The kids were loud and the parents didn't help the Tesla was super cool and fun I would recommend but don't go on weekends

This museum is a treasure, from its exhibits & programs, to its staff it arrives to put the best foot forward educationally every single day. It contains a wealth of experience, knowledge & unique experience that highlights how valuable to the community it is. And it always has been. I've find childhood memories of frequent visits here with family, and my school. And hope whoever happens upon this humble review takes a chance and pays the RMSC a visit. As a day here, wandering the exhibits is a day well spent. Particularly with family. read more

See all

What a great museum! New interactive exhibits are pretty cool we especially enjoyed the space exhibit! The museum interior is definitely beginning to show it's age and some exhibits could use an upgrade for sure but overall the experience was great. I was surprised to see their Cafe was closed on a Saturday afternoon...very bizarre. But it is what it is. The price was a bit steep to be honest as well. On other experiences we've visited the planetarium which is excellent. Unfortunately they didn't have a show for us that day that we could make but it's OK. Definitely a great spot to visit with kids and the family for a nice afternoon. read more

Overall this museum was very enjoyable and had some cool exhibits! This isn't a large museum, but it is very nice for its size. Weather on a sphere was a very cool experience. It seemed like they did a number of different demonstrations throughout the day, which was nice to see. A good number of the exhibits were interactive. There was also a strong focus on local natural history as well as indigenous history. The museum seemed very informative, particularly if you wanted to learn about local scientific history. It also seemed like it would be lots of fun for kids. read more

See all

Great to have this local museum here in Rochester. I love the changing exhibits. What's also great is the first Wednesday of every month from noon-5pm, it's complimentary admission care of Amazon and that includes the Planetarium and Cumming Nature Center. read more

See all

There's a lot of negative and positives about this museums. To start even on what we thought would be an off day there was a large amount of school groups invading the exhibits. A presentation in on of the exhibits closed it off to visitors not in the school groups. Overall certain parts felt pretty overcrowded. Some parts of the museum are definitely starting to look run down compared to others. The light lab, sound lab and natural science sections are all getting pretty run down. That isn't to be said there aren't cool experiences in them. The light lab has a pretty cool convect concave mirror. I liked a lot of the activities in the sound lab. The natural science has a cool earthquake simulator and a dig pit. However it was a bit disappointing that there was only one skeleton and no dinosaur skeletons. As for other positives the sections on native history and the Underground Railroad were well kept and interesting to look around. I also enjoyed the temporary Lego animal exhibit. Overall this is a decent museum but certainly nothing to write home about. read more

RMSC Museum & Science Center - Lego Venus fly trap - Museums Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

Iconic staple of Rochester. Originally built in 1944, this museum features multiple interactive exhibits with entertaining staff who love giving presentations. Being built in 1944, this museum has a vintage Otis elevator with bakelite buttons and classic leveling. read more

It's not that big and only a few interactive things. There is a floor of some interactive games that look like they are from the 90s. Then there is a whole floor just full of lego sculptures. Then many floors about diversity and how Americans should feel sorry for what old people did. read more

First time at this museum, even though the museum was smaller, the exhibits on the local history of Rochester were nice, and the kid in me loved the dinosaurs, along with Wonders of Water, Illumination of Light. It was nice to see the interactive displays for kids, but a little chaotic with kids running all over the place, and staff weren't very friendly. Other then that, it was fun and something to do, too beat the cold February day. Highly recommend for kids or adults, just wanting to unleash their inner kid. read more

Rochester science museum is one of those museums as a kid you visit for school trips and twenty years later it has the same feel to it. The staff are very friendly. They rotate some of their displays to keep it fresh. Currently they have change makers display entirely on the third floor. People who have made a difference to society. One exhibit that takes me back to childhood is the Seneca Indian display and the artifacts contained inside. A display you probably will only see in this area. They have an expansive Underground Railroad exhibit which is pretty detailed. This is also where the carousel panel is on display. Due to covid they have made many changes to the museum. The mezzanine level is off limits to the public because the curiosity camp is being held there. The museum also has one way flow through their facility, hand sanitizer station are plentiful. They have arrows on the floor to direct you in the right path. They have several exhibits closed because of precautions. We have had a membership for the past few years. The membership is well worth the cost, it pays for itself after a few visits. This museum has free parking, the museum is always changing out exhibits with select few not changing. I will say the artifacts and exhibits with lengthy words aren't geared for my pre k child that can't read but there are enough things in this museum to keep him engaged. It isn't an all day museum with a child my age but it is a good half day trip. And you also get admission to the planetarium with a membership so that is a fun place to visit. Visiting both will make a full day event. read more

