Things to do in Rochester

Activities, attractions and tours

Pont de Rennes Bridge featuring a sunset, a city and a bridge
Rochester which includes a house
Memorial Art Gallery showing a house and outdoor art
Downtown Rochester featuring a fountain as well as an individual female
Memorial Art Gallery showing religious elements, heritage elements and interior views

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What to do in Rochester

Popular places to visit

University of 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.

University of Rochester
Strong which includes interior views

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.

Strong
Rochester Museum and Science Center

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.

Rochester Museum and Science Center
Ontario Beach Park

Ontario Beach Park

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Ontario Beach Park might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Rochester.

Ontario Beach Park
Seneca Park Zoo

Seneca Park Zoo

Why not see the exotic and native animals who live at Seneca Park Zoo during your holiday in Rochester? Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.

Seneca Park Zoo
Highland Park featuring a sunset

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.

Highland Park
George Eastman House showing a house

George Eastman Museum

Once owned by the founder of Kodak, this opulent mansion features a huge collection of early photography equipment, interesting architecture and beautiful gardens.

George Eastman Museum

Rochester Institute of Technology

Explore the campus of Rochester Institute of Technology during your trip to Rochester. Stroll along the riverfront or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Strong Memorial Hospital

If Strong Memorial Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Rochester.

Strong Memorial Hospital

Areas of Rochester

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

Downtown Rochester

3/5(6 area reviews)

This lively downtown is full of opportunities for recreation and relaxation and is the best place to connect with the unique history of the city.

Downtown Rochester
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Irondequoit

While visiting Irondequoit, you might make a stop by sights like Seabreeze Amusement Park and Irondeqouit Bay State Marine Park.

Irondequoit
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Rochester Central Business District

While visiting Rochester Central Business District, you might make a stop by sights like Genesee River and Blue Cross Arena.

Rochester Central Business District
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Brighton

Brighton is well liked for its museums and art galleries. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Highland Park and Park Avenue are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Brighton
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East Irondequoit

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

East Irondequoit
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West Irondequoit

If you're spending some time in West Irondequoit, Seneca Park Zoo and Genesee River are top sights worth seeing.

West Irondequoit

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 Centre for Performing Arts and Seneca Park Zoo with a three-day escape to Rochester. On average, most travellers 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 Centre for Performing Arts, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from central Rochester is Downtown Rochester and Rochester Central Business District is 0.64 kilometres 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 travelling with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.

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 neighbourhoods, 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.