Favorite Gardens in Rochester NY: Parks, Gardens, and Green Spaces Guide

Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

One of my favorite things about blogging is that it's always given me an excuse to spend time outside. As a result, I've also gotten the opportunity to explore lots of beautiful and hidden places in Rochester NY.

Whether you're looking for outdoor photo locations in Rochester or you simply want to expand your horizons, I'm sharing some of my favorite Upstate gardens some of the best parks in Rochester NY so you can enjoy them as much as I do! I've also included some photos for reference so you can match the location to the post. (I've posted a similar guide on Instagram that's even easier to use when you're on the go!) 

Highland Park Rochester NY

Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

One of my favorite gardens in Rochester NY technically isn't a garden at all – it's a HUGE park. Of all the parks in the Rochester NY area, Highland Park is probably the most well-known (and most beloved). Not only is it among the best parks in Rochester NY, but I'd argue it rivals some of the loveliest parks anywhere. I'd call it the crown jewel of the Flower City.

Highland Park is the home of the annual Lilac Festival (and more than 1,500 lilac bushes!), as well as magnolia and weeping cherry trees, rhododendrons, azaleas, and so much more. It's beautiful at virtually any time of year and is a popular place for dog-walking, jogging, picnicking, and shutterbugging. There are so many reasons why it's on the best parks in Rochester NY list – and I'm just grateful it (and the Highland Park Conservancy) exists. 

George Eastman Museum Rochester NY

The George Eastman Museum is renowned for its dedication to photography, but it also has some of the prettiest gardens in Rochester NY. Eastman loved flowers; he would order thousands of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths from Holland every year – a tradition commemorated with the museum's annual Dutch Connection exhibit. Outside, the gardens are well-kept and open to the public for around half the year. While professional photographers do need a special license to have sessions on the George Eastman Museum grounds, it's a great spot for amateurs like me. :)

Tinker Nature Park Rochester NY

Tinker Nature Park may not technically be categorized as having gardens in Rochester NY, but there are some wild, picturesque spots throughout the park's almost-70-acre parcel. Of all the parks in Rochester NY, this one probably provides the most versatility – making the Tinker Nature Park a popular spot for photographers during this time of year. 

Maplewood Rose Garden Rochester NY

Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

These rose gardens in Rochester NY sit smack in the middle of some of the busiest city intersections. The juxtaposition is a strange one, but I've loved every visit I've made to Maplewood Rose Garden. The roses are in peak bloom during June and July, so I highly recommend making a trip downtown to the Maplewood Rosen Garden during the beginning of summer before the blooms fade.

Webster Arboretum

If you're looking for the best community gardens Rochester NY has to provide, you probably wouldn't immediately think of the Webster Arboretum. But this planned community park is beautifully maintained and features ponds, bridges, gazebos, and flowers. Of course, the arboretum in Webster NY has an emphasis on all kinds of trees! While it's not one of my most-visited parks in Rochester NY due to its distance from my apartment, it's a quaint spot that isn't overly crowded.

Lamberton Conservatory Rochester NY

Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

When you live in upstate NY, you know that winter seems endless. That's just one reason the Lamberton Conservatory is so popular. These are arguably the best (and possibly the only?) indoor gardens Rochester NY has to offer. While the Lamberton Conservatory is small, it features plenty of tropical and desert plants that you can't ordinarily find in our climate. Those who are looking for year-round botanical gardens near Rochester NY don't have to go far to feel like they're transported to somewhere much warmer.

Warner Castle – Sunken Garden Rochester NY

Although this photo doesn't look especially garden-like, the Warner Castle is one of Rochester's hidden gems with plenty of green space. This photo was taken in the Sunken Garden, located below the Warner Castle and some other green spaces on the property. Technically, professional photographers need to reserve this space. But for quick amateur photoshoots with a spooky vibe, no one usually minds. I wish I had a photo of the beautiful gardens above! You'll just have to take my word that they're enchanting.

Sonnenberg Gardens Canandaigua NY

Feel like taking a short trip? Head to the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park. The Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua NY have different themed gardens and exquisite historic buildings. They also host events (pandemic-permitting) at Sonnenberg Gardens! The sprawling 50-acre estate is truly something to see. 

Genesee Country Village and Museum

You can quite literally step back in time at Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford NY. In addition to the breathtaking buildings in the recreated 1800s village, you can explore the gorgeous gardens and the nature center right on the property. The Genesee Country Village & Museum is a popular field trip spot for kids, but it's just as captivating for adults. I want to go back to the Genesee Country Village and Museum before it closes for the season!

Linwood Gardens Pavilion NY

Photo credit: Emma Rizzo Photo

If you don't mind hopping in the car for about 45 minutes, you can head to one of my favorite gardens near Rochester NY for special events. Home of the Tree Peony Festival, Linwood Gardens is a privately owned estate that's open during specific times of the year. You can stroll around to view the different varieties of peonies and other flowers during their festival or their open garden days. The lovely Linwood Gardens New York State residents love never cease to delight during the early summer.

Ellwanger Garden

This is another one of the gardens in Rochester NY that's open only during particular times of the year. The Ellwanger Garden is maintained by Rochester's Landmark Society and welcomes visitors during the Lilac Festival and during peony season only. Although I have taken photos at Ellwanger Garden a couple of times, I was informed during my last visit that they don't allow tripods or professional photography. (Unfortunately, I didn't have a photographer with me!) Still, it's one of my favorite hidden gardens in Rochester NY.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles

If you're seeking gardens near Rochester NY and are up for a day trip, might I suggest making a visit to the Mirbeau Inn and Spa? While there are several Mirbeau locations, I imagine that the Mirbeau Skaneateles NY fans know well would be hard to beat. Not only does the Mirbeau restaurant provide an incredible experience, but the spa acts as a much-needed oasis. The highlight for me, however, is the garden at this Mirbeau Inn & Spa. Modeled after Monet's garden at Giverny, the Mirbeau gardens make me emotional. It's a magical place (albeit a pricy one) – so if you're in the position to go, I'd highly recommend it.

Mackenzie Childs Aurora NY

Although there are certainly other gardens near Rochester NY that would be a lot closer to the city, I absolutely love the grounds next to the Mackenzie Childs Aurora store. It's a little over an hour away from Rochester, but I think it's worth it. The Mackenzie Childs outlet in Aurora is known for its whimsical home decor and housewares; it's a fun visit in itself, but you can also explore the property and all it has to offer. The highlight for me is the Mackenzie Childs farmhouse Aurora residents know well, in addition to their gardens, their "Chicken Palace" (pictured above!), and their adorable animal residents. Don't miss the chance to take a tour of the Mackenzie Childs property!

Want to Virtually Visit More Gardens Near Rochester NY?

Putting this post together made me realize just how fortunate I am to live somewhere with so much beauty and history. I tried to cover as many of my favorite spots as I could, but there are so many other gardens and parks in Rochester NY to discover. I've made it my unofficial mission to see as many of them as possible (and capture them on camera!). 

While things aren't back to normal quite yet, visiting different gardens and parks near Rochester is a great way to stay active, immerse yourself in nature, and stay safe. If you want me to explore more green spaces in Rochester or elsewhere, let me know – I'd be happy to bring you with me! 

Which of these places looks like somewhere you'd like to explore? What's your favorite park or garden like? Do you have lots of green spaces where you are? Let me know in the comments!