Thornden Park combines nature, human history and recreational opportunities in a pleasing balance. The nationally-renowned E.M. Mills Memorial Rose Garden occupies a prominent corner of the park, and when its thousands of roses are in bloom, this is a treat not to be missed.

For plant lovers, Thornden also features a perennial garden, herb garden, lily pond, and pinetum, which is an evergreen arboretum. Some of the finest views of Syracuse can be found from atop the park's resident drumlin, which is also a great place for walking a dog, tossing a frisbee, sunbathing, reading or just sitting quietly to watch the sun set.