What to do in Rochester, NY

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Rochester showing a house

Rochester Attractions

Whether you like to shop up a storm or familiarize yourself with the local history, there are so many fun things to do in Rochester. This city boasts many exciting attractions that'll keep your travel itinerary full and your feet on the go. Whatever you're into, this place has something special in store for you.

If you're ready to hit the streets of Rochester, sign up for one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly expert show you the most popular landmarks. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {12 fun activities in Rochester fun activities in Rochester} are also worth looking into.

Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.

Rochester Attractions Information

Number of things to do
12
Things to do from
$10
Cheapest thing to do
Rochester City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks
Top 5 things to do
Top 5 things to do under $25
Top 5 things to do with kids

What to do in Rochester

Free Things to Do in Rochester

A trip to Rochester need not blow your budget. You can leave your wallet behind if you go to:

Ellison Park - Make this one of your first stops for a dash of fun during your escape.

Pont de Rennes Bridge - If you're eager to explore the history of the region through its landmarks, stick this one on your must-see list.

Genesee River's High Falls - Take some time out beside the water to unwind and recharge.

Asbury First United Methodist Church - Mix some spirituality into your vacation by visiting this religious site.

Susan B. Anthony Square - Develop your green thumb and marvel at the beautiful and diverse plants on show.

Things to Do in Rochester with Kids

There are plenty of sensational experiences in Rochester that the whole gang will love. Here are some of the top family friendly experiences around.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Rochester? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Frequently asked questions

What should I not miss in Rochester?
Impress your loved ones back home by taking a selfie at Genesee River’s High Falls.
Are there cheap things to do in Rochester?
Keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket with these fun and frugal activities:


What can you do in Rochester for free?
You could put your cash in the hotel safe for the day, because these fabulous attractions will cost you nothing:

  • Genesee River’s High Falls
  • Eastview Mall
  • Bristol Mountain Ski Resort
  • Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack

Popular places to visit

Image for University of Rochester

University of Rochester

4.5/5(271 reviews)

Explore the campus of University of Rochester, during your travels in Rochester. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its great live music.

University of Rochester
Image for Strong

Strong

4.5/5(207 reviews)

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.

Strong
Image for Rochester Museum and Science Center

Rochester Museum and Science Center

4.5/5(70 reviews)

Fossils, a climbing wall, a planetarium and more fill this extensive museum, which is especially renowned for its kid-friendly Inventor Center.

Rochester Museum and Science Center
Image for Genesee River's High Falls

Genesee River's High Falls

4.5/5(139 reviews)

Rochester’s primary waterfall is a gateway to both the beautiful nature of the Genesee River and the history of the industries that have marked it.

Genesee River's High Falls
Image for Seneca Park Zoo

Seneca Park Zoo

4/5(35 reviews)

Why not visit the native and exotic animals who live at Seneca Park Zoo during your trip to Rochester? Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.

Seneca Park Zoo
Image for Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology

4.5/5(344 reviews)

Take a campus tour or just explore the area around Rochester Institute of Technology, a top college in Rochester. Stroll along the riverfront or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Rochester Institute of Technology
Image for St. John Fisher College

St. John Fisher College

4.5/5(33 reviews)

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of St. John Fisher College, during your trip to Rochester. Experience the great live music or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

St. John Fisher College
Image for Strong Memorial Hospital

Strong Memorial Hospital

4.5/5(106 reviews)

Though Strong Memorial Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Rochester while you are here.

Strong Memorial Hospital
Image for Eastman School of Music

Eastman School of Music

4.5/5(96 reviews)

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Eastman School of Music, during your travels in Rochester. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.

Eastman School of Music

Areas of Rochester

Genesee River\'s High Falls which includes a city and street scenes as well as a couple

Downtown Rochester

4/5(316 area reviews)

This lively downtown is full of opportunities for recreation and relaxation and is the best place to connect with the unique history of the city.

Downtown Rochester
Love this local coffee shop! Lots of great coffee flavors.

Irondequoit

If you're spending some time in Irondequoit, Seabreeze Amusement Park and Ontario Beach Park are top sights worth seeing.

Irondequoit
great place for a daycation!

Brighton

You'll enjoy the museums and art galleries in Brighton. You might want to make time for a stop at Highland Park or Park Avenue.

Brighton
Memorial Art Gallery which includes night scenes

East Avenue

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

Rochester’s historic district features grand homes and intriguing museums among the city’s cultural attractions, with a focus on science and history.

East Avenue
Rochester featuring drinks or beverages

Rochester Central Business District

If you're spending some time in Rochester Central Business District, Genesee River and Blue Cross Arena are top sights worth seeing.

Rochester Central Business District
Watching the sunset from a pier in Lake Ontario near Rochester, New York #Adventure #sunset #LakeOntario #Lake #NewYork

Charlotte

If you're spending some time in Charlotte, Ontario Beach Park and Mall at Greece Ridge are top sights worth seeing.

Charlotte
See our Where To Stay guide

Day trip destinations from Rochester

Photo by Teesa Travels

Pittsford

Photo by Jeanine Grey

Victor

Photo by Stephanie Garling

Honeoye Falls

Photo by Mary SnyderHodson

Hilton