedge are packed with breweries, coffee shops, and international fare.
13. Hiking
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS
Hiking in Rochester features scenic trails accessible within and beyond the city, catering to all levels of adventurers. Try the Highland Park trails for urban nature walks, explore the Genesee Riverway Trail for riverside views, or venture into Mendon Ponds Park for more rugged terrain. Nearby, the Erie Canalway Trail and Durand Eastman Park provide extensive paths through fields, woods, and waterfronts.
14. Fishing
ANGLED FOR SUCCESS
Fishing opportunities abound in Rochester, thanks to its access to Lake Ontario, the Genesee River, and Irondequoit Bay. Anglers can cast for salmon, trout, and bass from the piers at Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse, the banks of Turning Point Park, or the calm waters near Ontario Beach Park. Many local charters also offer guided trips for both novices and experienced fishers.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
Camping near Rochester lets visitors immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes and surrounding Monroe County. Sites like Webster Park, Mendon Ponds Park, and Hamlin Beach State Park offer tent and RV camping, with access to hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Modern amenities and scenic settings make these campgrounds perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.