Downtown Rochester: Your Hub for Community Fun and Entertainment this Fall!
As the community gears up for the changing seasons, Downtown Rochester remains the vibrant heart of the city, offering something for everyone, every day. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer exploring the area, downtown is your go-to spot for relaxation, entertainment, and discovering something new.
Explore the Heart of the City: Downtown Rochester is the perfect place to unwind and dive into fresh experiences. From captivating art installations and scenic bike trails to cozy coffee shops where you can catch up with friends or enjoy a peaceful moment, downtown has it all. With every corner offering a unique vibe, there’s always something happening to keep you engaged and entertained.
Catch Live Music and Dance Lessons: Love music? Downtown Rochester is buzzing with free live performances. The Peace Plaza hosts a variety of music events, whether you’re in the mood for acoustic sets or a full band experience. And for those looking to get active and have some fun, free dance lessons are a must-try! Thanks to partnerships with 125 Live, Southern MN Chapter of USA Dance, and the Chateau Theatre, Monday nights in September offer the chance to learn Salsa, Ballroom, Cha Cha, Argentine Tango, and West Coast Swing under the city lights.
Free Activities to Keep You Entertained: Budget-friendly fun is at your fingertips downtown. Enjoy art walks through the Mayo Clinic and Rochester Art Center, invigorating outdoor Zumba classes on Saturday mornings, and a lineup of seasonal festivals like Latino Fest on Sept. 14th, Dogs Downtown on Sept. 21st, and Family Fun Day on Sept. 21st. These events fill the streets with energy and excitement, making it easy to have a great time without spending a dime.
Whether you’re looking to explore new hobbies, make lasting memories with loved ones, or just take a relaxing stroll, Downtown Rochester is your destination for all things fun and exciting. We’re glad you’re here to share in the community spirit!
Be sure to check out the RDA's events calendar for a comprehensive list of activities and events in Downtown. The Chateau Theatre and Rochester Public Library are also great resources when looking for things to do Downtown!
Sundays:
1-2pm Public Art Walking Tour: Art4Trails, starts at Rochester Art Center's front doors
4-6pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
Mondays:
11-1pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
2-3pm Mayo Clinic Art Tour, tour starts at Heritage Hall in the Mathews Grand Lobby of the Mayo Building
4-6pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
6-7:30pm Dancing on the Plaza, at the Kahler Grand Hotel Stage on the Peace Plaza (Sept. 9, 23, and 30)
Tuesdays:
11-1pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
2-3pm Mayo Clinic Art Tour, tour starts at Heritage Hall in the Mathews Grand Lobby of the Mayo Building
4-6pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
Wednesdays:
11-1pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
2-3pm Mayo Clinic Art Tour, tour starts at Heritage Hall in the Mathews Grand Lobby of the Mayo Building
2-6pm Farmers Market, on Discovery Walk
4-6pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
First Wednesday of every month - 6-9pm, Art Heads Emporium Open Studio
Thursdays:
11-1pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
2-3pm Mayo Clinic Art Tour, tour starts at Heritage Hall in the Mathews Grand Lobby of the Mayo Building
4-6pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
First Thursday of every month - 6-8pm, Cafe Steam (Broadway location) Open Mic
Fridays:
11-1pm Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
2-3pm Mayo Clinic Art Tour, tour starts at Heritage Hall in the Mathews Grand Lobby of the Mayo Building
5-6:30pm Music on the Plaza, on the Kahler Grand Hotel Stage on the Peace Plaza
Saturdays:
9-12pm Play on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
10-11am Fresh Air Fitness, Zumba at the Kahler Grand Hotel Stage on the Peace Plaza (Sept. 21 - Oct. 26)
10-11:30am Music on the Plaza, on the Peace Plaza
Events this Fall:
SEPT 14 - Latino Fest, on the Peace Plaza, 12-6pm
SEPT 21 - Dogs Downtown, at Central Park, 11-3pm
SEPT 21 - Family Fun Day, at Soldiers Field, 10-2pm
OCT 26 - Candy Crawl, starts at Chateau Theatre
*Check the RDA's Instagram account for any last minute changes in location or cancellations.