New York City’s reputation as an urban jungle with more than 8 million people can make it an overwhelming destination for travelers. But locals know the city is home to more than 1,700 parks, playgrounds and recreation facilities across the five boroughs. Manhattan alone is home to some dazzling parks and gardens with plenty of hidden gems to choose from. Turn your next visit to New York City into a garden adventure with these off-the-radar gardens.
The Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Even New York City locals aren’t aware the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is the world’s largest cathedral and third-largest church. Take a unique Vertical Tour spiraling to the top of the cathedral and take in the views of the garden and landscaping below. The cathedral’s Biblical Garden offers a reprieve from the bustle of the city. Enjoy the ornamental landscape honoring plant life from the Holy Land, like date palm, juniper, plum and fig. You can also explore more of the grounds to find ornate fountains and resident peacocks.
Central Park Conservatory Garden
Step into the Conservatory Garden in Central Park, and you’ll feel like you discovered a hidden spot in one of the world’s most visited parks. As Central Park’s only formal garden, the Conservatory Garden features three smaller Italian-, French- and English-style gardens. These gardens within a garden within an urban park feature gorgeous blooms and even a Dancing Maidens fountain. Perhaps, best of all, the Conservatory Garden has been designated as a Quiet Zone so you can take a leisurely stroll in peace.
Fort Tryon Park Heather Garden
The beloved Heather Garden at Fort Tryon Park features a four-season garden with one of the most expansive heather collections in the country. Take a walk through the changing selections of colorful annuals and watch for butterflies and birds who call the gardens home. Get your camera ready, the garden and surrounding Fort Tryon Park are a travel photographer’s dream with stunning views of the Hudson and New Jersey Palisades.
There are even more New York City hidden gems and gardens to choose from, so create your own list of must-see’s and transform your next urban vacation into an outdoor delight.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Mar 27, 2024Earn a Free Night with BWH Hotels This Spring
Earn a free night with BWH Hotels this spring by being a member of its Best Western Rewards loyalty program. Through May 5, BWR members who stay two nights (do not need to be consecutive) at BWH Hotels properties in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean will earn one free night to be used for stays through Aug. 25. Register for the promotion prior to the completion of your first stay online or with the hotel directly. The awarded free night is eligible at any Best Western-branded hotel in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, and members can only earn one free night via the promotion.
Sponsored Content
Experience Ireland’s
Wild Atlantic Way
From the windy tip of Malin Head in County Donegal to the colorful harbor town of Kinsale in County Cork, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way amazes at every turn. Feel the blast of fresh sea air with a lighthouse walk. Get up close to history, grab a fireside seat at a traditional music session, experience the world-famous Irish hospitality and explore some of Ireland's most exhilarating coastal scenery. It is a place that inspired dreamers and travelers, poets and painters with a landscape filled with stone walls, thatched cottages, deserted beaches and breathtaking views. Charming towns and villages, 1,500 miles of soaring cliffs, incredible landscapes and unique experiences await.
Products / Technology
Mar 27, 2024Getting to the Airport Just Became Easier with FlyPool
A new service launched last month that may make your trip to and from the airport just a little easier and less costly. FlyPool is an online platform and app that facilitates carpooling, specifically to airports around the world.
Destinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024Car Enthusiasts Head to California for La Jolla Concours d’Elegance
Head to La Jolla, California, this April for the 18th Annual La Jolla Concours d’Elegance. The automotive and lifestyle festival offers car fanatics a variety of free and paid events. This year’s theme showcases the roaring 20s and glamorous 1930s. The event takes place April 19–21.
Sponsored Content
Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip
Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems
Surveys
Mar 26, 2024Study Discovers Destinations Where Hotels are Cheaper Than Home Rentals
For the longest time, travelers touted home rentals as an affordable alternative to hotels. However, is that really the case? Do you really get more for your money when you book an Airbnb versus a hotel room?
ShareThis