[2] Man-made Hiawatha Lake is located within the park, which is situated in Syracuse's Strathmore neighborhood on the city's south side.

[3] Portions of the park were designed by famed urban planner George Kessler in the early 20th century.

The park was completed according to Kessler's designs in 1915, featuring extensive stonework and several ponds, including Star Lake, which contained five fountain jets.

[8] Upper Onondaga Park occupies the site of the former Wilkinson Reservoir, which was built to supply Syracuse with water in the 1870s.

[10] The lake is used for its picturesque quality and large gazebo and often serves as a backdrop for prom and wedding photos.