Things to do this weekend in and around Rochester

Friendly fun in Rochester for October 16–18, 2026

(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)

Friday, October 16, 2026

Kick off the weekend with an evening of family fun at Kids Night Out at Central Rock Gym, where children ages 7–13 can climb, play games, enjoy activities, and share a pizza dinner while parents enjoy a night out. Families can also explore the hands-on Super Human: The Power of Technology - Traveling exhibit at the RMSC, enjoy a narrated journey through a working canal lock aboard Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise Aboard Sam Patch, or sample seasonal flavors during Wayne County's Annual Apple Tasting Tour 2026. For older teens and adults, Performance: Bun in the Oven - Contractions with the Calamari Sisters offers a lively theatrical night at OFC Creations Theatre Center.

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Saturday brings plenty of ways to enjoy autumn together, starting with orchard adventures and seasonal treats at Pick Your Own Apples at Hurd Orchards. Families can meet animals, make crafts, hear spooky stories, and enjoy costume-friendly Halloween fun during Spooktacular - at Seneca Park Zoo. Young climbers can try a staff-guided introduction at Guided Session at RocVentures Climbing Gym, while music lovers can enjoy RPO Pops Season Opener: Natural Woman: Sheléa Sings Aretha Franklin. Wrap up the day with cider, donuts, scenic views, and local history aboard Cider & Donuts Cruise Aboard Sam Patch - Pittsford, NY.

Sunday, October 18, 2026

Make Sunday special with a relaxing midday adventure on Lunch and Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise Aboard Sam Patch - Pittsford, NY, featuring live narration, scenery, and the excitement of traveling through a working lock. Families seeking a hands-on outing can continue exploring the interactive Science Stadium Now Open! at the Buffalo Museum of Science. At Genesee Country Village & Museum, Spirits of the Past: A Walk in the Dark offers an atmospheric nighttime experience for families comfortable with spooky themes. Theatergoers can catch TOPDOG/UNDERDOG at Geva, while families looking for a sweet fall finale can enjoy another scenic Cider & Donuts Cruise Aboard Riverie - Corn Hill Landing.