The Seneca Park Zoo is only part of the greater 297-acre Seneca Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1893.
There is a trout pond surrounded by pavilions, a playground and hiking trails that take you up close with the Genesee River. The trails are part of the Genesee Riverway Trail.
Olmsted Trail North
1 mi. (one way)
This trail leads along the river nearly to Lake Ontario, with three optional descents to the riverside.
Olmsted Trail South
0.7 mi. (one way)
Both the North and South trails begin at Trout Pond. This south trail ends at the pedestrian bridge over the Genesee River and connects Seneca to Maplewood, its sister Olmstead-designed park.
The bridge is accessed using stairs or ramps on both sides.
Seneca Park Zoo
The zoo is open all year long, and is continuously upgrading facilities and adding exhibits. “A Step into Africa,” a 2006 addition, features African Lions and Elephants. In 2018 the new “Animals of the Savanna” opened, adding Giraffes.
Picnic and refreshment areas
Helpful transportation
Also in 2018, the Zoo added a Tram to help transport people back and forth to the extreme ends of the park. The tram does not go through the zoo, however, and there is an small fee for a ticket to ride.
The pathway is primarily downhill from the entrance to the Savanna. I’m betting most people walk through the park then take the tram back to the entrance. There is now a gift shop in the Savanna area where tickets can be purchased.
More information about Seneca Park
- Cost: Free for Park, Admission Fee for Zoo (see website for admission fees)
- Located in the City of Rochester (get directions)
- More information on the park: http://www2.monroecounty.gov/parks-seneca.php plus trail map monroecounty.gov/Image/SenecaPark.pdf
- More information on the zoo: senecaparkzoo.org/
Monroe County parks are free, so take advantage of 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical and geological experiences!
Take a closer look at these Rochester citizen science opportunities and see how you can get involved! “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, dedicated citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Rochester’s Olmsted Designed Parks
Rochester is fortunate to be one of a handful of American cities that have a park system comprised of Frederick Law Olmsted-designed parks.
5 Places in the City to Enjoy the Genesee River
At Genesee Valley Park, the Genesee River begins her journey through the city, racing over a dam and three waterfalls before emptying into Lake Ontario.
What do you enjoy most about Seneca Park?
Share with us in the comments. Your insight and experience is invaluable!