The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is a remarkable asset to the Bronx, serving as both a cultural and environmental cornerstone for the borough and beyond. Spanning 250 acres in the heart of the Bronx, the garden offers a lush, tranquil escape from the bustling city, featuring a diverse array of plant collections, historic landscapes, and stunning seasonal displays. It’s not only a place of beauty but also an educational resource, hosting programs for children and adults alike to learn about horticulture, sustainability, and the importance of preserving biodiversity. The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a landmark structure within the garden, showcases plants from across the globe, making NYBG a living museum that inspires wonder and curiosity. There are several special events that also bring international recognition to the Bronx as a cultural destination, such as the highly anticipated Holiday Train Show, a can't-miss exhibit closing at the end of this month.
Returning for its 33rd year, the Holiday Train Show® returns to The New York Botanical Garden, bringing festive magic to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. This beloved exhibition features nearly 200 detailed, plant-based replicas of iconic New York landmarks, with model trains weaving through the enchanting displays. Visitors can experience the holiday wonder both indoors and outdoors, with select evenings offering a special perspective during Holiday Train Nights. Running from November 16, 2024, to January 20, 2025, the show is a must-see seasonal tradition, with tickets available on NYBG’s website.
Spokesperson and NYBG’s Director of Exhibition Design & Operations, Kenia Pittman shared:
"As a cherished tradition of the Garden, now on its 33rd year, the Holiday Train Show offers visitors the chance to enjoy immersing themselves within the almost 200 replicas of historic NY architecture re-created in miniature. This season we have added the Hearst Tower to our collection. It is the first commercial building to receive LEED Gold rating and is on display in our Conservatory Palm Dome." - Kenia Pittman, NYBG’s Director of Exhibition Design & Operations
Last season, the New York Botanical Garden debuted an outdoor train display on the Conservatory Lawn and according to Pittman, the team at the NYBG was thrilled to see its return, sharing that it's a vital part of the visitors' experience.
"The display features sculptures created by Applied Imagination, inspired by an enchanted forest theme. Visitors will encounter an array of captivating figures, including snails, owls, rabbits, mushrooms, Luna moths, and more—all crafted from natural materials—alongside the model trains.
Applied Imagination, owned by Laura Busse and based in Alexandria, Kentucky, are the creators of Holiday Train Show displays and buildings. They sustainably source a variety of different leaves, seeds, twigs and bark from the woods in Kentucky to create the beautiful textures visitors see on our building models." - Kenia Pittman, NYBG’s Director of Exhibition Design & Operations
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, NYBG plays a vital role in environmental conservation, scientific research, and education, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature through its programs and exhibits. Furthermore, the NYBG plays a vital role in the Bronx's economy and community life. It attracts over a million visitors annually, boosting local businesses and creating jobs.
As a member of the New York Botanical Garden herself, BHS Agent Sandhya Tidke believes that this cultural landmark incredibly important to the neighborhood, sharing:
I love the gardens, with its vast grounds and winding paths, giving us "Riverdaleians" in the Bronx an opportunity to experience all the seasons that nature has to offer! The winter season's Holiday Train Show is so amazing, not only the kids but adults. They can transform their day into a magical experience and see the train and NYC buildings in an entirely different way and really appreciate it. At night, they also have a light show making the gardens come to life! During the spring, the array of blooms adds a beautiful display of nature's colors. Summer opens the garden for all types of activity, followed by a variety of pumpkins and gourds in the fall, with the trees turning colors to create an unforgettable landscape. - Sandhya Tidke, BHS Riverdale Agent
By combining natural beauty, world-class research, and community engagement, the New York Botanical Garden enriches the Bronx and reinforces its reputation as a hub of culture and innovation. From its family-friendly events, workshops, wellness activities, and beyond, the New York Botanical Garden is a cornerstone of cultural and ecological significance in the Bronx.
