New York Botanical Garden’s Edible Academy

New York City isn’t necessarily known for its green spaces, but it should be. The New York Botanical Garden is just one of the impressive spaces dedicated to flora and fauna. With the newly opened Edible Academy, kids and families can join in the educational fun of outdoor space, gardening and nature — even in the Big Apple.

NYBG’s newest endeavor, Edible Academy cost about $28 million and exists as an indoor-outdoor campus designed for children, families, students, teachers and the general public to enjoy as a sustainable garden and greenhouse.

Located a 20-minute drive from Midtown Manhattan, NYBG is a top stop for summer visitors interested in growing, eco-friendly practices and nature. Guests enjoy year-round workshops and gardening courses as well as camps, boasting a unique take on urban greenery with fun educational activities.

Visitors and locals alike join in the fun with daytrips or opt for the full educational experience with weeklong camps and activities. Kids of all ages get down and dirty with hands-on fun and lessons in sustainable growing, cultivating produce for food, lessons in culinary arts and more with hands-on gardening tutorials.

The Edible Academy is a mix of an open-air and high-tech, 5,300-square-foot classroom building. The campus consists of an impressive demonstration kitchen, greenhouse, classroom workspace and outdoor program pavilions. The outdoor pavilions are truly the main attraction for nature-loving visitors.

Check out the two outdoor pavilions, one located treetop level, boasting views of the Bronx River and old-growth forest — as well as a tiered lawn and amphitheater seating 350 guests. Guests roam the spacious gardens while teachers, children and others learn about what’s growing. Kids learn how to grow their own garden at home and gain a deeper understanding in healthy food practices and an appreciation for the work and effort required in food growth and preparation.

Through Nov. 4, even the youngest guests learn the true meaning of reaping what you sow during lessons held Tuesdays–Sundays — check out hours and availability here.

Haupt Conservatory – New York Botanical Garden © Sandra Foyt | Dreamstime.com

Special events include pickling programs, pollinating lessons and educational produce talks, cooking demonstrations, fresh garden tastings and two family weekend series. Check out more fun events, tours and exhibits here before planning your trip.

Check out the entire Botanical Garden with an All-Garden Pass, including grounds admission and seasonal exhibits including the Tram Tour, Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.