Fair Haven Beach State Park cover

Summer Break: Ideas for Fun, Educational Rochester Day Trips

School’s out for summer break, but the learning never ends! Find the perfect balance between fun and education with day-trip ideas that extend learning outside the classroom.

Whether your child is interested in science, history, arts, or nature, you’ll find plenty of options to spark their curiosity and keep their minds active. This summer, turn every day into an opportunity for discovery and growth by fostering a genuine curiosity and understanding of the world.

Social Studies: History

Explore Rochester’s Rich History: History explores the events, people, and societies that have shaped our world, fostering critical thinking and understanding of historical context.

Activities:

Explore More

Old Fort Niagara

Old Fort Niagara served as a strategic stronghold for 300 years during the French & Indian Wars, War of 1812, Revolutionary War, and Civil War.

Read more

Genesee Country Village & Museum

The Genesee Country Village is a living history museum with 68 structures on 700 acres, making it the largest museum of its kind in New York.

Read more

Rochester: The Image City

Rochester evolved from the Flower City to the Image City when Eastman invented a way for the masses to capture everyday moments on film.

Read more

All Aboard! Ride the Rails at These 4 Heritage Train Museums

Listen to the rhythmic chugga-chuggas and whistling choo-choos while enjoying the scenic landscape passing by on a Rochester-area train ride.

Read more

Rochester-Area Boat Tours

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes, Genesee River, Erie Canal, and Finger Lakes on one of these Rochester-area boat tours.

Read more

Unlock the Wonder: 12 Ways to Fully Experience the Erie Canal

Experience the beauty, history, and community of the Erie Canal through activities that offer a unique perspective of life along the canal.

Read more

9 Lake Ontario Lighthouses in New York

These lighthouses along Lake Ontario in New York are within a two-hour drive of Rochester. And where there’s a light there’s a sweeping view!

Read more

Social Studies: Culture & Society

Visit Key Sites: Learn about various human traditions, customs, and social structures.

Activities:

Explore More

Rochester’s Cultural Heritage

Rochester’s theaters, museums, and events offer opportunities to celebrate the region’s unique identity and cultural heritage.

Read more

Ganondagan State Historic Site

Ganondagan is the original site of a 17th-century Seneca town, which at its peak had 150 longhouses where one replica stands today.

Read more

Explore Auburn

Auburn offers a full day of immersive experiences. Follow this guide to make the most of your time exploring the city’s rich culture.

Read more

Explore Seneca Falls

Seneca Falls, on historic Route 5 and 20, is the birthplace of the Women’s Rights movement and is the inspiration for It’s a Wonderful Life.

Read more

Social Studies: Geography

Plan Your Trip: Use our Google Maps to help the kids plan their summer break day trip route.

Explore More

Day Trip Maps

Use our curated Google Maps to help you locate the best waterfalls, ice cream shops, farm markets, sledding hills, Christmas lights and more.

Read more

Science: Geology

Discover Geological Wonders: Visit places that provide historical evidence of the Earth’s changes over time and its inner workings affecting the people who live here.

Activities:

Explore More

Geologic History of the Rochester Area

These day trips into Rochester’s geologic history will remind you just how amazing our corner of the Earth is.

Read more

Grimes Glen in Naples

Grimes Glen is public, free, and you are encouraged to wade up the creek to the first and second waterfalls, both 60-foot cascades.

Read more

Gorge Trails Near Rochester

Gorge trails call out from their deep, dark, and cool caverns. If you haven’t already, start checking these spectacular trails off your list.

Read more

Chimney Bluffs State Park

The bluffs in Chimney Bluffs State Park are fragile drumlins, like all of the truncated drumlins along this section of shoreline.

Read more

Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve

At Penn Dixie, you keep every fossil you find, though it takes a keen eye and persistence to find the fossils, many of which are smaller than pebbles.

Read more

Museum of the Earth

The Museum of the Earth focuses on life beginning in the Cambrian Period, but it covers Earth’s history spanning 4.5 billion years.

Read more

Science: Energy

Witness Renewable Energy in Action: Rochester has a rich history of using hydropower from the Genesee River for mills and manufacturing. Here are some places where you can learn about hydropower around Rochester:

Activities:

  • Wander through the High Falls Historic District to read about Rochester’s early hydropower history.
  • Visit the Middle Falls Hydroelectric Plant, where RG&E continues to harness the power of the Genesee River to generate electricity. Please note that RG&E closes the walkway periodically.
  • At the Niagara Power Vista in Lewiston (no admission fee), learn about the immense power of water to shape the Earth and humanity’s ability to harness that power to provide energy for our homes.

Explore More

High Falls on the Genesee River

High Falls is the name of the waterfall, the neighboring historic district, and the future Rochester High Falls State Park.

Read more

Maplewood Park & Rose Garden

Maplewood Park is a linear park that follows the river from Driving Park and the Lower Falls to just north of Route 104, ending at the pedestrian bridge over the Genesee.

Read more

Exploring The Genesee River

At Genesee Valley Park, the river merges with the Erie Canal and continues north through Rochester before reaching Lake Ontario.

