Located in western New York, Rochester is a vibrant destination that blends the charm of a smaller community with big-city amenities. School groups heading to the area, which is bordered to the north by Lake Ontario, can immerse themselves in its history and traditions.
Three top student-focused attractions—The Strong National Museum of Play, the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House and Genesee Country Village & Museum—are as diverse as the city itself. Here are details on each:
The Strong National Museum of Play
The Strong is the world’s only museum dedicated to everyone’s favorite activity … play. The attraction includes two floors of exhibits and is home to both the National Toy Hall of Fame and World Video Game Hall of Fame. During a visit, students can discover a seemingly endless collection of toys, dolls, board games and comic books and try their luck on vintage pinball machines and video games. Another popular option is the museum’s on-site tropical butterfly garden.
The National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
Rochester was the home of Anthony, a legendary women’s rights leader. Her residence, which is now a house museum, was the site of her famous arrest for voting and served as the headquarters of the National American Woman Suffrage Association when she was its president. Themed tours and programs offer glimpses of Anthony’s impact on U.S. society as well as of her daily life.
Genesee Country Village & Museum
The largest living history museum in the state of New York, this attraction focuses on life in the 19th century. Students can step back in time to learn about popular vocations and trades of the day through demonstrations from costumed interpreters. The historical village includes a working farm and brewery, a blacksmith shop, a potter’s workspace and the tin shop, among others.
For more information, email Gregg Marshall of VisitRochester or go to visitrochester.com.
Top Educational Attractions
George Eastman Museum
Mt. Hope Cemetery
Top Recreational Attractions
Seabreeze Amusement Park
Seneca Park Zoo
Top Local Festivals
KeyBank Rochester Fringe Festival (Sept. 10–21)
Rochester Lilac Festival (May)
Top photo: The Strong National Museum of Play’s Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden
Photo by Visit Rochester
