Rochester, Minnesota, has long been home to one of the most impressive collections of cultural assets in the state of Minnesota, with many significant historic homes, buildings and monuments located within its borders. In fact, Rochester has more than 350 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places — several times more than any other city in the state! With that said, here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about Rochester, MN
1) The George Eastman Museum
The George Eastman Museum is a world-class institution devoted to photography and film. This National Historic Landmark holds one of the most comprehensive collections in existence, including more than 900,000 historic photographs and more than 11 million negatives. The collection spans several decades, with many iconic images from World War II. In addition to its historical importance, it also houses an outstanding contemporary photography collection that features photographers such as Ansel Adams, Sally Mann and Annie Leibovitz. It’s no wonder that it’s often referred to as the Louvre of photography. If you can’t make it there in person, then check out their extensive online catalog featuring more than 4,300 highlights from its permanent collection. . . . On Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:15 am during museum hours (closed Mondays), they offer free guided tours of their permanent exhibit galleries by volunteers who are knowledgeable on specific areas of interest or studies. Bring your own camera and snap away—no flash needed! Most importantly though – enjoy! Rochester is like nowhere else, so if there was ever a time to get outside your comfort zone while on vacation – now would be perfect. Spirit Airlines customer service phone number can provide you with the most up-to-date information on the airline and the fascinating services it provides to its passengers.
2) The Genesee Brewery
The Genesee Brewery is one of America’s oldest breweries. They first started producing beer in 1878 and have been going strong ever since! Over 160 years later, they’re still independently owned. They were also rated as #1 in USA Today’s Best Beer list in 2014. If that’s not enough to convince you, then I don’t know what will! While visiting Breweries: Just like wineries or cideries, visiting a brewery is a great day out with family and friends. Be sure to try at least 2 beers while you’re there! Cheers! Explore Plaques/Dedications around town: Rochester has lots of plaques throughout its streets dedicated to authors and inventors who once lived here. If you enjoy history, being able to walk on ground that once belonged to Susan B Anthony or George Eastman (the founder of Kodak) can be very cool for visitors. Visit Strong Museum : This science museum is filled with fun interactive exhibits kids (and adults!) are sure to love!
3) Arcade & Pinball Museum
Founded in 1999, The Strong National Museum of Play is home to more than 50,000 historic games and 100,000 pieces of related historical ephemera. You’ll find classic favorites like pinball machines and Pac-Man arcade games as well as obscure oddities like an anti-aircraft training simulator from WWII. This museum offers a glimpse into fun history. In addition to its video game exhibits, it also houses interactive displays that demonstrate how toys are made. It’s a great place for kids as well as adults; after touring one display on how fish hooks are made, I walked away with a newfound appreciation for all those years my father spent fishing with me. The crowd favorite at every family reunion was always pin the tail on Uncle Oscar—he swears he’s changed. These unusual museums don’t attract huge crowds, but what they lack in size they make up for in charm. Its collection includes only 50 games, but each one has been restored to look and play exactly as it did when first sold. Their restored 1972 AMF Fun Bowl lanes include bowling balls with stripes painted by local artist Denny Dent himself. They even have old-fashioned pinsetters with ball returns that actually work! Eat your heart out… Savor food from everywhere around the world: Rochester isn’t just a good place to be a foodie—it truly rivals any major metropolis when it comes to diversity of options.
4) The Public Market
Although there’s nothing historical or architecturally extraordinary about Rochester’s public market, it’s still a worthwhile attraction. With more than 40 vendors selling everything from plants to homemade goods, it’s a great place to stroll and do some people-watching. Whether you’re looking for local goods or just need a change of scenery, stop by—and be sure to grab something delicious on your way out. We recommend checking out Sweetness 7; their cupcakes are as tasty as they are adorable. And don’t worry if sweets aren’t really your thing: There are plenty of other things to try, like Greek yogurt from Haddad’s Creamery or kimchi made by Brubbleton Biscuits (yes, that is a real company). Once you’ve tried these foods and browsed through our list of restaurants , you might find yourself wanting to come back. And maybe bring along someone special…even if they’re not quite convinced yet that Rochester is worth visiting.
