📍Staten Island's Hidden Oriental Oasis

A Free NYC Gem for Families & Photographers This time, I took my kids to Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden in Staten Island, and the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden completely blew me away! 🌿🎋 This isn’t just any botanical garden—it’s a meticulously crafted Jiangnan-style classical Chinese garden, making you feel like you’ve stepped straight into Suzhou! 🔹 Highlights of the Chinese Scholar’s Garden: • The first authentic Chinese scholar’s garden in the U.S., built by Chinese artisans using materials imported from China! 🏯✨ • Features rockeries, bamboo groves, winding streams, arched bridges, and pavilions—every corner is poetic. 🌉🎍 • The latticed windows, upturned eaves, and reflections in the ponds are breathtakingly beautiful—perfect for photos! 📸 • Visit in autumn when the maple leaves turn red, and it feels like walking into a classical Chinese painting. 🍁🖼️ 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Perks: • Compact but packed with charm—kids can safely explore while parents relax. • Far less crowded than Manhattan, making it a peaceful escape. • Free parking nearby—super convenient for drivers! 🚗💨 🎫 Admission Details: • Chinese Scholar’s Garden: $5/adult, $4/students & seniors, free for kids under 5. • The rest of Snug Harbor is free and worth exploring too! Why go? If you crave serenity, culture, and stunning backdrops, this hidden gem is a must-visit! 🌸🏮 #NYC #StatenIsland #ChineseGarden #NYCFamilyFun #HiddenNYC #BotanicalBeauty #CulturalEscape #NYCPhotography #WeekendVibes #ExploreNYC