Things to do this weekend in and around Rochester
Friendly fun in Rochester for Friday, August 14, 2026 through Sunday, August 16, 2026
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, August 14, 2026
Friday starts the weekend with a mix of after-dark wonder and all-ages adventure. Families can head to Perseids Meteor Shower Viewing Party at RMSC Cumming Nature Center for a magical evening under the stars, or spend the day at Safari Tours At Hidden Valley Animal Adventure! for an open-air safari and a walk among friendly small animals. If your crew loves museums, Edward Steichen and the Garden at the George Eastman Museum and Picturing Equality: The Lambda Network at Kodak at the George Eastman Museum offer two thoughtful exhibits to explore indoors, while Rochester Red Wings vs. Charlotte Knights Aug 11-16, 2026 brings classic ballpark fun to ESL Ballpark.
Saturday, August 15, 2026
Saturday is packed with choices for every kind of family outing. Make a splash with Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise Aboard Sam Patch or treat the kids to a special outing on Kids’ Cruise Aboard Sam Patch. For active and curious kids, Guided Climbing at RocVentures Climbing Gym is a great first-time climbing adventure, and zoo fans can enjoy Destination Dinosaur at the Buffalo Zoo! with its life-size animatronic dinosaurs and fossil dig pit. If you are looking for a big museum day, General Admission to GCV&M's 2026 Season opens the door to historic village exploration.
Sunday, August 16, 2026
Sunday keeps the weekend mood going with a relaxed mix of history, music, and family fun. Visit Scenic River and Canal Cruise Aboard Riverie for a beautiful narrated trip along the Genesee River and Erie Canal, or settle in for Live Music Cruise Aboard Riverie if your family would rather hear local musicians on the water. Festival lovers can head to Fiddle & Folk Festival for a lively day of music and community at Genesee Country Village & Museum, and animal fans can still catch Tales of Conservation sculpture exhibit at the Seneca Park Zoo - Summer 2026 before it ends. For a playful finale, ResortPass Experience offers a flexible mini-vacation style treat at participating hotels.