Parents have been getting creative at answering this question for more than a year now: “How can I keep my family sane while also keeping them COVID-safe?” While many families are grateful for the natural slowing of the pace and additional time spent at home, there remains an immense need to get out and engage with the community in a safe way.
Getting back outside is top-of-mind as Rochester begins to thaw out and warm up! Luckily for us, Rochester has legions of parks, farms, waterways, and outdoor retreats to escape away to when the Cocomelon, Peppa Pig, or Paw Patrol theme song has officially lost its charm. Need inspiration? Look no further. Here are forty-plus Yelp-recommended hot spots to visit with your family this spring in the (585) region.
Parks & Playgrounds
Tinker Nature Park
Our region has no shortage of stunning green spaces built specifically with our kiddos in mind. Depending on your neighborhood, you’re likely less than two miles away from a gorgeous park or playground … or both! A reader who lives on the west side of town might check out the trails and water views at Greece Canal Park, the interactive playground and sprinkle park at Pineway Ponds, or the hiking trails at Black Creek Park. Closer to downtown? Plenty of options. Highland Park, designed by the famed Frederick Law Olmsted, is packed with hidden gems to explore and nature to take in. Lamberton Conservatory, a reservoir, walking paths, the natural wood Lilac Play Zone playground, and the Sunken Garden are all housed within Highland’s sprawling grounds. The lesser-explored Lower Falls Park and connected Maplewood Rose Garden provide some much needed “serenity” and “enchantment,” says reviewer Sara D. East side Yelpers are partial to the playgrounds at Abraham Lincoln County Park, Tinker Nature Park, and the Jack’s Place playgrounds in Rothfuss Park.
Beach Walks & Picnics
After a year of mostly missed family beach vacations, you might be in the market for some sand and sunshine closer to home. Classics like Ontario Beach Park and Durand Beach are obvious (and excellent!) choices, but there are a few other spots to check out if you’re on the hunt for some “toes in the sand” realness. The Irondequoit Bay Harbor & Marine Park provides a more secluded look in an often-overlooked part of town. The Bateau Play Area is an especially secluded park and beach, replete with benches and more.
Spring is the perfect time for picnics. Yelpers love setting up a spread overlooking the falls at Corbett’s Glen Nature Park, at a grassy spot overlooking the tennis courts at Cobb’s Hill, or in one of the many pavilions in Mendon Ponds Park.
Activities on the Water
Kayaking fun
With many waterways comes many options for getting out on the water! Start with the body of water you most want to explore, Irondequoit Bay and Creek, Erie Canal, Genesee River, or Lake Ontario, and pick an activity from there. If you’re looking to kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, Bay Creek Paddle Center and Genesee Waterways have tandem and solo options available to rent. How about a family boat ride? The Sam Patch Tour Boat and Harbor Towne Belle both grab five-star reviews for fun and knowledgeable captains.
Farms & Animals
Many farms in town are open and ready to provide family fun in all four seasons. The spring/summer season at Long Acre Farms opens up on May 1, filled with activity areas for the kiddos and ice cream for the whole family. Lazy Acre Alpacas is a short drive from downtown, with private tours available all year long, and a must-see gift shop filled with stuffed alpacas. While Powers Farm Market is known for its incredible autumnal displays, spring sees the farm showing off fresh cut flowers, hanging baskets, baked goods, and more!
Wherever you decide to roam, picnic, or play, we’re wishing you a spring season filled with five-star experiences.
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