How to Spend 2 Fun Days in Rochester, Minnesota, with Kids
This post, featuring my 2-day itinerary for Rochester, Minnesota, with kids, may contain affiliate links. It also includes a sponsored stay at Best Western, though this blog post was not officially part of the partnership. All opinions are my own. For more, please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.
If you're dreaming up an easy, fun Minnesota getaway with your kids, let me put Rochester on your radar. This is one of the most underrated destinations in Minnesota for families (in my opinion). After a recent visit with our daughter, I can confidently say it surprised us in the best ways, from its outdoor experiences to its global food scene. Our trip was quick (due to a blizzard blowing in-classic Minnesota in March!), and it left us already planning a return.
Most people associate Rochester with the Mayo Clinic, but there's so much more to the city, especially with kids. Think hands-on museums, wide-open parks, and cozy cafés. No matter your family's interests, there are plenty of fun things to do in Rochester, Minnesota, with kids around every corner.
In this guide, I'm sharing my recommendations for how to spend a weekend in Rochester, Minnesota, with kids. I've included everything from family-friendly activities to some of the best places to eat and stay in Rochester. Whether you're planning a quick day trip or a full weekend away, this itinerary makes it easy (and fun) to explore Rochester, Minnesota, together.
Day 1 in Rochester with Kids
Get ready for a fun mini road trip to Rochester with your kids! We left from the Twin Cities (our home base), so the first stop is actually on the way to Rochester. I promise it's worth the little detour! Then, you'll check into your hotel and get settled for the night.
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
If you're looking for one of the best things to do near Rochester with kids, this spot absolutely delivers. Just about 20 minutes from downtown Rochester, Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo completely exceeded our expectations. It was the highlight of our recent trip! We spent around 90 minutes here and could easily have stayed longer (I recommend that you have at least 2-3 hours here!).
Set along the scenic South Fork Zumbro River, Oxbow Park is designed for families (and it's completely FREE, though donations are appreciated and encouraged). Start at Zollman Zoo. It's home to more than 30 Minnesota-native species like bison, black bears, wolves, and some very playful otters (they are a DELIGHT!). What makes it even more meaningful is that many of the animals are non-releasable, so you're not just visiting, you're also learning their stories and the impact of humans on our state's habitats and ecosystems.
After the zoo, head into the nature center for hands-on exhibits. This small but mighty nature center features small-animal exhibits (think turtles and small birds), a puppet area, and other unique play experiences for kids. When we visited, they also had a fantastic exhibit on Minnesota's water resources.
Then get back outside and explore more. The nature center even has activity backpacks that you can borrow for your adventures! With about 8 miles of trails, plus playgrounds, picnic areas, and wide-open space, it's easy to turn this into a full morning or afternoon adventure on your way to Rochester.
Check into the Best Western
If you're planning a trip to Rochester with young kids, Best Western Rochester Hotel Mayo Clinic Area/St. Mary’s is such a fun (and easy) home base. Located near the Apache Mall and just minutes from downtown Rochester, this stayputs you close to everything on your itinerary (without ever feeling rushed!).
What really makes this Rochester hotel stand out for families? The indoor pool has a water slide! After a day of exploring, it's the perfect place for kids to burn off any extra energy. The large pool features a waterslide and a basketball hoop. Plus, there is a separate tot area with a mini slide and splash features for younger kids. Add in a hot tub and a few arcade-style games nearby, and it's easy to see why kids love it here. (Bad weather during your trip? You won't even have to leave the hotel to have fun!)
The perks for parents don't hurt either. Expect comfortable, spacious rooms, and a complimentary breakfast (yes, there's a make-your-own waffle station!). It's a low-stress, high-fun option that makes visiting Rochester, Minnesota, with kids feel simple and enjoyable from the start.
A Few More Kid-Friendly Hotels in Rochester, Minnesota
Looking for more hotel ideas? Here are a few fantastic alternative places to stay in Rochester for your upcoming family visit!
- Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area
- Staybridge Suites Rochester - Mayo Clinic Area by IHG
- Rochester Marriott Mayo Clinic Area
READ NEXT: 2 Exciting Days in Red Wing, Minnesota, with Kids (A Family Itinerary)
Dinner at Our Paladar
If you're searching for the best restaurants in Rochester to add to your kid-friendly itinerary, Our Paladar was hands-down our favorite meal of the trip. Set inside the historic Railroad Depot right along the Zumbro River, the space alone is worth the visit. It is beautiful, welcoming, and full of character.
