Rochester has so many great spots to hang out with your kids — like, the kind of places where everyone actually has fun (not just the kids), and you end up wishing you took more photos while you were there.

Whether it’s animals, playgrounds, roller coasters, or just running around outside, there are so many ways to spend time together — and honestly? These kid friendly activities are kind of perfect for those casual, real-life family photos. You know, the ones where everyone’s actually smiling because they’re genuinely having a good time?

So if you’re looking for places your kids will love — and maybe a few sweet photo ops along the way — here are some of my go-to kid friendly spots around Rochester:

Seneca Park Zoo

Honestly, the Seneca Park Zoo is always a win. My kids never get tired of it. There’s just something magical about seeing giraffes up close or watching a sea lion do flips that makes kids light up. I’ve lost count of how many times we’ve been here, but somehow they still act like it’s the first time every time.

We always make a stop at the giraffe feeding — totally worth it. And yes, I’ve definitely pulled out my phone mid-lick (from the giraffe, not the kid) to catch that face of total delight/disgust. If you’re hoping for real smiles in your photos, this is a solid spot.

Strong National Museum of Play 

This one’s kind of a no-brainer. I’ve had a Strong National Museum of Play membership since my oldest could walk and it’s still a favorite. It’s loud, it’s busy, it’s a little chaotic — but in the best possible way.

Between the mini Wegmans, the climbing stuff, and the video game exhibits, there’s something for every age. I’ve got pictures of my kids in the same spots through the years and it’s honestly kind of wild to look back and see how much they’ve grown. Plus, if your kid is the type who needs to run, jump, climb, and touch everything — they’ll be in heaven.

Seabreeze Amusement Park

Seabreeze feels like one of those places where childhood just happens. There’s the thrill of roller coasters, the splashy chaos of the waterpark, and enough funnel cake to make you question all your life choices.

But it’s not just about the rides — it’s about the expressions. The wind-blown hair on the Jack Rabbit. The belly laughs on the bumper cars. The cotton-candy-smeared faces that say, this is the best day ever.

I’ve even brought my camera on the coaster before (probably not recommended, but… worth it). Those wide-eyed moments are gold.

Mendon Ponds Park

If your family’s more outdoorsy — or just needs a break from screens — Mendon Ponds is a great kid-friendly activity. There are trails, fairy doors, bird feeders where chickadees literally land on your hand (not joking), and tons of space to just roam.

One time, my daughter was so still waiting for a bird to land — like full statue mode — and when it finally did, she just whispered “it touched me!” with this look like she’d seen a unicorn. Caught it on camera. I’ll never delete that photo.

It’s peaceful, but also kind of magical in a low-key way. Bring snacks. And probably bug spray, definitely bug spray.

Vintage Drive-In

The Vintage Drive-In feels like stepping into the past a little. It’s not fancy, but it’s fun — kids running around before the movie, everyone in hoodies and blankets once it gets dark, and just that laid-back, end-of-day vibe.

Before the movie starts, the kids are free to play — frisbees, mini golf, glow sticks, whatever’s in the trunk. Then as the sun dips down and the screen lights up, you get those dreamy, cozy moments: kids wrapped in blankets, faces lit by movie glow, snack bar treasures in hand.

Watching a movie under the stars while your kids are half-asleep in the backseat with popcorn all over the place? That’s memory-making stuff right there.

Bounce Hopper

Rainy day? Too cold? Too hot? Whatever it is, Bounce Hopper is the answer. It’s loud, it’s full of inflatable chaos, and your kids will leave exhausted — so, a win.

Mine are older now so I’ve started bringing my laptop and working while they run around. (They have WiFi, which is honestly amazing.) But when they were little, I’d try to sneak in a few photos mid-jump or slide — those red-faced, sweaty, grinning moments are kind of the best.

Whether you’re planning a big family photo session or just want to catch more of those “this is us” moments — these are great places to start. And if you ever want someone to help you capture the good stuff while you’re busy chasing after your kids or cleaning melted ice cream off your shirt, I’d love to help.