When I was growing up in the Silicon Valley area of Northern California, I had access to greenery and escapism on trails on a regular basis. I grew up near a county park about 20 minutes walk from my house. I used to like to go jogging on that park’s trails, getting lost in my mind while traversing the ups and downs and twists and turns of that northern California soil. To recreate that same feeling in New York City has been a challenge but, I have found, that getting lost in a choice Bronx garden has been a good distraction.
Photo courtesy of David Berkowitz
28 Acres Of Bronx Garden
At Wave Hill, on West 249th Street, they have 28 acres, with fabulous views of the Palisades and the Hudson River. New Yorkers and tourists alike can explore their lush plantings that change with each season, take a guided tour, or meander the grounds solo that are open free to the public. Whether you are distracted by the beautiful gardens, or the views of the river, this Bronx garden will get you to a state of “ahhhh” pretty darn quickly.
A Nationally Landmarked Bronx Garden
I have spent a few hours covering the 28 acres at Wave Hill and, when I checked out the New York Botanical Garden, I found myself at this National Historic Landmark for most of a Saturday. The NYBG has 250 acres of grounds with 50 gardens and plant collections. It’s crazy big and easy to get lost in thought amongst their gardens of rocks, perennials, distinguished trees, orchids, and greenhouses.
Huge Park With A Freshwater Lake
While not technically a garden, Van Cortlandt park takes the act of meandering to a much larger scale. With 1,146 acres, this park is the fourth largest in NYC and contains the oldest NYC building, a freshwater lake, a trail along the Old Croton Aqueduct (which also has the status of National Landmark), and, my favorite, a cross-country running course. Enjoy the outdoors? Check. Get lost on a trail? Check. Mirror the feeling I once found at Rancho San Antonio Park in California? Double check!
Whether you have an hour or two to explore or a full day, get your dose of greenery escapism at any Bronx garden!
About Keri Barton
With her start-up experience in Silicon Valley and Brooklyn, Keri Barton brings her enthusiasm for teamwork and agile professional skills to all that she does. She enjoys writing creatively about NYC, exploring the art world and all things athletic.
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