A few blocks from my hotel was this park. I decided after going about the day and seeing the sights I wanted to see, it was time to just leisurely walk around. What better place to do it than at a park. Especially one that has so much to offer. When I arrived I came at this park from the intersection of Madison & Ostrom. When I came here it was bit off putting to me as it was where the intersection was a bit wonky that allowed for vehicular to enter the park. So you needed to watch while you walking that no traffic was coming, or just walk about the grass, which is what I did. Being from out of town I had no idea what this park had to offer overall but I did do a lot of exploring which led me to a lot of different areas. I first just walked through the fields and along the tree lines. I backtracked a bit and stumbled upon the pool area. From there, I found the amphitheater and hung around there for a bit. After that, I found the football field and saw a lot of people using it for multiple reasons. From exercising, playing with their dogs, flying drones and many other things. I ended my time in the park at the rose garden. Roses were still coming into bloom, but I didn't mind that. I looked around at the different varieties of roses they had planted. I then sat on a bench for a few minutes to just take in this portion of the park. When I left, I was off towards Syracuse University campus. This park is enormous, and I am glad I was able to spend some time here. read more

Thornden Park - Parks Near Me - Syracuse, New York

Sometimes I'll take my dog for little road trips to new parks (driving an hour or two from home), and Thornden Park is one we've been to a couple times. It's a really nice, open park with lots of space to walk around. I do wish they had some sidewalks or something along the roads going up or down the hills, but that's one of the few issues I can think of. The park is maintained well, has a lovely rose garden (one of my friends volunteers here regularly, actually, which is how I found out about the park - they have a "Rose Day" in mid-June to celebrate, and I'm told that timing is mainly because that's when the roses are usually at their peak), and lots of fun features - like the amphitheater area, where my dog was especially interested in watching some folks who were preparing for a summer play. There's a pool area as well, tennis courts, concession area, and so on... and my pup especially seemed to love rolling down the hills just below the Thornden Park Water Tower (pictures included in this review, of course). It's worth noting that I *have* had a couple slightly sketchy experiences here... including one time being followed around by another park goer who seemed to be experiencing some mental health issues. As with anywhere, just be mindful of your surroundings. read more

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I've been to this park a few times for Shakespeare in the Park, which is held in Thornden Amphitheater. This is a very nice space. The amphitheater is quite large and shaped well for performances. There is also a location with a snack bar and restrooms that is open during the performance. Nearby, there are a number of park features, including a pool, splash pad, and football field. The park also has a rose garden. read more

I've been here a couple times. Today when I was here it was pretty quiet. I've also been here at busier times on weekends and the park has been very crowded. Today, it was muddy. But it has been raining a lot. There were places to sit. There were benches spread out around the park. There were also a variety of trees and scenic outlooks that were interesting, too. read more

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A lovely stop for a beautiful spring day to eat your takeout instead of just eating it in your car (the honest reality of social distancing!). The amphitheater, when not having showings, is a nice area for a picnic beneath the trees, especially on a warm day. There's plenty of cobblestone walking paths and many people bring their dogs to the park! You'll likely find college students around during the school year since it is surrounded by university housing. But it hasn't diminished the experience for me! read more

Thornden Park - Amphitheater - Parks Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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If you don't like getting pricked by a little bush, stay away from the thorn den! You know who did like getting pricked by little bushes? Barbara and Laura! Ohhhhh. Or not, probably. I've heard of a den of lions, a den of thieves, but apparently here we have a den of thorns. Yet it's actually quite beautiful. One of the prettiest and most impressive parks in the Syracuse area. Probably the crowning glory of the region's Park system. The Syracuse equivalent of Delaware Park Buffalo. Or Highland Park Rochester. And it is definitely one which you can wander around for a long time with spectacular views and lots to do and explore and discover. But be careful at night. Sometimes. Also watch out for this scary guy flying drones over this park and taking pix with them to post on Yelp. (Hides) read more

Thornden Park - You're going in? K. Watch out for the thorns, den. - Parks Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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Great park with lots of different hang out spots and pretty views. They have a large playground great for young children and a beautiful garden to walk around in. read more

Roses, play ground, football field, public city pool, amphitheater, and more. All the areas are beautiful and several weddings are held here each year. June is the perfect time to see the roses. The amphitheater hosts Shakespeare in the park each spring. Many local events are held in the many open areas of the park. The consession stand is beautiful with a fireplace inside. read more

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Great park for fun activities such as swimming in the pool, playing basketball/any sports and also just hanging out or having a picnic. Very close to SU and ESF and the Westcott area. They host shakespehere in the park during the summer and have a beautiful rose garden. They have a great outdoor amphitheater and can even host weddings! Whatever bad rep this park may have it can't be as bad as any other place at night- be safe and/or be in groups. During the day this place is a syracuse gem and should be filled during all seasons! The more that people are out there enjoying parks and nature, the better for the community, the park, and the well being of us all. Get out and play!!! :) I'll see you there! read more

Thornden Park - Shakespehere in the park! - Parks Near Me - Syracuse, New York

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Perfect for children. Not that much recreational infrastructure for grown ups except the basketball site. Big space for running. read more

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So much open space here, with lots to do. It's right by the university, so there are often college kids, but the football field is often packed with young kids and the basketball courts are in decent shape, totally usable to play on. There's an absolutely gorgeous (and massive) rose garden at Thornden Park, as well as a nice lily pond area for sitting. The roads are well-maintained, and there are bike racks all over as well as a bike lane on most roads. The hills can be annoying to walk, but this park is clearly maintained regularly and is very clean. The coolest area is the amphitheater- it almost has the feel of Stonehenge. You'll see drones buzzing around sometimes as well- people having fun, especially on the weekends. Great view of Syracuse from the top of the water tower hill. read more

Thornden Park - Taken with a drone. Visible is the rose garden, football fields and the lily pond in the center. Also SU. - Parks Near Me - Syracuse, New York

The Rose park is beautiful on a summer night. Definitely go when the sun is going down, but not sunset completely. I went around 7:00pm and it was so peaceful. read more

Thornden Park - Parks Near Me - Syracuse, New York

lol I can't believe there are students who've never been inside this park because of the stories they've heard. As long as you go inside here during the daytime, your'e fine. It's a big and spacious park that's good for running and taking a stroll. read more

A park in the city of Syracuse, near the SUNY-ESF and Syracuse University. Deer and turkey have been sighted in or near the park, despite it being surrounded by an urban environment. Might not be a good idea to go at night, but during the day I've never had any trouble. The park is also home to the Mills Rose Garden. read more

A great place to visit to hear Music in the Theatre area and to check out some hotties at the poolside on a hot day!