Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 180 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, the garden is home to over 14,000 types of plants from around the world, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and plant lovers. The garden is divided into several themed areas, such as the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the Cranford Rose Garden, and the Shakespeare Garden, each offering a unique experience. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, for example, is a serene oasis with a waterfall, pond, and meticulously pruned trees, while the Cranford Rose Garden boasts over 5,000 rose bushes and a breathtaking display of colors and fragrances. In addition to the gardens, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden also hosts several events and exhibitions throughout the year, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival, where visitors can witness the blooming of thousands of cherry blossom trees. Overall, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and educational experience in the heart of Brooklyn.

990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Get Directions





Brooklyn Botanic Garden Videos

You can't stream this on Netflix. Brooklyn Botanic Garden is your oasis this summer. Plan a visit at bbg.org.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden captured the early-autumn installation of its new Visitor Center’s living roof in 3,600 individual photographs. With a soundtrack by Brooklyn-based artist Terence Bernardo (terencebernardo.com), this time-lapse video condenses a month of soil dispersal, planting, watering, and a surprise snowfall into two minutes of gardening history. For more information about the living roof and other BBG projects, visit nextcentury.bbg.org.

In 2014, Brooklyn Botanic Garden marks the centennial of its pioneering Children’s Garden, where kids ages 2 to 17 put their hands in the soil and learn by doing. Here children sow, tend, and harvest their own crops and flowers and absorb important lessons about responsibility, cooperation, and the importance of plants in our lives. This special program has sparked a lifetime of curiosity about nature and devotion to the environment for generations of local families. This video offers a lyrical, child’s-eye view of the Children's Garden experience. For more information, visit bbg.org/learn. © Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Directed by David Franklin for Artisanal Television. Music by 2 Cent Bridge.

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Brooklyn Botanic Garden News

Complete Cast Announced For Special Reading Of Susan Glaspell's THE VERGE At Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Classic Stage Company and Fiasco Theater, in collaboration with Hedgepig Ensemble Theatre's Expand The Canon (Emily Lyon, Artistic Director and Corri Oster, Managing Director) has announced complete casting for the one-night-only reading of The Verge by Pulitzer Prize winner Susan Glaspell (Trifles), starring Tony Award winner Miriam Silverman (The Sign in Sidney Brustein's Window).

Miriam Silverman to Star in Reading of THE VERGE at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Classic Stage Company and Fiasco Theater, in collaboration with Hedgepig Ensemble Theatre’s Expand The Canon, will present a one-night-only reading of The Verge by Pulitzer Prize winner Susan Glaspell. Learn how to purchase tickets.

Lincoln Center Unveils Design Team To Reimagine Amsterdam Avenue Side of Its Campus

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts has revealed the design team that will develop plans for the Amsterdam Avenue side of its campus.

Celebrate The Winter Solstice At Brooklyn Botanic Garden's LIGHTSCAPE

Celebrate the winter solstice at Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Lightscape. Light up the year's darkest night at BBG's stunning, mile-long illuminated trail.

Photos: Brooklyn Botanic Garden's LIGHTSCAPE Opens to the Public

Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) officially opened Lightscape, the stunning, mile-long illuminated trail on Friday, November 17. Returning for its third year in Brooklyn and featuring one million-plus lights in immersive installations across the Garden, Lightscape has fast become the city’s contemporary classic for the holidays, offering an imaginative, joyful spin on winter tradition. Check out photos here!

Joy Behar to Present BONKERS IN THE BOROUGHS at NY Comedy Festival

Join Joy Behar at the New York Comedy Festival as she presents 'Bonkers in the Boroughs,' a collection of five short plays that capture the love, passion, and dysfunction of New York family life. Don't miss this hilarious evening of theater, running from November 3-5.

Kinesis Project Dance Theatre and Opera On Tap Present CAPACITY, OR: THE WORK OF CRACKLING

Don't miss the breathtaking performance of 'Capacity, or: The Work of Crackling' by Kinesis Project Dance Theatre and Opera On Tap as part of Summer on the Hudson. Find out more and get the full schedule on our website.

Museum of Arts and Design Welcomes Five New Members to its Board of Trustees

The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) has announced five new appointments to its Board of Trustees, all prominent figures in the art, craft, and design community. Learn more about the new members here!

World Premiere Of CULTIVAR And THE GARDEN By Composer Kamala Sankaram At Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Experience the world premiere of 'Cultivar' and 'The Garden' by composer Kamala Sankaram at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. These unique pieces were inspired by trees in the Garden's collection. Join us on September 30 and October 1 at 2 PM. Tickets included with Garden admission. Reserve at bbg.org.

Kinesis Project Dance Theatre To Present CAPACITY, OR: THE WORK OF CRACKLING At Snug Harbor Dance Festival

Kinesis Project dance theatre will present Capacity, or: the Work of Crackling at the Snug Harbor Dance Festival from September 23-24, 2023 at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden.

Family-Friendly Installations On View At Brooklyn Botanic Garden For POWER OF TREES

A series of family-friendly installations is currently on display at Brooklyn Botanic Garden as part of its summer and fall exhibition Power of Trees, which explores the ways trees serve as pillars of our natural and cultural worlds.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Announces New Details About Kamala Sankaram's 2023 Residency

Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) today reveals it has commissioned two new works by Kamala Sankaram, acclaimed composer, performer, and BBG's 2023 Artist in Residence. The first work, Cultivar, will be performed by vocal sextet The Western Wind.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Reveals Kamala Sankaram as Its 2023 Artist In Residence

Brooklyn Botanic Garden has announced that it has selected acclaimed composer and performer Kamala Sankaram as its 2023 Artist in Residence.

