Welcome Back, College Students: Your Ultimate Guide to Free Fun in Downtown Rochester!
University of Minnesota Rochester and Winona State University Rochester students - Welcome back to Downtown Rochester! As you dive into a new semester filled with classes, projects, and late-night study sessions, remember that Downtown Rochester has plenty to offer when it’s time to take a break and enjoy some well-deserved fun.
Explore the Heart of the City: Downtown Rochester is the perfect place to unwind and discover something new. Whether you're new to town or a seasoned local, there’s always something happening here. From explorable art installations and local bike trails, to cozy coffee shops where you can catch up with friends or dive into a good book...or, ok, study! Downtown has something for everyone, everyday!
Catch Live Music and Dance Lessons: Love music? Downtown Rochester boasts a calendar packed with FREE live performances. The Peace Plaza is where you'll find the majority of the free music offerings whether you're looking for acoustic sets or a full band experience. And if you’ve ever wanted to learn how to dance, now’s your chance! Join in on free dance lessons and show off your moves under the city lights.
Thanks to RDA's partnership with 125 Live, Southern MN Chapter of USA Dance, and the Chateau Theatre, Monday nights from 6-7:30pm, Sept. 9, 23 and 30, everyone in the community can join in free dance lessons in Salsa, Ballroom, Cha Cha, Argentine Tango, and/or West Coast Swing. Grab some classmates and dance the Monday night away!
Free Activities to Keep You Entertained: Budget-friendly fun is abundant downtown. Enjoy art walks through the Mayo Clinic and Rochester Art Center, outdoor Zumba classes Saturday mornings, and seasonal festivals like Latino Fest on Sept. 14th, Dogs Downtown on Sept. 21st, and Family Fun Day on Sept. 21st, that fill the streets with energy and excitement. All of these activities are free, making it easy to have a great time without breaking the bank.
Make the Most of Your College Experience: We know college life can be stressful, but Downtown Rochester offers the perfect escape. So, whether you’re looking to explore new hobbies, make lasting memories with friends, or just take a relaxing stroll, downtown is your go-to destination. We're glad you're here!
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.