See all

Writing this review today in honor of RMSC's announcement of their October exhibition, The Changemakers, which aims to shine a lot on Rochester women who have changed the world. I've gotten to know RMSC so much better since I started with Yelp a few years ago, and have come to appreciate their programming more and more as time goes on. The facility itself is well maintained and consistently being updated. There are things that are still there from when I attended on a field trip as a kid, along with a ton of new things all around the museum and campus as well. I've been recently for some of their adult programming, After Dark, a Planetarium show, and for meetings in the office buildings. The staff here is hustling hard to educate Rochesterians off all ages, and even now have a successful school operating right on the grounds. I am so excited to see what lays ahead for RMSC. When you visit, expect fun science presentations, floors and floors of hands on fun, and friendly frontline staff. They also host events in both the museum and planetarium space, which look beautiful from photos. read more

See all

Visited recently after about 25 years, but it's changed quite a bit from how I remembered it. Perhaps it's because I'm bigger, older, etc, but it seems different. First thing I noticed is the tall, soaring atrium where the café is located has shrunk a level. I remember how the glass elevator used to go into the ceiling 4 levels up and from the elevator, you could see the entire atrium until a picture or display appeared at the top. I also remember the very tall purple banners that used to hang from that ceiling and I would read what they said on my ride up to the history/diorama level. There was also a staircase located just inside the front entrance to the right which brought you down to the cafe. And where did the dinosaur in the atrium go?? Well, most of those things are no longer part of this place anymore. It's more modernized, brighter and has more exhibits than I remembered. The floor that now covers the atrium is used for exhibit space and it's thoughtfully laid out with a lot of informational and interactive stations. A formally used event space is also a separate exhibit where they installed windows that provide a nice view out. The dioramas seemed to have been relocated and although there are less, it's in a brighter more inviting room. A part of me does wish they kept the old diorama area, even if it was a bit dark and cold in there. There are a couple of things that are still the same. The elevator, flooring and cafe look the same as they did from 1996. I do feel that renovating those areas would improve the experience, particularly because the café does seem quite compact. Didn't get a chance to eat there but I would imagine food there isn't much different. I think it's worth going back to see if you haven't in a long time. It's certainly worth a visit if you have kids and haven't been there before too. Everything is located in a small-ish sized space and it won't make everyone too tired at the end of the day either. read more

See all

Absolutely disgusted. I called to book 5yr old's birthday party and left messages for a week and a half with no return call. When i finally talked with someone I was told that the day we wanted was open and both time slots were open. I called the next day to finalize the details of which theme/package we wanted and it turns out the day and weekend were already fully booked. So now I have little boy whom we got all excited about his birthday party at the RMSC that I have to tell him is cancelled. Be better. read more

Spring is here, and that means we are starting to check out ALL THE THINGS (TM)! We got talked into the Rochester Museum & Science Center by a friend, and as a science nerd, I figured there is no way that it could not be at least moderately awesome. We were not disappointed! It was raining (and snowing) the day we went, so we didn't spend much time scoping the outside. But the inside packed a lot of fun! The amount of activities they had for kids blew my mind. My daughter got to dig for fossils, build "inventions", see how houses are built, play with lights, and mirrors, and laser harps. They had dinosaurs when we visited, which is always a favorite. I hear that they rotate exhibits periodically to keep it exciting and new. MY favorite part was the Tesla Coils and the Faraday Cage. We stopped in to watch a show, and it was absolutely amazing. In total they played about 10 different songs, and everybody who wanted to go hang out in the Faraday Cage was able to do it. My daughter, who is basically scared of everything, even took a turn! The staff we talked to were all personable, friendly, and fair. They were also knowledgeable and seemed to genuinely enjoy their jobs. My only complaint really is that the lots were completely full the day that we went, so we had to bumble around for a bit until we found a spot. On busy days, parking could be better. We will definitely be going back again in the future! read more

See all

Can't believe I've never reviewed this Museum, I stop over once a year. Museum is nice, it's small but does a pretty good job with local history. Changing exhibits are nice, the permanent ones have been around for years so once a year visit is fine, $18.00 for an adult and you can get through this museum under 2 hours. Place is clean, parking is easy, and staff are friendly enough. It's centrally located to the Eastman House, or MAG so can visit more attractions if in the area. If you're an adult, it's a quick visit, but if you have kids, definitely more for the kids as every level has a sort of playroom with interactive exhibits. If in the area, check it out if you have an hour or two to spare. read more

