With over 200 state parks within the New York State Parks System, there are so many magical places to explore outdoors. Something our residents may not realize though is that there are only two public gardens that are part of our state’s official parks system though! Full of history and scenery that will leave you wanting more, find out why this one gorgeous garden in Canandaigua is more than worth a visit.

Located in Canandaigua where you’re just minutes away from Downtown and the waterfront along the northern shore, Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion Historic State Park has been open to the public since the early 1970s.

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Sitting on a 50-acre property, you’ll also notice that there’s a mansion here - one of the only Country Place Era estates left standing in America.

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Throughout the year, tours are offered to visitors who can get an inside look at the old Thompson family home - filled with history that will take you back to another time.

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An adventure that’s waiting to be taken, as you explore the grounds you’ll see that there’s quite a variety in the scenery here.

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A breathtaking destination that’s perfect for the entire family to enjoy, you’ll find that visitors of all ages can appreciate Sonnenberg Gardens.

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As you explore the beautiful walkways…

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…And make your way around every turn, you’ll find a new world of greenery to dive right into.

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At Sonnenberg Gardens, visitors will get to see a variety of landscapes - with Old-Fashioned Gardens and Japanese Gardens here at the park.

Peter C in Toronto Canada/Flickr

You’ll even walk past an old aviary that looks like it could be fit for royalty!

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Open every day of the week from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the gardens are here to welcome visitors whether it’s rain or shine.

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And while we love coming here during their operating season that runs from May to October, we can’t help but wonder what this magical place would look like at night.

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Well, now you no longer have to wonder!

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park/Facebook

Throughout the year the garden hosts a variety of events, one of our favorites being their Moonlight Strolls that are held during the summer.

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park/Facebook

So, who’s ready to see Sonnenberg Gardens all lit up and transformed during a Moonlight Stroll? The next stroll is on August 3rd!

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park/Facebook To find out more information about Sonnenberg Gardens and their upcoming events, click here.

How to get here: 151 Charlotte Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424



Michael B/TripAdvisor

Phil D/TripAdvisor

Peter C In Toronto Canada/Flickr

diane m/TripAdvisor

Rachel Payne/Google

Matt O’Hara/Flickr

Peter C in Toronto Canada/Flickr

Kate Antoniades/Flickr

Matt Champlin/Google

Solonesh/TripAdvisor

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park/Facebook

To find out more information about Sonnenberg Gardens and their upcoming events, click here.

How to get here: 151 Charlotte Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424

Looking for an outdoor adventure that comes with a bit more thrill? Then make sure you read about The Boating Adventure That Will Show You A Side Of New York You Didn’t Know Existed!

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