Read more

Explore Lewiston

Ranked as one of the “Top Ten Small Towns,” spend a day in Lewiston, with its excellent shops, restaurants, and Niagara River views.

Read more

Explore Niagara Falls, USA

Visitors travel far and wide to see Niagara Falls State Park, America’s first state park, and we are fortunate to drive there in 90 minutes.

Read more

Science: Agriculture

Visit Farms and Markets: Explore local farms and markets to understand agriculture and taste fresh produce.

Activities:

Explore More

Farms & Farmers’ Markets: Your Guide to Locally Grown Produce

Exploring local markets and roadside produce stands is a great way to immerse yourself in the community and support family farms.

Read more

Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen

Farm Sanctuary sits on 175 acres in Watkins Glen, just west of Sugar Hill State Forest, and is home to more than 500 rescued farm animals.

Read more

Rochester Public Market

The Rochester Public Market is the best place to find the freshest locally grown produce, seafood, beef, cheese, bread, and beverages.

Read more

Science: Biology & Zoology

Explore Nature and Animal Centers: Spend time observing wildlife and searching for clues about their environment. Participate in citizen science activities to document your observations.

Activities:

Explore More

Seneca Park and Zoo

The 20-acre Seneca Park Zoo is a small portion of the 300-acre county park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1893.

Read more

Nature Centers and Preserves Around Rochester

The various nature centers, preserves, and management areas all work to protect and maintain natural spaces for the benefit of all.

Read more

Lamberton Conservatory

The Lamberton Conservatory, located in Highland Park, is a serene and colorful tropical glasshouse displaying a diverse collection of plants.

Read more

Gardens & Arboretums

These carefully designed gardens, often cultivated for decades or even centuries, display exceptional collections of flowers and trees.

Read more

Science: Astronomy & Meteorology

Star Gazing and Weather Watching: Visit the Strassenburg Planetarium, observe the Perseid Meteor Shower, and explore weather patterns.

Activities:

  • Attend a showing of “The Sky Tonight” at the Strassenburg Planetarium, then spend the night looking for the constellations and planets you learned about.
  • The Astronomy Section of the Rochester Academy of Science (ASRAS) hosts public open houses and stargazing events at the Farash Center in Ionia. Read or listen to the current edition of “The Sky This Month.”
  • ASRAS volunteers coordinate the planetarium’s free telescope viewings on Saturday night to observe the universe through powerful telescopes atop its observation tower.
  • Reference the Clear Sky Chart when planning your trips, especially when night-sky viewing is on the itinerary.

Explore More

The Darkest Skies Near Rochester

Locations northeast of Rochester close to Lake Ontario, or south of US-20 in the Finger Lakes will offer the darkest sky near Rochester.

Read more

Rochester Museum & Science Center

Between the star shows, laser shows, interactive exhibits, and Singing Tesla Coils, the Rochester Museum and Science Center will entertain you for hours!

Read more

Language Arts

Reading and Writing: Research and read about your field trip destinations, journal about your experiences, or practice creative writing.

Activities:

Explore More

31 Monroe County Libraries

A free library card allows you to access 31 Monroe County libraries, including Central Library and Libby, the digital library.

Read more

New & Used Bookstores Around Rochester

Books take us on a journey through time and space. If you’re looking for a new adventure, check out these bookstores around Rochester.

Read more

My Favorite Books About the Rochester Area

I’ve provided links to borrow these Rochester-themed books from a Monroe County Library or to purchase them online via Amazon or Bookshop.

Read more

Performing Arts

Live Performances: Enjoy concerts, theater, and movie experiences.

Activities:

Explore More

🎶 Inexpensive & Free Outdoor Concerts Around Rochester

Free outdoor concerts around Rochester start ramping up in June when local venues kick off their summer music series and festivals.

Read more

Theaters Around Rochester

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a show on stage or screen. Experience diverse artistic expression, from Broadway productions to classic movies.

Read more

7 Significant City of Rochester Festivals in 2024

This guide aims to showcase Rochester’s most popular festivals, which attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to our beautiful city.

Read more

Visual Arts

Art Exploration: Find opportunities to create using different mediums and techniques, from painting to pottery to glassblowing and metalwork.

Activities:

Explore More

Museums Around Rochester

Rochester is home to world-renowned museums and thought-provoking galleries. You can spend weeks exploring our rich cultural heritage.

Read more

Summer Break Recreation

Make Time for Recess: Rochester has no shortage of indoor and outdoor activities to keep the entire family active throughout the summer break.

Explore More

Seabreeze, Darien Lake, and Other Amusement Parks Near Rochester

When May comes around, you find the amusement parks with the dry rides opening on the weekends and water parks opening in mid-June.

Read more

Guided Walks and Tours Around Rochester, NY

Local experts who highlight the rich history, geology, ecology, and community of the greater Rochester region lead these guided walks.

Read more

Swimming Holes

On a hot day, you can stand under a waterfall, swim in a lake, or wade through a creek at one of these refreshing natural swimming holes

Read more

Paddle, Pedal, and Trek Along Rochester’s Waterways

With parks, preserved wetlands, historic neighborhoods, and miles of trails, Rochester has no shortage of adventures for outdoor enthusiasts.

