Discover the power of continuous learning at these three exceptional locations in Rochester. With engaging lectures, diverse courses, and immersive hands-on activities, they have truly mastered the art of lifelong education.
1. Monroe County Library System
Our 31 libraries each have something unique to offer the Rochester community. From resume-writing workshops to movie viewings, these programs range from practical self-improvement courses to just plain fun. They all help the library fulfill its central mission of fostering intellectual curiosity and demonstrating the value of understanding our world.
2. Rochester Brainery
Rochester Brainery is a community classroom and event space located in Rochester’s Neighborhood of the Arts. Learn from local authors, actors, artists, chefs, graphic designers, beer-brewers, and more who share their smarts in single-session, affordable classes.
3. Chautauqua Institute
Chautauqua Institution is a community on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York state that comes alive each summer with a unique mix of fine and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship and programs, and recreational activities. Chautauqua is perhaps best known for its morning lecture series, during which the Amphitheater stage hosts distinguished speakers from a wide range of disciplines. Historically, Susan B. Anthony argued for women’s suffrage in 1892, and Franklin D. Roosevelt gave his “I Hate War” speech in 1936. Margaret Mead, Amelia Earhart, Thurgood Marshall, Freeman Dyson, Jane Goodall, Sandra Day O’Connor, and Kurt Vonnegut have all spoken here.
Explore More
Grand Adventures: 10 Rochester Skip-Gen Day Trip Ideas
This guide offers ten skip-gen day trip ideas for grandparents and grandchildren to spend quality time exploring the Rochester area together.
Your Rochester Date Guide for Spending Quality Time Together, Day or Night
Whether it’s your first date or 50th anniversary, trying various activities with your partner is a great way to shake up your routine.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a show on stage or screen. Experience diverse artistic expression, from Broadway productions to classic movies.
Shared Rochester 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.
Where are your favorite places to learn something new around Rochester?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Help Support My Work
People often ask if I get free access to the places I visit. The answer is no—unless I’m invited to a special preview or offered behind-the-scenes access through my media role. Most of the time, I don’t even mention Day Trips Around Rochester, New York when I visit a place. I want to have the same experience you would.
I create and share this content because it brings me joy—and I hope it adds value to your adventures, too.
If my work has helped you explore and appreciate the Rochester area, please consider becoming a paid subscriber on Substack. You’ll receive an email whenever I publish new content and have the chance to connect with a growing community of local explorers.
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Thank you!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
