Ellwanger & Barry Park

A Piece of Rochester's Green Heritage

Set in Rochester's southeast corner, Ellwanger & Barry Park carries a story that dates back to 1877. The land was a gift from George Ellwanger and Patrick Barry - two local horticulture experts who clearly knew a thing or two about beautiful spaces. Initially, a school stood here, but 1934 saw the birth of the park and playground we know today. It wasn't until 2009 that the park officially took on the Ellwanger & Barry name - a well-deserved nod to the green-thumbed duo who made it all possible.

What You'll Find Here

This isn't a sprawling urban park, but rather a cozy neighborhood green space that packs quite a bit into its modest footprint. The abundant trees create dappled shade across open areas excellent for spreading out a picnic blanket or tossing a frisbee.

Kids gravitate toward the playground, which is thoughtfully separated from street traffic for peace of mind. Here you'll find a mix of modern play structures alongside classics like swings, slides, and climbing structures. The merry-go-round is popular with children who enjoy its simple fun.

One standout feature is the large sandbox area complete with digging toys. There's something timeless about watching kids engrossed in sandbox engineering projects, connecting them to generations of children who've played in this same space.

The Little Things That Matter

What makes this park special is the community spirit that permeates it. You'll notice an informal toy-sharing system has developed - ride-on toys, tricycles, and various playthings are communally available, meaning you can travel light when visiting with little ones.

There are several benches where you can catch your breath while keeping an eye on adventurous youngsters. Note that there aren't any restroom facilities here, so plan accordingly.

Far From Just a Park

For the surrounding neighborhood, Ellwanger & Barry Park functions as a community gathering place. Its manageable size means it never feels overwhelming, yet there's enough space that it rarely feels crowded.

It's a relatively peaceful spot where residents of the southeast quadrant can enjoy some natural beauty and recreational space. The park attracts a diverse mix of visitors with its family-friendly atmosphere.