Visiting New York? Why not take the opportunity to visit the Botanical Gardens of the famous American city?
The New YorkBotanical Garden is located in the Bronx district of northern Manhattan. It is one of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. It occupies almost 100 hectares of the Bronx, and has even been classified as a historic monument since 1967.
The Botanical Gardens may not be a must-see on your first visit to New York, but it’s a pleasant alternative to the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. In fact, it’s one of the city’s most popular spots for jogging and other rejuvenating activities. Depending on your passion for plants and botany, you can spend the day here, or discover it in a 2-3 hour stroll.
Perfectly maintained, the garden abounds in natural riches that evolve throughout the year according to the four seasons. Each season brings its own discoveries and surprises, from tulips to autumn-colored flower arrangements.
So why not take advantage of your stay in the city to visit or revisit this green setting in the heart of New York? To help you do just that, we’ve put together a short guide to everything you need to know before you go.
The history of the New York Botanical Garden
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Linda Harms
The New York Botanical Garden was founded in 1891 on the Belmont estate, a plot of land deeded to Columbia University by Pierre Lorillard, a French immigrant who made his fortune in tobacco.
It was botanist Nathaniel Lord Britton who designed it, inspired by the royal botanical gardens of England. His wish was to give New York one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. His wish was granted, and in 1967, the site was even designated a historic monument.
Today, the New York Botanical Garden is a popular place for New Yorkers and tourists from all over the world to admire the beauty of Mother Nature.
What to see and do at the New York Botanical Garden?
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Jack Aiello
The New York Botanical Garden can be visited in just a few hours, but it’s worth spending at least a day there to get the most out of the place. It is made up of 27 different indoor and outdoor spaces, including greenhouses, which enable plants to be conserved all year round. Nearly 100 hectares are available to visitors. You can stroll freely or discover some of the garden’s must-sees.
Be sure to visit the Haupt Conservatory. This huge Victorian-style wrought-iron greenhouse is one of the garden’s most beautiful features. It is home to tropical plants and water basins filled with water lilies. A true invitation to travel and relax.
Stop by the Home Gardening Center. This magnificent garden evolves with the seasons and events of the year. The Halloween and Christmas celebrations offer superb floral arrangements for the enjoyment of young and old alike.
Luce Herb Garden, in particular, is well worth a visit. The garden has been laid out in perfect symmetry. Botany enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the beauty of the setting.
If you visit the Botanical Garden from May to October, take the opportunity to admire the Peggy Rockfeller Rose Garden and its 650 varieties of roses. Named after David Rockfeller’s wife, who was particularly fond of this floral variety.
Finally, if you’re coming with the family, head for theEverett Children’s Adventure Garden. This area is dedicated to children, who can learn how to manage a vegetable garden from an early age. Garden-related cooking activities also take place here.
So don’t hesitate to get lost in the alleys of the Botanical Garden to discover it better. And if you’re feeling peckish, there are several places to eat in the garden: the Pine Tree Cafe and the Hudson Garden Grill. The perfect way to recharge your batteries throughout the day!
How do I get to the New York Botanical Gardens?
The Botanical Gardens are located on Bronx River Parkway and Fordham Road, in the Bronx district. Getting there couldn’t be easier! New York is well known for its extensive public transport network. So whether you take the bus, subway or train, it’s easy to get to the garden. It all depends on which entrance you use.
Main entrance: 2900 Southern Boulevard
- By bus : routes Bx19, Bx12, Bx22, Bx9, and Bx17
The second entrance(Mosholu): 2950 Southern Boulevard
- By train: from Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal, via the Harlem line, to Botanical Garden station (20-minute journey)
- Subway: lines B, D and 4 to Bedford Park Boulevard
- By bus: the Bx26, Bx41 and Bx34 will drop you off directly opposite the Mosholu entrance.
Other entries
You can also access the Botanical Gardens via the Bedford Park Gate or theEast Gate. These two gates are less frequently used, however, as they are subject to specific restrictions, particularly with regard to opening hours.
At each of these entrances, you’ll find a free bicycle rental service, allowing you to discover the area in a different way. It’s important to note, however, that bicycles are not permitted in the entire park. To find out which routes are accessible by bike, visit the official website of the New York Botanical Garden.
New York Botanical Garden opening hours and fees
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / JaysonPhotography
SCHEDULES
The Botanical Garden is open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, except on the following dates:
- January to February: closes at 5:00 p.m.
- Closed on November 28 (Thanksgiving) and December 25
- December 24: closes at 3:00 p.m.
Please note: the Botanical Garden opens exceptionally on certain Mondays and public holidays throughout the year (you can find the dates in question on the official website).
RATES
Tickets for the Botanical Gardens can be purchased directly on site or online. Prices vary according to the day of the week and the number of visitors.
Weekend
- Adults: $28
- Seniors (over 65) and students: $25
- Children (2 to 12 years old): $12
- Free for children under 2
The week
- Adults: $23
- Seniors (over 65) and students: $20
- Children (2 to 12 years old): $10
- Free for children under 2
Grounds-only pass
Reserved for New York residents, this pass allows access to outdoor areas every day of the week, at preferential rates.
- Adults: $15
- Seniors (over 65) and students: $7
- Children (ages 2 to 12): $4
- Free for children under 2
- Free all-day on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. (convenient for runners).
Please note: guided tours for groups or individuals are available to learn more about this exceptional place (book online in advance). A mobile app is also available to accompany you throughout your visit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
– Does the Botanical Garden have a checkroom?
There is no checkroom in the garden. Please note that strollers are allowed except in the Conservatory, Discovery Center, Ross Hall and Art Gallery. Stroller parking is available in these areas. Bulky luggage and large bags are not permitted inside the Art Gallery. Finally, drones, rolling objects and selfie poles are prohibited in the entire Garden.
– Are the areas accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Botanical Garden, its buildings and shuttles are accessible to people with reduced mobility, with the exception of a few areas where the terrain is naturally impassable. Wheelchairs are available free of charge at all entrances. To find out more about accessibility, visit the official website.
– Is it possible to picnic in the Botanical Gardens?
You can picnic in the designated areas. Please dispose of your garbage in the garbage cans, don’t go barefoot or shirtless, and don’t cross the boundaries of the park’s pathways.
– Last but not least, you can organize your birthday or wedding in the Botanical Gardens.