A listing of ten things to do in Rochester, New York including museums, theme parks, and family attractions.
If you are planning a trip to Rochester, there are many cultural, historical, and fun things to do.
Memorial Art Museum and Gallery of Rochester: This museum has art on display from the last 50 centuries. It was founded in 1943 in conjunction with the University of Rochester. The permanent collection contains 10,000 works of art ranging from the traditional works of centuries past to modern cutting edge arts.
Seneca Park Zoo: This zoo opened in 1893 and is home to a wide array of animals. The zoo offers many types of reptiles, fish, birds, and amphibians. Some featured mammals at this zoo are the African Elephant, Red-necked Wallaby, Amur Tiger, and the Grey Arctic Wolf. The zoo offers guided and behind-the-scenes tours throughout the calendar year.
Susan B. Anthony House: Susan B. Anthony was a civil rights activist. She wanted to bring about the right to vote for the women of the United States. The Susan B. Anthony House was her home when she resided in Rochester and is the site of her famous arrest in 1872. Memorabilia from her life is contained in the house, as are some original furnishings and some of her personal effects.
Sam Patch Tour Boat: This boat is a replica of the ones used on the early days of the Erie Canal. The boat runs tours from May through November each year. They company offers scenic and historical tours along the Erie Canal.
George Eastman House / International Museum of Photography and Film: The George Eastman house was the residence of Mr. Eastman from 1905 to 1932. The museum houses over 400,000 photos spanning the history of photography from its grainy beginnings to the newest technology. There is also an extensive archive of motion picture films.
Rochester Museum and Science Center: This facility encourages visitors to explore science, technology, heritage, and the environment through exhibits and interactive learning. The Nagasaki Tamako exhibit features dolls. You can also see the RMSC Quilt Project and a large display of British pottery that displays images of the Erin Canal. Also offered are an interactive weather studio, a virtual reality tour of the waters of Lake Ontario, and a wall climb.
Seabreeze Park: This amusement park offers 70 rides featuring roller coasters, kiddy rides, and family rides. The park also has a water park and a picnic area. They offer food, games, and live shows. The park is operational from May to September.
Rock Ventures: Rock Ventures is North America's largest indoor rock climbing facility. They are operational year round and offer instructions for new climbers. Equipment rental is available also. The establishment offers 18,000 square feet of climbing wall, two boulder caves, and a high rope-climbing course.
Durand-Eastman Park: This 965-acre park runs along the coast of Lake Ontario. The park is known for its many species of bird and its fall foliage. While at the park you can enjoy the lake, picnic, golf, hike, or go horseback riding. There is also a playground for the kids. During the winter months the park is known as a great place for cross-country skiing.
Jell-O Museum and Gallery: The Jell-O Museum is located about thirty miles outside of Rochester. The museum features the history of Jell-O from past to present. There is an exhibit featuring the Bill Cosby, the spokesperson for Jell-0 since 1980. This museum offers interactive fun for both young and old alike.
