Cazenovia Park

A Touch of Olmsted History

Located in South Buffalo is Cazenovia Park, an 83-acre green space that dates back to the 1890s. Designed by the legendary Frederick Law Olmsted between 1892-1894, this park is bisected by the meandering Cazenovia Creek, creating a peaceful natural escape within the city. As part of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, it marks the southern edge of Buffalo's historic Olmsted park system.

The park has grown with the community around it - starting as 106 acres when established in 1893, then expanding by another 80 acres in 1925. For many locals, this Olmsted park is an important part of South Buffalo.

Natural Beauty Abounds

One of the first things you'll notice about Cazenovia is its impressive mature tree canopy, among the oldest in Buffalo. The Conservancy has made this park a priority in their tree planting efforts, ensuring this urban forest continues to thrive for generations to come.

The landscape unfolds in gently rolling meadows with Cazenovia Creek cutting a natural path through the grounds. Near the creek, younger willows and poplars have taken root in the rich alluvial soil of what was once a lake (drained back in 1965).

The park connects to South Park via the elegant Red Jacket and McKinley Parkways, creating a continuous green corridor through the neighborhood.

You can often spot ducks and other wildlife along the creek, especially near the southern bridge by the playground. In spring or early summer, you might see goslings and ducklings taking their first swims.

Iconic Park Elements

Winding through the park is the two-lane Warren Spahn Way, following the path of what was once a carriage drive before eventually meeting Red Jacket Parkway.

The park houses some remarkable historic structures. The Cazenovia Casino - no, not a gambling hall, but a community gathering space - was designed by local architectural firm Esenwein & Johnson and completed in 1912. The charming Shelter House, dating back to 1902, underwent a thoughtful restoration in 2016, preserving its historical character.

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the nine-hole course added in 1925, a thoughtful design by golf architect Seymour Dunn that makes excellent use of the natural terrain.

Recreation for Everyone

You'll come across no shortage of ways to stay active at Cazenovia Park. The recently upgraded playground has become a family favorite, featuring modern equipment that kids love - including a thrilling zip line, new see-saws, swings, slides, and play structures suited for various age groups.

The well-maintained basketball courts and tennis courts attract players of all skill levels, from beginners to serious competitors. Baseball fans appreciate the multiple baseball diamonds where local little league teams face off throughout the season.

On hot summer days, the splash pad offers a welcome cooling station with clean facilities and convenient picnic areas nearby - great for making a day of it with the family.

The open fields scattered throughout the park serve as impromptu soccer fields and provide plenty of space for casual games, picnicking, or simply lounging on a blanket with a good book.

Where Community Happens

South Buffalo residents often call it "Caz" for short. Throughout the day, you'll see neighbors using the basketball courts, families at the water features, or people relaxing along the creek.

During summer months, the Sunday Farmers Market brings local produce, handcrafted items, and occasional live music to the park.

Four-legged friends are welcome too - you'll regularly see visitors walking their leashed dogs along the paths or letting them paddle in creek-side spots when the weather warms up.

Cazenovia Park is best visited during daylight hours when you can see all its features. The park is popular with both newcomers and longtime residents alike.