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Parks

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

4.7 · 14,784 reviews
A serene and educational urban retreat.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY 11238, United States
Interesting facts
1

The garden was founded in 1910 on land that was once part of the site of the Battle of Long Island.

2

The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden was designed by Takeo Shiota and completed in 1915.

3

The Steinhardt Conservatory features a subterranean gallery dedicated specifically to displaying a rotating collection of bonsai.

4

The garden maintains an active research program and herbarium housing over 300,000 preserved plant specimens.

5

The Cherry Esplanade contains over 200 cherry trees, including the rare Prunus 'Kanzan' variety.

6

The garden uses a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system that feeds the water features in the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden.

7

It holds one of the largest public collections of bonsai trees outside of Japan.

Overview

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.

Photo spot

The view looking down the Cherry Esplanade toward the fountain during the spring bloom.

Insider tips

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.

What to avoid

Trying to see the entire 52-acre site in less than two hours; prioritize specific gardens to avoid exhaustion.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays throughout the year.

Etiquette

Stay on marked paths to protect plant beds; pets, outside alcohol, and sports equipment are prohibited.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late April during the cherry blossom bloom, or weekday mornings for lower foot traffic.
Address
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY 11238, United States
Website
40.669, -73.964
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsJapanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum, Fragrance Garden
Shade & rest areasExtensive lawns near the Osborne Garden and benches throughout the woodland trails.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late April during the cherry blossom bloom, or weekday mornings for lower foot traffic..

The view looking down the Cherry Esplanade toward the fountain during the spring bloom.

Close by you'll find Prospect Park, Brooklyn Museum, Prospect Park Zoo.