Explore the Thain Family Forest, the largest remaining tract of old-growth forest in New York City, and immerse yourself in the magnificent colors of fall foliage. See the Forest from a different perspective with a scenic canoe trip down the Bronx River and spot birds that call this woodland home. Tree-climbing demonstrations, guided tours, and more make for an unforgettable autumn experience. Get tickets.
Tours of the Thain Family Forest
Daily
Meet at the Forest Orientation Point
Themed discovery walks of the Forest take place throughout each day. Wear comfortable shoes and seasonal attire for the weather.
Raptors: Live Birds of Prey Demonstrations
Daily; 1 & 3 p.m.
Across from the Native Plant Garden entrance
Hawks, owls, and falcons deftly swoop through the air, alert for prey. Their unique design and deadly talons place them at the top of the food chain. Learn how to identify these birds while gaining a greater understanding of their adaptations and habitats.
Bird Beat-Boxing
Daily; 12 & 2 p.m.
Across from the Native Plant Garden entrance
Amateur "bird-boxer" Ben Mirin entertains with a twist on traditional bird calling, integrating modern beat-boxing into his method of attracting birds.
Woodcrafting Demonstration
November 2 & 9
Near the Thain Family Forest entrance on Azalea Way
Watch Ivan Braun create unique wooden bowls from the Garden's fallen trees and learn about the art and value of this craft. Take home one of his unique creations from Shop in the Garden.
Citizen Science at the Garden
Daily, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Throughout the Forest
NYBG volunteers have been tracking the tree cycles of leaf, flower, and fruit development for more than five years. They will help you look closer at the trees within the Forest, giving you an entirely new perspective while exploring the trails. Learn more about how you can be part of this ongoing project at Citizen Science.
Canoe Trips on the Bronx River
Daily; 11 a.m., 12, 1, 2, & 3 p.m.
Limited spaces available; first-come, first-served basis
Sign up at the Waterfall Trail Canoe Portage
Enjoy a short paddle on the Bronx River with the Bronx River Alliance and experience the beauty of this reclaimed local gem, home to an incredible variety of fish, birds, and even beaver! The Alliance works toward the conservation of the river as an ecological, economic, and community resource.
Tree Climbing Demonstrations
Daily; 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 p.m.
Near the Thain Family Forest entrance along Azalea Way
Find out what it's like to take care of the Forest's trees! Watch an arborist climb to amazing heights and get a new perspective on the Garden. Sign up for a class on November 9, during which you can climb a tree too! Visit nybg.org/adulted for more information.
For Families: Tree-rific Trees
November 1–15
In the Everett Children's Adventure Garden
See the enormous tree cookies of a giant sequoia and a white oak, and participate in other hands-on fun. Dig deeper into the magnificent world of fall trees, from roots to branches, and learn to think like a scientist while tracking the changing colors of the leaves!
