Last updated on September 21st, 2025
From the historic charm of its 19th-century architecture to the vibrant energy of its cultural scene and natural wonders, Rochester, New York is a city filled with incredible experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you seek world-class museums, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, there are countless amazing things to do in Rochester New York that will create an unforgettable visit to the Flower City.
Here are the best things to do in Rochester New York for an memorable experience in Western New York’s cultural hub.
Why Visit Rochester New York?
Rochester’s diverse attractions offer:
🏛️ World-class museums and cultural institutions
🍷 Award-winning Finger Lakes wine tours
🎢 Family-friendly amusement parks and adventures
🌳 Beautiful parks, gardens, and natural waterfalls
🍻 Craft brewery scenes and culinary experiences
Best Things to Do in Rochester New York
1. The Strong National Museum of Play
The Strong National Museum of Play is one of the most unique things to do in Rochester New York, offering interactive exhibits that celebrate play and learning. My children spent hours exploring the butterfly garden, comic book heroes exhibit, and the historic carousel. The National Toy Hall of Fame here is a nostalgic journey through childhood memories.
- Area: Downtown Rochester
- Highlights: National Toy Hall of Fame, butterfly garden, interactive exhibits
- Perfect for: Families and children of all ages
2. Aerial Adventure Park Admission
For thrill-seekers looking for active things to do in Rochester New York, the Aerial Adventure Park offers challenging ropes courses, ziplines, and aerial obstacles that test your courage and agility. The courses range from beginner to expert levels, making it accessible for all adventure levels.
- Area: Canandaigua
- Highlights: Multiple difficulty courses, ziplines, team building activities
- Perfect for: Adventure seekers and groups
3. Keuka Lake Winery Tour
One of the most delightful things to do in Rochester New York is exploring the Finger Lakes wine country. The Keuka Lake Winery Tour takes you through picturesque vineyards and offers tastings of exceptional Rieslings, Gewürztraminers, and other cool-climate varietals that the region is famous for.
- Area: Finger Lakes Wine Country
- Highlights: Multiple winery visits, scenic lake views, expert guided tastings
- Perfect for: Wine enthusiasts and couples
4. George Eastman Museum
The George Eastman Museum is one of the most culturally significant things to do in Rochester New York, celebrating the legacy of the founder of Eastman Kodak Company. The museum houses an incredible collection of photographs, cameras, and technology that chronicle the history of photography.
- Area: East Avenue
- Highlights: Historic mansion, photography exhibits, film preservation
- Perfect for: History buffs and photography enthusiasts
5. Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience
Another excellent wine experience among things to do in Rochester New York is the Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience. This tour showcases the diverse wineries around Canandaigua Lake, known for their innovative winemaking techniques and beautiful tasting rooms with stunning lake views.
- Area: Canandaigua Lake
- Highlights: Multiple winery visits, lakefront tastings, variety of wine styles
- Perfect for: Wine lovers and scenic experience seekers
6. Memorial Art Gallery
The Memorial Art Gallery offers one of the most enriching cultural things to do in Rochester New York. With collections spanning 5,000 years of art history from ancient to contemporary works, the gallery provides a comprehensive artistic experience in a beautiful setting.
- Area: University Neighborhood
- Highlights: Diverse art collections, special exhibitions, educational programs
- Perfect for: Art lovers and cultural enthusiasts
7. Seabreeze Amusement Park
For family fun among things to do in Rochester New York, Seabreeze Amusement Park offers classic roller coasters, water slides, and family rides that have been entertaining visitors for generations. The Jack Rabbit roller coaster, dating back to 1920, is one of the oldest operating coasters in the country.
- Area: Irondequoit
- Highlights: Classic wooden roller coasters, water park, family rides
- Perfect for: Families and thrill-seekers
8. Luxury 2 Hour Sunset Tour Canandaigua Lake
One of the most romantic things to do in Rochester New York is the Luxury 2 Hour Sunset Tour on Canandaigua Lake. This experience offers breathtaking views of the Finger Lakes region as the sun sets behind the hills, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for couples or small groups.
