Strong Tours

Strong featuring interior views
Strong featuring interior views
Strong showing interior views
Strong featuring railway items and 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.

Dedicated to the history of play and especially of toys, The Strong (National Museum of Play) may be the United States’ most child-friendly destination. Let kids run amok as they explore and learn, from how to do grocery shopping, to how to put on a play. Treat yourself with an afternoon on the vintage arcade games on the second floor.

Start your tour in the kid-sized Wegmans grocery store on the first floor of the museum, but realize it may be hard to get children or adults to leave. Send kids off to pick out items, chat with other children serving as butchers or deli employees, ring up their purchases on the cash register, get a receipt and then return their purchases to their correct shelf. Watch them star in their very own commercial or cooking show on the attached WKID-TV station. Gape at the hundreds of butterflies fluttering through the air in the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden.

While the kids play, sneak off for a blast from the past in the arcade, which features electronic games from Pac-Man to the present. Pop in your quarters and let the outside world melt away as you go from machine to machine.

Learn about the history of games and toys in the National Toy Hall of Fame, which even has a larger version of a handheld ball maze game that was played by 19th-century presidents.

Boogie on the dance floor with your kids and enjoy a ride on the vintage merry-go-round before you leave.

Find The Strong (National Museum of Play) in the heart of downtown Rochester, a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Rochester’s central train station. Limited parking is available on site or in metered parking at nearby municipal garages.

The museum is open daily from mid-morning to early evening, staying open late on Fridays and Saturdays and opening at noon on Sundays. Entrance to the butterfly garden is timed and operates on shorter hours than the rest of the museum. Although there is no discount for children’s admission, matinee pricing is applicable on weekday afternoons during the school year.

Plan a trip to see Strong

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
RIT Inn & Conference Center
Hyatt Regency Rochester
The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Strong

Hyatt Regency Rochester

Hyatt Regency Rochester

3.5 out of 5
125 East Main Street, Rochester, NY
Hyatt Regency Rochester
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

2.5 out of 5
101 South Union Street, Rochester, NY
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown
The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton

The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton

4 out of 5
550 East Ave, Rochester, NY
The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton
Inn on Broadway

Inn on Broadway

3.5 out of 5
26 Broadway, Rochester, NY
Inn on Broadway
Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown, NY

Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown, NY

3 out of 5
155 E Main St, Rochester, NY
Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown, NY
Wyndham Rochester Downtown

Wyndham Rochester Downtown

3 out of 5
70 State St, Rochester, NY
Wyndham Rochester Downtown
Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown

3 out of 5
390 East Avenue, Rochester, NY
Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown
East 120 I Modern Refinished Apt Downtown I Gym

East 120 I Modern Refinished Apt Downtown I Gym

Rochester
East 120 I Modern Refinished Apt Downtown I Gym
1 mile from Strong URMC, Downtown Rochester Micro Studio Tiny House Apartment

1 mile from Strong URMC, Downtown Rochester Micro Studio Tiny House Apartment

Rochester
1 mile from Strong URMC, Downtown Rochester Micro Studio Tiny House Apartment
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Strong

In Strong, Rochester, New York, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including vibrant festivals, live music, and local sports events. Key attractions include a fascinating science center, college tours, and a fun game of kubb. Don’t miss out on exploring the nearby activities in Rochester and visiting the renowned Museum of Play for a delightful experience.

Food and drinks

For a delightful wine experience near Strong, check out Casa Larga Vineyards and Lake Ontario Winery, both offering romantic vibes. JD Wine Cellars also adds to the local charm. These spots are family-friendly, perfect for a getaway, with plenty of dining options in the vibrant university area of Rochester.

Shopping

In Strong, you can explore Park Avenue, a vibrant shopping area just 1 mile away, and ARTWalk, a charming store located 0.8 miles from your location. If you're up for a drive, visit Marketplace Mall, which is 5 miles away and offers a variety of family-friendly entertainment options.

Recreation

Blue Cross Arena offers an energizing atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, while Tim Hortons Iceplex combines ice skating with entertainment and adventure. For a tranquil retreat, visit Ellison Park, where you can unwind amidst nature and enjoy peaceful surroundings perfect for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

Explore the Heritage Trail, a scenic hiking path located 1 mile from Strong, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. For a thrilling experience, head to Red Barn Climbing Gym, located 6 miles away, where you can challenge yourself with exciting climbing routes in a spirited atmosphere.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Strong offers diverse entertainment options. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Rochester Auditorium Theater, just 0.9 miles away, or explore the wonders of the Strasenburgh Planetarium, 0.8 miles from Strong. For family-friendly adventure, visit Horizon Fun FX, located 8 miles away.

Find the best attractions near Strong

While visiting Strong, Rochester, explore the Strong Museum of Play, a delightful destination for family fun and culture. Enjoy the scenic beauty of nearby lakes and urban parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't forget to check out the museum map for a comprehensive guide to the Strong National Museum. With a mix of modern college vibes and recreational spaces, Strong offers a variety of experiences for every traveler.

  • University of Rochester: Immerse yourself in the vibrant campus life of this modern university, just 2 miles from Strong. Enjoy its beautiful architecture and scenic grounds, while experiencing the energetic atmosphere that comes with a bustling student body.
  • Rochester Riverside Convention Center: Located only 0.4 miles from Strong, this arts center is a hub for culture and creativity. Attend various events, exhibitions, and performances that showcase local talent and art, all within a lively and welcoming environment.
  • Rochester Museum and Science Center: Situated 0.8 miles away, this family-friendly science museum offers interactive exhibits and educational experiences. Explore fascinating topics in science and history while enjoying a fun atmosphere perfect for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Strong

Visitor numbers around Strong is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Strong can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Strong falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Strong falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January25.5°F (-3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February26.4°F (-3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
March34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
June65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Strong

To save money during your visit to Strong, Rochester, opt for traveling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Explore free activities such as the Marketplace Mall and the Genesee River. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Always check for reviews to ensure you get the best value for your money.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Strong are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.