See all

This was my first time going here and I was mind blown- I was overwhelmed of how much history there was- from Dinosaurs to African American History to Engineering to Extinction. Children would love it here, it brought out the kid outta me that's for sure!!! Visit this amazing place if you're driving through or staying a while. read more

See all

This is going to be a hit for kids under 12, but probably won't entice the older kids. As a parent, I enjoyed it bc it was not a chaotic, overwhelming experience. I think this price is on the high side of fair for admission, but it was time well spent and my kids (4 & 7) said they'd like to go back. read more

The membership here lets you travel to other cities and get in for free. That alone paid for the membership fee. Baby changing station designed for right handed people. So as a lefter I was discriminated against. Changing a poopy diaper with a non dominant hand increases the risk of the poop getting all over. read more

We really loved going to the RMSC when things were open and safe, and I can't wait for us to go back. The planetarium is definitely a plus, and you can usually go in for a guide on what that night's sky will look like. That's a nice quick way to learn about stars, and a quiet few minutes. Once that vaccination comes my way, this is on my list! read more

I've been to many museums, including science and technology museums. The biggest deal breaker is when the "controls" for the "interactive" exhibits do not work, and that was the case in my experience at this museum. Also there were many exhibits that were either closed or inaccessible, including one of the attractions we specifically came to see--the electricity theatre. We were informed that the shows were on Tuesday and Thursday only. Really? Yet the admission for Tuesday and Thursday is the same as the Friday we visited. Not a good business model. The optics exhibit was likewise disappointing. From a curatorial perspective, the content was not well thought out and the execution was amateurish. Also I found some of the young staffers to be quite unprofessional, i.e. talking loudly and running around like a bunch of grade school kids--there were some of those, too, but surprisingly they were pretty well behaved! read more

We attended the recent "Space Ball" at RMSC and Planetarium. We were able to get VIP tickets, which included early entry and a t-shirt. Lots of fun things to do! - We started of making space slime. Yes, space slime! It was quick and easy and who cares if you're not a kid! It was fun! - We watched a presentation in the planetarium about a day in Rochester from sunrise to sunset. Learned a lot about constellations and more. - We then mosied on over to RMSC. There were a bunch of people dressed as Star Wars characters, including R2D2! Keeping with the space theme :) - We made paper rockets and launched them by stomping on a 2 liter bottle with a tube! Mine hit the ceiling and totally missed the target lol - We spun for prizes. My daughter and I won glow sticks. Her friend and her mom won free passes to the Rochester version of Comicon - We wandered the museum and even took a ride in an underwater simulator. Great fun! - Best part of the night: Dancing to Sky Coasters! What a great band. I think RMSC does themed events several times a year. I will definitely attend another! read more

See all

Went here a number of times as a kid and made my first visit in over 10 years. Plenty of renovations. Admission prices are fair though there are special discounts and deals, like discounted admission to the next door Planetarium. The museum has three floors of exhibits, many of them centered around the local Rochester area, such as Lake Ontario and the Iroquois. Plenty of family friendly interactive exhibits, including a special one on common car components which I found appealing. There were a few that were broken, though still a very enjoyable experience. The motion simulator ride is also gone. Went next door to the Planetarium to visit Carl (projector) and watch an hour show about the night sky. Noticeable renovations with a new projector and comfortable recliner seats (like stargazing in the backyard). Cafe food is overpriced as expected, $4 for a small slice of pizza and limited options. Staff very friendly though. read more

I came here recently for an event.. I'm told they are usually really rocking. This one not so much.. Ive been here when we had that total eclipse and we got particular glasses for it. The staff is friendly and to just walk around is great and they have a pretty good gift shop. Unfortunately I was not really WOWED by this place until I went to the planetarium which was fabulous and we got to see "Carl" you can also rent out the planetarium for events which I think is cool. This place I think kids would dig but it needs a refresh as do the elevators. I wish they would get some sort of endowment cause it could really rock. I give this place a 3.5 and a 4 plus for the planetarium. They have parking.. that's all I have to say. read more

See all

I've been here many times with my kids. This past time it was for a field trip with my son and we got to explore the new science tech exhibit. Which was pretty awesome if I must say!. Overall I think this a great museum for kids to have fun and learn at the same time. They are engaged and focused but having fun. Which is all that matters! If your visiting Rochester, this is a gem I think that gets over looked ( because people think boring) but it's a must see. read more

