The Miniature Marvels at the New York Botanical Gardens

If you’ve ever wished to stroll through a downsized version of the Big Apple, here’s your chance! The New York Botanical Gardens has transformed into a mini-metropolis with nearly 200 scaled iconic buildings and structures. Imagine the Statue of Liberty and Yankee Stadium, not in concrete and steel but in bark, leaves, and other natural materials. It’s like Mother Nature decided to try her hand at urban planning and nailed it!
Step into this magical realm where the intricacy of New York City architecture is showcased under thousands of twinkling lights. The buildings, crafted with botanical finesse, bring a whole new meaning to the phrase “concrete jungle.” And don’t forget to look up—G-scale model trains create an aerial spectacle overhead, as if the city’s bridges have come alive with the whimsy of holiday cheer.

All Aboard the Holiday Express

But wait, there’s more! The Holiday Train Show is not just about stationary buildings; it’s a journey through time and landscapes. Picture this: more than 25 G-scale model trains and trolleys humming along nearly a half-mile of track. It’s a festive fusion of history and holiday spirit as American steam engines, streetcars from the late 1800s, and modern trains traverse towering mountainscapes and familiar NYC structures. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are interactive elements where you can play conductor and click a button to move the trolley. All aboard the express of merriment for all ages!

Botanical Wonders by Applied Imagination

What may seem like ordinary bark or a fallen berry to us is a masterpiece waiting to happen in the hands of Laura Busse Dolan and the creative geniuses at Applied Imagination. This company, born from the visionary mind of Paul Busse, turns plant material into “botanical architecture.” From stone on the Brooklyn Bridge to an ornament on St. Patrick’s Cathedral, these botanical wonders redefine what it means to build with greenery. It’s a testament to the magic that can be created when art and nature collide.

GLOW and Feast: A Night of Festivities

As the sun sets, the festivities continue with NYBG GLOW, New York’s outdoor holiday light experience. The Garden transforms into a glittering wonderland, with iconic sights like the Haupt Conservatory and the LuEsther T. Mertz Library Building becoming dazzling canvases. Thousands of choreographed lights and picture-perfect installations create a spectacle that defines holiday magic.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Indulge your taste buds at the Bronx Night Market Holiday Pop-Up, where handpicked food vendors serve up delights from various cultures. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor Picanha Arepas and bao buns while surrounded by the enchanting glow of the holiday season.

So, this winter, trade the bustling streets for the miniature marvels of the New York Botanical Gardens. It’s not just a display; it’s a journey through a magical world where nature and holiday cheer collide in the most delightful way possible. All aboard the express to botanical bliss!