The NYBG Glow and Holiday Train Show is one of most unique Christmas experiences in NYC! While it was enjoyable, I significantly enjoyed the train show more than the lights (which were underwhelming). The event would be below average if not for the special nighttime admission to the train show. We would go again but would maybe purchase tickets solely for the train show.
The cost was on the higher end of Chrismtas experiences: $54 per adults, $39 per children, and parking was $22 per vehicle.
There were maybe only 3-4 unique light displays and those were minimal too - something you could maybe see walking around NYC for free (light up trees, string lights, light up buildings). I wish there were more lights horticulture themed or really utilizing the large natural space.
Not too much for kids to do. I definitely saw more adult groups than families. Besides walking around the garden at night, the main kid activities were the photo ops, playing with a small trolly/train, and looking for hidden acorns in the train show.
The true gem of this event is the holiday train show. The display features hand crafted buildings and train displays of sights around NYC - all housed within the architecture and plants of the Haupt Conservatory. The details are incredibly intricate and there's something to see no matter where you're standing or whichever way you're facing. Most of my visit was spent at the Haupt Conservatory for the holiday train show.
Restrooms were available during the event and were well maintained.
Food was not as plentiful. There were a few vendors from the Bronx Night Market but nothing too appealing (limited drink options too) so we ended up eating on the way home. Sweets can be purchased but that was a little far back by the holiday train show entrance.
Easy, flat walking surfaces that are well lit. Any paths not part of GLOW were not lit. There was no line to enter. There was a short line for the indoor portion of the holiday train show - visitors went in waves. The outdoor portion comes first and there were no lines to enter, though tickets were checked again.
Parking is either by the front entrance or directly across the street at Fordham University ($22 parking fee is cash only). There are signs and staff members directly you in the...
Read moreWhat else can I say that hasn't been said about this place? The Botanical Gardens of the Bronx is a true oasis within the city. Unfortunately, the surrounding areas of the Botanical Garden isn't the nicest BUT once you cross those gates, it's really a portal to a whole other world that's just heavenly and pristine.
Its amazing how much tranquility and peace can be found right in the middle of the concrete jungle. There's so many plants to learn about, so much peace to be had.
There's a cafe here that serves pretty good food too! And the prices are reasonable for where you're at. Though, you can pack your own food and have a picnic if you wish.
There's also cute animals (mostly rabbits) that you will see roaming about.
If you're taking the Metro North (on the Harlem line), it leaves you directly across the street from the Botanical Garden. Again, make sure its the Harlem Line train. Connecticut trains bypass this station (unless you get off on Fordham and transfer one stop or get there multiple other ways from Fordham) and trains that run along the Hudson river don't even come close to the Botanical Garden stop.
The only downside I can think of is that it can be a little pricey to enter and if you're not into gardens or green space much, this isn't the place for you. You might as well go to a park with lots of green space for free.
And its not located in the best area of the Bronx. Its not so dangerous but certainly not the most pleasant so I would keep that in mind and into consideration.
If you're looking for peace and quiet, AVOID going on Wednesdays. Too many people, too chaotic.
Otherwise, I absolutely recommend giving this place a visit when in NYC. Its truly an astonishing garden and oasis in the concrete jungle.
PROS: -Easy access by Metro North -Absolutely beautiful -Lots to see and learn -Great activities -Yes, an oasis in the middle of the Bronx
CONS: -Not surrounded in the best area of the Bronx -Pretty pricey entrance -If you don't care about gardens, then you can find other tranquil places to go to for free -Highly DO NOT recommend going on Wednesdays (its free but...
Read moreCheck out my Instagram account for more amazing pictures, Personal @nyctme & Business @nycprimeshot
We (Me & Fiance) had an excellent experience at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx. It was such a beautiful, friendly staff, easy walk around locations, the clean air was a plus! The colors were so bright and fresh air. We were able to pretty much visit each location at the Garden from starting at open which is 10am until closing at 5:45pm.
I posted 75 pictures on this post hope you all enjoy our journey...
10 Tips for first Timers: A few things you need to know if this is your first time visiting,
If your a Bronx resident show your license and you can roam everywhere free except in the indoors facilities, but 75% of the fun stuff is usually outside.
The park starts announcing that they will be closing at 5pm but in reality, you have until 5:45 to exit the park and they have an exit pretty much everywhere so there's no need to rush or run to get out. You won't get locked in. They drive around on golf carts and give you a ride to the exit if you go past the time of closing.
All restrooms are within a short distance walk 15 minutes walk mostly.
They do have restaurants (they even serve Vegan foods 💚) and a delicious Cafe that serves delicious yummy Incredible coffee! ☕
Make sure to get a Map or download their App.
Carry water, your not allowed to have a plastic bottle, but you are allowed to have a steal water container.
They have Free transportation shuttle services throughout the park to make easier to get to places.
Wear comfortable shoes/sneakers you'll be walking a lot so be sure your extremely comfortable with everything your wearing.
They sell Beer 🍻
They have a book store and merchandise sweaters, t-shirts etc.
Hope you all enjoy your visit.
Thanks for the love Sam Perez
Check out my Instagram account for more amazing pictures, Personal @nyctme & Business...
Read more