The menu leans New American, with standout dishes like house-made pastas, plus a great selection of cocktails and wine. But if you order one thing, make it the Peruvian chicken-I'm still thinking about it! They also have a kids' menu for little ones. Everything we tried was well-presented and elevated, without being fussy.
The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance for families (relaxed enough for kids, but still feels like a special, vacation-worthy night out). Friendly service, incredible food, and a unique setting make this a spot we'd go back to in a heartbeat!
Day 2 in Rochester with Kids
After a good night's sleep, here's how to spend day 2 of your visit to Rochester with kids. Today is all about starting slow, exploring unique local spots, and great views of the Zumbro River.
Enjoy a Slow Morning at the Hotel Pool
Vacations just feel better when you're not rushing out the door. Grab breakfast (don't skip the waffles-they are a must when staying with Best Western!), sip your coffee, and ease into the day.
Then, spend the morning at the pool. It really is that good! It opens around 9 am, so you have plenty of time to grab breakfast beforehand. Don't be surprised if kids are lining up at the gate just before it opens!
There's a large pool with a waterslide and basketball hoop for bigger kids, plus a separate tot area with a mini slide for little ones. It's the kind of hotel pool setup where everyone has something to do (and you can actually relax for a bit, too!). It's the perfect, low-key way to start your day before heading out for more Rochester adventures.
Grab Coffee and a Donut at Old Abe Coffee Shop
This local favorite is such a fun stop! Even if you've already had breakfast, Old Abe Coffee Shop is a great place to refuel mid-morning.
Located near downtown, this cafe has a laid-back, welcoming vibe that's perfect with kids. The coffee is solid. But the real star here is the donuts from Drift Dough! They're small-batch, creative, and seriously good. Many are even egg- and dairy-free, which makes this a great option for families with dietary needs. I only grabbed a lemon poppyseed and wished I had ordered a second to save for later.
If you're hungry and in need of an early lunch, Old Abe also leans into plant-based fare, with unique menu items like their vegan bánh mì and fish-free "salmon," adding something a little different to your Rochester food lineup. It's a quick, easy, and delicious stop before heading out (and many consider it one of the best restaurants for lunch in Rochester!).
Quarry Hill Nature Center
If you're looking for one of the best things to do in Rochester with kids, Quarry Hill Nature Center is a can't-miss! It's honestly one of the best nature centers we've visited-indoors and out-and it's the kind of place where you'll want to take your time exploring.
Start inside. The Nature Center is packed with hands-on exhibits and live animals. Kids can get up close to turtles, snakes, fish, and all kinds of creepy crawlies. There is also a large aquarium (kids can even crawl under it!) and an interactive Exploration Hall. The indoor exhibits are engaging without feeling too overwhelming.
Then head outside to explore the park and trails. There are several miles of trails, but I highly recommend the Quarry Ruins Trail. It's relatively short and easy (though steep in one part near the beginning) and offers a really cool glimpse into the area's history. Kids will love walking along the edge of the old quarry! There is even a trail that will take you down into it, and you can walk right through it. Keep an eye out for birds and even muskrats near the pond!
With free admission, year-round access, and something for every season, this is one stop that truly delivers for families. I promise, you don't want to miss this one!
Lunch at Francisco’s Restaurant
So many people recommended Francisco’s Restaurant to us as one of the best places to eat lunch in Rochester-and it absolutely delivered BIG flavors. This spot is 1000% worth the hype!
Don't let the casual, food-court-style setting fool you. Here, the food speaks for itself. Francisco's serves authentic Caribbean and Cuban dishes made with heart and seriously bold flavors. Think jerk chicken, tender ropa vieja, savory oxtail, and classic Cuban sandwiches. Everything is made fresh daily. You can feel the family pride behind every dish. I highly recommend having lunch here during your family trip to Rochester!
Explore Downtown Rochester
Spending time in downtown Rochester is a lot of fun with kids (especially if they love to shop!). Downtown has just enough of an urban feel to keep things interesting, without ever feeling overwhelming. You'll find plenty of shops, local eateries, and little surprises tucked throughout the area.
