New York's Charming City In The Great Lakes Is Full Of Family-Friendly Fun

In a city that's situated on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, it's easy to imagine how accessible outdoor recreation can be. As the western gateway to the Finger Lakes, Rochester, New York, not only provides an abundance of water-focused fun, but also a diverse mix of attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. 

Thanks in part to downtown Rochester's large-scale revitalization initiative called the "Neighborhood of Play," the city serves up an abundance of family-focused attractions. At the heart of this development is The Strong National Museum of Play, a 90,000-square-foot museum that celebrates everything from video games and board games to interactive learning experiences, making it an ideal entertainment destination for every member of the family. There's even a high ropes course and an exhibit dedicated to the most iconic toys of all time. 

The beautiful Genesee River flows right through the center of the city. In fact, the river provides one of the city's most popular attractions: High Falls. The aptly-named waterfall generates hydroelectric power and has been a source of industrial energy for 200 years. 

The crown jewel of downtown Rochester, High Falls spills from a height of 96 feet and is the tallest of the three waterfalls on the Genesee River. Pont de Rennes Bridge offers the best views of the waterfall and city skyline. The pedestrian bridge soars 114 feet above the river — the perfect place to snap some family photos with the tumbling falls in the background. For even more striking vistas, hop in the car and head 45 minutes south to Letchworth State Park, a gorgeous, waterfall-rich state park home to the "Grand Canyon of the East." From here, drive another hour southwest and you'll arrive at Watkins Glen State Park, a stunning park that boasts incredible scenery and waterfalls. 

In warmer months, Rochester's 800-acre Genesee Valley Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor fun. The park features athletic fields, playgrounds, kayak rentals, hiking paths, cycling trails, and picnic areas, as well as an Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool at the Genesee Valley Sports Complex. The park is also a popular geo-caching site and a vibrant fishing destination for those who are licensed.

As a year-round adventure destination, Rochester has many winter activities, including cross-country skiing at Genesee Valley Park and ice skating at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park. It also has a wide variety of renowned indoor attractions to keep families entertained.

Let's face it, museums may not be every kid's idea of fun. But Rochester's immersive exhibits are a big hit with children of all ages. The Rochester Museum and Science Center, for example, invites families to explore three floors of fascinating activities. Here, science and history are literally within grasp, with more than 120 hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations to enjoy. Kids also love the on-site Strasenburgh Planetarium, a 65-foot dome theater with space-themed film screenings and laser light shows.

Another must-visit for families is the Eastman Museum, the world's oldest photography museum. Families can learn about the history of photography and motion capture at different exhibitions, or participate in hands-on activities at the Discovery Room inside the historic mansion. There's one more family-friendly option worth talking about. Open all year long, the Rochester's Seneca Park Zoo is home to multiple habitat areas with animals from all over the globe. The ZooTram is especially popular with families and offers an inexpensive way to tour the grounds without tiring out little legs.

No matter when you visit, Rochester offers plenty of accommodations, including a variety of family-friendly chain hotels and vacation rentals. Camping opportunities are also available at nearby Hamlin Beach State Park, Webster Park Campgrounds, and the aforementioned Letchworth State Park. The city's main airport, Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), is well connected to cities all over the U.S. Families looking to save on transportation can also travel by Megabus. The most convenient way to get around is by car — Rochester is within driving distance of New York's most underrated towns for a laid-back getaway, making it an ideal starting point for a road trip.