Things to do in Rochester

During the warmer months, frolic through lush, green parks, and experience the city’s vibrant art scene. Shhhh—don’t tell your kids, but Rochester is a great place to dive into a bevy of fascinating history. From an historic amusement park to distinguished museums and an iconic cemetery, you can get an education in Rochester without dropping a dollar on tuition.

1. Strong Museum of Play

Ranked as one of Rochester's most popular attractions, the Strong Museum of Play should be at the top of your to-do list. With more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, plan to spend at least half a day exploring. Take a walk down memory lane, for you’re sure to stumble upon childhood toys and games that may trigger a fit of nostalgia. The museum charges admission, and you should plan to pay an additional fee to visit the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden. Its humid environment is especially soothing on a cold day.

2. Seabreeze Amusement Park

You can’t have a vacation without some kind of thrill. Shake up your itinerary and spend the day at America’s fourth-oldest amusement park, the Seabreeze Amusement Park. Hop on the Jack Rabbit, an old-fashioned, wooden rollercoaster, and then buckle up on the Whirlwind, a modern steel coaster. There are slower-paced rides appropriate for the whole family, as well as a water park that includes a wave pool, water slides and a lazy river ride.

3. Finger Lakes Wine Country

Experience some of America’s best wine in the Finger Lakes region, southeast of Rochester. Numerous wineries now line the shores of the larger lakes—Cayuga, Canandaigua, Seneca and Keuka—each about an hour drive from Rochester. Most wineries offer tastings. This is a perfect adults-only activity, but don't rule it out if you're traveling with kids. There are plenty of spots to enjoy gorgeous views of these calm lakes and the surrounding countryside.

4. Seneca Lake

If you're not interested in wineries but want to see one of the Finger Lakes, consider Seneca Lake. At its northern tip, about 45 miles southeast of Rochester, is the picturesque town of Geneva. Take a short, scenic drive alongside the lake, which will bring you to Watkins Glen, home to Watkins Glen International, a racetrack that hosts NASCAR and other races as well as festivals. Race fans will get a thrill out of Drive the Glen, a paid program that allows you to drive the track in your own car. Nearby, hike past 19 waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park. Seneca Lake is also known for its trout fishing.

5. George Eastman House

Don’t forget to bring the camera when stopping by the inventor of Kodak, George Eastman’s 37-room mansion in Rochester. This picturesque home and museum features temporary and permanent exhibits meant to inspire viewers. Don’t hesitate to tote your kids along, because if they’re under 12, they get in for free. Send them to the Discovery Room, where they can learn how cameras work and make their own sun prints.

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