One of the coolest (and most practical) features of downtown Rochester is the skyways and pedestrian subways. These climate-controlled walkways connect hotels, shops, and restaurants, making it incredibly easy to get around year-round (especially with little kids in tow). Whether it's chilly, rainy, or you just don't feel like bundling up, you can explore a huge portion of downtown without ever stepping outside. Galleria at University Square, one of the best places to browse and shop, is also connected to the skyways and pedestrian subways.
Nearby, you will also find paths along the Zumbro River. You can easily take a walk or a family-friendly bike ride. The views of the river are spectacular! Rochester Trolley & Tour Company can also help you explore downtown Rochester with your kids.
While you're wandering, make sure to pop into Art Heads Emporium. It's such a fun, creative stop with unique art and hands-on classes. It was one of my favorite shops while we wandered downtown!
Rochester Art Center
Located right along the Zumbro River, the Rochester Art Center is a bright, welcoming space featuring rotating contemporary exhibits by local and international artists. It's a great spot for a creative stop while exploring downtown Rochester.
While it's not a traditional hands-on kids' museum, it's a place that naturally sparks curiosity. The exhibits invite kids to ask questions, notice details, and think creatively. And, there are often family-friendly programs or interactive elements mixed in.
When we visited, there was an incredible exhibit featuring work from local high school students, with pieces from several nearby schools. My daughter thought it was so cool to see art created by kids just a few years older than her displayed in a real museum. It made the experience feel personal, inspiring, and totally memorable. This is undoubltedy one of the best family-friendly things to do in downtown Rochester.
Dinner at Bleu Duck Kitchen
End your night at Bleu Duck Kitchen! As one of the best restaurants in Rochester, it promises a memorable meal in a dining room filled with blue ducks that your kids will love pointing out!
The menu focuses on seasonal American fare, with ingredients sourced locally. The menu changes often, keeping things fresh and fun. Each dish is pretty creative, but still approachable (even for less adventurous eaters). Watching the team work in the exhibition kitchen adds a fun element for kids, too.
The space has a cool industrial vibe. Settle in, try something new, and enjoy a great dinner to end your time together in Rochester.
Because of an impending blizzard, we left Rochester after dinner. You may decide to stay a second night and continue with your weekend (I wish we could have!), so I've included a few more ideas for things to do in Rochester with kids below!
More Fun Things to Do in Rochester with Kids
Looking for a few more fun things to do in Rochester, Minnesota, with kids? If you are planning a full weekend trip to Rochester with your family or want to make some changes to this itinerary, here are a few more family-friendly things to consider:
- Rochester Trolley & Tour Company
- SPARK, Children’s Museum
- Charles E. Gagnon Museum & Sculpture Garden
- Mayowood Historic Home
- Plummer House
- Rochester Repertory Theatre
- Soldiers Field Memorial Park
- Boundless Playspace and Activity Center
- Rochester Public Library (great children's area with play space)
- Silver Lake Boat and Bike Rentals
- Skyline Raceway
- Walking paths along the Zumbro River in downtown Rochester
- Whitewater State Park and Carley State Park are both 30 minutes or less from Rochester
- Rice Lake State Park is less than 45 minutes from Rochester
Plus, here are a few more fantastic eateries and restaurants to try in Rochester! All recommended by other families and travelers (we are saving them for next time, too!).
- Flapdoodles Ice Cream
- Hollandberry Pannekoeken
- First Meeting Noodle
- Thai Pop
- Forager Brewery
- MOKA Coffee
- Latitude 44
- Pasquale’s Neighborhood Pizzeria
READ NEXT: 16 EPIC Bucket List Trips in Minnesota with Kids
Keep Exploring Rochester, Minnesota, with Your Kids
If you've been overlooking Rochester, consider this your sign to visit with your kids. This city truly surprised us (in the best way!) with its mix of outdoor adventures, art scene, and incredible food. From nature centers to art museums, there are so many kid-friendly things to do in Rochester that make it feel like a complete (but totally manageable) family getaway. Whether you're planning a quick day trip or figuring out how to spend a weekend in Rochester, Minnesota, with your kids, my itinerary makes it easy to dive right in. Add in some of the best places to eat and stay in Rochester, and you've got everything you need to get started. Our visit may have been short, but it left a big impression. We're already looking forward to going back!
Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.
