Highland Park - Rochester, NY
Highland Park Dog-Friendly Guide: A Rochester, NY Urban Oasis
Highland Park, located at 180 Reservoir Ave in Rochester, New York, stands out as one of the city’s most celebrated urban parks. Famed for its vibrant Lilac Festival, the park features pet-friendly trails and dog-friendly hiking paths that wind through lush gardens, towering magnolias, and beautiful woodlands. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk with your pup, a scenic picnic spot, or simply an escape into nature, Highland Park delivers year-round beauty and tranquility for both dogs and their humans.
The park offers a variety of amenities, including picnic tables, public restrooms, playgrounds for children, and plenty of shaded areas beneath mature trees—perfect for cooling off during summer walks. While dogs are allowed throughout the park on-leash, the meandering pet-friendly paths and large open spaces make it a favorite for local dog owners. Highland Park is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy a stroll, hike, or relaxing outing. Its impeccable maintenance, flower displays, and welcoming atmosphere make it a true gem for the Rochester dog-lover community.
Highland Park FAQ
- Are dogs allowed at Highland Park? Yes, dogs are allowed throughout the park.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must remain on leash while visiting Highland Park.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available at the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, Highland Park has wheelchair accessible entrances and parking.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park features a playground, as well as slides and swings.
- Are there picnic tables available? Yes, Highland Park has picnic tables for visitors.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park is known for its scenic hiking and walking trails that are dog-friendly.
- Are picnics allowed in the park? Yes, picnics are allowed and there are designated picnic areas.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviews highlight that Highland Park is well maintained and pleasant.
Reviews
One of my favorite places to enjoy a peaceful walk, jog or quiet moment for reflection. The park is well maintained and an overall pleasant place to find your own spot and mind your own business.
My first visit to the Highland Park Bowl was inspiring. Why, you ask? Don Sherman leading the New Horizons Jazz Ensemble followed by the Mid-century Modern Jazz Quartet! Families, couples, and singles all enjoying a concert in the park. What more could you desire on a balmy early summer evening? How about a wine tasting and free popcorn! All included for your enjoyment! I’ll be back soon.
Highland Park in Rochester truly lives up to its reputation as an urban oasis. It’s simply amazing! Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the park masterfully blends stunning natural landscapes with peaceful serenity. Wander through meandering paths under mature, towering trees, discover hidden gardens bursting with color, and find countless quiet benches perfect for reflection or reading. The air feels fresher here, filled with birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves. While world-famous for its spectacular Lilac Festival in spring, the park offers breathtaking beauty year-round – vibrant magnolias, serene ponds, vibrant fall foliage, and peaceful winter vistas. It’s impeccably maintained yet feels wonderfully wild, providing a vital escape from city bustle without leaving Rochester. Whether seeking a vigorous walk, a quiet picnic spot, or simply a moment of calm surrounded by nature, Highland Park delivers an exceptional, restorative experience. A genuine treasure!
You gotta admire, love and be thankful for this park! The lilacs, rhododendron and azaleas, when in bloom, are spectacular displays of nature’s bursting color and splendor. Only for short periods in spring, but man are these worth visiting.
My mother and I attended the Rochester Lilac Festival there and walked around the park. It was absolutely beautiful! It has the most variety of lilacs we’d ever seen, and many other beautiful flowers and flowering trees! It’s worth a trip to, especially in the spring!!! 💐