How to Spend the Day at New York Botanical Garden with Your Kids
You don't want to miss NYBG's current artist installation KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature.
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Visiting New York Botanical Garden
Where is NYBG located?
The New York Botanical Garden is located at 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx. In addition to the main entrance, NYBG has three other public entrances:
- Mosholu Entrance: 2950 Southern Blvd., between Mosholu Parkway and Bedford Park Boulevard
- Bedford Park Gate: corner of Southern Boulevard and Bedford Park Boulevard
- East Gate: corner of Waring Avenue and Bronx Park East
What are NYBG’s hours?
The New York Botanical Garden is open Tuesday-Sunday and Monday federal holidays, 10am–6pm. On Saturdays in May and June the Garden is open until 9pm.
How can I get to NYBG?
You can drive to NYBG, take public transportation, or ride your bike.
Metro North: Take the Metro-North Harlem local line to Botanical Garden Station, located directly across the street from the garden’s Mosholu Entrance. See the MTA website for schedules and maps, and note that exact fares depend on when you’re traveling.
As a participant in Metro-North’s New York City Getaways program, NYBG offers discounted Garden Pass and rail tickets—including savings of up to 20 percent on tickets.
Subway: Take the B, D, or 4 train to Bedford Park Blvd. station. From the station exit, take the Bx26 bus east to the garden’s Mosholu Entrance. Alternatively, you can walk eight blocks down the hill on Bedford Park Boulevard (approximately 20 minutes). Turn left onto Southern Boulevard and walk one block to Mosholu Entrance.
Take the 2 train to Allerton Ave. station. From the station exit, walk three blocks west on Allerton Avenue. Turn left on Bronx Park East and walk two blocks to Waring Avenue. At the park entrance, walk up the small hill leading directly to the garden’s East Gate (daytime access only).
Please note: East Gate is open during NYBG’s normal daytime hours. Use the Mosholu Entrance for evening event access.
NYBG also offers free bicycle racks at all entry gates. However, bike riding is not allowed inside the park.
Is there parking at NYBG?
Yes! Parking costs $20 per vehicle. Though, parking is free for active supporting-level members and above with a valid parking pass.
Enter via the Main Entrance at 2900 Southern Blvd. for on-site parking. During peak visitation times, vehicles may park at the off-site lot, located at 401 Bedford Park Blvd. (near the Mosholu Entrance).
How much are New York Botanical Garden tickets?
Advance ticket reservations are required. All visitors must have mobile or printed timed-entry tickets for admission. Tickets are available for online reservations in installments.
Note that there is a different pricing structure depending on whether you get access to the grounds and galleries, and whether you’re a New York City resident. Proof of residency is required.
- KUSAMA Garden & Gallery Pass: $35; $32 seniors and students (with valid ID); $15 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2.
- KUSAMA Garden Pass: Residents: $15; $7 seniors and students (with valid ID); $4 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. Non-NYC residents: $25; $22 seniors and students (with valid ID); $12 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2
Can I become a NYBG Member?
Absolutely! The garden offers several levels of annual membership options, all of which include unlimited admission for a year, special discounts, member-only previews, reciprocal benefits at more than 300 gardens in North America, and more. The family membership includes free admission and other benefits for 2 adults and up to 5 kids (16 years or younger), plus 2 complimentary member passes.
Is NYBG accessible?
Wheelchair loans are available. Due to terrain, some parts of the NYBG are not accessible. However, NYGB’s buildings and tour vehicles are accessible. See the NYBG Accessibility Map for further details.
What other family attractions are near NYBG?
The Bronx Zoo, the city’s largest zoo, is within walking distance. Also nearby is historic Arthur Avenue (sometimes called New York’s “Other Little Italy”), home to gelato, pizza, mozzarella, and more.
Is NYBG on social media?
The New York Botanical Garden is on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
For more information, visit nybg.org, or call 718-817-8700.
Main photo by Garrett Ziegler