Things to do in Rochester

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Don Anderson
Photo provided by Don Anderson
Photo provided by Chad Johnson
Photo provided by Chad Johnson
Photo provided by Chad Johnson
Photo provided by Chad Johnson
Photo provided by Howard Lower Photography
Photo provided by Howard Lower Photography
Photo provided by Chad Johnson
Photo provided by Chad Johnson

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What to do in Rochester

Popular places to visit

Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial

Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial

You can learn about the history of Rochester when you stop by Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's shops.

Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial

Mayo Clinic

If Mayo Clinic is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Rochester.

Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic Hospital - Saint Marys Campus

If Mayo Clinic Hospital - Saint Marys Campus is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Rochester.

Mayo Clinic Hospital - Saint Marys Campus

Mayo Civic Center

Catch an event at Mayo Civic Center during your trip to Rochester. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's shops.

Mayo Civic Center

Apache Mall

During your visit to Rochester, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Apache Mall. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Apache Mall

Rochester Recreation Center

Catch an event at Rochester Recreation Center during your trip to Rochester. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Rochester Recreation Center

Rochester Community and Technical College

Explore the campus of Rochester Community and Technical College as part of your travels around Rochester. Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Rochester Community and Technical College

University of Minnesota-Rochester

Explore the campus of University of Minnesota-Rochester during your stay in Rochester. Attend a sporting event or simply visit the area's shops.

University of Minnesota-Rochester

Olmsted County Fairgrounds

Take the family on an outing to Olmsted County Fairgrounds during your trip to Rochester. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Olmsted County Fairgrounds

Areas of Rochester

Rochester showing skyline and a city

Downtown Rochester

If you're spending some time in Downtown Rochester, Mayo Civic Center and Rochester Art Center are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Rochester
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Kutzky Park

While there might not be top attractions in Kutzky Park, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial and Mayo Civic Center.

Kutzky Park
Rochester showing skyline and a city

Historic Southwest

While visiting Historic Southwest, you might make a stop by sights like Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial and Plummer House.

Historic Southwest
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Slatterly Park

While Slatterly Park isn't home to many top sights, Rochester Art Center and Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial are some notable places to visit nearby.

Slatterly Park
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East Side Pioneers

If you're spending some time in East Side Pioneers, Rochester Art Center and Mayo Civic Center are top sights worth seeing.

East Side Pioneers
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Northrup

When in Northrup, you can plan a visit to Mayo Civic Center and Rochester Art Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Northrup

Frequently asked questions

Is Rochester worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Rochester.
How do I spend a day in Rochester?
Cascade Lake Beach and History Centre of Olmsted County are two great places to begin your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Rochester while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rochester?
Don't leave without checking out Cascade Lake Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Rochester.
Is three days enough to stay in Rochester?
Three days in Rochester is enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travellers stay for two days on average. Cascade Lake Beach, History Centre of Olmsted County and Mayo Civic Centre are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots like Stewartville.
Is Rochester a walkable city?
It depends on what you want to do and see in Rochester. Several key sights, such as Cascade Lake Beach and History Centre of Olmsted County, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Rochester's best neighbourhoods, Downtown Rochester is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Kutzky Park is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Rochester with kids?
Planning what to do in Rochester with kids has never been easier. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in Rochester for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Rochester, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Mayo Civic Centre or Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial.
Are there free things to do in Rochester?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Rochester. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Cascade Lake Beach is a must for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.