
Best Museums & Art Galleries in Rochester, New York, United States
1. George Eastman Museum
Explore the history of photography and film in a former estate of Eastman Kodak founder George Eastman.
- Historical Significance: Discover the evolution of photographic and cinematographic technology
- Architectural Marvel: Admire the beautiful mansion and gardens designed by noted architect Henry A. Schlösser
- Collection Diversity: See works by photographers like Ansel Adams, Dorothea Lange, and George Eastman himself
2. Memorial Art Gallery
Delve into a vast collection of art spanning from ancient to contemporary periods.
- Art Diversity: Explore various artistic styles and mediums, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and more
- Cultural Perspectives: Gain insights into different cultures through the artworks on display
- Educational Programs: Attend lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities throughout the year
3. Rochester Museum & Science Center
Engage in hands-on exhibits exploring science, technology, and local history.
- Interactive Exhibits: Participate in engaging and educational activities for all ages
- Local History Focus: Learn about the rich history of Rochester and its role in technological innovation
- Planetarium: Explore the night sky in a state-of-the-art digital planetarium
4. Finger Lakes Boat Museum
Discover the maritime history and boating culture of the Finger Lakes region.
- Maritime History: Learn about the region's boatbuilding traditions, boating safety, and boat racing
- Hands-On Activities: Participate in boat building workshops and other interactive activities
- Waterfront Location: Enjoy beautiful views of Seneca Lake from the museum's waterfront location
5. Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo)
Experience contemporary art exhibitions in a historic factory space.
- Contemporary Art Focus: Explore the latest trends and innovative ideas in contemporary art
- Community Engagement: Participate in workshops, artist talks, and other community events
- Rotating Exhibitions: View rotating exhibitions showcasing the works of emerging and established artists
6. Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
Explore the life and work of suffragist Susan B. Anthony in her historic home.
- Historical Significance: Learn about Susan B. Anthony's role in the women's suffrage movement
- Preservation Efforts: See how preservation efforts have maintained the integrity of the historic site
- Women's Rights Focus: Gain insights into the history and ongoing struggle for women's rights
7. Strong National Museum of Play
Delve into the world of play and discover the history, impact, and importance of play in our lives.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage with exhibits dedicated to popular games, toys, and television shows
- Children's Museum: Encourage creativity and learning through hands-on activities for children
- National Toy Hall of Fame: Explore iconic toys that have shaped our culture and been inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame
8. The Rochester Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester
Explore a collection of more than 10,000 works from ancient to contemporary periods.
- Art Diversity: Discover various artistic styles and mediums, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and more
- Cultural Perspectives: Gain insights into different cultures through the artworks on display
- University Connection: Explore collaborative exhibitions and events with the University of Rochester's Department of Art & Art History
9. The Genesee Country Village & Museum
Step back in time and explore a living history museum showcasing 19th-century life.
- Historical Reenactments: Witness historical reenactments, demonstrations, and crafts by costumed interpreters
- Village Setting: Explore a collection of historic buildings and artifacts set in a picturesque village setting
- Farm Life Focus: Learn about agricultural practices, farm life, and rural communities of the 19th century
10. The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts
Experience a collection dedicated to American artists, with a focus on works from the Hudson River School.
- American Art Focus: Explore the rich history of American art, particularly the Hudson River School
- Historical Significance: Learn about the impact and influence of American artists on the larger art world
- Community Engagement: Participate in workshops, artist talks, and other community events
11. The Rochester City Ballet
Experience the art of ballet through performances, classes, and educational programs.
- Performances: Attend professionally-produced ballet performances throughout the year
- Classes & Workshops: Take classes and workshops to learn the art of ballet for all skill levels
- Community Engagement: Participate in outreach programs, workshops, and other community events
12. The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
Experience the beauty of classical music through performances and educational programs.
- Performances: Attend professionally-produced concerts throughout the year
- Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and other educational programs for all ages
- Community Engagement: Engage with the orchestra through community events, partnerships, and collaborations
13. The Little Theatre
Experience live theatre performances in a historic setting.
- Performances: Attend professionally-produced plays and musicals throughout the year
- Historical Significance: Appreciate the rich history of this historic theater, built in 1920
- Community Engagement: Participate in workshops, classes, and other community events focused on theatre arts
14. The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Museums
Explore museums dedicated to contemporary craft and design, photography, and imaging science.
- Art Diversity: Discover various artistic styles and mediums, including ceramics, glass, metalwork, textiles, and more
- Innovative Technology: Explore the role of technology in contemporary art and design
- Student & Faculty Involvement: Engage with students and faculty from RIT's College of Art and Design
15. The Rochester Folk Art Guild
Discover a collection of self-taught artists' works representing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Cultural Heritage Focus: Explore the artistic traditions and cultural heritage of the Rochester area
- Self-Taught Artists: Learn about self-taught artists and their unique techniques and stories
- Community Engagement: Participate in workshops, classes, and other community events focused on folk art