Our Trip to the New York Botanical Garden Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is one of those classic winter experiences in New York City. We recently made the trip to the Bronx to see it before the season ended, and while there were some highlights, it’s probably not something we’ll repeat. Still, it was a memorable outing, and I’ve got plenty of tips to share if you’re planning a visit.
The Exhibit: What to Expect
The Holiday Train Show showcases model trains running through miniature scenes of New York landmarks, crafted from natural materials. The attention to detail in the scenes is incredible, but it’s definitely more appealing to adults and older kids who can appreciate the craftsmanship. If you’ve got younger children, like we do, you might find they’re less engaged—especially since they can’t play with the trains.
For us, the highlight wasn’t the trains but the gardens themselves. The rainforest section was a particular favorite. It felt like an escape to a tropical paradise, especially on a dreary winter day. Be sure to check out the elevated platform—climbing up the stairs gives you a treehouse-like view that’s worth the effort. The desert area, with its impressive cacti, and the carnivorous plants exhibit were also big hits with our kids.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
Delicious salad for lunch!
Strollers Are Not Allowed in the Exhibit. If you’re visiting with little ones, keep in mind that strollers are not permitted inside the train show exhibit. There’s a monitored stroller parking area available, but you’ll want to bring your stroller for the rest of your visit. The walk from the parking lot to the exhibit is fairly long, so plan accordingly.
Parking. As of January 2025, the NYBG parking garage is closed to day parkers. Fortunately, there’s a secure parking lot onsite with plenty of spots. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Manhattan or other parts of the city, Metro-North is an excellent option. The Botanical Garden station is directly across the street from the entrance, making it super convenient.
Dining Options. The on-site restaurant offers a children’s menu and both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor area is enclosed and heated, so it’s comfortable even in chilly weather. We found the food to be surprisingly good, with options that satisfied both adults and kids.
Customer Service. One of the challenges we faced was getting information ahead of time. The NYBG’s phone lines were almost impossible to reach, and we ended up doing a dry run the day before to figure things out. If you’re planning a visit, don’t hesitate to ask for help from staff on-site—they were much more accessible in person than over the phone.
Final Thoughts
While we’re glad we experienced the Holiday Train Show, it’s not likely to become an annual tradition for our family. The gardens themselves, however, are a different story. They offer a peaceful escape and plenty of educational opportunities for kids and adults alike. If you go, keep these tips in mind to make the most of your trip.
Have you been to the Holiday Train Show at NYBG? I’d love to hear your thoughts or any tips you might have for future visitors. Share your experiences in the comments below!
The Bow Bridge… in the Bronx!
