By Donna Brok
The third annual Orchard Parkway Garden Walk in Niagara Falls, New York, presented by the Orchard Parkway Block Club, is being held Saturday, July 10, rain or shine. It is a self-guided, walking tour, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
One of many properties featured on Niagara Falls, New York garden walk.
The Walk is free to the public, and the organizers only ask that you bring a canned good to donate to the local food bank. Boxes will be conveniently placed at the white welcome tent for your donation.
The Walk began in 2008 with three friends discussing possibilities for promoting beautification efforts within the City of Niagara Falls, New York, and currently, this Walk is one of the eighteen Garden Walks listed on the five week long National Buffalo Garden Festival. For information on the National Buffalo Garden Festival go to their website at, www.nationalgardenfestival.com/.
With the help and hard work of the Orchard Parkway Block Club, there are now approximately 40 gardens open for public viewing on Orchard Parkway and Chilton Avenue. Garden enthusiasts of all ages are welcome, and there is a small giveaway for the kids. See photos of the unique and delightful gardens on prior Walks at the Orchard Parkway Block Club website, found at www.orchardparkway.com/.
Set among towering Norway Maples, Orchard Parkway is a street virtually untouched by time. The character of the neighborhood remains a beautiful tribute to the past, with architecture, developed primarily in the 1920’s and 1930’s, exemplifying many period styles. Neighbors are committed and dedicated to keeping the street charming, friendly, safe, and unique. The two streets are currently under evaluation by the State of New York for inclusion on both the State and National Registers of Historical Places.
The gardens and center median are lovingly created and maintained by the residents. Each garden expresses a unique design, running the gamut from meticulously formal to colorful cottage. The provided Garden Walk brochure will guide visitors to particular gardens of interest, but make sure to see them all.
Talk with resident gardeners, designers and a Master Gardener or two, for a fun-filled and informative experience. Orchard Parkway is located minutes from the falls, so extend your visit to include the majestic sight. See you in Niagara Falls, New York.
(Donna Brok is a Niagara Falls, New York resident and representative of the Orchard Parkway Block Club.)
(Click on Niagara At Large at http://www.niagaraatlarge.com for more news and commentary on matters of interest and concern to our greater binational Niagara region.)
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