Believe it or not, spring is on the horizon. Soon, the seemingly endless waves of snow and ice will come to a halt, the snow will melt, and it will become increasingly clear why many call Rochester, NY the Flower City. Start planning for spring-time excursions now. Here are some of the best gardens to visit:

Historical Landmark Ellwanger Garden

“Cultivated since 1867, this historic garden contains perennials, roses, and trees in an English natural-garden style,” The Rochester Business Journal says of one of the most popular Rochester landmarks. Ellwanger Garden began as a private garden, a creation of horticulturist George Ellwanger. The Rochester Landmark Society and the Landmark Society of Western New York maintain the flowers using donations. Patrons can stroll through the historic garden during the Lilac Festival, Peony Weekend, or twilight visiting hours, held every Tuesday evening, from June to September.

Step Inside Warner Castle

“Horatio Gates Warner designed his home, Warner Castle, built in 1854, to resemble the ancestral castle of the Clan Douglas which captivated his fancy during a visit to Scotland,” The Rochester Civic Garden Center (RCGC) reveals. Today, the 22-room castle is best known for housing the Rochester Civic Garden. The Castle is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Although celebrations are not permitted in the garden, many choose to have their wedding photos taken there.

Wander Through Eastman’s Gardens

The George Eastman House does not focus on Rochester art and photography alone. According to The Rochester Business Journal, the Eastman family took pride in cultivating lavish gardens. “The formal gardens of his 50-room Colonial Revival mansion feature Italian, French and English landscapes. An English walled garden, a cutting garden and a terrace garden designed by Alling DeForest are among the sights. During the winter, tours of the mansion feature a plant-filled conservatory and magnificent flower arrangements,” The RBJ adds.

Love nature? Rochester NY is the perfect place to walk through beautiful natural gardens. Ellwanger Garden, the Warner Castle grounds, and the George Eastman House Gardens all celebrate nature with elegance and class.