Things to see and do
From gorge hikes to garden strolls, Cornell Botanic Gardens is yours to explore. To make the most of your visit, browse seasonal highlights, suggested experiences, and upcoming events.
Hours and Admission: Our gardens and natural areas are open free of charge, every day, year round from dawn to dusk. Nevin Welcome Center operating hours: Tuesdays through Sundays, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Parking: The parking lot for the Nevin Welcome Center and surrounding gardens is a Cornell University metered lot. Rates are $1.50 per hour from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays for up to three hours. Payment is taken by using ParkMobile only (there is no working payment machine on site), location Cornell University zone 4120. Visitors are not required to pay to park during evening hours and on weekends.
Parking lots in the F. R. Newman Arboretum, Mundy Wildflower Garden and other off-campus natural areas are free. View interactive map to search for parking locations.
Find out more information on our Visitor FAQ page.
Seasonal Highlights
With over 500 varieties of herbs, this garden is used by faculty from many disciplines to enhance their teaching and research.
This intimately-scaled, hemlock-shaded, streamside garden displays moisture-loving plants that cannot be grown well elsewhere at Cornell Botanic Gardens.
The iconic Cascadilla Gorge Trail passes through one of the most picturesque gorges in the Finger Lakes Region.
What’s in Bloom
Depending on the time of year, find out which areas are at their peak and plants we don’t want you to miss.
Suggested Experiences
View recommendations for ways to experience Cornell Botanic Gardens that match your interests and time frame.
Upcoming Events
Find out what's happening during your visit. We offer guided tours, gardening workshops, botanical art classes, lectures, and special events throughout the year.
More for your visit
Bring your class, garden club, civic organization or other group and explore our gardens and landscapes with a guided tour.
Cornell Botanic Gardens is part of one of America's most beautiful and renowned university campuses.
What's available on site and in walking distance of the Nevin Welcome Center.