Discover the incredible work of African American artist John Rhoden (1916–2001), one of the most prolific sculptors of the twentieth century. His first retrospective exhibition, Determined to Be: The Sculpture of John Rhoden, offers insights into his diverse creativity as well as his personal story.

Over a professional life spanning seven decades, Edward Steichen (1879–1973) established himself as one of the most important figures in the history of photography. What is less known is that for much of that time Steichen also devoted himself to the nurturing of plants and gardens, an activity that sustained him and through which he developed ardently held beliefs regarding the relationship among art, nature, and creativity.

Step back in time as you cruise along the historic Erie Canal. Live narration brings to life the bold vision that transformed a hare-brained idea into an engineering marvel that opened the American West. Travel through a working lock, soak in the scenery, and relax as history unfolds around you. Lunch is optional.

Enjoy some of Rochester’s favorite local musicians performing live aboard Riverie. Cruise the scenic Genesee River and historic Erie Canal and soak in the sunset as you are serenaded. Culminate the evening with a spectacular view of the Rochester skyline as you’ve never seen it before.

Step back in time as you cruise along the historic Erie Canal. Live narration brings to life the bold vision that transformed a hare-brained idea into an engineering marvel that opened the American West. Travel through a working lock, soak in the scenery, and relax as history unfolds around you.

Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, glowworms, or members of the Lampyridae family, are magical little creatures. Come join us to learn more about them and their powers of bioluminescence, right in their natural habitat. Bring your family for a guided evening hike across our Oatka Creek meadow, behind the scenes of the Museum.

As part of Blue Star Museums, the RMSC is extending its gratitude to those currently serving in the United States Military and up to five of their family members, by offering free admission to all three of its locations from Armed Forces Day, May 16, 2026, through Labor Day, September 7, 2026. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into a participating Blue Star Museum.

Join us for a delightful set of exclusive luncheons set against the backdrop of the Museum Gazebo, nestled in the heart of the great meadow! Indulge in a thoughtfully crafted, summer-inspired menu while you soak in the views from the gazebo’s main stage. Sip on refreshing sweet tea and savor the vibrant seasonal flavors as you unwind in the warm embrace of summer.

Taylor Swift is one of the biggest pop stars on the planet. With over 200 million records sold, a shelf full of Grammys, and an army of fans, Taylor Swift is an inspiration for generations. Laser Taylor Swift: Remixed takes her biggest hits and brings them to life in dazzling laser light. Song selection and order are randomly chosen for each show - no two shows are alike!

The Iceplex Skating 101 Program provides an excellent opportunity to learn a new skill while staying active during the winter. This program is an ideal starting point for those interested in ice hockey, figure skating, or recreational skating.

Cruise with birding experts Randi and Nic Minetor and observe some of the 100 species of birds that make their home along the Erie Canal and Genesee River. Perfect for every bird watcher from novice to die-hard enthusiast, you’ll see local birds in their lush habitat and learn to identify them from sight and sound. Participants are encouraged to bring their own binoculars, though binoculars will be available on board for use during the cruise.

Savor the sunset and enjoy a complimentary beverage on our evening Riverie cruise. With yacht rock playing in the background, journey on the Genesee south past the University of Rochester, through Genesee Valley Park, and onto the Erie Canal. Glide beneath a graceful Frederick Law Olmsted–designed arch bridge and watch for great blue herons and other birdlife along the way. Your journey ends with a spectacular view of Rochester’s lighted skyline reflecting on the river.

Until photographic processes were introduced during the last decade of the 19th Century, illustrations were printed from copper or wood engravings. In this workshop, participants will gain understanding of the process of carving and printing a simple design. To help ensure success for inexperienced engravers, the workshop will substitute linoleum for wood. Each student will engrave their own design.

Family Passes are available every Sunday after 4PM! Bring your family climbing for just $16 per pass (regularly $25 for each youth and $28 for each adult). To participate, at least one parent must purchase a pass or be a current member. Each pass includes rental shoes, harness, and an Auto Belay and Bouldering orientation. The offer is limited to 4 passes per family (e.g., 1 parent with 2 kids or 2 parents with 2 kids).

Enjoy a cruise narrated live by our Captain with live instrumental music departing from Fairport 8-miles to Lock E32 in Pittsford, then experience locking up and down approximately 25 feet while our Captain explains the process, next enjoy great live instrumental music AND vocals too as we cruise 8-miles back to Fairport. These special cruises offer the opportunity for LIVE narration by our Captain about canal history/info, sites along our tour route, canal related stories, info about our beloved Colonial Belle and her amazing history, some tales about our family tour boat business that has been operating on the Erie Canal since 1989, answers to your questions & more. These cruise also offer fantastic LIVE MUSIC performed by talented local musicians with a different solo/duo/trio performing each week.

Over 3 days, the Rochester Oratorio Society's Arts Connexions Festival invites the community to an exploration of America’s evolving story, expressed through music, history, and the voices that continue to shape our understanding of freedom.