Early Winter in Highland Park: A Guided Tour

Highland Park is a Rochester treasure: a world-class arboretum and part of one of only four Olmsted-designed park systems. Join us for a morning walk through Highland Park as the landscape transitions from autumn into winter. With the growing season behind us and most trees having shed their leaves, this guided tour offers an opportunity to appreciate the park's quieter beauty, its remarkable collection of trees and plants, and the enduring vision of Frederick Law Olmsted. Along the way, we'll explore Highland Park's history and thoughtful design, highlighting notable landscape features, historic vistas, and some of the park's remarkable "legacy" and specimen trees. With much of the foliage gone, the structure and form of the landscape become more apparent, offering a different perspective on the park's design and horticultural significance. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime admirer of Highland Park, this tour offers an opportunity to experience one of Rochester's treasured public spaces as the seasons change. Tour Details: Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026 Time: 10:00 a.m. Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours Docent: Ron Buckman, Highland Park Conservancy volunteer This walking tour will traverse winding paved paths throughout the park. Please note that the tour requires the ability to walk and stand throughout. Additional Information: The tour will begin in front of Gatehouse #2 (399 Reservoir Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620). Parking can be found along Reservoir Avenue on the south side of the street. Please follow posted parking guidelines. Housekeeping: Ticketing: This tour is limited and ticketed. If you are unable to attend, please cancel your ticket, freeing up a spot for another guest. Weather Considerations: This tour will take place outdoors, so please dress appropriately for November weather, including potentially chilly temperatures and changing conditions. In the event of heavy rain, snow, high winds, or unsafe conditions, the tour may be cancelled or rescheduled. Accessibility: Limited mobility accommodations are available. Some paths in the park may have limited accessibility. photos courtesy: Jason Roberts, Highland Park Conservancy