Ralph Wilson Park

Welcome to Ralph Wilson Park, a stunning 100 -acre waterfront park located on the picturesque shoreline of Lake Erie in downtown Buffalo, New York. Rooted in a multi-year community visioning process, Ralph Wilson Park is undergoing a remarkable transformation to become one of the most beautiful and inclusive public spaces in the country. This park is designed to serve both nearby residents and visitors from across the region and beyond.

One of the park’s most exciting features is the Ralph Wilson Park Bridge, a marvel of engineering that traveled all the way from Italy to Buffalo. Its journey across the Atlantic Ocean and through the Erie Canal was celebrated by thousands across New York State, culminating in its arrival on July 16—716 Day, a nod to Buffalo's area code. This iconic bridge, transported in four massive sections, is a testament to the collaborative spirit and engineering prowess that define this project.

Ralph Wilson Park is more than just a park; it is a community hub. Our summer kick-off party on June 30th was a resounding success, thanks to the energy and enthusiasm of over 700 community members. With activities and support from local partners like West Side Community Services, Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, and many others, it was a day to remember. We are grateful to our sponsors, including Councilmembers David Rivera and Mitch Nowakowski, Wegmans, Sahlens, and Mineo & Sapio, for making it all possible.

Future plans for the park are equally exciting. Construction is active, with significant progress on the signature pedestrian bridge and the Great Lawn, which will host events and transform into a sledding hill in winter. The Grove, featuring the Edith Wilson and Linda Bogdan Gardens, promises an eye-catching entrance as visitors cross the pedestrian bridge into the park.

In addition to these features, Ralph Wilson Park will include a destination play garden, expanded bike and pedestrian trails, additional sports fields, and a blueway site for safe water access. Thousands of new trees and native plants will enhance the park’s ecological footprint, ensuring it remains vibrant year-round.

Stay connected for updates on our progress and events. If you run a local community group or summer camp, let us know about your plans to visit our splash pad by emailing info@RWParkBuffalo.org. We would love to host you with special activities and treats.

Join us in celebrating the creation of a park that is not only a place of beauty but a symbol of community spirit and innovation. We look forward to welcoming you to Ralph Wilson Park!