The New York Botanical Garden wants the "botany bug" to take a bite out of city kids—and its latest renovation project is proof.
After roughly two years of construction and planning, the venue will reopen its newly remodeled Edible Academy to provide youngsters with a much-needed bucolic escape from skyscrapers and subways. To welcome the new indoor classrooms, cooking facilities and 350-seat terraced amphitheater, greenhouse and scenic pavilion, NYBG will host a kick-off event this weekend with projects, music and of course, healthy eating. Regardless of the event on the Garden's calendar, one thing's for certain: This attraction is meant to expose little ones to nature and all-things green.
Photograph: Courtesy New York Botanical Garden / Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects
"All of the programs we do, whether they're science-focused or edible education-focused, are about getting kids off their phones and outdoors," James Boyer, the vice president for children's education at the New York Botanical Garden says.
There's certainly a lot to look forward to with these nature-inspired adventures, including camps (which kick off July 7), after-school workshops and even courses for educators about maintaining a school garden (School Gardening 201, which takes place from July 30–Aug 4).
NYC kiddos, it's time to get your hands dirty in the garden! This green experience is not to be missed.
Sign up to receive great Time Out New York Kids deals in your inbox each day.
Want to spend more time outdoors? Visit the best nature centers in NYC, swing by these fun kids' playgrounds and get in the water with free kayaking in NYC.