Best Places For Viewing Spring Flowers In NYC
We all know the cliché: April showers bring May flowers. But where to find said blooms when spring arrives? You can check the bloom guide put out by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, or have a look at our favorite spots to find spring flowers in each of the five boroughs, below. Definitely stop and smell the roses, daffodils, tulips, etc., etc. By Jessica Allen.
Once upon a time, the Bronx's Pelham Bay boasted country estate after country estate. Not so today, but you can get a sense of what once was by wandering the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, sort of the last house (mansion) standing, if you will. (The estate dates to the 1600s.) The grounds and formal garden are equally delightful, with row upon row of carefully tended flowers and a herb garden that's been around since 1939. Keep your eyes peeled for rabbits and wild turkeys!
More: Best Florists In Brooklyn
The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx gets lots of love, and rightly so: it's huge and wonderful and beautiful. But Brooklyn has a magnificent botanic garden of its own. Blooming right now: daffodils, crocus, arrowwood, and heartleaf geranium. Perhaps best of all are the cherry blossom trees, offering a once-a-year explosion of good smells and delicate petals. Don't just take our word for it: follow the garden on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news.
More: Best Garden Centers In New York City
You'd be forgiven for missing the beautiful flowers blooming inside the Garden at St. Luke in the Fields. The area is, after all, enclosed by a high brick wall and wrought-iron gates. But, if you're lucky enough to find your way into this lovely place, you'll feel as if you've landed inside a fairytale. The assorted flora and berries in the garden provide a comfortable home to more than 100 species of birds and as many as 24 species of butterflies and moths. It's free and open daily, but occasionally closes for church or school events.
More: Best Staycation Spots In New York City
The Queens Botanical Garden has a simple slogan: it's "the place where people, plants, and culture meet." In other words, this oasis is all about educating, inspiring and making the world seem a little less harsh and a little more lovely. Have a look at the calendar for upcoming events, such as nature photography workshops and kid-centric craft events, or just visit, taking in the bee garden, floral border, sweeping meadow, oak allee, or fragrance walk. Go ahead and inhale deeply.
More: Best Historical Sites In New York City
Snug Harbor was built in the 19th Century for retired sailors. Today, it's an amazing place to wile away the day. Its 83 acres boast blooms aplenty. Among the gardens you can hang out in are the Chinese Scholars Garden, with a bamboo forest path, a pond filled with koi, and waterfalls, the rose garden (with more than 100 varieties), the white garden, or the half-acre secret maze. Save time to stock up at the seasonal farm, meant to feed and educate the community.
