The Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester boasts a rich permanent collection, an impressive range of traveling exhibitions, and a diverse schedule of classes and events, like third-Thursday DeTOURs. On the museum’s grounds, wander through Centennial Sculpture Park, which features world-renowned artists alongside whimsical photo-ops, including some best viewed at night.
Outside the Memorial Art Gallery
Many sculptures are displayed across MAG’s 10-acre campus, but none are as prominent as Creation Myth. It features two significant figures at the corner of Goodman and University Avenues and 17 miniature bronze muses scattered throughout the park. Look high and low to find them all.
The Poets Walk and Story Walk are interactive sidewalks along University Avenue and North Goodman Street. They honor poets and local authors as artists of the written word and feature Rochester stories, memoirs, and family histories from community members.
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Memorial Art Gallery Story Walk and Poets Walk
The Memorial Art Gallery’s Poets Walk and Story Walk are interactive sidewalks along University Avenue and North Goodman Street.
Try to decipher the Morse code set into the red brick sidewalk. Here’s a Morse Code translator that may help, and you can read more about it here.
In the evening, check out Argentum: Double-Positive, which includes two illuminated metal cylinders with text representing Rochester’s diverse history.
Inside the Memorial Art Gallery
First Floor
The first floor showcases traveling exhibitions and rotating collections.
Second Floor
Second-floor exhibits hold timeless collections of famous paintings and priceless artifacts. Visit during an Italian Baroque Organ concert.
Each Sunday, Eastman School of Music students give 25-minute recitals at 1 and 3 p.m. Once a month, from October to May, the organ is featured in Third Thursday evening showcase concerts with the Eastman School. Concerts are offered free with Gallery admission.
More information about the Memorial Art Gallery
Check out “MAG Thursdays” from 5–8 p.m., when admission is half-price, and live music, wine, beer, and food are available for purchase. There are also family-centric cultural heritage days when admission is free (a $5 donation is suggested). The MAG is always trying new things, influenced by its affiliation with the University of Rochester and its location in downtown Rochester.
Cost: Admission Fee; free to explore the grounds outside
Located in the City of Rochester (get directions)
More information: mag.rochester.edu
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Strong National Museum of Play
The Strong National Museum of Play boasts the world’s most extensive collection of play-related historical materials.
Buffalo AKG Art Museum offers a world-class modern and contemporary art experience on the edge of Delaware Park.
Rochester is home to world-renowned museums and thought-provoking galleries. You can spend weeks exploring our rich cultural heritage.
A perfect day in Rochester would include a visit to one of its world-class museums, spending time in its exceptional parks, and seeing both High Falls and Lake Ontario.
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.
Which is your favorite work of art at the Memorial Art Gallery?
I’d love to hear from you—please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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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.
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Enjoy the Journey Together!
Is this a good time to go to the museum, (during this pandemic)? We are thinking of going the week after christmas. Please let me know if museum will be open and if the restaurant will be available. I am from Toledo. I am a Toledo Museum of Art Ambassador. I will be coming in an unofficial capacity.