Ellwanger Garden Special Open Hours during Lilac Festival

While you’re exploring the lilacs at Highland Park, escape the crowds and stroll over to the Ellwanger Garden on Mt. Hope Avenue.

Free admission, donations accepted.

What is the Lilac Festival Connection?
The altruism of George Ellwanger and Patrick Barry changed the face of Rochester. Their gift of 20 choice acres prodded the city to form the Parks Department in 1888. The 20 acres were the start of Highland Park, location of the world famous “Lilac Festival” each May.

The success of the Rochester nursery trade, as exemplified by the Mt. Hope Nursery, earned Rochester the title “The Flower City.” The Lilac Festival maintains the heritage of that name, and Ellwanger Garden gives you the chance to experience the inspiration of that heritage.