Highland Park Tours

Highland Park showing a sunset
Highland Park showing a garden
Highland Park featuring a park
Highland Park featuring a garden
Highland Park showing a garden


Full of interesting plants as well as numerous memorials and architectural features, this Olmsted-designed arboretum is one of Rochester’s most-photographed areas.

Best known for its annual Lilac Festival, Highland Park is an essential part of Rochester’s reputation as the “Flower City.” Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who created New York’s Central Park, to take advantage of the varied glacial terrain, it functions both as a public park and an arboretum, home to countless species of plants. Take time to smell the roses, as well as the lilacs and magnolias, as you while away the hours in this urban oasis that feels a million miles away from the hubbub of downtown Rochester.

Spend a whole day wandering past the well-labeled trees and shrubs of the park. Find the hidden lanes of rhododendrons and azaleas that explode with color in the spring and summer or relax in the shade of the park’s Japanese maple collection.

Admire the ever-changing design of the pansy bed, featuring more than 10,000 plants. Sit on a stone bench adorned with the words of William Shakespeare in the Poet’s Garden as you write your latest opus or simply watch the world go by.

Explore the faux Scottish Warner Castle, once part of a lavish estate given to the city in lieu of back taxes. Traipse through the serene stone vaults of the Sunken Garden, one of Rochester’s favorite wedding photography settings.

Wander through the rest of the park in search of the many visually arresting monuments, from the bronze tribute to Frederick Douglass to moving memorials for the Vietnam War and victims of HIV/AIDS. In summer, see a show at the Highland Bowl. In winter, sled down the hills or skate on Lily Pond as your breath frosts in front of you.

Highland Park sprawls south of downtown Rochester, next to the University of Rochester’s main campus. Take public transportation to the park from Rochester’s main train station in 20 minutes or drive in 10 minutes. Limited parking is available on the street and in metered parking structures nearby. Highland Park is open to visitors without restrictions, though it is best visited during daylight hours. The conservatory is open daily from mid-morning to early afternoon for a small fee.

Plan a trip to see Highland Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
RIT Inn & Conference Center
Hotel Canandaigua, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Hyatt Regency Rochester

Reviews of Highland Park

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5 - Excellent 54%
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Just passed by it and it's still pretty nice.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Highland Park

Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center

Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center

3 out of 5
30 Celebration Drive, Rochester, NY
Hilton Garden Inn Rochester/University & Medical Center
Lovely old family home

Lovely old family home

Rochester
Lovely old family home
Hyatt Regency Rochester

Hyatt Regency Rochester

3.5 out of 5
125 East Main Street, Rochester, NY
Hyatt Regency Rochester
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown

2.5 out of 5
101 South Union Street, Rochester, NY
Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown
Fenced Yard, Remote Work, Laundry, UR/RIT/Strong

Fenced Yard, Remote Work, Laundry, UR/RIT/Strong

Rochester
Fenced Yard, Remote Work, Laundry, UR/RIT/Strong
Beautiful Highland Park home; fast internet-close to Brighton,

Beautiful Highland Park home; fast internet-close to Brighton,

Rochester
Beautiful Highland Park home; fast internet-close to Brighton,
The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton

The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton

4 out of 5
550 East Ave, Rochester, NY
The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa - DoubleTree by Hilton
Fresh Modern Apartment - Walking Distance to U of R/Strong Hospital

Fresh Modern Apartment - Walking Distance to U of R/Strong Hospital

Rochester
Fresh Modern Apartment - Walking Distance to U of R/Strong Hospital
Modern 4 BR/2 Bath House near University of Rochester

Modern 4 BR/2 Bath House near University of Rochester

Rochester
Modern 4 BR/2 Bath House near University of Rochester
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Highland Park

Highland Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including vibrant festivals, live music events, and sports activities. Shoppers can explore local boutiques, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic trails and parks. Don't miss the chance to visit the beautiful botanical gardens and nearby museums, which provide engaging entertainment options for all ages. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Highland Park has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Highland Park, you can enjoy shopping at Park Avenue, just 2 miles away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Marketplace Mall, located 4 miles away, features a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, explore unique boutiques in nearby areas for more gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at Blue Cross Arena, where you can catch thrilling sports events. Enjoy ice skating at Tim Hortons Iceplex, perfect for adventure and entertainment. For a serene escape, visit Ellison Park, ideal for wellness and relaxation amidst nature.

Adventure

Explore the Heritage Trail, a scenic hiking experience 2 miles from Highland Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For a thrilling climb, visit the Red Barn Climbing Gym, located 5 miles away, where you can enjoy a variety of climbing challenges. Don't miss Roseland Waterpark, 24 miles away, for family-friendly aquatic fun.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Highland Park with a visit to Geva Theatre Center for captivating performances, or enjoy the cosmic wonders at Strasenburgh Planetarium. For a unique cinematic experience, the Dryden Theatre offers classic films in a charming setting, perfect for a romantic evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Highland Park

Highland Park in Rochester offers a delightful mix of attractions for culture seekers and families alike. Visitors can explore the beautiful urban park, immerse themselves in the local arts scene at nearby arts centers, and enjoy the vibrant college atmosphere. Don't miss nearby attractions that enhance your experience, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.

  • University of Rochester: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, known for its beautiful campus, innovative research, and engaging community. Enjoy walking through its scenic grounds and immerse yourself in the educational spirit that thrives here.
  • Strong Museum: Delight in a family-friendly adventure at this interactive children's museum, where culture and creativity come alive. With hands-on exhibits and engaging programs, Strong offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
  • Rochester Museum and Science Center: Explore the wonders of science and culture in this expansive museum featuring exhibits on various topics. It's a great place for families to learn and discover together, with interactive displays and fascinating artifacts.

Best time to go to Highland Park

The best time to visit Highland Park is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.5°F (-3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February26.4°F (-3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
August70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
November40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Highland Park

To save money on your trip to Highland Park, consider visiting between December and February when hotel rates are lower. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options, and consider booking a package deal for extra savings on flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Additionally, explore free activities in the park to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Highland Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Highland Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Highland Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Highland Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia