Durand Eastman Park

Durand Eastman Park is a large county park situated along Lake Ontario's shore in Monroe County with about 977 acres. The grounds contain 5,000 feet of lake frontage, three inland lakes, wooded hillsides with steep terrain, and multiple trails for hiking plus an 18-hole golf course.

In 1907, Dr. Henry S. Durand and George Eastman donated 484 acres of farmland to Rochester to establish this public recreational space. This founding created the basis for the park system that exists along the Lake Ontario shoreline today.

The site once housed a zoo from 1912 to 1962, funded by Alexander B. Lamberton, which served the public with animals for education and recreation. This legacy shapes how visitors today experience the grounds as a place for nature and learning.

The park offers space for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and skiing, with a public golf course available for play. Visitors should bring sturdy footwear since the terrain is hilly and wooded paths require steady footing.

The grounds contain about 395 documented varieties of trees, shrubs, and plants, with many specimens maintained in the dedicated Slavin Arboretum section. This botanical variety makes it a notable destination for those interested in observing rare or native species.

Location: Monroe County

GPS coordinates: 43.23100,-77.56850

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:31