Things to do this weekend in and around Rochester
Friendly fun in Rochester and the Finger Lakes for Friday, September 11, 2026 through Sunday, September 13, 2026.
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, September 11, 2026
Kick off your weekend with classic family fun and a little adventure around Rochester! Baseball fans can cheer on the home team at Rochester Red Wings vs. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Sept 7 & 9-13, 2026, a perfect way to introduce kids to the excitement of the ballpark. If your crew loves being on the water, you can step aboard for a narrated canal experience with either the lunchtime outing Lunch and Erie Canal Lock 32 Cruise Aboard Sam Patch - Pittsford, NY or the scenic early-evening voyage Scenic River and Canal Cruise Aboard Riverie, both offering history, views, and relaxation for all ages. Budding teen performers can step into the spotlight at Teen Auditions for The Outsiders, where young actors can try out for a fall production in a welcoming, creative environment. As night falls, families with older kids and teens might enjoy a thought-provoking evening at the theater with Blackfriars Theatre presents EUREKA DAY, a witty, timely show that sparks conversation long after the curtain comes down.
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Saturday is packed with hands-on experiences and memory-making outings for every kind of kid—and parent! Animal lovers can venture just outside the city for an up-close encounter with camels, zebras, and more on the open-air tour at Safari Tours At Hidden Valley Animal Adventure!, a great way to blend fresh air and wildlife wonder. Families who enjoy a little challenge can head to Guided Climbing at RocVentures Climbing Gym, where kids are supported by staff as they conquer new heights and build confidence. Creative parents and teens can tap into historic crafts at Genesee Country Village & Museum, choosing from Dyeing Yarn Workshop, Printmaking Workshop, or the floral-focused Flower Preservation Workshop, each offering a chance to learn traditional skills and take home a handmade project. Theater-loving kids can dive “under the sea” at The Little Mermaid KIDS - Auditions Sept 9 / Rehearsals start Sept 12, a welcoming audition opportunity that turns their love of Disney into stage magic. To share a cozy evening together, consider a musical laser show at the RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium, such as Laser Dark Side of the Moon at RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium or Laser Elton John - Matinee at RMSC Strasenburgh Planetarium, where music, lights, and science all come together.
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Wrap up the weekend on a sweet and scenic note with special cruises and more relaxed activities that still keep kids happily engaged. Families can savor a taste of autumn on the water with the cozy, treat-filled Cider & Donuts Cruise Aboard Riverie - Corn Hill Landing, featuring apple cider and donuts as you glide along the Genesee River and Erie Canal. Over in Pittsford, you can enjoy a similar seasonal celebration tailored to families on the Cider & Donuts Cruise Aboard Sam Patch - Pittsford, NY, pairing canal history with fall flavors and colorful views. Kids ages 4–12 who love puzzles and crafts will have a blast on the themed Kids’ Cruise Aboard Sam Patch, where onboard activities keep little minds and hands busy while parents enjoy the ride. Teens who want another chance at the stage can return to Fairport for Teen Auditions for The Outsiders, choosing a Sunday audition time that fits around family plans. And if you missed them earlier in the weekend, you can still catch more baseball at Rochester Red Wings vs. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders Sept 7 & 9-13, 2026 or enjoy another inspiring performance of Performance: Wonderland - The Musical at OFC Creations, ending your weekend with songs, stories, and plenty of smiles.