Things to do in Rochester

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Rochester Travel Guide

Pont de Rennes Bridge showing a city, a sunset and a bridge

Memorial Art Gallery showing a house and outdoor art

Downtown Rochester which includes a fountain as well as an individual femail

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What to do in Rochester

Discover the most popular places to visit in Rochester

University of Rochester

Explore the campus of University of Rochester, during your travels in Rochester. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.

Strong

Even the most museum-hating children may not want to leave this enormous complex, featuring an arcade, a butterfly museum and a toy hall of fame.

Rochester Museum and Science Center

Fossils, a climbing wall, a planetarium and more fill this extensive museum, which is especially renowned for its kid-friendly Inventor Center.

Highland Park

Full of interesting plants as well as numerous memorials and architectural features, this Olmsted-designed arboretum is one of Rochester’s most-photographed areas.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Rochester Institute of Technology, during your trip to Rochester. Stroll along the riverfront or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Strong Memorial Hospital

Though Strong Memorial Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Rochester while you are here.

Eastman School of Music

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Eastman School of Music, during your travels in Rochester. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.

Blue Cross Arena

Catch an event at Blue Cross Arena during your trip to Rochester. Experience the area's great live music and entertainment choices.

Rochester Riverside Convention Center

Learn about the events happening at Rochester Riverside Convention Center during your trip to Rochester. Experience the area's entertainment choices and great live music.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Rochester

Genesee River\'s High Falls which includes a city and street scenes as well as a couple

Downtown Rochester

4/5(316 area reviews)

Economic center with an urban setting, Downtown Rochester offers a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants. Enjoy the Mary Jemison Boat Tour on Genesee River or explore attractions like Strong National Museum of Play and High Falls.

This is such a wonderful spot people tend to forget about. Quiet beach with a great view of the lake. #AquaTrove

Irondequoit

Nestled between the Genesee River and Irondequoit Bay, this picturesque suburb boasts a colonial-style Town Hall and stunning waterfront views. Explore the scenic shoreline of Lake Ontario or delve into Rochester's nearby attractions.

Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse, Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York, USA

Brighton

Erie Canal Heritage Trail winds through the area, offering picturesque views and access to parks like Lynch Woods Nature Park. Twelve Corners serves as the central entertainment and commercial hub, with nearby shopping options at Pittsford Plaza.

Maplewood

If you're spending some time in Maplewood, Kodak Center for Performing Arts and Genesee River are top sights worth seeing.

Rochester Central Business District

If you're spending some time in Rochester Central Business District, Genesee River and Blue Cross Arena are top sights worth seeing.

Calm waters on a cloudy day on Lake Ontario.

East Irondequoit

4/5(53 area reviews)

While visiting East Irondequoit, you might make a stop by sights like Seabreeze Amusement Park and Lake Ontario.

Popular day trips from Rochester

Brockport Village in New York State aerial footage

Greece

Fairport

Webster

Cool little park, nice fall hike, easy for kids

Pittsford

Honeoye Falls

Upper falls of Letchworth State Park in upstate New York. Train trestle appears in the background.

Chili Center

Spencerport

Frequently asked questions

Is Rochester worth visiting?

With a mix of festivals and dining, there are plenty of things to do in Rochester. While you're here, head to Strong, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Rochester?

After you've checked off popular attractions like Strong and Seabreeze Amusement Park, spend the rest of your day exploring Rochester's retail and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Rochester?

You can't leave without checking out Strong, rated the top tourist attraction in Rochester.

Is three days enough to stay in Rochester?

You can easily enjoy top attractions like Strong, Kodak Center for Performing Arts and Seneca Park Zoo with a three-day escape to Rochester. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Henrietta.

Is Rochester a walkable city?

Some leading sights in Rochester, such as Strong and Kodak Center for Performing Arts, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometers from central Rochester is Downtown Rochester and Rochester Central Business District is 0.64 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Rochester with kids?

Planning what to do in Rochester with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.

1-Hour Walk-In Axe Throwing Experience Rochester

What to do in Rochester for adults?

Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of Mother Nature, there are lots of things to do in Rochester for adults including Mount Hope Cemetery and ARTWalk.

Are there free things to do in Rochester?

From visiting parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Rochester. If you're stuck for ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Genesee River's High Falls is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.