See all

This place is AWESOME! We went for the first time a few weeks ago and just went back on Mother's Day and they redid some of the exhibits, making it even better. My two daughters LOVE IT. On the first floor, there's an adventure zone to the right. From seeing how water, wind and energy works to a rock wall and so many other things, it's a great start. To the left there's a huge dinosaur and animal exhibit area. This is one of the favorite areas for the kids. The second floor is very much like a museum with Native American and first explorer tools and jewelry, etc. Then there's a room with a giant globe and it projects various things on it (the earth, the moon, etc). Outside of that is another super popular area, with music exhibits that use creative and fun ways to teach soundwaves and other stuff. You'd think younger kids would be indifferent but they love it. 3rd floor has play construction stuff, crafts and car stuff. The girls love that too. The mezzanine has a toy lava pit and some big soft building blocks. Basement has a cafe. This and Strong Museum of Play make Rochester a worthy drive for us. You could make a day out of each! read more

See all

While interesting, RMSC does not live up to its potential in a city of scientists, universities, and entrepreneurs. Could be a celebration of science and capitalism and Rochester's contribution to society. The question to be asked: What would Apple (or SONY) or a MIT Media Lab do with this opportunity? More imagination needed. Best was the history of the region from the time of man through Native American Indians to today. Too many exhibits in state of construction or repair. Allow 2 hours If you are from out-of-town, Museum is walkable from downtown, about 1 mile. We walked. If you think this review with photos is useful, funny or cool, I'd appreciate your feedback below. read more

RMSC Museum & Science Center - Model rendition of Rochester, 1900s. - Museums Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

I imagine that given the option between RMSC and Strong Museum, most people are going to go to the latter, however RMSC has some incredible offerings for children. Like many Rochesterians, I have fond memories of RMSC and have spent a significant amount of time here as a kid on school visits, taking summer camp classes and with my Mom for the years that we maintained a family membership. The Planetarium is a gem and will always be a cool experience for kids and adults alike. RMSC is like a classic throwback stuck in time. What once reigned in our memories as brand spanking new, is not tired and in major need of repair. There are some obvious needs for cosmetic improvement of the physical building and some exhibits. THE GOOD: The classic exhibits are still there and recapturing the history of Rochester, NY. They have added new permanent exhibits such as the Tesla Coils- which demonstrate electricity through sound. RMSC also offers educational classes and camps for kids and can be a great area to host an event. THE GREAT: Like many other musuems across the country, RMSC has figured out that most adults are really just big kids and want their playtime too. They have added in periodic "Musuem After Dark" events that have various themes throughout the year. Some events are probably better than others and offer more features, however the two that I have been to have been absolutely phenomenal. The event is 21+ I recommend purchasing tickets in advance, having a cocktail and enjoy the exhibits. The other tip for attending these events is to make sure that you're viewing all areas of the Musuem. We almost missed a huge section with games and vendors because it was located off to the side, near the main 1st floor theatre and we didn't know. As another contributor mentioned in a review, there is a room for growth with partnerships between the local universities to contribute to some of the exhibits. Perhaps, this will be the next step in RMSC's evolution. read more

Attended the after dark event and had a good time. Tickets $12 prior to event, when you purchase online they place your name on a list and check it off at the door. We arrived at the start of the event and waited approx 25 minutes in the entry line. They had 3 food trucks there including Cheesed and Confused. They had several cash bars in the museum, looked well staffed and minimal lines. We enjoyed the interactive area on the 1st floor with simulators and video of yourself as a weather reporter. Some of the special activites for the night that were advertised were a little less exciting than I thought. They had "make you own lava lamp" which was literally pouring the liquids into a plastic baggy in a very narrow crowded hallway. Also in the same very crowded hallway was making your own t-shirts but there was no real room to "Be creative" there. The planetarium was available for laser light shows set to music which sounded like fun - approx every 15-20 minutes. Staff all around was very nice, helpful and fun. Museum seems a little dated but overall a nice evening. read more

RMSC Museum & Science Center - Awesome model of Rochester in 1800s - Museums Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

