National Public Gardens Day in the Finger Lakes

If you’re a nature enthusiast or outdoors adventurer, then the Finger Lakes are one of your best options for a scenic retreat surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape. Rolling green hills and sparkling blue water of the Seneca Lake are just two of the reasons why a stay at Yale Manor is one of the best getaways you’ll ever find. Besides the untouched beauty here, we’ve also dipped our own hands in Mother Nature’s craft and cultivated some beautiful gardens renowned around the world. As keepers of anything that grows, these gardens are can’t-miss attractions, especially considering that National Public Gardens Day is upcoming. On Friday, May 11th, enjoy Buy-One-Get-One free regular admission all day long to some of the best public gardens in the region; we’ve outlined two of the Finger Lakes best (and greenest!) for you below.

Sonnenburg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park is a nationally-recognized landmark open to the public. It also hosts the Finger Lakes Wine Center. Taste test a diverse selection of ten to fifteen wines from the rotating selection for a nominal fee while you admire the 1911 Tiffany style stained glass window. Afterwards, stroll the five intersecting circles of the Old Fashioned Garden (it’s an ancient technique called quincunx) that features early spring blossoms, or visit the Greenhouse Conservatory Complex to view the glass palace-like structure and its exotic contents.

Cornell Botanic Gardens: Last month, we put together a quick summary of the expansive botanic garden at Cornell University and its exhibit on display, Quiet Labor, featuring artistic and practical textiles made using natural dyes. If you haven’t made it to this fascinating exhibit, plan your visit today. Quiet Labor will be on display through June 25^th.

National Public Gardens Day was started to raise awareness of the important role public gardens play in our communities. For more information on National Public Gardens Day, visit the website.

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park

151 Charlotte Street

Canandaigua, NY 14424

585.394.4922

Cornell Botanic Gardens

124 Comstock Knoll Drive

Ithaca, NY 14850

607.255.2400