From lectures, to courses, to hands-on activities, these four places around Rochester have perfected the art of continuous learning.
1. 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.
2. TEDx
TEDx brings the spirit of TED’s mission of ideas worth spreading to local communities around the globe. TEDx events are organized by curious individuals who seek to discover ideas and spark conversations in their own community.
TEDx events include live speakers and recorded TED Talks, and are organized independently under a free license granted by TED.
Find more information on each of these specific local organizations: TEDxRochester, TEDxFlourCity, TEDxAllendaleColumbia
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 when the Amphitheater stage becomes the platform for distinguished speakers across a broad 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.
4. 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.
Trying various activities with your partner is a great way to connect, learn more about each other, and shake up your routine.
95 Performing Arts Venues Around Rochester
Rochester has an excellent performing arts scene! Find plays and musicals by high school and college students, local professionals, and touring companies.
76 Rochester Experiences that Make Great Gifts
The benefits of sharing Rochester experiences as gifts go beyond personal happiness. Less clutter, less waste, less stress—less is more.
100+ Other Museums Around Rochester
Explore some out-of-town, lesser-know, off-the-beaten-path, and odd-collection museums around Rochester, plus historic sites.
Where do you like to go to learn something new around Rochester?
Please share your thoughts and stories with us in the comments. Your insight and experience are invaluable!