Central park notwithstanding, New York can certainly feel a bit “urban” from time to time. When you need a green fix (or just some fresh air), our NY sales team recommends heading over to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Since the plot was an ash dump in the late 1800’s, The BBG has developed into a lush 52-acre collection of over 12,000 different kinds of plants. From the Fragrance Garden to the Desert Pavilion, there is something for everyone. The Garden is celebrating its centennial this year.

Our favorite exhibits include the Cherry Esplanade, which is a dream during the spring blossoming season, a fascinating compost exhibit, and the C. V. Starr Bonsai Museum. With 350 specimens, it is considered one of the finest collections of bonsai trees in the world, and one of the largest outside Japan.

When you’re finished, don’t miss a sunny walk across the Brooklyn Bridge back to Manhattan.

The Botanic Garden is open Tuesday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m, Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and closed on all Mondays except for Memorial Day, May 30th, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $10. Hot tip: you can Follow the BBG on twitter to see what’s currently in bloom and plan your visit accordingly.