Whenever I need a breath of fresh air in the concrete jungle of New York, I always think of the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx. Just a 40-minute subway ride away from the bustling streets of Manhattan, a completely different world unfolds.

The admission tickets for the Bronx Botanical Garden are mainly divided into two types. One is the 'All-Garden Pass', which allows full access to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, tram tours, outdoor exhibits, and gardens. On weekdays, the adult price is about $35, students and seniors about $31, and children (ages 2-12) about $15, while children under 2 are free.

On weekends and during peak season (e.g., late May to late October), the prices are slightly higher, with adults around $39, students/seniors about $35, and children about $17.

The other option is the 'Grounds Access Pass', which includes only the outdoor gardens and collections, excluding the conservatory, tram, and some special exhibitions. This pass is primarily applicable to New York City residents, and general visitors need to provide proof of residency to use it. The adult price is about $15, students/seniors about $7, and children about $4, with children under 2 also free.

Especially, Bronx residents benefit from the 'Bronx Neighbors' program, allowing free access to the outdoor garden areas. This means that if you are a Bronx resident, you can enjoy the outdoor spaces without charge by presenting proof.

Additionally, every Wednesday, Grounds Access (entry to the outdoor gardens) is free for all New York City residents.

When I first arrived, I was struck by the thought, "Is this really New York?" The scent of trees, the sound of birds, and the endless green lawns made it hard to believe that such a natural garden exists in the middle of the city. The New York Botanical Garden boasts a massive area of over 250 acres (about 1 million square meters).

In simple terms, it is about half the size of Central Park. As you pass through the entrance, you immediately encounter the Welcome Center, where you must grab a map. Otherwise, the vastness can easily lead you to lose your way. The garden showcases completely different charms in each season; in spring, tulips and cherry blossoms bloom, while in summer, the rose garden reaches its peak.

In autumn, the leaves turn golden, and in winter, the 'Holiday Train Show' held in the conservatory is the biggest attraction. The exhibition, where a miniature New York City is traversed by a train, evokes a sense of wonder even in adults. My favorite spot is the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. It is a glass greenhouse where tropical plants, desert cacti, and rare orchids from around the world thrive.

Especially when you enter the tropical rainforest area, the humid air and exotic scents envelop you, making you feel as if you are in a Southeast Asian jungle. A man-made waterfall flows, and large palm leaves hang overhead, creating a sense of peace as if the noise of the city has completely vanished. I was also impressed that this place is not just a 'flower viewing spot'.

Throughout the garden, there are exhibits about plant ecology and environmental conservation, making it an educational experience for families with children. In fact, local school students often visit for field trips or classes, making it an excellent place to learn about natural sciences.

And don't forget the Rose Garden. With over 650 varieties of roses, this place is truly a paradise in June. Each rose has its own unique color and fragrance, reflecting the time and care put into it.

I visited early in the morning and couldn't help but stop to take photos. Another charming point is the walking path along the Bronx River. Walking along the tree-lined path, the sounds of flowing water and the wind create a soothing atmosphere. It was surprising to experience such tranquility in nature within New York. Most people were quietly walking or sitting on benches reading books, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

Inside the garden, there is a small café and a souvenir shop, making it a nice spot to take a break. Sitting on the grass with a cup of coffee, you can easily lose track of time. On weekends, you can often see couples taking wedding photos or having ceremonies, making it a romantic place as well. The admission fee is about $35 for adults, but there are also times when it is free for New York City residents every Wednesday, so you can enjoy it without burden if you take advantage of that.

The Bronx Botanical Garden is not just a simple park; it is a special space that makes you reflect on the relationship between nature and people in the city. When you want to pause and catch your breath amidst a busy life, there is no better place than this.

By the time I left, I felt my mind clear and my heart lighter. So, whenever I think of New York, the lush trees and calm river of this place come to mind before the dazzling Times Square. Perhaps the fact that such a beautiful garden breathes within the rough image of the Bronx is the true charm of the city of New York.