Frederick Law Olmsted designed Highland Park in the 1890s as part of Rochester's park system, and the city planted it with one of the finest lilac collections in the world — over 1,200 plants representing more than 500 varieties. In mid-May, when the lilacs bloom, the park draws up to 100,000 visitors for the Lilac Festival, the largest free lilac festival in North America. The rest of the year it's a quietly beautiful arboretum, with panoramic views over the city from the Warner Castle observation area, a pansy bed that blooms through summer, and an extensive collection of rhododendrons, magnolias, and horse chestnuts. Serious arborists and casual walkers are equally at home here.
Highland Avenue and South Avenue. Open daily, free.