In December, January, February, and March, we’re all looking to escape winter in Rochester, at least for a few hours.
With tropical temperatures or cozy environments, these Rochester-area destinations offer pleasant snowy-day getaways—at least for a few hours.
People don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they’re happy.
Anton Chekhov
1. Strong Museum’s Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden
The butterfly garden is the only year-round indoor butterfly garden in upstate New York. With a rain-forest environment it’s the perfect retreat from winter!
2. Lamberton Conservatory
Tropical plants need tropical temperatures, so visiting Lamberton Conservatory in winter is a welcome escape from the cold!
Each December, the Holiday Show welcomes you with holiday lights, greens and poinsettias.
The Spring Show opens around the 1st weekend of spring (March 23) through the Lilac Festival in May. They feature hyacinth, daffodils, and tulips; the color and aroma make for a welcome retreat from winter!
3. Monroe County Libraries
Signing up for a free library card gives you access to all 31 Monroe County libraries! The Monroe Country Library System comprises town and village locations, Rochester Public Library branch locations, and the Central Library.
Each library has its own amenities and environments so spend some time this winter exploring a few. Or, check out a local bookstore.
4. RMSC + Planetarium
In the Science Museum you’ll interact with immersive installations like At The Western Door, Rochester’s Underground Railroad, Science on a Sphere, Expedition Earth, Adventure Zone, and the Electricity Theater’s Singing Tesla Coils.
There are always new and innovative exhibits that keep each visit unique.
The state-of-the-art Strasenburgh Planetarium takes guests on a journey to explore space from all viewpoints, not just from Earth looking out. It’s an extraordinary asset for the Rochester community and I highly encourage you to go explore the Universe, especially if you have not been in years.
5. 100+ Other Museums Around Rochester
Take some time to explore some of our lesser-know, off-the-beaten-path, and odd-collection museums.
12 Ideas for Staying Warm & Active throughout the Winter in Rochester
Don’t let winter in Rochester force you into hibernation. If snow doesn’t appeal to you, think of everything there is to do indoors.
The Ultimate Rochester Gift Guide: Shared Experiences that Make Great Gifts
Giving the gift of shared Rochester experiences offers rewards that go well beyond mere personal joy—where less is genuinely more.
Fun Family-Friendly Restaurants, Cafes, and Breweries
I asked our day-trip community: “Do you know of any Rochester-area restaurants that are great for date night and kid-friendly but not kid-centric?” Here’s what you said!
4 Old Country Stores Around Rochester
When you walk into one of these old country stores, you’re stepping back in time with aisles of old-fashioned toys, knickknacks, and candies.
Books take us on a journey through time and space. If you’re looking for a new adventure, check out these bookstores around Rochester.
How do you like to escape winter in Rochester?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
