Around an hour-drive from Queens. We went Sat. so avoided highways with heavy traffic and same amount of driving time anyway. Cell signal wasn't good in the area.

We only paid for parking, $8 at the meter. There are fees for the Coe Hall tour, also for events (there was a musical performance yesterday) but we only went there to walk outdoors which is free.

I saw a large map by the entrance - get an idea of the grounds. On a printed map (got one from the greenhouse), can see main paved roads, locations of buildings/structures but didn't show the different gardens, even a bridge which we didn't find, or pathways. Be ready to walk around.

At the main greenhouse were trees and plants, and smaller rooms with an interesting variety. Tight, also have some steps so may not be wheelchair accessible. We exited to a natural walk-through tunnel out to a view of grass, trees and the Dahlia garden, via pebbly walkways. There was an assortment of flowers, and with plenty of insects, even a tiny lizard. It's an open area so can be hot. Videotaped a hummingbird by a tree. Some structures were closed to the public like the carriage and manor houses so we just walked by them. The visitor center had a display about the place, an art exhibit and restrooms. Some seats/benches outside (saw very few benches around the ground).

The rose and Italian gardens and another greenhouse are closer to the Coe Hall area. Beautiful area. We saw a few groups getting their professional photos taken there.

Btw, greenhouses close at 4pm but the fields close at 5pm. Also more restrooms by the main greenhouse.