As someone who has recently become enamored with flowers, through my pandemic hobby of “urban” gardening, I find solace and joy in the vibrant colors and delicate scents of one of nature’s most beautiful creations. I think there’s something magical about strolling through a garden or even walking down the street, surrounded by blossoms that perfume the air with their sweet aromas.

Nestled amongst the commotion of the city, The New York Botanical Garden truly is a paradise for flower enthusiasts and people that are looking for peace. I chose to visit The Botanical Garden on a particularly rainy Monday for my impromptu wellness day from work, which, in itself, brought upon a particular stillness and freshness— I’ve always loved the way trees and plants smell during and after rain storms. The Botanical Garden is 250 acres of pathways and side-gardens to explore, but the main purpose of my visit was the The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion.

“Florals in Fashion” is a lively display of vibrant colors and detailed petals. The exhibit starts with a brief taste of what’s coming before you move on to the greenhouse.

Stepping into the greenhouse felt like an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. With each deep breath, I took everything in. As you wind through the greenhouse, you will come across so many varieties of orchids and other plants. One major highlight for me was stumbling upon a serene room that housed a fountain—a perfect spot to pause and soak in the warmth.

As I continued my exploration, each turn revealed new wonders and opportunities for learning. Finally, I reached the highlight—the stunning and stylish creations crafted from flowers and other greenery. While undeniably innovative, they served as a reminder that nature itself is the ultimate innovator in the grand tapestry of existence.

And here’s the best part: if you’re located in the New York City area, getting to the New York Botanical Garden is a breeze. Just hop on the Metro-North from Grand Central Station, and in about 20 minutes ($5, one way, off-peak), you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature’s beauty. I was coming from Brooklyn, so this was about a 2-hour trek using public transportation; however, Metro-North definitely made the trip easier and worth it!

The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion is on display until April 21.

The New York Botanical Garden is located at 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY.

P.S. I tried something new this time and only shot with my iPhone. I like the results!