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 McKinley Parkway

South Park 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. Learn more about your Buffalo Olmsted Park System at the official map & guide.

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

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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