Celebrate the Flowers of NYC

If April showers bring May flowers, then NYC must be in for some extraordinary gardens this year! It may not exactly feel like spring in the city yet, but that’s not stopping us from venturing to our favorite gardens this month for a hint of spring as we await warmer weather. Here are a few of our favorite events offering the best mix of flowers and fun for any occasion, from a family-friendly afternoon to a romantic date night:

“The Orchid Show: Orchidelirium” and “Orchid Evenings” at the New York Botanical Garden – Bronx

This is your last week to see the 14th annual Orchid Show, “Orchidelirium”. The show’s name pays homage to the 19^th-century, when orchid hunters risked their lives exploring jungles around the world in search of these exquisite flowers. Learn about the history of orchid hunting as you admire thousands of stunning flowers in full bloom. Other events include poetry readings and dance performances, as well as orchid care demonstrations. If you’re looking for a romantic date idea for this weekend, then “Orchid Evenings” may be for you! Grab your S.O. this Friday or Saturday for a night of cocktails and music against the backdrop of the elegant orchids. Admission includes a complimentary signature cocktail – this year’s drink is the Ginger Vanilla Fusion, a delicious blend of vanilla bean-infused vodka and ginger, inspired by the Vanilla planifolia orchid. Guests attending on Friday evening will also get to sample Tsingtao’s award-winning beer. If you can’t make it to Orchidelirium this year, stop by NYBG later this spring to explore the rest of the 28 vibrant gardens adorning the 250-acre landscape. The permanent collection contains more than 2,000 variations of orchids, totaling more than 6,000 flowers that are sure to impress. Purchase your tickets here.

Schedule:

Orchidelirium – Every day through Sunday, April 17, 2016 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Orchid Evenings – Friday, April 15 (LGBT Night) and Saturday, April from 6:30—9:30 p.m. (entry times at 6:30, 7, & 7:30 p.m.)

Pricing:

Orchidelirium – Weekdays
Adults: $20
Seniors (65+): $18
Students (with valid ID): $18
Children (2–12): $8
Children under 2 and Members: Free

Orchidelirium – Weekends and Select Peak Days
Adults: $25
Seniors (65+): $22
Students (with valid ID): $22
Children (2–12): $10
Children under 2 and Members: Free

Orchid Evenings – Non-Member $35/Member $25 (Adults 21 and over; advance tickets recommended)

“Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival” at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden on Saturday, April 30 or Sunday, May 1 to celebrate cherry blossom season. Dubbed the Rite of Spring for NYC, this lavish two-day festival is the pinnacle event for cherry blossom enthusiasts far and wide. While you will undoubtedly encounter crowds during this popular festival, the whimsical backdrop of stunning cherry blossom trees and the tranquil Japanese pond are well worth the trip! Plan to spend a few hours during your visit so you can hop around the 60+ events and performances celebrating Japanese culture. After exploring the landscape on a guided garden tour, you can mix things up by attending an origami or art workshop, flower arranging demonstration, Taiko drumming performance, J-pop dance party and even a traditional Sohenryu tea ceremony, to name a few. Check out the full schedule of events here, and purchase your tickets here.

Schedule:

Saturday and Sunday, April 30 – May 1, 2016 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m

Pricing:

Adults $25
Seniors (65+) $20
Students 12+ with valid ID $20
Children under 12 & BBG Members Free

Our concierges at the Hotel Elysee, Casablanca Hotel, Library Hotel, and Hotel Giraffe look forward to helping you plan your trip. Please stop by the Front Desk for directions around NYC.  Enjoy your visit to NYC and when you’re done we would love to hear all about your time exploring the gardens!