NYBG Rebuilds the Skyline From Plant Parts

The Holiday Train Show returns to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory at the New York Botanical Garden from November 14, 2026, through January 10, 2027. Model trains pass nearly 200 landmark replicas. Look closely for palm fronds, pinecones and cinnamon sticks in their construction, then compare the rooflines with the buildings you know. One Vanderbilt joins the display this season, a tapered glass and steel tower rebuilt in plant parts, the newest skyline recast as botanical work.

Regular weekdays sell a date-only general admission ticket, with no assigned time. Weekends and peak dates sell timed entry every 15 minutes. On those days you can reach the Garden up to an hour early, but you must be in line at the Conservatory at the time printed on your ticket, and entry is not guaranteed for anyone who arrives after their designated entry time. A 49 dollar Flex ticket guarantees entry if timed slots sell out and works for arrival any time before 4:30 PM. You join the next entry time on arrival, and skip the line access is not included. Adults pay 35 to 39 dollars depending on the date, seniors and students 31 to 35, children aged 2 to 12 pay 25 to 27, under twos free. A Grounds Access Pass does not include the Conservatory. Check your date on the purchase page.

Take the Metro North Harlem local from Grand Central to Botanical Garden station, about 20 minutes, then use the Mosholu Entrance at 2950 Southern Boulevard. A City Ticket costs 5.25 dollars off peak or 7.25 dollars at peak. Through 2026 the station overpass is closed, and the walk back to the southbound platform follows detour signs past the Bedford Park Boulevard bridge and the parking garage. Allow 10 to 15 extra minutes to reach that platform. The Garden opens 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday plus select Monday holidays. The Conservatory stays open until 8:00 PM with last entry at 7:15 PM on November 27 to 29, December 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 26 to 30 and January 2. November 21 and January 9 run sensory friendly mornings from 9 to 11 AM, with trains and waterfalls on and videos and music off.