In 1951, Monroe County Parks purchased the castle and grounds as an extension of Highland Park. The 1854 Gothic-style castle is now the headquarters for the Landmark Society of Western New York. In 1930, landscape architect Alling S. DeForest, who also designed the Eastman estate’s gardens, added the sunken garden to the property. Photographers often capture wedding and family photos in the garden, but it can be a peaceful retreat if you visit when it’s not crowded.
If you are starting near Lamberton Conservatory, head down Reservoir Ave, crossing South Ave. toward Mt. Hope Ave. Stroll around to the back of the castle and down the lawn, where you will find the garden. It is the perfect escape from Lilac Festival crowds.
A popular place for solitude
Photographers often take wedding and family photos, just like anywhere in Highland Park. If you can get there when no one else is about, it’s a peaceful retreat, beautiful any time of the year.
Warner Castle
Until late 2017, the castle was home to the Rochester Civic Garden Center. Now, the Landmark Society of Western New York calls it home.
Highland Park
Frederick Law Olmsted’s living landscape in Rochester, New York.
More information about the Warner Castle Sunken Garden
Cost: Free
Located in the City of Rochester (get directions)
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When is your favorite time to visit the Sunken Garden?
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See you out there!
Debi
Enjoy the Journey Together!
What would be the best time of year to visit for a display of flowers. My Garden Club group is interested in viewing. Thanks Cheryl
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Hello,
Please note that although the Sunken Garden at Highland Park is often free and open to the public, due to its great popularity as a wedding and graduation photo site and the severe conflicts this has led to in the past, for several years it has been possible to reserve the garden for private sessions.
If you visit the garden and a private rental is in progress, please respect the rights of the party that rented it! Again, this private rental process was only set up in response to the many conflicts that has erupted over use of the space when it was completely unregulated.
The Monroe County Parks registration website shows times where a private event is registered as “greyed out” if you are looking for a time when it is not reserved!
Sincerely,
Tom