Having the ability to expand your knowledge through experience is an opportunity we should all treat ourselves too. Cultural experiences are a perfect way to learn and grow your mind while having a great time. A destination full of history, science and fine art – you will have many options to enjoy.
We’ve put together a list of Cultural Experiences that can be enjoyed individually but are also large enough to cater to a tour group as well.
Ganondagan State Historic Site
Ganondagan State Historic Site is a National Historic Landmark, the only New York State Historic Site dedicated to a Native American theme and the only Seneca town developed and interpreted in the United States. Explore the original site of a 17th century Seneca town, which existed peacefully more than 350 years ago. The Seneca Art & Culture Center tells the story of Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) contributions to art, culture, and society. The center features an interactive, multimedia exhibit gallery. The grounds surrounding the center include two signed interpretive trails that educate visitors about the significance of plant life and Haudenosaunee culture and history. Indoor and outdoor dining spaces are available to enjoy a box lunch.
Ganondagan group tours provide experiential learning opportunities for any age. Experience historical and contemporary Seneca and Hodinöhsö:ni’ (Iroquois) culture and values, while learning about the important history of Ganondagan. Don’t forget to stop at the gift shop to take home a unique souvenir.
George Eastman Museum
The George Eastman Museum (GEM) is located on the estate of George Eastman, the pioneer of popular photography and motion picture film. Founded in 1947, it is the world’s oldest photography museum and one of the oldest film archives. The museum holds incomparable collections. GEM offers an array of experiences including photography, motion pictures, history, gardens, architecture, and historic houses. The institution is also a longtime leader in film preservation and photographic conservation. You won’t want to miss the Eastman Museum Shop, a gift shop filled with items relating to photography, cinema, and George Eastman himself! While at the museum, be sure to stop at Open Face Café, featuring hand-crafted specialty items. The menu is all about food inclusivity, gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or omnivore. Enjoy a delicious variety of soups, sandwiches and sides, sure to please any pallet.
The GEM has opportunities for tour groups of all ages. Whether your group is interested in photography, motion pictures, history, gardens, architecture, or historic houses, itineraries can be customized just for you.
Genesee Country Village & Museum
Travel back in time at the largest living history museum in New York State, Genesee Country Village & Museum. Explore a living, working 19th century village, covering more than 600 acres, filled with costumed interpreters who bring history to life! During your trip to the past, you can chat with village craftsmen, smell the aroma of freshly baked 19th century foods (and eat some too), and stroll through the beautiful gardens. During the last two weekends in March, you can feed your mind and stomach by tapping into the history of maple at their Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast.
GCV&M will fully open for the 2022 season on May 7. The village offers several itinerary options and lots of free parking, making it a perfect destination for tour groups.
Memorial Art Gallery
Take a journey through more than 5,000 years of art history. The Memorial Art Gallery’s 14-acre campus boasts a panorama of the world’s art. Founded in 1913, the MAG has played a central role in Rochester’s cultural life for more than a century. It is the focal point of fine arts activity in the region. Walk through their current exhibitions or plan on visiting their upcoming exhibitions. The MAG has you covered for lunch or dinner at its in-house restaurant, Brown Hound Downtown. Tantalize your taste buds with the fresh, hyper-local & creative American fare dining options. You can do a little shopping while at the MAG too! THE STORE @ MAG offers treasures from Upstate NY’s vibrant community of artists, the finest in handmade jewelry and artful items for home decor.
In addition to offering this cultural experience to the general public, the MAG is pleased to offer virtual and in person school and group tours.
RMSC Museum and Science Center
Dive into immersive experiences that delve into the world of science and illuminate cultural history as you explore this museum and planetarium. The RMSC Museum and Science Center will provide you with the inspiration and tools that will cause delight and wonder as you contemplate solving the deepest challenges of our times.
The collections include books, publications, media, photographs, documents & maps, clothing, accessories & household items. RMSC is happy to accommodate tour groups of all sizes and ages.
The Strong National Museum of Play
Bring out the child in you at the Strong National Museum of Play. The Strong is a highly interactive, collections-based museum devoted to the history and exploration of play. It is one of the largest history museums in the United States. This iconic attraction houses the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of historical materials related to play. The multifaceted supply of research, exhibits, and other interpretive and educational activities serve a diverse audience of adults and children alike. There is much to do while you’re at the museum and you definitely won’t want to miss the National Toy Hall of Fame, the World Video Game Hall of Fame or the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden! Having all that fun can build up an appetite so be sure to stop at the museum’s food court serving salads, grain bowls, pizza and wraps. With gifts for all ages, the museum’s Everything for Play! gift shop is the ideal place to find that special, take home treasure.
The Strong museum welcomes groups of all sizes and ages, from youths to seniors, there are many options for all to enjoy.