The Pekoe Group Appoints Jenny Dorso Vice President Of Marketing Strategy

Jenny Dorso has been named The Pekoe Group's Vice President of Marketing Strategy. In her new role, Jenny will lead the agency's marketing team, overseeing the development and implementation of brand and campaign strategy, with a digital-first approach.

LIGHTSCAPE to Return to Brooklyn Botanic Garden Beginning in November

Lightscape, Brooklyn Botanic Garden's after-dark, outdoor winter experience, will return from November 17, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Tickets to this year's Lightscape are on sale starting July 28. Now in its third year, Lightscape has become New York City's new can't-miss holiday tradition: a contemporary classic for visitors of all ages. 


Brooklyn Botanic Garden Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The closest subway stops to Brooklyn Botanic Garden at 990 Washington Ave are:

1. Eastern Parkway-Brooklyn Museum Station: This station is located just steps away from the Botanic Garden's main entrance. It is served by the 2 and 3 trains. You can check for any subway updates or service changes on the MTA website [here](https://new.mta.info/).

2. Franklin Avenue Station: This station is also close to the Botanic Garden and is served by the 2, 3, 4, and 5 trains. It is a short walk from the station to the Garden's entrance.

When visiting the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, I recommend taking some time to explore the nearby attractions as well. Just a short walk away is the Brooklyn Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and cultural artifacts. You can easily combine a visit to the museum with a trip to the Botanic Garden.

Additionally, Prospect Park is located nearby and offers a beautiful green space for picnicking, walking, or simply enjoying nature. You can take a leisurely stroll through the park and even visit the Prospect Park Zoo, which is a great attraction for families.

Enjoy your visit to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and make the most of your time in this vibrant neighborhood!


What's the best way to get to Brooklyn Botanic Garden by bus?

The closest bus stops to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden at 990 Washington Ave in New York City are:

1. Eastern Pkwy/Washington Ave: This bus stop is served by the B41 and B45 buses. You can check for updates on bus schedules and routes on the MTA website: http://www.mta.info.

2. Washington Ave/Eastern Pkwy: This bus stop is served by the B48 bus. For the most up-to-date information on bus schedules and routes, you can visit the MTA website: http://www.mta.info.

Please note that bus schedules and routes may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden!


How much time should I plan to spend at Brooklyn Botanic Garden?

The ideal length of time to plan to spend at Brooklyn Botanic Garden really depends on your level of interest in plants and gardens. If you're a casual visitor who just wants to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful scenery, you can probably cover the main highlights in about 1-2 hours.

However, if you're a true plant enthusiast or a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot, you may want to allocate more time. The garden spans over 50 acres and is home to a wide variety of plants, including the iconic cherry blossoms in spring. Exploring the different themed gardens, such as the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden or the Shakespeare Garden, can be a delightful experience that might require a few extra hours.

Additionally, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden often hosts special events, exhibitions, and educational programs that you might want to check out. These can add to your overall visit time.

In summary, I would recommend allowing at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. But feel free to adjust your visit duration based on your personal interests and schedule.


Can I bring food and drinks into Brooklyn Botanic Garden?

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City has a food and drink policy that allows visitors to bring their own food and beverages into the garden. You can pack a picnic and enjoy it in designated areas throughout the garden. However, please note that alcohol is not permitted, and glass containers are also prohibited for safety reasons. Additionally, there are several dining options available within the garden, including the Yellow Magnolia Café, where you can enjoy a delicious meal or grab a snack.


Does Brooklyn Botanic Garden offer luggage storage?

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden does not have a luggage storage policy. Visitors are encouraged to travel light and avoid bringing large bags or suitcases to the garden. However, if you do have luggage with you, you may want to consider using a luggage storage service located near the garden or at a nearby transportation hub, such as Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal. These services allow you to securely store your bags for a fee while you explore the city. Just be sure to check their operating hours and policies before you visit.


Is Brooklyn Botanic Garden a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Absolutely! The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a fantastic destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While English is the predominant language spoken in New York City, the garden attracts a diverse range of visitors from all over the world.

The beauty of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden lies in its universal appeal. The stunning landscapes, vibrant flora, and peaceful atmosphere transcend language barriers, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty regardless of their native tongue. The garden provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a peaceful oasis for all to enjoy.

Additionally, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers various resources to enhance the experience for non-English language speakers. They provide multilingual maps and brochures, making it easier for visitors to navigate and learn about the different sections of the garden. The staff is also friendly and knowledgeable, ready to assist visitors in multiple languages.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination that transcends language barriers and offers a delightful experience for visitors from all over the world.


What ages are appropriate for Brooklyn Botanic Garden?

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City is a wonderful destination for visitors of all ages. While there is no specific age range recommended, the garden offers a variety of attractions and activities that can be enjoyed by everyone. From strolling through the beautiful gardens and admiring the stunning flora to participating in educational programs and events, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Families with children will especially love the Discovery Garden, which is designed to engage young minds with hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. So whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun outing, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination for all ages.


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