Hours
Cornell Botanic Gardens is closed until further notice, including access to public restrooms.
Location
The Brian C. Nevin Welcome Center is located at 124 Comstock Knoll Drive, Ithaca New York, 14850.
Get DirectionsGardens near the Welcome Center
Comstock Knoll and Rhododendron Collection
Explore over 100 varieties of rhododendrons and a rich mix of shrubs, trees, and herbaceous perennials on this small hill.
Young Flower Garden
Explore a collection of flowering plants that hold symbolic meaning by cultures around the world.
Groundcover Collection
Around the Lewis Building, find a variety of herbaceous perennials ideal for shady or sunny gardens.
About the Nevin Welcome Center
Opened in 2011, this LEED gold certified building is home to our visitor services staff, a gift shop with light refreshments, art displays, interpretive exhibits, restrooms, and a multipurpose room.
Garden Gift Shop
Our Garden Gift Shop offers a unique selection of garden and plant themed items as well as Cornell Botanic Gardens apparel and accessories including t-shirts, hats, water bottles, mugs and more. Grab-and-go refreshments are also available.
Nevin Welcome Center use
The welcome center is used for Botanic Gardens events and limited use by others at Cornell.
Who was Brian C. Nevin?
The Nevin Welcome Center is named for Brian C. Nevin ’50, at the request of a gift from C. Sherwood “Woody” Southwick.
Exhibits and Events
Displays of art and interpretive exhibits are featured in the welcome center lobby. Many events occur here as well.
Exhibit
Unique Plants from UCLA’s Mathias Botanical Garden by Kathleen M. Rasmussen
Unique Plants from UCLA’s Mathias Botanical Garden by Kathleen M. Rasmussen on display at the Nevin Welcome Center.
Current Exhibit
Ash Trees: A Story of Relationships, Loss, and Hope
This exhibit showcases how the invasive Emerald Ash Borer has upset the intricate relationships ash trees have with the world around them, including how the loss of these trees has impacted Haudenosaunee communities.
Events
View upcoming classes, workshops, and special events.