How about Cornell Plantations in Ithica? They have a gorgeous peony garden and the Robison York herb garden (which is one of the nicest in the country). They also have a wildflower walk along the gorges.

I was going to suggest Seneca Hill Perennials because they have so many unusual plants but I see on their website that they aren't open that weekend. So how about Sonnenberg Gardens over in Canandaigua? You could pop into a winery or two while you in the area if you're into that sort of thing.

Linwood gardens has the most amazing peonies and they have an open house at the end of May. Here is a link, well worth going to.

Here is a link that might be useful: Linwood gardens peony festival

Thank you ALL for your suggestions...I will see if Gary wants to check these out! Can't wait for spring, can you? :0) Phyl

You might want to give Highland Park a call in Rochester, NY. The lilacs will be wrapping up but there is so much more to the park (rhodes, azalea's...) and the conservatory has just been restored.

I think this month's Horticulture magazine has an article on Linwood gardens. Check it out!

llhowland's suggestion of Highland Park would be a treasure in late May. There is the park itself, the Conservatory and the Castle (home of the Rochester Civic Garden Center)and its grounds. Plus the street connecting them is a trip unto itself. Their small front yards are spectacular and I've even been invited by a few of the residents to "come and see what's growing out back"!

I go there several times throughout the year.

Here is a link that might be useful: what you'll see

Highland Park is fantastic! Lamberton Conservatory was recently refurbished and, although the lilacs will have peaked, there is still lots to see and admire. I think it's actually better to avoid the park during festival week. Too many people and the focus seems to be more on food and crafts than on flowers.