The garden was founded in 1910 on land that was once part of the site of the Battle of Long Island.
The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden was designed by Takeo Shiota and completed in 1915.
The Steinhardt Conservatory features a subterranean gallery dedicated specifically to displaying a rotating collection of bonsai.
The garden maintains an active research program and herbarium housing over 300,000 preserved plant specimens.
The Cherry Esplanade contains over 200 cherry trees, including the rare Prunus 'Kanzan' variety.
The garden uses a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system that feeds the water features in the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden.
It holds one of the largest public collections of bonsai trees outside of Japan.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a 52-acre botanic research and display facility located in Prospect Park. It features over 12,000 types of plants from across the globe organized into specialized gardens. The site includes the Steinhardt Conservatory, which houses the C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum and distinct climate-controlled pavilions. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is one of the oldest Japanese-style public gardens in the United States. A renowned Cherry Esplanade features rows of double-flowered cherry trees that bloom in spring. The garden functions as a center for horticulture, education, and scientific research. It is situated adjacent to the Brooklyn Museum and the Mount Prospect Park area.
The view looking down the Cherry Esplanade toward the fountain during the spring bloom.
Check the official 'Cherrywatch' map on the website during spring months to track peak bloom status.
Bring a reusable water bottle, as refill stations are located throughout the grounds.
Prioritize the Conservatory if visiting during inclement weather or extreme temperatures.
Trying to see the entire 52-acre site in less than two hours; prioritize specific gardens to avoid exhaustion.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Stay on marked paths to protect plant beds; pets, outside alcohol, and sports equipment are prohibited.