Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at Manhattan Square

I went to the park for the Movie with a downtown view! Had a great time and the park is small, but well kept. You really do get a downtown view from here :)

This is my favorite place to be the few weeks before Christmas. The ice rink is so festive, and I love the fireplace and stockings in the waiting room!
It’s not the best skating rink, not like an indoor hockey or figure skating rink that gets zamboni-​ed every half hour, so you can’t really do any tricks or spins. Also, I’d recommend going in the evenings as there are tons of people here during the day, especially kids. Go on a Thursday or Friday night for romantic date or night with friends.

An underutilized spot in Downtown. The 60s/​70s concrete style of the park is a definite throwback. I wish the amphitheater had gotten the grassy overhaul it was slated for a few years back to make it a more welcoming space for events. It’s a decent venue for a small festival.

A great option for a little downtown park time in the summer and winter.
During the summer, cool off in the mini pool area (about 6 inches of water) and run through the fountains when they shoot off water every 5 minutes or so. I’ve seen a few people skateboarding around these parts — I think it’s allowed (?). There’s also a nice little playground and jungle gym area for the kiddos. Shady spots abound for an afternoon of resting and relaxing.
In the winter, I try to come down as often as I can to do a little skating to bring me back to my youth. It’s $ 5 to skate & $ 3 for rentals if you need them. The skates aren’t pro-​status obviously so my ankles usually are sore after 30 min of skating. It’s a small kidney shaped loop, but such a fun time to relive those skating moments from your childhood. I love it. I like it as a cheap date option or a fun night with friends then go and warm up at a nearby restaurant/​bar like Fraiche, Skylark or Roc Brewing.

Each winter I try to get out to ice skate at Rochester’s downtown rink. It’s so invigorating to get outdoors in the winter and enjoy some fresh air and recreation. I’m grateful for this little gem in Rochester. It’s a great remedy for cabin fever, and it brings back memories of being a child and the simpler times. Love what they’ve done with the waiting area and the addition of the real wood fireplace!