Get Out of the Cold Without Leaving New York

If the January weather has got you feeling down, we’ve got just the cure. In this week’s blog we explore some of New York’s amazing indoor gardens with their own microclimates, from tropical to desert. Step inside one and enjoy the warm temperatures as you bask in the exotic greenery.

The Frick is known for having one of the most impressive collections of Western European art. Inside the former industrialist millionaire’s home, there is a small indoor area with fountains and green shrubbery under a large skylight. It’s the perfect place for a quick midday stop off for a breath of fresh air (not freezing); it’s also a great place to bring a sketch pad and pass an hour or two. There are additional gardens on the Frick exterior property that are also worth a stop off in spring and summer.

The Frick

1 E 70th St

New York, NY 10021

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is home to five pavilions, including the Desert Pavilion, Aquatic House and Tropical Pavilion. This garden has a tremendous variety of plant life, complemented by waterfalls. You can visit tropical rooms with plants from the Amazon, Madagascar and other tropical regions. Soak up the vibrant birds of paradise, orchids, bougainvillea, and more. And once you’ve had enough of the tropics, head to the dry heat of the Desert Pavillion to catch some colorful cacti blooms.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

455 Flatbush Avenue

Brooklyn, NY 11225

Since 1967 the Ford Foundation Atrium has been home to a verdant subtropical garden, whose airy space gives New Yorkers a respite from the business of the city and the cold of winter. Towering ceilings (160 feet high) allow trees to grow to large heights. The greenery is a stunning breath of fresh air. The atrium also features wandering paths and a quiet atmosphere uncommon in New York. Come for a quick escape or spend the afternoon in admiration.

Ford Foundation Atrium

320 E 43rd St,

New York, NY 10017

If you’re looking for something green to take home with you, stop into Horti PLAY , Williamsburg’s newest greenhouse/plant store, created with the intention of building a community around the new space. It’s among the largest plant stores in New Year with over 5,000 square feet of green. “We’ve designed Horti PLAY as a space where people can drop by for a moment of respite from their day-to-day life and enjoy being surrounded by the calming presence of plants,” Bryana Sortino, Horti co-founder and COO, said in a press release.

At its sunny storefront, you can shop for houseplants that range from the desk dwellers to something more grandiose. Advice from a plant doctor will be available and Horti plans to host apothecary workshops, pop-ups and live performances at the space.

Horti PLAY

432 Rodney Street

Brooklyn, NY

Wave Hill’s Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory, indoor garden and cultural center are an oasis in winter. Wave Hill is located right next to Riverdale park, making it a highly recommended addition to any park stroll.

The Palm House is filled with floral scents and colors and fascinating foliage throughout the cooler months. The Tropical House with rainforest conditions, achieved by hosing down the floor and heating pipes with water two or three times a day—thus maintaining high humidity, is a delicious treat for cold feet. The Cactus and Succulent House is a long, narrow space, with plants from the Americas, including cactus, on the left, and plants from other continents on the right. It is home to more than 1,100 contained-grown plants.

Wave Hill

4900 Independence Avenue

Bronx, NY 10471

*Check ahead with each garden for hours and admission costs.

The Lombardy Hotel’s timeless elegance is iconic to Midtown Manhattan. Our rooms are spacious, comfortable and thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home. We look forward to hosting you on your next visit to New York City.

*Due to Covid-19 our restaurant, cafe and gym will remain closed for a time.