Highland Park

Highland Park is a historic public park located in Rochester, New York. Spanning 150 acres, it was designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in the late 19th century. The park is renowned for its diverse collection of trees and shrubs, particularly its extensive lilac collection which features over 1,200 lilac shrubs of various species and cultivars.

The park's terrain is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, created by glacial deposits. This natural landscape was expertly utilized by Olmsted to create a park that appears to be a natural occurrence of trees, shrubs, and flowers, though it is in fact a meticulously planned arboretum.

Highland Park is home to several notable attractions. The Lamberton Conservatory, built in 1911, houses a variety of plant species from different climates. The park also features Warner Castle, a historic castle-like structure that now serves as a popular spot for wedding photos and houses a sunken garden.

Throughout the year, Highland Park hosts various events and activities. The most famous of these is the annual Lilac Festival held in May, which attracts thousands of visitors to celebrate the blooming of the park's lilacs. The park also features an outdoor amphitheater, Highland Bowl, which is used for summer concerts and film screenings.

In addition to its horticultural displays, Highland Park serves as an important recreational space for the community. It offers walking paths, picnic areas, and winter activities such as ice skating when weather permits.