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New York City is the largest city in the United States, and sometimes one needs a break from the seemingly endless concrete jungle. The most famous city park is Central Park, but the city has plenty of other city parks, including the New York Botanical Garden. Whereas Central Park is free admission (and has plenty to see and do), the New York Botanical Gardens are a little expensive (but are a great place to spend a day).
The sheer size and diversity of the New York Botanical Gardens are too much to go into detail in this article. They are massive and one of the best attractions in the Bronx. First-time visitors to NYC with 10-day itineraries have the time they need to explore the botanical gardens and some of the many other attractions the city has.
Size & History Of The New York Botanical Gardens
The New York Botanical Gardens is located in the Bronx and was established in 1891. Since 1967 it has been listed as a National Historic Landmark. Today the park has over one million living places, while the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory (a greenhouse) has several habitats. It also has seasonal presentations like the Orchid Show.
- Established: 1891
- Plants: One Million
- Size: 250 Acres
The New York Botanical Gardens cover some 250 acres and boast a number of seasonal highlights, collections, and trails. The Garden has 50 different gardens and plant collections (as well as a waterfall and wetland).
What To Expect At The New York Botanical Gardens
The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory is built in the Italian Renaissance style and built during the turn of the century (between 1899 and 1902). Since it was built, it has received a number of major renovations and today serves as a focal point of the botanical garden and as a center for education.
The conservatory has aquatic plants and vines, cactus-filled deserts, lush tropical rainforests, and plenty of other natural habitats.
Another attraction at the New York Botanical Gardens is the LuEsther T. Mertz Library which has one of the largest collections of botany-related texts in the world.
The park has a tram tour so that visitors don't need to overexert themselves to get about the large 250-acre park.
The New York Botanical Gardens are very much worth visiting. While the entry fee may seem expensive, visitors should plan on spending at least half a day there. Bring a picnic lunch or enjoy something to eat at the café onsite.
The Thain Family Forest - A 50-Acre Old Growth Forest
It even has a 50-acre tract of old-growth New York forest that was never logged called the Thain Family Forest. It was mostly due to this forest that the area was chosen to host the botanical gardens. It has been described as the most precious natural possession of NYC, and it is a real treat to see an original forest in NYC.
The forest has oak, hemlock, beech, sweet gum, white ash, tulip, and more. Some of the trees are over two centuries old. Walk along Native American hunting trails, see trees that date from the American Revolution, and observe marks left by prehistoric glaciers.
There are one-hour walking tours with a Tour Guide through the old-growth forest. Visitors learn about the trees, history, geology, and ecology of the city's remaining patch of uncut woodland.
Planning A Visit To The New York Botanical Garden
The Garden is open come rain or sunshine - just dress appropriately for the weather. Dogs and other pets need to stay at home - apart from service animals.
Check their website for any upcoming special events and exhibitions. All visitors are required to have tickets for entry - the tickets can be purchased online and can be presented on one's phone.
- Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, New York City
- Opening Hours: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm
- Days Open: Tuesday to Sunday, And Monday On Federal Holidays
Admission Fees:
- Adults: $30.00
- Students & Seniors: $28.00
- Children: $15.00 (Aged 2 to 12 Years Old)
NYC Residents can get the New York City Resident Grounds Access Pass for half the price (proof of residency is required and can only be purchased onsite).