- Area: Canandaigua Lake
- Highlights: Scenic sunset views, luxury boat experience, photo opportunities
- Perfect for: Couples and romantic occasions
9. RMSC (Rochester Museum & Science Center)
The Rochester Museum & Science Center offers some of the most educational things to do in Rochester New York. With interactive exhibits spanning science, technology, and regional history, this museum provides engaging learning experiences for visitors of all ages.
- Area: Museum Quarter
- Highlights: Interactive science exhibits, planetarium shows, regional history displays
- Perfect for: Families and science enthusiasts
10. Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
For historically significant things to do in Rochester New York, the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House provides a powerful look at the life and work of the famous suffragist. This National Historic Landmark preserves the home where Anthony was arrested for voting in 1872.
- Area: Madison Street
- Highlights: Historic home tour, suffrage movement exhibits, educational programs
- Perfect for: History enthusiasts and social justice advocates
11. Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour
The Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour offers some of the most scenic things to do in Rochester New York. Seneca Lake is the largest of the Finger Lakes and home to numerous award-winning wineries known for their exceptional Rieslings and other cool-climate varietals.
- Area: Seneca Lake Wine Trail
- Highlights: Multiple winery visits, lake views, expert guided tastings
- Perfect for: Wine connoisseurs and scenic experience lovers
12. Zipline Canopy Activity Admission at Bristol Mountain
For adrenaline-pumping things to do in Rochester New York, the Zipline Canopy Activity at Bristol Mountain offers an exhilarating treetop adventure with ziplines, aerial bridges, and challenging obstacles high above the forest floor.
- Area: Bristol Mountain
- Highlights: Multiple ziplines, aerial courses, mountain views
- Perfect for: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts
13. Lamberton Conservatory
Among the peaceful things to do in Rochester New York, the Lamberton Conservatory offers a tranquil escape with its beautiful collection of tropical plants, seasonal flower displays, and serene atmosphere in Highland Park.
- Area: Highland Park
- Highlights: Tropical plants, seasonal displays, peaceful environment
- Perfect for: Nature lovers and those seeking tranquility
14. Mount Hope Cemetery
For historically significant things to do in Rochester New York, Mount Hope Cemetery offers a fascinating journey through time. This National Historic Landmark is the final resting place of many notable figures including Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass.
- Area: Mount Hope
- Highlights: Historic gravesites, beautiful landscaping, guided tours
- Perfect for: History enthusiasts and peaceful walks
15. High Falls
Among the natural things to do in Rochester New York, High Falls offers a spectacular urban waterfall experience. This 96-foot waterfall in the heart of downtown provides a dramatic natural spectacle and interesting historical context about Rochester’s industrial past.
- Area: Downtown Rochester
- Highlights: Urban waterfall, historic district, viewing platforms
- Perfect for: Photography and urban exploration
16. Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour
For beer enthusiasts seeking things to do in Rochester New York, the Canandaigua Lake Brewery Tour offers a taste of the region’s growing craft beer scene. This tour visits local breweries known for their innovative brews and scenic locations.
- Area: Canandaigua Lake Area
- Highlights: Craft brewery visits, beer tastings, local flavors
- Perfect for: Beer lovers and casual drinkers
17. The Great Escape Room Rochester
For interactive things to do in Rochester New York, The Great Escape Room Rochester offers challenging puzzle rooms that require teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills to escape within the time limit.
- Area: Various Locations
- Highlights: Themed escape rooms, team building, mental challenges
- Perfect for: Groups, families, and corporate events
18. ARTISANworks
Among the most unique things to do in Rochester New York, ARTISANworks offers an extraordinary collection of art, antiques, and curiosities in a massive warehouse space. This non-profit organization showcases works from hundreds of artists in an immersive, ever-changing environment.
- Area: North Winton Village
- Highlights: Massive art collection, unique exhibits, event space
- Perfect for: Art lovers and those seeking unique experiences
FAQs About Things to Do in Rochester New York
Final Tips for Visiting Rochester
– Plan ahead for popular attractions and book tours in advance
– Seasonal considerations – many outdoor activities are weather-dependent
– Combine activities – group nearby attractions to maximize your time
– Check for discounts – many museums offer free or discounted admission days
Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, culture, or natural beauty, the diverse range of things to do in Rochester New York ensures there’s something for every type of traveler. From world-class museums to stunning natural wonders, Rochester offers unforgettable experiences that will make your visit truly memorable.
