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Rochester is the third-largest urban area in the state of New York. With a population of approximately 220,000 people, Rochester has a small town appeal with big city living. If you are planning a trip to Rochester, there are many cultural, historical, and fun things to do.
Things To Do In Rochester
Memorial Art Museum and Gallery of Rochester
This museum has art on display from the last 50 centuries. It was founded in 1943 in conjunction with the University of Rochester. The permanent collection contains 10,000 works of art ranging from the traditional works of centuries past to modern cutting edge arts.
Seneca Park Zoo
This zoo opened in 1893 and is home to a wide array of animals. The zoo offers many types of reptiles, fish, birds, and amphibians. Some featured mammals at this zoo are the African Elephant, Red-necked Wallaby, Amur Tiger, and the Grey Arctic Wolf. The zoo offers guided and behind-the-scenes tours throughout the calendar year.
Susan B. Anthony House
Susan B. Anthony was a civil rights activist. She wanted to bring about the right to vote for the women of the United States. The Susan B. Anthony House was her home when she resided in Rochester and is the site of her famous arrest in 1872. Memorabilia from her life is contained in the house, as are some original furnishings and some of her personal effects.
Sam Patch Tour Boat
This boat is a replica of the ones used in the early days of the Erie Canal. The boat runs tours from May through November each year. The company offers scenic and historical tours along the Erie Canal.
Rochester Museum and Science Center
This facility encourages visitors to explore science, technology, heritage, and the environment through exhibits and interactive learning. The Nagasaki Tamako exhibit features dolls. You can also see the RMSC Quilt Project and a large display of British pottery that displays images of the Erin Canal. Also offered are an interactive weather studio, a virtual reality tour of the waters of Lake Ontario, and a wall climb.
Seabreeze Park
This amusement park offers 70 rides featuring roller coasters, kiddy rides, and family rides. The park also has a water park and a picnic area. They offer food, games, and live shows. The park is operational from May to September.
Rock Ventures
Rock Ventures is North America’s largest indoor rock climbing facility. They are operational year-round and offer instructions for new climbers. Equipment rental is available also. The establishment offers 18,000 square feet of climbing wall, two boulder caves, and a high rope-climbing course.
Durand-Eastman Park
This 965-acre park runs along the coast of Lake Ontario. The park is known for its many species of birds and its fall foliage. While at the park you can enjoy the lake, picnic, golf, hike, or go horseback riding. There is also a playground for the kids. During the winter, the park is a great place for cross-country skiing.
Jell-O Museum and Gallery
The Jell-O Museum is located about thirty miles outside of Rochester. The museum features the history of Jell-O from the past to the present. There is an exhibit featuring Bill Cosby, the spokesperson for Jell-0 since 1980. This museum offers interactive fun for both young and old alike.
Mystery Cave and Forestville
Mystery Cave and Forestville is a park of natural beauty and a restored town of historical importance. Mystery Cave offers trout fishing, hiking, camping, picnic areas, and ski and snowmobile trails. Mystery Cave is a wonder with its stalagmites, stalactites, and underground pools. Enjoy tours of the cave throughout the summer and on weekends during the off-season. The temperature stays at a constant 48 degrees Fahrenheit in the cave. Forestville is the site of an 1800s town and gives visitors a look into the area’s past.