5) Strong National Museum of Play
If you’re interested in games, toys and play, there’s not a more fitting city to visit than Rochester. That’s because one of our top attractions is none other than The Strong National Museum of Play. Focused on interactive exhibits that spark learning and creativity, The Strong doesn’t just have an extensive archive; it also boasts a very popular hands-on gallery, as well as temporary exhibitions (like a recent exhibition on DIY gaming), which enable players to get interactive with their favorite pastimes. Oh yeah—and it doesn’t hurt that some of our best pizza can be found nearby! After spending some time at The Strong, head over to Seabreeze Amusement Park, one of the longest running amusement parks in North America. For those who prefer more sedentary activities, how about taking a trip down into history at Frontier Field? Originally built by Rochester native Walter O’Malley (who later founded Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers), Frontier Field is home to Rochester’s AAA baseball team and also includes a walking tour that highlights different eras in local baseball history. You’ll even learn how professional baseball has made its mark on pop culture through music memorabilia from rock legends like Bob Dylan and Jon Bon Jovi. Coolest of all?
6) Olmsted Park System
The Olmsted Park System is an expansive and beautiful collection of nature preserves in and around Rochester. While many people associate Frederick Law Olmsted with New York City, he was also heavily involved in projects throughout Western New York (including Buffalo). Though you might want to head for Niagara Falls for adventure, be sure to check out one of Olmsted’s creations here: Genesee Valley Park, Highland Park, or Durand-Eastman Park. If a natural setting isn’t your thing, plan to attend one of several festivals taking place each year at Strong National Museum of Play or Susan B. Anthony House. And those are just some suggestions! You could spend weeks exploring Rochester—and that doesn’t even count nearby attractions like Letchworth State Park or Lake Ontario shoreline.
7) Rochester Contemporary Art Center
The museum, located in downtown’s Memorial Art Gallery complex, draws top contemporary artists from across New York state and around the world. Features a gift shop and café for added cultural enjoyment. Adults pay $8 admission; students (18+) with ID pay $5; free to all on Thursdays. See website for details, hours and exhibits/events.
8) Susan B. Anthony House
The Susan B. Anthony House was where women’s suffrage pioneer Susan B. Anthony lived from 1849 to 1892. In 1917, it became a museum honoring her and her work for women’s rights and voting rights. It is now owned by Monroe County, which offers free tours of the house all year round. If you find yourself in Rochester, New York—particularly on March 8th—it’s a can’t-miss experience for any history buff or social justice advocate! While admission to tours are free, donations are appreciated. Be sure to check out our Facebook events page for upcoming tour dates!
9) US Coins Minted Here
There are a lot of impressive places in our country, but few can rival beautiful Rochester. This town has been around for a long time and has a wealth of history to show for it. One example is that we were once home to our own branch of the US Mint. In short, if you’re looking for a fun and exciting trip, be sure to add Rochester to your travel list! Here’s why: we have landmarks built by historical figures; even more stunning architecture; excellent shopping; and more interesting facts than you can imagine. Here are ten interesting tidbits about Rochester. You might not have known them all!
Leavenworth Historic District contains much from early 1870s development: The Leavenworth district was annexed in 1872 as Leavenworth City (the fire of 1863 wiped out an earlier settlement). It was incorporated as a village in 1912, becoming part of Rochester in 1917. With many fine examples of Late Victorian style residential housing stock, it still retains its distinctive 19th century ambiance through careful preservation efforts such as pedestrian-scale street lights and signage. Spirit Airlines Flights offers some of the most affordable and low-cost airline tickets.
10) The Basilica Block Party
Every year, thousands of people come to watch (and compete in) one of NY’s largest block parties. During a celebration that lasts for two days straight, between 20-25,000 revelers will descend upon Genesee St., turning downtown into an open-air party. There are tons of great events during the Basilica Block Party including a beer tent, cultural performances and live music. The street is shut down to traffic and everyone is out to have a good time. This has made it one of Rochester’s most famous neighborhood events – as well as its biggest party! If you’re in town for a few days, be sure to check it out! If nothing else, at least do what you can to help clean up afterwards – they’ll appreciate it!