What a place! Totally recommend it for people of all ages. First off, the museum is huge and so much fun! It's entirely interactive. I visited the RMSC with my mom and 9-year-old brother and we went during Animal Week. There were wild animals all over the place, and the museum also does different shows periodically. Then there's the Planetarium (which we didn't get to because there was so much to do in the actual museum, next time!). The Native American and Underground Railroad exhibits were breathtaking. I was astonished at all of the history that I didn't know happened in Rochester. Same can be said of the nature exhibits. I had no clue that so many animals lived in the area or that so many nature preserves existed. There's exhibits on prehistoric history, The Ice Age, outer space, and energy and how it works. There's a rock climbing wall, a simulation of a submarine, and so, so much more. We were kept engaged and entertained for about 3-4 hours. Although a lot of the museum is geared towards children, myself as a man-child found genuine enjoyment as we journeyed through the three floors. I recommend the RMSC, even if you're not a "museum person," (I most certainly am.) Great day. read more

See all

My family and I always go there many times and my both kids love these activities RMSC have for the kids. They have some events for kids to enjoy which is amazing because my kids got to see real animals that they loved!! They got to pet some animals even included snakes (yuck!). In the light, RMSC have been creative with activities and sending newsletters for us to know what's going on which is amazing.. As you guys know that we are in shelter in place and COVID-19 have preventing us from going there. My kids miss going there because it was fun and many things to do... They sent us a newsletter that they are going to bring maple to us in the house which is we order the package then they will ship them to us to enjoy the maple package. It is an awesome idea that would keep kids busy. Kudos to them for amazing works!! I gave 4 stars because it is very hard to find a place for us to sit and eat our lunch especially it gets too crowded and leave no seat spots available. I wish that the cafe have bigger room with more tables & seats available for everyone especially there are a lot of families going there. It would be an awesome idea if they expand bigger cafe and people can enjoy without getting frustrating by looking for table and seats. Overall, I would recommend anyone that included people who enjoy science.. they should go this place because it is a great place to explore and enjoy science as well. read more

We have a family membership, so we finally got here today! We stopped by the planetarium first and then walked over! The check in was kind of crowded and we weren't sure where to go, but the wait wasn't long. They gave us a map, and we were excited to see the Messtival activities! There was so much fun activities for my 5 and 7 year old. They painted with magnets, made some slime, and played with fake snow! Plus, there were so many regular exhibits we didn't even get to! Definitely will return. Get there early or the parking situation is awful! read more

Good little Rochester museum. Anyone who went as a kid will remember the dioramas and cabin, which are still there. There are also new exhibits and a floor of interactive learning stations, which are excellent. There is also a new innovators area where kids can create various things to take home. Worth a trip every few months! read more

RMSC is now part of the Museums for All access program! Those receiving benefits via the SNAP or EBT program pay just $1 per person (up to 4 people). read more

Great science center, it has a little bit of everything. If you need a place to take the kids you will not be sorry. The normal collection is really strong from geology to physics. They have a rotating collection on the top floor that typically has a great hands on/build your own style project for kids and adults. In the past we have eaten at the restaurant in the basement which was good. However the restaurant this trip was really slow and they seemed to be out of lots of stuff. You would be better off taking your own food. One of the things that I really respect is their focus on local exhibits. They work hard to bring the local region into their display. They have some great exhibits on native Americans, local ecology, geology, etc. read more

We are always finding awesome reasons to go back to the Rochester Museum & Science Center again and again. If you haven't seen the singing Tesla coils yet, it is a must. Each show is a little different and it is such a fun experience. Wish there was a way they could have the coils perform with the RPO (safely of course). My toddler cannot stop talking about going back. He recently spent an entire day there (10 am to 5PM) starting with a show at the planetarium with "Karl the Robot", and ending with Math Midway (current exhibit). But it's not just for kids. The museum is now offering adult only events a few times a year too. We went the the After Dark Party in October and LOVED it! The party was a sci-fi themed event with food, a dance floor, live science experiments and a cash bar on each level. Many attendees wore incredible costumes! I can't wait for the next After Dark event. read more

