The best things to do in Rochester

“If your Rochester wedding is coming up, Ever After Entertainment brings DJs who actually read the room, a Promise to Play list that nails your must-hears, a Do Not Play list that saves you from cringe, plus photo booths and films so you can relive it all.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Pop's Art Theater is the local spot for international picks, indie gems, and quirky Cult Double Features that actually earn the name. The current Japanese Noir Series runs Sept 5 to Oct 14, plus frequent guest Q&As and panels... perfect for when Netflix feels like leftovers.”

From the Rochester newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Old School Arcade and Axe Throwing stacks 50+ retro arcade and pinball machines set to unlimited freeplay with beginner-friendly, instructor-supervised axe lanes. Great for date nights, group hangs, or when you just need to hurl something then crush a high score like it’s 1998.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Oak Summit Golf Course is a family owned, 18-hole public track with rolling hills, well defined fairways, and a par-70 layout that lets you pick your challenge with women’s, senior, men’s, and championship tees. Book a round this week, jump into league play, and enjoy some countryside calm.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 24, 2026

“If you or your kids live for that sweet grab-and-go moment, HyperSpace Starcade dials it in with 78 prize-based skill games, prize trade-ups, and real wins. Drop in for the claw arcade vibes, or book their Game Truck, Laser Tag, or VR to roll up to your event.”

From the Rochester newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Voted Best Indoor Family Attraction, Bowlocity Entertainment Center packs 24 state-of-the-art lanes, 4 lanes of Duckpin Social, a multi-level laser tag arena, and a 75-game arcade with two VR rides, plus a sports bar with Krazy Darts and comfort-food favorites.”

From the Rochester newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Blue Lagoon Mini Golf nails that just-one-more-hole vibe with a practice green, 18 playful holes (loop, jump, log, bridge, water hazards) and a legit waterfall. Locally owned, it brings back Glow Golf, then refuel with snacks, Flapdoodles ice cream and new-for-2026 pizza.”

From the Rochester newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Need a local fairway fix this week? Northern Hills Golf Course is a public 18-hole with rolling hills, sloped greens, and trees that keep things interesting, plus a roomy driving range with putting and chipping greens, leagues and tournaments, a well-stocked pro shop, and lessons from PGA-certified Brian Jones.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 10, 2026

“, Unraveled Escape Room keeps teams guessing with story-driven puzzles and difficulty tailored to your group. Great for friends, birthday chaos, or team building that actually gets people talking.”

From the Rochester newsletter, September 19, 2026

“This week, The Machine Shed lets you pay once then roam a floor of 80s and 90s classics, head-to-head racers, pinball, and a two-player dance game, plus you can buy, sell, or trade games and consoles, and get controllers fixed when your gear starts acting moody.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 17, 2026

“This week, Rochester Golf & Country Club brings a warm, welcoming community together around golf, good food, and versatile wedding and event spaces. Pencil in a round, linger over dinner, or start planning that milestone party at a spot locals actually look forward to.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Whether you need an easy date night or a reason to settle your sibling rivalry, Skyline Raceway keeps it simple and fun with a 9-hole mini golf course and go-karts for both kids and grownups. Grab a friend, talk a little smack, then chase bragging rights all week.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Cradled by the Root River and limestone bluffs, Maple Valley Golf and Country Club is a public course worth the swing. Family owned since 1964 and often called a Minnesota hidden gem, it serves up real shot-making, including a 50-foot tee drop on No. 3 that locals whisper about.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Chase that perfect round this week at Willow Creek Golf Course, a championship 18 with some of the best greens around, plus Little Willow, the only executive par-29 in Rochester for quick loops or newcomers, and FootGolf, leagues, lessons, and an event center built for outings and celebrations.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Soldiers Field Golf Course has that 1920s charm with tight fairways, exceptional greens, and two putting and chipping greens, plus downtown views as the Zumbro River tags along. Solid for locals wanting lessons, youth camps, or the occasional tournament without leaving the city.”

From the Rochester newsletter, August 31, 2026