South Park

The 156-acres South Park, with its picturesque lake, tree-studded meadow, winding carriage drive, and pedestrian paths, was a smaller version of a “country park” like the earlier Delaware Park.

Designed: 1892 – 1894 by Olmsted, Olmsted & Eliot  |  Location: South Park Avenue and Ridge Road

In early 1893 Frederick Law Olmsted provided the Buffalo Board of Park Commissioners with a design for the 156-acre South Park. It became the location of an arboretum displaying trees and shrubs that could grow in Western New York. To cultivate and exhibit plants that could survive only in warmer climates, including desert and tropical flora, a conservancy structure was aligned with the terminus of McKinley Parkway. Erected in 1898 by the well-known firm of Lord & Burnham, the three-domed conservatory, today known as the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens, is one of the largest structures of its type in the country. It is the work of the Lord and Burnham Co. of New York, with the main frontage facing South Park avenue and extending 350 feet in length, the glass conservatory featured one central dome 60 feet in height.

In 1901, during the Pan American Exposition, Buffalo was celebrated not only as the City of Light, but also the City of Trees. Included in Olmsted’s design was an impressive arboretum, or outdoor museum of trees, to be integrated into South Park. The arboretum provides an opportunity for park visitors to connect with nature while developing a growing understanding and appreciation for trees, shrubs and aquatic collections. As of 2023, the arboretum is being restored.   Other park features are a 9-Hole Golf Course, the South Park Lake, and a pathway around the park.

South Park Arboretum – an Outdoor Museum of Trees

In 1901, during the Pan American Exposition, Buffalo was celebrated not only as the City of Light, but also the City of Trees. Included in Olmsted’s design was an impressive arboretum, or outdoor museum of trees, to be integrated into South Park. The arboretum provides an opportunity for park visitors to connect with nature while developing a growing understanding and appreciation for trees, shrubs and aquatic collections.

Upon completing a feasibility study in 2018, the South Park Arboretum is currently in Phase 2 of restoration.

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Tulip Poplar_South Park_M Lapp_Nov 2021

Enjoy a TREEventure Around South Park

From the stunning Tulip Poplar Tree (left image) to the Star Magnolia and Common Persimmon, how well do you know your Olmsted trees in the South Park Arboretum? Learn more when you go on a TREEventure presented by Univera Healthcare.

Univera Healthcare

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Support Your Parks

Our members are the core of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy. With your unrestricted gift to the annual fund, our dedicated team takes care of the 850 acres of Olmsted green spaces in Buffalo. We count on your financial support to keep the Olmsted Parks clean, open spaces where Buffalonians continue to play, exercise and enjoy nature together.

Planning Your Visit

Points of Interest

Bog Garden
The Conservatory, Botanical Gardens, and Arboretum
South Park Lake
9-Hole Golf Course

Rental Information

The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy is responsible for the rental of the Parkside Lodge, the fenced picnic area next to the Parkside Lodge, croquet courts in Delaware Park, the Japanese Garden in Delaware Park and the Crotty Casino in Cazenovia Park.

The Marcy Casino and Rose Garden in Delaware Park is rented through Magnolia Events.

FINDING YOUR WAY TO THE PARK