See all

Our Father-Son vacation to western NY took us next to Rochester, NY - a town located midway between Syracuse and Buffalo, and close to Lake Ontario. My Dad had a couple of nearby spots on his bucket list, and so after a few days at Letchworth State Park, we drove north to Rochester. Our first stop was the Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC) which is located in a beautiful part of downtown, along East Avenue, near Goodman Street. The RMSC includes the main Science Museum, Strasenburgh Planetarium, and nearby Cumming Nature Center. I've been around museums in large cities most of my life, and it's unfair to compare RMSC against the likes of museums in Washington, DC, Boston, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. That being said, I felt that the RMSC was geared primarily towards school-aged children. There were lots of flashing lights, blinking gizmos, and interactive displays for the kids. On one side of the first floor is a cool exhibit called the Adventure Zone where you can explore the underwater world of Lake Ontario and remotely control a deep submergence vehicle to the bottom of the lake. We were able to examine the rock layers of the Genesee River Gorge on the climbing wall, and operate the fill valves in an interactive model of an Erie Canal lock. Nearby was an exhibit called Glaciers & Giants where we met Ice-Age giants as we walked through a glacial ice cave, saw a full-scale Albertosaurus skeleton, and stood next to a replica of a Mastadon. Lots of stuff in this area to keep the kids amused. There were interesting historical exhibits on Rochester's involvement with the American Civil War, the Underground Railroad, and the Industrial Revolution. There was also a section about the history of the Iroquois Indians, and their interactions with the European settlers. As an Adult this is a museum that I'd probably only visit a few times, but if I had school-aged kids I'm sure that I'd be here more often. read more

See all

This Museum is awesome! I was invited to attend the RMSC After Dark: Monster Bash and i had an amazing evening. There were several vendors at the entrance which featured different causes and themes. They gave out lots of cool freebies from glow sticks to condoms. There was also a scavenger hunt which had really awesome prizes. There were cash bars on each floor and some food trucks outside. There was also a cafe inside. The DJ played really good music that everyone seemed to enjoy. There was even a dance floor which was packed with people enjoying their evening! The costumes were really good too! The museum exhibits were great. I could have spent hours going through everything this museum had to offer. Just beautiful. There was even a lady walking around with the resident 12 year old snake!! I have to say that I spent most of my evening in the Strasenburgh Planetarium. There were several themed light shows which lasted about 30-40 minutes each. The seating was comfortable and spacious. There were even bean bags on the floor for those who preferred to lie down and enjoy the show. Super clean and nice. Thank you Yelp, RMSC and Megan for a great evening! I can't wait to return to The RMSC to really take in all of the exhibits and gain some more knowledge. read more

RMSC Museum & Science Center - The Dance Floor @Monster Bash!! - Museums Near Me - Rochester, New York

My favorite exhibit might be the Native American part of the museum. Sure, it may have been there since I was 10 years old. *countless field trip and family visits as a kid* We learned all about the rich history of the tribes that inhabited NY before us. As an adult, I've been back to experience the newer exhibits like the Tesla Coils (SO cool... Go now!) and the bodies exhibit a few years back. I've also attended the RMSC After Dark events that they hold once every six months or so. It's a pretty cool space for an event as there's a lot of nooks and crannies to explore. They also bring in some other activities like stilt walkers and other circus themed things during the recent Carnival of Curiosity. They have a cash bar for adult beverages. read more

See all

RMSC is near and dear to my heart. The time, effort, and love the employees here put into what they do truly shows even when they may be working on a budget (and who isn't??). The exhibits are hands on for the most part and guests are encouraged to grab, play, and interact with the science. RMSC offers many special events, including AMAZING 'After Dark' events. Adults get a chance to dress up and take over the museum without having to trip over or worry about little ones. Grab a drink and a costume and buy tickets early so you don't miss out! Their social media team posts interesting facts and tidbits on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram, and they also keep you up to date on events. Seems like there is a new event every week! They regularly bring in new 'traveling' exhibits to keep things fresh. I LOVED the Frogs exhibit.... but I am also severely biased in that opinion. RMSC is a local gem, on the short list of places you should send any out-of-town visitors. read more

See all

I took a few of my students to the museum today. They have never seen a museum before in their life, so I review this with the perspective of a teacher/tutor. Aside from the fact that every other child in the city was here today (it is February break) I guess it was an ok experience. I'm not a fan of screaming children, or teenage boys acting like idiots - but that's not necessarily in the control of the museum. My students and I checked out almost all of the exhibits. We were generally cursory, but they really enjoyed the room with the mastodon bones, and the hands on exhibits about cars/motors and electricity. And actually we liked looking at the various animals of this area and the exhibits of Native Americans. Granted, some of these displays are old, they are still interesting for someone who has never seen them. The kids were a bit hungry, so we grabbed some food from the cafe downstairs. They were just closing up, but still allowed us to order. We ordered french fries and water - so I can't really comment on the quality of their food in general. The fries we hot, and the water was cold - so that's that. Generally this is a great place for kids. There's a thing or two to be learned, and fun to be had. However, I've been to some really GREAT museums, and Rochester's only deserves 3 stars. read more