Rochester Museum & Science Center
A vibrant 3-floor science and learning center with interactive exhibits and an immersive planetarium, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Rochester Museum & Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant 3-floor science and learning center with interactive exhibits and an immersive planetarium, perfect for curious minds of all ages.
"It's an amazing spot for families, especially with curious kids who love to explore and learn through hands-on fun. "
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance on the RMSC website.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring three floors of exhibits, so comfy footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Strasenburgh Planetarium
Inside the Rochester Museum & Science Center
Immerse yourself in the cosmos with awe-inspiring dome theater shows and star explorations. A must-see for all ages!
Interactive Science Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Engage with hands-on displays covering science, technology, local history, and nature. Perfect for curious kids and adults alike!
Indigenous Voices & Contributions
Various exhibits
Discover exhibits that thoughtfully center the voices and experiences of Indigenous peoples in science and history.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to RMSC
Maximizing Your RMSC Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance on the RMSC website.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring three floors of exhibits, so comfy footwear is a must!
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Focus
This is a fantastic spot for kids! Many interactive exhibits make learning fun and engaging.
🚀 Planetarium Shows
Check the schedule for Strasenburgh Planetarium shows; they're relaxing and awe-inspiring for all ages.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance on the RMSC website.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring three floors of exhibits, so comfy footwear is a must!
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Focus
This is a fantastic spot for kids! Many interactive exhibits make learning fun and engaging.
🚀 Planetarium Shows
Check the schedule for Strasenburgh Planetarium shows; they're relaxing and awe-inspiring for all ages.
🥪 Pack a Lunch
While there's a cafe, some families opt to bring their own food and eat in designated areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Rochester Museum & Science Center for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that delight both children and adults. The Strasenburgh Planetarium is a standout attraction, offering awe-inspiring cosmic journeys. While some find the general admission price a bit high, the educational value and interactive nature of the displays make it a highly recommended family destination.
"This was a really interactive museum with lots to learn. It is definitely geared towards kids though, so if you're an adult looking for displays of dinosaurs and polar bears, this isn't going to be it.
The room with the mammoths were really cool, and I had no idea that mammoths walked the Rochester area way back in the day! That was really neat to learn about.
Bonus tip #1: Bring hand sanitizer. Everyone touched every display, and it's tempting to scratch that itch on your face with germy hands.
Bonus tip #2: If you've got kids with you, ask questions about the planetarium show. The one we saw was educational, but the smaller kids in the room were really fidgety, as it was way above their comprehension level."
Sharan Knoell
"I love it here and look forward to going again!
There was so much great information on display in creative ways. While I went on my own, as an adult, I noticed that there were many interactive tools for children to learn from.
I especially appreciate how both the museum and planetarium center the voices and experiences of Indigenous people."
Christina Waszak
"Nothing too fancy to see here.
The museum has three floors, but most of the interesting stuff is on the second floor.
General admission is $23, and the senior/student discount is just $1 less, which really doesn’t make much sense. For this price, I didn’t feel it was worth it. Compared to all the science museums that I've seen, this was honestly my least favourite!
The souvenir shop was also disappointing, very limited selection, and I couldn’t literally find anything I actually wanted to buy."
Muhammad Λ.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC) is located at 657 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options are also available via Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RTS) buses.
Yes, the RMSC offers on-site parking for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially on busy days, to secure a spot.
The RTS bus system serves the area around the Rochester Museum & Science Center. You can check the RTS website for specific routes and schedules that best suit your starting point.
The museum is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available to navigate between floors. It's always a good idea to contact the museum directly if you have specific accessibility needs.
Yes, you can reach the Rochester Museum & Science Center from the Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) by taxi, rideshare service, or by taking RTS bus routes that connect the airport to the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest around $23 for adults and a slight discount for seniors/students. It's best to check the official RMSC website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts or special offers.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and ensure entry, especially during popular times or special events.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and sometimes for groups. Check the RMSC website for details on current discount programs and eligibility.
