What to do in Rochester, NY

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Rochester

Types of activities

Where to stay

Rochester travel guide

Rochester Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Rochester has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Rochester, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Rochester with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Rochester

Rochester is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Rochester, and make it a breeze to explore Rochester and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Rochester to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Rochester, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Rochester.

Rochester attractions

Rochester has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Rochester to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Rochester.

Looking for things to do in Rochester can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Rochester or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Rochester attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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Recommended things to do in Rochester

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What to do in Rochester

Popular places to visit

University of Rochester

Explore the campus of University of Rochester during your travels in Rochester. Stroll along the area's riverfront or experience its entertainment choices.

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.

Rochester Museum and Science Center

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

Highland Park

Full of interesting plants as well as numerous memorials and architectural features, this Olmsted-designed arboretum is one of Rochester’s most-photographed areas.

Ontario Beach Park

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Ontario Beach Park might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Rochester.

George Eastman Museum

Once owned by the founder of Kodak, this opulent mansion features a huge collection of early photography equipment, interesting architecture and beautiful gardens.

Rochester Institute of Technology

Explore the campus of Rochester Institute of Technology during your trip to Rochester. Stroll along the riverfront or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Strong Memorial Hospital

If Strong Memorial Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Rochester.

Blue Cross Arena

Catch an event at Blue Cross Arena during your trip to Rochester. Experience the area's entertainment choices and great live music.

Explore areas of Rochester

Downtown Rochester

3/5(6 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.

Irondequoit

While visiting Irondequoit, you might make a stop by sights like Seabreeze Amusement Park and Lake Ontario.

Charlotte Genesee Lighthouse, Lake Ontario in Rochester, New York, USA

Brighton

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

Rochester Central Business District

While visiting Rochester Central Business District, you might make a stop by sights like Rochester Riverside Convention Center and Genesee River.

East Irondequoit

While visiting East Irondequoit, you might make a stop by sights like Seabreeze Amusement Park and Lake Ontario.

View of the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse

West Irondequoit

If you're spending some time in West Irondequoit, Seneca Park Zoo and Lake Ontario are top sights worth seeing.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Day trip destinations from Rochester

Penfield

Fairport

Webster

Pittsford

Frequently asked questions

Is Rochester worth visiting?

With a mix of festivals and dining, there are plenty of things to do in Rochester. While you're here, head to Strong, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Rochester?

After you've checked off popular attractions like Strong and Seabreeze Amusement Park, spend the rest of your day exploring Rochester's retail and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Rochester?

You can't leave without checking out Strong, rated the top tourist attraction in Rochester.

Is three days enough to stay in Rochester?

You can easily enjoy top attractions like Strong, Kodak Centre for Performing Arts and Seneca Park Zoo with a three-day escape to Rochester. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Henrietta.

Is Rochester a walkable city?

Some leading sights in Rochester, such as Strong and Kodak Centre for Performing Arts, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kms (0.20 miles) from central Rochester is Downtown Rochester and Rochester Central Business District is 0.64 kms (0.40 miles) away.

What are some activities to do in Rochester with kids?

Planning what to do in Rochester with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're travelling with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Rochester for adults?

Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of Mother Nature, there are lots of things to do in Rochester for adults including Mount Hope Cemetery and ARTWalk.

Are there free things to do in Rochester?

From visiting parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Rochester. If you're stuck for ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Genesee River's High Falls is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.