Rochester is surrounded by exquisitely manicured gardens and conservatories. If you haven’t already, start with a visit to these five beautiful gardens near Rochester.
They offer visitors a variety of plants and trees to observe through the seasons. And many of these are either free or require a small donation or admission fee.
Sonnenberg Gardens
City of Canandaigua
Some of the places you can explore throughout the grounds of Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, like the Tea Garden and the Rock Garden, are accessed by windy, uneven footpaths.
There are also trams available that can take you anywhere in the park, but are especially useful getting from the entrance to the mansion and back. The drivers are excited to share details and stories as you drive along.
Lamberton Conservatory
City of Rochester
Located in Highland Park, Lamberton Conservatory is the perfect place to spend inside on a gray day. Many folks visit to seek a calm, colorful space warmed to tropical temperatures, filled with the sound of running water, and the scent of fragrant flowers.
Each December, the Holiday Show welcomes you with holiday lights, greens and poinsettias.
The Spring Show opens around the 1st weekend of spring through the Lilac Festival in mid-May.
George Eastman Museum
City of Rochester
The grounds of the George Eastman Museum are free and open to the public. But do take time to go inside.
The museum is a beautiful tribute to the life and legacy of George Eastman, and is the world’s oldest photography museum with one of the oldest film archives.
Ellwanger Estate Garden
City of Rochester
While the Ellwanger Estate is private, the garden is maintained by the Landmark Society and is periodically open to the public for special events.
Cornell Botanic Gardens
City of Ithaca
The 4,000-acres that make up Cornell Botanic Gardens are free to explore and are full of opportunities to learn about plants and environmental conservation.
This area on Cornell University’s campus includes 12 specialty gardens around the Nevin Welcome Center, the 100-acre F.R. Newman Arboretum, and surrounding natural areas.
Ready to find some more beautiful gardens near Rochester?
In addition to public gardens, look for house & garden tours throughout the year, including two with the Landmark Society of Western New York.
Webster Arboretum at Kent Park
Covering 32 acres, the arboretum boasts a pond, winding paths, various trees and shrubs, and formal gardens with over 200 daylily cultivars.
Host to the Lilac Festival in May, Highland has the most extensive collection of lilacs in the country, with 500 varieties across 1,200 shrubs.
Sunken Garden at Warner Castle
In Highland Park, walk behind Warner Castle or up the hill from Highland Bowl, and there you will find the magnificent Sunken Garden.
Maplewood Park is a linear park that follows the river from Driving Park and the Lower Falls to just north of Route 104, ending at the pedestrian bridge over the Genesee.
25 House & Garden Tours Around Rochester
Every year there are dozens of opportunities around Rochester to walk through grand and historic homes, and meticulously manicured gardens.
These carefully designed gardens, often cultivated for decades or even centuries, display exceptional collections of flowers and trees.
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22 Fabulous Fall Hikes in Monroe County
Our favorite fall hikes offer a variety of elements and views. The presence of water, trees, and solitude helps rank these high on our list.
Beyond the gorge trails, nature centers, and gardens, these exceptional parks offer unique experiences and amenities worthy of exploration.
Which are your favorite gardens and arboretums near Rochester?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
Webster Arboretum has nice gardens, is free and open to the public.