Top Family Vacation Spots in Rochester, New York, United States

Rochester, United States, Rochester, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Top Family Vacation Spots

Top Family Vacation Spots in Rochester, New York, United States

1. Sea Breeze Amusement Park

Classic amusement park offering roller coasters, water rides, and games for all ages.
  • Thrilling Rides: Offers a variety of adrenaline-pumping rides for the whole family.
  • Water Park: Features a water park with slides and pools, perfect for hot summer days.
  • Affordable Fun: Provides reasonable prices for an enjoyable day out.

2. Seneca Park Zoo

Home to over 400 animals, including polar bears, gorillas, and penguins.
  • Animal Encounter Programs: Offers up-close experiences with some of the zoo's most popular animals.
  • Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts through education and research programs.
  • Stroller Rentals: Provides strollers for families with young children, making exploration easier.

3. High Falls Park

Home to the highest waterfall in the Finger Lakes region, perfect for picnics and scenic walks.
  • Natural Beauty: Provides stunning views of the roaring falls and surrounding park.
  • Family-Friendly Trails: Offers easy walking trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
  • Picnic Areas: Provides picnic tables for a relaxing meal amidst nature.

4. Strong National Museum of Play

Interactive museum featuring exhibits on toys, games, and children's literature.
  • Hands-On Activities: Offers numerous interactive experiences for kids to engage with their favorite games and characters.
  • Rotating Exhibits: Regularly updates exhibits, ensuring a fresh experience on each visit.
  • Educational Focus: Emphasizes the educational value of play and its role in child development.

5. Rochester Museum & Science Center

A museum dedicated to science, technology, and natural history.
  • Exhibits for All Ages: Features exhibits suitable for children of all ages.
  • Planetarium Shows: Offers shows in the planetarium, providing a unique learning experience.
  • Hands-On Activities: Includes interactive exhibits that encourage exploration and engagement.

6. Genesee Valley Park

A large park offering hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and a mini-golf course.
  • Nature Trails: Provides multiple trails for hiking, birdwatching, or biking.
  • Recreational Activities: Includes activities like fishing, mini-golf, and paddleboats.
  • Picnic Areas: Offers plenty of picnic areas for a family gathering.

7. Rochester Children's Museum

Interactive museum designed for children 8 and under, featuring exhibits on art, science, and culture.
  • Age-Appropriate Activities: Features activities specifically designed for young children.
  • Educational Focus: Encourages learning through play and exploration.
  • Toddler Area: Dedicated area for toddlers with age-appropriate activities.

8. Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park

Beautiful gardens and historic mansion offering guided tours and educational programs.
  • Garden Tours: Offers guided tours of the stunning gardens.
  • Historic Mansion: Features a historic mansion with period-specific furnishings and artifacts.
  • Educational Programs: Provides educational programs about the history of the estate and its gardens.

9. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Museums

A collection of museums focusing on art, science, and technology.
  • Art Galleries: Features multiple galleries showcasing contemporary and modern artwork.
  • Science Museums: Includes several science museums, each focusing on a specific field.
  • Technology Exhibits: Offers exhibits highlighting the latest advancements in technology.

10. Eastman Theatre

Historic theater hosting performances of music, dance, and theatre.
  • Live Performances: Offers a diverse lineup of live performances throughout the year.
  • Historic Venue: Located in a beautiful historic building, the theater provides an elegant setting for performances.
  • Family-Friendly Performances: Regularly hosts family-friendly shows and events.

11. The Strong National Museum of Play's National Toy Hall of Fame

A museum dedicated to the history and impact of toys and games.
  • Historic Toys: Displays a collection of iconic and influential toys and games.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with famous toys and games.
  • Induction Ceremony: Hosts an annual induction ceremony to honor new members of the National Toy Hall of Fame.

12. The Rochester Public Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local goods, and unique finds.
  • Fresh Produce: Offers a wide variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
  • Local Goods: Features vendors selling local products like cheeses, meats, and baked goods.
  • Unique Finds: Includes vendors selling unique items like crafts and antiques.

13. The Memorial Art Gallery (MAG)

An art museum featuring a diverse collection of American, European, and Asian art.
  • Permanent Collection: Displays a permanent collection spanning centuries of art.
  • Temporary Exhibits: Regularly updates temporary exhibits, ensuring a fresh experience on each visit.
  • Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.

14. Durand-Hedden House

Historic house museum showcasing Rochester's Victorian history.
  • Victorian Architecture: Features a beautiful example of Victorian-era architecture.
  • Historic Interiors: Offers guided tours of the restored historic interiors.
  • Local History: Provides insight into Rochester's history and its influential residents.

15. The Susan B. Anthony House

Historic home of the women's rights activist, offering tours and educational programs.
  • Women's Rights History: Offers a deep look into the life and work of Susan B. Anthony.
  • Historic Home Tour: Provides guided tours of the beautifully preserved home.
  • Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about women's rights and history.