A Hidden Gem in Rochester, NY: The Strong Museum of Play

FamilyHotelAttractions
Written By Nancy Lim

When you think of Rochester, NY, chances are “family vacation destination” isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But on a recent trip, our family (two adults, two kids under five) discovered a pairing that made the visit one to remember: a standout downtown hotel and one of the best children’s museums we’ve ever experienced.

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

Let’s start with the hotel. The Hampton Inn & Suites downtown exceeded expectations. Opened recently, the hotel feels fresh, modern, and most importantly—spotlessly clean. For me, cleanliness is non-negotiable, and this property hit the mark.

A few highlights for families:

  • Location: Walking distance to food, shops, and The Strong National Museum of Play (more on that below).

  • Indoor Pool: Perfectly sized, with a shallow section ideal for young children. Our kids could play independently, which made it one of the best hotel pools we’ve found for families.

  • Extras: A convenient lobby bar for adults and a layout that never felt cramped, even with kids in tow.

The price point is higher than a typical Hampton Inn, but in this case the value is clear. It’s a “smart splurge” that pays off in convenience and comfort.

Strong National Museum of Play

Now, let’s talk about The Strong National Museum of Play. Honestly, I only vaguely knew of it. What we discovered blew us away.

The Strong isn’t just a museum—it’s a celebration of play across all forms—toys, video games, comic books, Sesame Street, and even butterflies. This place is massive, thoughtfully curated, immaculately maintained—and fun for all ages.

Here’s what we loved:

  • You can walk there from the hotel in under a minute. It's sitting right next door like a cherry on top.

  • Admission for the main museum is $25 per person, and yes, even for adults it's worth every penny (Pro tip: tickets that include extras like the Butterfly Garden or the Skyline Climb are also available—but we stuck to the main museum this time.)

  • The exhibits? Pure magic:

    • A life-size Sesame Street where my little ones stared like they just stepped into TV—big wins all around.

    • The Wegmans Super Kids Market might actually be cleaner and more fun than the real supermarket back home.

    • Skyline Climb was just amazing—it’s a rope-harness play structure that both my 3- and 4-year-old couldn’t get off of.

    • A whimsical playhouse neighborhood inspired by storybooks, leading into retro toy galleries and then a full-on arcade in the video game hall. My husband’s dream.

    • Even the lunch spot was playful—we ate in a real diner car. The food? Meh. But the experience? Totally worth it at the end of a rich, full day of exploration.

The Strong also boasts immersive permanent exhibits—like “America at Play” (300 years of play artifacts), “Berenstain Bears: Down a Sunny Dirt Road,” and the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, the only year-round indoor butterfly garden in Upstate New York. Add in the National Toy Hall of Fame, World Video Game Hall of Fame, and interactive favorites like Infinity Arcade, and you’ve got a museum that gives nostalgia and wonder at every turn.

If you find yourself in Rochester with little ones—or big kids at heart—do not walk, run to The Strong. Block off a full day (or even two). It’s more than a museum—it’s a joyful memory engine for kids and adults alike.

Our stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites + a day at The Strong has already elevated Rochester in my mind—from “just visiting friends” to “family getaway.”

Let me know when you're ready to book something similar—I’ll handle the details.

Nancy Lim