Read more

Land That I Love: Your Guide to Roaming the Earth Around Rochester

Enjoy the beauty and wonders of the world by making the most of the varied memorable experiences offered by our parks, gardens, and farms.

Read more

H2O Heritage: Exploring Rochester’s Freshwater Resources

Rochesterians are fortunate to be surrounded by abundant freshwater resources that present us with unique stewardship opportunities.

Read more

80+ Hiking Trails Around Rochester

Less traveled than in our parks, these hiking trails around Rochester offer a secluded and rustic area to immerse yourself in nature.

Read more

Paved, Boardwalk, and Gravel Pathways for Easy Strolls

These paved pathways and boardwalks are ideal for folks using strollers, walkers, wheelchairs, or managing other mobility challenges.

Read more

Our Favorite Places to Take a Walk

The best thing you can do for your body and mind is simply take a walk. Enjoy our favorite places to meander, mosey, saunter or stroll.

Read more

Full-Day Field Trips

summer break at the corning museum of glass
Corning Museum of Glass

Plan Mini-Adventures: Explore our outstanding regional museums and organize an adventurous day of discovery in the neighboring area.

Museums:

Explore More

Explore Corning

Corning’s Gaffer District features nearly one hundred boutiques, specialty and antique shops, art galleries, glass studios, and restaurants.

Read more

Explore Ithaca

Spend a day in the City of Ithaca, exploring the waterfalls, restaurants, shops, and festivals that make this Ivy League college town unique.

Read more

Explore Niagara Falls, USA

Visitors travel far and wide to see Niagara Falls State Park, America’s first state park, and we are fortunate to drive there in 90 minutes.

Read more

Explore Buffalo’s Waterfront

From Canalside to Outer Harbor and RiverWorks to Silo City, there are a dozen excellent day trips from Rochester along Buffalo’s waterfront.

Read more

Explore Syracuse

A day trip to Syracuse should include a walk through its squares, exploring renowned museums, and indulging in delicious local food.

Read more

Summer Break Refreshments

summer break picnic at Olcott Krull Park
Picnicking at Olcott’s Krull Park

Fun with Food: Challenge your family to explore new regional and global cuisines, using unfamiliar ingredients for prepared dishes.

Activities:

  • Visit an international food market and try a variety of ethnic cuisines.
  • Pick a fruit or vegetable you’ve never tried from a farm market or grocery store.
  • Choose a different ice cream wherever you go, or taste a variety with an ice cream flight.

Explore 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!

Read more

Food & Beverage Guide

Whether savoring a gourmet meal, enjoying local delicacies, or embarking on a culinary adventure, you’ll love Rochester’s dining scene.

Read more

🍦The Best Ice Cream Shops Around Rochester

These top ice cream and frozen dessert shops in charming villages and city neighborhoods turn a simple scoop into an artisanal delight.

Read more

30 Perfect Picnic Spots Around Rochester

When searching for the perfect picnic spots, I look for a picnic table, scenery and proximity to water, shade, and relative privacy.

Read more

summer break at Fair Haven Beach State Park
Cover Photo: Fair Haven Beach State Park

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.

Read more

Citizen Science in the Rochester Area

Citizen science involves individuals from all backgrounds, including students, professionals, and the general public, in conducting research.

Read more

132 Things to Do Around Rochester

We’ve pulled together a list of fun and unique things to do around Rochester, NY, within two hours of home—perfect for quick getaways.

Read more

104 Day Trips From Rochester

I have compiled a quick reference list of 104 natural attractions, parks, museums, and tours to inspire your day trips from Rochester.

Read more

50 New York State Parks Within a Two-Hour Drive of Rochester

Venture into one of these New York State Parks within a two-hour drive of Rochester and discover what makes them unique.

Read more

24 Hidden Places Around Rochester

From secret gardens to enchanting waterfalls, exploring hidden places around the Rochester area is the ultimate way to add some spice to your travel experiences.

Read more

60 Day Trips within 30 Minutes of Rochester

Sometimes you just need a fun, spontaneous adventure or quick getaway to refresh your day. Try one of these day trips within 30 minutes of Rochester.

Read more

Transcending Places

Instead of being an escape, I see these places as opportunities that encourage us to transcend space, time, and our state of mind.

Read more

Rochester’s Fun Facts: Oldest, Original, Only, & More!

For years, I’ve been collecting fun facts about Rochester from books, websites, historical markers, and casual conversations.

Read more

Escaping Extreme Heat

When temperatures rise above ninety degrees for several days, we all need to find a place to cool down. Water and shade are critical.

Read more

🎡 2024 New York State & County Fairs

State and county fairs, featuring agricultural-themed competitions, amusement, and entertainment, have been popular since the early 1800s.

Read more

What are your favorite summer break activities that help foster continuous learning and create memorable moments?

Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.

Debi Bower, Day Trips Around Rochester NY

Debi Bower is the founder and creative director of daytrippingroc.com and author of the award-winning book Day Trips Around Rochester, New York.

People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *