The sizzle of summer heat has been an all too familiar feeling this year, with soaring temperatures keeping us all toasty. That’s why the best place to get outside is NYBG. It’s scientifically proven that green spaces stay cooler than the surrounding urban landscape, where concrete and asphalt soak up and radiate the heat, so summers are best spent at the Garden—it’s a fact!

When I’m looking to escape the weather, I frequent the Forest. Under a canopy of hemlocks, birches, and conifers, shady trails are a welcome respite from the heat. Look up and you’ll find plenty of wildlife—blue jays, cardinals, finches, and squirrels—who have the same idea (and nature knows nature best!). Take a seat at a bench perched over the Bronx River, where breezes pick up from the banks, making the Forest almost as cool as its glacial past.

During our current exhibition, Van Gogh’s Flowers, stop by the Perennial Garden to find lots of shade—and to discover the very flowers that inspired Vincent himself! Stroll through our lawn of monumental sunflowers (big enough to walk under) and make sure to see more of the exhibition in the Conservatory. And if you’re someone who prefers to spend time outdoors as the sun sets, you’ll love our evening outings, Starry Nights! When conditions permit, our dazzling overhead drone show is sure to give you goosebumps.

One of our coolest spots (literally and figuratively) is the Native Plant Garden. Sit on a bench sheltered by leafy trees and gaze into pools so still, you’ll see double the wildflowers and ferns—the latter being lovers of dewy soil, a welcome reminder of the collection’s shadiness.

A favorite seasonal spot is the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. With a path surrounded by cheerful plants and shrouded by trees, it’s the perfect place to bring family. Explore with hands-on activities that spark creativity while staying comfortable, and stop into the Discovery Center for some AC and learning with our Teen Explainers.

Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the Pine Tree Café for a cold beverage! My go-to is the iced lavender latté—perfect for a floral-flavored pick-me-up—but whatever you’re craving, you’ll find something crisp to sip on.

Need to rejuvenate with a little more AC (and a fun new purchase)? Head next door to NYBG Shop, where you’ll find botanical souvenirs, décor, houseplants, and more—plus, grab one of our new NYBG hats and stay protected from the sun! Plus, on weekdays, stop by the Mertz Library to explore thousands of fascinating books (in a temperature-controlled environment)!

And during these hot days, make sure to take advantage of our tram. You’ll cover much of the Garden grounds without breaking a sweat.

See you soon!