New York Botanical Garden Train Show

Step into a winter wonderland at the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show, where G‑scale locomotives chug along half a mile of track through nearly 200 botanical replicas of New York City landmarks. From the grandeur of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory to a festive outdoor display, this beloved holiday tradition delights visitors of all ages.

Why you should attend the Holiday Train show at New York Botanical Garden?

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Miniature New York City landmarks

Witness model trains traversing intricate recreations of New York’s architectural treasures; everything from the Brooklyn Bridge to the original Penn Station; crafted from leaves, seeds, twigs, and bark.

Glasshouse glow and lawn lights

Enjoy both a warm, indoor spectacle within the glasshouse galleries and a twinkling outdoor display on the Conservatory Lawn.

Festive after-dark train nights

Holiday Train Nights transform the show after dark with festive lighting, curated cocktails, and hands-on activities for all ages.

Family fun for all ages

With roaming conductors, photo ops, and kid‑friendly vignettes, it’s a perfect holiday outing for grandparents to toddlers alike.

Know before you go

Enid A Haupt Conservatory at New York Botanical Garden with tropical plants and glass dome.

Enter through the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory (2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458); follow “Holiday Train Show” signage. | Find on Maps

Person in a wheelchair at Universal Studios Singapore.

Fully wheelchair‑accessible paths; complimentary wheelchair loan available on a first‑come, first-serve basis.

Man holding a DSLR camera, preparing for photography.

Personal photography is encouraged; tripods and professional shoots require advance approval.

Hot chocolate with whipped cream in a mug beside a basket of sliced baguette.

Warm up with hot cocoa or seasonal treats at the Pine Tree Cafe, Hudson Garden Grill, and Spruce Bar. Browse the Shop in the Garden for exclusive holiday gifts and train‑themed souvenirs.

Minivans lined up for Athens airport transfer service.

Limited metered parking; Metro‑North’s Botanical Garden station and BxM4 bus deliver you steps from the entrance.

Insider tips to make the most of the Holiday train show

Timed tickets: Choose a timed slot and arrive 15-30 minutes early to skip lines and be ready when your window opens.
Members: NYBG members get daytime Holiday Train Show access but must reserve a timed spot in advance.
Changes & refunds: Tickets are non-refundable; exchanges may be possible but depend on availability; change early.
Hours & last entry: The show is seasonal with varying hours; check the event page before you go; last entry is typically before closing.
Accessibility: Pathways are wheelchair-accessible; ask Visitor Services about borrowing a manual wheelchair (first-come).
Photography: Personal photos without flash are fine; tripods or commercial/permit shoots require prior NYBG approval.
Programs & Train Nights: Look up the schedule for demos, artist talks, and adults-only or all-ages after-dark Train Nights.
Best time: Aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons for smaller crowds; avoid peak holiday days.