What do cigarettes, the Bronx and orchids have in common? (Part 1 of 2)

That's a good question.  The answer is the New York Botanical Garden.

Located in the Bronx on the former estate of tobacco magnate Pierre Lorillard IV, the New York Botanical Garden is a 250-acre oasis in an ever-bustling city that hosts exhibitions year round, including the Spring orchid show.

Recently, we visited the garden, known as the NYBG, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary.  The photos below tell most of the story.  We toured the conservatory and the extensive grounds.  With a million species of plants, there is a lot to see at the NYBG.  It so large that we rode a theme park-like tram with a recorded narration to see more of the property. 

NYBG Brochure

NYBG Map, marked with must-see locations

A beautiful day at the NYBG--clear skies, cool weather and a random hottie

NYBG:  The LuEsther Mertz Library in the background, rare, beautiful flower in the foreground

NYBG:  The rotunda of the conservatory

NYBG:  Panoramic photo of the conservatory

NYBG:  Inside the conservatory, an arcade of rare flowers with fountain and pool

NYBG:  Inside the conservatory, close up photo of the fountain.  Greg wants to add a fountain in our apartment.  Yes, he knows we are renting.

NYBG:  A formal flower garden on a beautiful Spring day.  A variety of gardens and forests can be found at the NYBG.

NYBG:  Another photo of the formal flower garden

NYBG:  Photo with the conservatory in the background.  Susan thinks the lawn would be a lovely place for a May wedding.

NYBG:  Flowering trees abound during mid-April

Some random hottie hanging at the NYBG.  Note how shoelaces coordinate with the flowers.  Doesn't everyone design and wear outfits that match their surroundings?

 Next up:  Part 2--"Orchidelirium", or orchids, orchids and more orchids.