Yes, the museum offers membership options which can provide benefits like free admission, discounts, and access to special events. This can be a great value for frequent visitors or families.
Operating hours can vary by day and season. It's essential to check the official Rochester Museum & Science Center hours on their website before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the interactive science exhibits across three floors, the Strasenburgh Planetarium for captivating shows, and exhibits focusing on Indigenous voices and local history.
Absolutely! The RMSC is highly recommended for families with children due to its numerous hands-on, interactive exhibits designed for learning through play.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the museum's three floors and catch a planetarium show.
Yes, the museum frequently hosts themed events, workshops, and has rotating exhibits. Check their calendar online for upcoming activities that can add extra fun to your visit.
The Strasenburgh Planetarium features a dome theater offering relaxing and awe-inspiring shows about space and the cosmos, suitable for all ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe on-site offering refreshments. However, some visitors mention that bringing your own lunch to eat in designated areas can be a good option.
Visitors have noted that bringing lunch from home and eating it in the cafe area is a common practice, suggesting it's permitted.
Yes, there are dining options a short drive away from the museum. Some visitors opt to grab fast food or dine at nearby restaurants after their visit.
The cafe typically offers snacks and light fare. For more substantial meals, exploring nearby dining options is recommended.
It depends on your preference and budget. The cafe is convenient for a quick bite, while nearby restaurants offer more variety.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed inside the museum. However, it's always best to check for any specific exhibit restrictions or ask staff if unsure.
For most visitors, standard personal cameras are fine. Professional equipment or tripods may require special permission, so inquire with the museum staff beforehand.
The Strasenburgh Planetarium's dome theater, the interactive exhibits, and any special temporary displays often make for great photo opportunities.
While general photography might be allowed, flash photography is usually prohibited in planetarium theaters to avoid disrupting the show and the viewing experience for others.
You can find many visitor photos on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok by searching relevant hashtags, or by using the `googleimagessearch_string` provided for specific highlights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Strasenburgh Planetarium is another major draw, offering captivating shows that spark wonder about space. Many parents appreciate that the museum is clean, well-maintained, and offers a great indoor activity, especially on rainy days. Consider packing snacks or a lunch, as some families opt to bring their own food to enjoy in designated areas.
🤔 Budget-Conscious Visitors
Consider checking the RMSC website for any special event days or free admission periods, though these are less common. For families, exploring membership options could offer long-term savings if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the year.
🔭 Science & Astronomy Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for any temporary exhibits that might align with your specific interests. The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse scientific contributions, including those from Indigenous communities, adds a unique and enriching layer to the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Strasenburgh Planetarium
Beyond the main shows, the planetarium often features special presentations and events. It's advisable to check the schedule upon arrival or online to plan your visit around the showtimes that interest you most. The experience is often described as relaxing and visually stunning, sparking curiosity and wonder about space exploration and astronomy.
Visitors frequently praise the planetarium for its engaging content and the quality of the visual and auditory experience. It's a perfect way to cool down on a warm day or find a captivating indoor activity, especially for families with children who are fascinated by stars and planets.
Hands-On Learning for All Ages
These exhibits cover a broad spectrum of topics, including science, technology, local history, and the natural world. Whether it's experimenting with mechanics, understanding scientific principles through play, or delving into the region's past, there's something to capture the imagination of every visitor. The museum is noted for its ability to make complex subjects accessible and enjoyable.
Many reviews highlight how these interactive elements keep visitors, especially younger ones, entertained and engrossed for extended periods. The dynamic nature of these exhibits means there's often something new to discover, even for repeat visitors, making the RMSC a consistently rewarding destination.
Centering Indigenous Voices
These exhibits go beyond mere historical accounts, aiming to foster understanding and appreciation for Indigenous cultures, knowledge systems, and their relationship with science and the environment. This focus provides a more inclusive and comprehensive perspective on the region's history and the broader scientific landscape.
The inclusion of these perspectives is frequently mentioned as a positive and impactful element of the museum visit, offering educational value that resonates deeply with visitors seeking a more complete understanding of the world around them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit