Parks
73 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park0.4 mi from downtown
- Ralph Avery Park0.6 mi from downtown
- Goodwin Park0.8 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Rochester
5 kinds of free outings in and around Rochester.
Good days out in Rochester don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Rochester Public Library115 South Avenue
- Wheatley Branch33 Dr Samuel Mccree Way
- Frederick Douglass Community Library971 South Avenue
Historic places
106 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- George Eastman MuseumBuilt 1905
- Charlotte-Genesee LighthouseBuilt 1822
- Wilder Building
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Mount Morris Dam and Recreation Area35 mi southwest
- Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge40 mi west
- Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge46 mi east
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge40 mi west
- Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge46 mi east
- Almond Lake56 mi south
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
There’s so much to do in Rochester, NY!
An activity Short shared by Jen Ruiz.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Did you know about this cultural hot spot in Rochester, NY? The International Plaza is a must-visit!
An activity Short shared by Visit Rochester.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Rochester?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Rochester this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.