Upper Onondaga Park

Upper Onondaga Park is a 67-acre community park located in the Strathmore neighborhood on the south side of Syracuse, New York. The park was originally developed from a former city reservoir in the early 20th century.

The centerpiece of Upper Onondaga Park is Hiawatha Lake, a man-made lake that was created in 1911 from the old reservoir. The lake features a stone bridge and a gazebo, which are popular spots for wedding photos and community events. In winter, the frozen lake is used for pond hockey by local residents.

The park offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors. It includes eight tennis courts, three basketball courts, and two recently added pickleball courts. For families with children, there is a playground with equipment suitable for different age groups. The park also boasts a 50-meter outdoor swimming pool with a capacity for 352 bathers, which is a popular attraction during the summer months.

Upper Onondaga Park is home to some historical structures, including a neoclassical greenhouse built in 1917 and a restored firebarn that is now used for community purposes. The park's landscape includes walking paths, grassy areas for picnics, and the Monday Mile Trail for those who want to keep track of their walking or running distance.

Recent improvements to the park include the addition of more inclusive play features in the playground area and the conversion of some tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts, reflecting the changing recreational needs of the community.