11 Reasons to Take Your Family to Rochester, NY

I have lived in Cleveland for almost 20 years, and until a few weeks ago, I had no idea there was a gem just four hours away to the north east. A few weeks ago I had the honor of being hosted by Visit Rochester with 49 other Macaroni Kids Publishers.

I'm here to give you 11 reasons to take your family on vacation to Rochester in Upstate New York.

Museums and History
National Museum of Play at The Strong - Did you know there is an entire national museum dedicated to play? The Strong is for the entire family. Some of the Museum is exhibits educating visitors on the history of toys and games, and it took me down memory lane! But the rest of the facility is, PLAY! There are hands-on exhibits for both little and big hands, as well as the chance to play arcade games from over the years (my favorites were the original Tetris and Donkey Kong). This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to National Museum of Play at The Strong. To learn more, visit www.museumofplay.org.

The only place you play 4P Pac-Man!

Genesee Country Village & Museum - I remember going to Williamsburg as a kid and immersing myself in the history simulated by the village. Genesee Country Village & Museum is the same concept but just a 4-hour drive away. I cannot wait to take my family to this beautiful, interactive 19th-century village and live the history of it all! 

National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House - Susan B. Anthony called this house home and spent her most politically active years here. She was arrested in the front living room of this very house. This National History Landmark tells part of the story of women's suffrage and is not-to-be-missed. 

Rochester Museum & Science Center - What kid doesn't love hands-on exhibits? The Rochester Museum & Science Center is more than just science. Visit the Stasenburgh Planetarium, learn about the cultural heritage of the region, natural history and the environment all at one stop! 

This "floating" and rotating orb uses real-time satellite data and projectors

to teach about planets. It's like nothing I've ever seen. 

Get Outdoors
Erie Canal tour from the Village of Fairport - Sing along with me:

"Low bridge, ev'rybody down
Low bridge, we're coming to a town..."

There was nothing like enjoying a trip down the Erie Canal and, yes, we had to make sure we were sitting under the bridges... they really are low! If you grew up singing this song, you have got to go on this tour. 

Seabreeze Amusement Park - I love a good amusement park, and Seabreeze is a winner. With roller coasters, smaller rides and a water park, Seabreeze is not too big and not too small. Seabreeze is family-owned and operated, and with a beautiful view of Lake Ontario, this is a great place to spend the day with your family. 

Seneca Park Zoo Society - Seneca Park Zoo knows how to care for their animals, and they are taking great strides to expand their footprint to provide more space for these amazing creatures. The Zoo is in the middle of Seneca Park and truly a wonderful institution. Stay tuned to 2018 when they have expanded and added a wider variety of animals. 

This animal trainer showed us how he works with and rewards the lions so they can receive adequate and safe health care.

Letchworth State Park and Glen Iris Inn - State parks are a perfect and organized way to see the natural beauty of an area. Letchworth State Park boasts waterfalls and a river that runs through the "Grand Canyon of the East." Visit the Nature Center for educational opportunities and to learn more about the Native American history of the area. Visit Glen Iris Inn for a meal in a beautiful old home. 

For Mom and Dad:
Visit Casa Larga Vineyards for some of the best wine I have ever had. Set in the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of New York State, the entire family can enjoy the rolling hills and gorgeous waters of which the area is famous. 

Forget something?
Stop by a Rochester-based Wegmans Food Market to pick up anything you may have left behind or even a meal at the multiple hot and cold bars!


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