8 Ways To Get Creative In Rochester, New York

When a city’s claim to fame involves the headquarters of a groundbreaking camera and film company, it’s no surprise that creativity flourishes in the area. Rochester, New York, is the hometown of Eastman Kodak Company and a number of museums, galleries, workshops, studios and attractions. Get inspired to make your own masterpiece with these Rochester activities that are sure to drive creativity.

Create your own souvenir

What’s better than a standard souvenir? One you make yourself. At the community classroom and event space of Rochester Brainery, you can learn everything from macrame to woodblock carving, improv or a new language—all in an afternoon or evening. The craft-based classes tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to book in advance.

Channel your inner Beyoncé

There’s always something going on at the bistro and bar of Lovin’ Cup. Whether you’re here to share your talents at the weekly open mic, make new friends at trivia night or just want to kick back and enjoy music from local artists, this is the kind of place where even far-flung travelers will find a welcoming community.

Clown around like a kid

It doesn’t get any more interactive than the Strong National Museum of Play. Highlights include a replica of Sesame Street and an exhibit devoted to the Berenstain Bears, but there’s way, way more to experience. Though it’s obviously a great choice for families, all are welcome. Even if you don’t have kids in tow, you’ll want to make sure to stop in and see the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

Watch artists at work

Discover unique blown glass items at More Fire Glass Studio. Photo Credit: @morefireglassstudio

Colorful glass artwork, vessels and gifts surround you at More Fire Glass Studio. Though the studio itself is a feast for the eyes, you’ll want to make sure to visit on a day when it is host to glass-blowing demonstrations. Watching molten glass transform into a stunning sculpture is downright mesmerizing.

Reach for the stars

A high-tech video system brings the wonders of space to the four-story dome at the Rochester Museum & Science Center Strasenburgh Planetarium. It’s a great place to relax and let your mind roam while you learn about the wonders of the universe. For a livelier experience, come back for one of the Saturday Night Laser Shows, which bring together everyone’s favorite things—space, lasers and classic rock.

Enjoy the scenic views

Get inspired by the beauty of nature at Genesee Riverway Trail, an off-road 24-mile route popular with landscape photographers. The trail is perfect for walking, running and bicycling, and it connects the Erie Canal to downtown Rochester. Depending on where you hop on and off the trail, you’ll find such sights as waterfalls and historic parks.

Explore the history of Kodak

Say cheese! Learn about the history of the camera and Kodak at the George Eastman Museum.

A visit to Rochester isn’t complete without visiting the George Eastman Museum, named for the founder of Kodak. The museum has two very impressive distinctions: It’s the oldest museum in the world dedicated to photography and houses one of the world’s oldest film archives. Enjoy exhibitions from the museum’s impressive photography collections, participate in photography workshops or catch a film screening. While here, catch a glimpse into George Eastman’s primary residence—filled with many of his original furnishings—and the gardens that are also on the grounds.

Get immersed in the past

The history of Rochester unfolds before your eyes at the High Falls Center and Interpretive Museum. You’ll start your tour at the base of a simulated glacier in prehistoric Rochester and then explore hands-on exhibits and interactive displays and artwork as you return to modern times. The multimedia exhibits showcase how the city was settled and how water played an important role in the region’s industrial boom. Hours are seasonal, so check before you go!

Ready to travel? Find hotels in Rochester.