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How long does a visit take?

Seeing the entire Garden would take a full day. However, we ask that you limit your stay to 3 hours to allow others to enjoy the Garden. There are suggested itineraries for shorter visits.

What is in bloom right now? When are the cherry trees in bloom?

The Plants in Bloom page will tell you!

The cherry trees typically bloom throughout April and early May. CherryWatch provides frequent updates in the spring.

Are you ever open in the evening?

Yes, the Garden is open until sunset most evenings in peak seasons. For details, see our Hours & Admission page.

Also, if you are a member, you can attend Members’ Summer Evenings on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. until sunset, June to September.

What rules must all visitors follow?

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a museum of living plants. The following policies were designed to protect the plant collection and enhance the experience of all visitors.

• Do not pick flowers, touch foliage, walk in planted beds, or climb trees.
• Children under 14 must be supervised by an adult.
• No food or beverages except bottled water and baby bottles.
• No smoking.
• No blankets or folding chairs.
• Sitting on the lawn is permitted on Cherry Esplanade and in the Discovery Garden, Osborne Garden, and Plant Family Collection.
• No recreational equipment or athletic activity (scooters, balls, etc.).
• No pets, including emotional support animals. Service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted.
• Tripods and easels are not permitted in the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the Conservatory, in flower beds, or blocking paths.
• Commercial and wedding photography is only permitted by prior arrangement.
• Earphones must be used for all electronic audio devices.
• Shirt and shoes are required.
• See additional rules and guidelines in effect to support community health and safety.

Please read through the rest of these FAQ and other areas of the website for more detailed information on specific rules and policy.

Can we bring a picnic? May we sit on the lawn?

Picnicking is not allowed at BBG. Sitting on the lawn is permitted on Cherry Esplanade and in the Discovery Garden, Osborne Garden, and Plant Family Collection.

Are strollers allowed?

Strollers are allowed on the grounds and in the Visitor Center, but not in the Steinhardt Conservatory Gallery or Garden Shop.

Are scooters, bikes, roller skates, or skateboards allowed?

No. There is no checkroom available and skates, skateboards, and scooters are not permitted. Bike racks are located near all entrances.

Are pets allowed in the Garden? What about service animals?

Pets are not allowed, but service animals are. Our accessibility guidelines provide more details.

May we climb the trees? May we pick flowers and vegetables?

Tree climbing is not allowed in order to keep both the trees and visitors safe. Please don't pick flowers or vegetables. Edible food from our Herb Garden and display gardens is donated to local charities.

Is smoking allowed?

No, smoking is prohibited throughout the Garden.

Is the entire Garden accessible to people with disabilities?

All of our entrances and most of our pathways are accessible to people in wheelchairs and those with other disabilities. Certain paths may be uneven or steep. Please see our accessibility guidelines for more information.

Where can I buy food?

Visitors to the Garden can purchase casual entrées, snacks, and drinks at the Yellow Magnolia Canteen near Lily Pool Terrace and the Coffee Bar at the Visitor Center, with socially distanced outdoor seating for either option. Yellow Magnolia Café is temporarily closed. Pocket snacks are permitted for individuals with dietary needs.

Where are the bathrooms?

There are bathrooms in the Visitor Center, at the Flatbush Avenue entrance, on Magnolia Plaza, in the Conservatory, outside Yellow Magnolia Café, and on Lily Pool Terrace.

Do you sell plants?

Yes, the Garden Shop has a small selection of plants for sale.

Do you have daily lockers or a coat check?

No.

Can I take photographs? Can a professional photographer shoot my portrait?

In general, visitors may take nonprofessional photos for personal use. Professional photographers must adhere to our photography policy.

Can BBG be used for a commercial photo or film shoot?

Yes, but you must receive prior approval. Please see our commercial and editorial photography guidelines for details.

Can we get married at the Garden? Can I rent space for other events?

Private rentals are currently suspended. You can submit an inquiry on the Weddings and Celebrations or Private and Corporate Events pages for future updates.

I’m a teacher/camp counselor. Can I bring my students on a self-guided field trip?

A limited number of registration slots are now available for groups of up to 10 students with their teachers. Children’s groups from pre-K through high school are admitted for free as space allows.

Teachers must reserve tickets in advance for these self-directed visits, and special safety protocols are currently in place. Teachers may request information to learn more.

Department

Contact

Children's Education Information

[email protected]
718-623-7353

Children's Education Registration

[email protected]
718-623-7220

Commercial Photography

[email protected]
718-623-7241

Communications

[email protected]
718-623-7241

Community Greening

[email protected]
718-623-7250

Continuing Education Information

[email protected]
718-623-7357

Continuing Education Registration

[email protected]
718-623-7220

Development

[email protected]
718-623-7356

Event Catering

[email protected]
718‑307‑7133

Horticulture

[email protected]
 

Human Resources

[email protected]
 

Internships

[email protected]
 

Library Services

[email protected]
 

Marketing/Advertising

[email protected]
 

Membership

[email protected]
718-623-7210

Patina Events at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

[email protected]
718‑307‑7133

President's Office

[email protected]
 

Public Programs

[email protected]
718-623-7333

Publications

[email protected]
 

Registration Office

[email protected]
718-623-7220

Scientific Research

[email protected]
 

Security

[email protected]
718-623-7200

Conservatory Gallery

[email protected]
 

Visitor Services

[email protected]
718-623-7260

Volunteer

[email protected]
718-623-7260

Website

[email protected]
 

Wedding Catering

[email protected]
718‑307‑7133