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Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion, Canandaigua

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion Historic Park

One of the Finger Lakes' premier tourist destinations, Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park in Canandaigua began as a summer home for New York City financier Frederick Ferris Thompson and his wife, Mary Clark Thompson.

The 52-acre estate has nine themed gardens set around a 40-room Queen Anne mansion that was built in 1887. The grounds are wonderful for a morning or afternoon stroll, but a tram shuttle is also available from the parking lot to the mansion.

Highlights of a Sonnenberg visit include the Lord & Burnham greenhouse (one of the few remaining in the country), the rose garden, the Japanese garden, and the rock garden. Sonnenberg is also home to the Finger Lakes Wine Center, where you can taste wines from 40 wineries - a great first stop to see what wines you are interested in sampling around the region.
 

Taste the Historic Life in the Finger Lakes at Sonnenberg Gardens


Sonnenberg serves many different populations and can be used as a backdrop for a variety of events! It is a popular wedding destination, a unique meeting venue and a favorite on many group itineraries. Artists and photographers are equally enchanted by Sonnenberg – you will often find artists on the grounds completing a plein air – or open air – painting, popular in the region. Special events throughout the season include Arts in the Garden, Orchid Show, Mansion Mysteries, and the Moonlight Stroll Music Series. 

Sonnenberg is open for visitors May through October. However, if you're here in December, be sure to visit for Dickens Christmas, Holiday Home Tour, and other holiday-themed events throughout the month.