2026 Public Tours
Much of the garden slopes towards the Hudson River, which provides beautiful views along our tour paths, but requires walking uphill to return to the garden entrance. Be sure that you are wearing appropriate shoes and clothing for climbing stairs and walking along uneven gravel or chip pathways.
- Tours cover uneven ground (except the Easy Walking Tour) so wear sturdy shoes.
- We recommend that you bring water and wear a hat and sunscreen.
- Purchase your tickets in advance to ensure a spot and to be notified of any changes. Click on the image or link to go to the ticket page.
- Tours will meet at the Welcome tent near the Cola Community Center.
- Your guide will have a check-in list of people for your tour, there is no need to print a copy of your receipt.
- THANK YOU for registering for our tours. Guided tours are an important way we raise money to restore the gardens.
Garden Tours: Every Sunday at 11:00 a.m., April 19 through October
Garden Tours are offered every Sunday at 11:00 AM with a rotating theme: President's Tour, History, and Seasonal Highlights. Specialty Tours are offered occasionally and can be found below the Public Tours on this page.
VIP PRESIDENT'S TOUR
Sunday, May 24, 2026
10:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., $50 per person, plus Eventbrite fees
Explore all of Untermyer Gardens with Conservancy founder and President, Stephen F. Byrns.
Now in its 15th year of restoration, Untermyer Gardens’ 43 acres are more captivating than ever. On this special extended tour, Stephen F. Byrns, President and founder of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, will guide you through all the beautifully restored and newly created garden spaces. As the visionary behind the gardens’ transformation, Mr. Byrns brings unparalleled knowledge of their history, design, and architecture, offering a truly engaging and insightful experience.
The tour begins at the Walled Garden, leading you down the Vista to the remnants of the Color Garden, where you’ll pause for a relaxing break with light refreshments. From there, you’ll descend through the Ornamental Vegetable Garden and Orchard, explore Rhododendron Walk, and discover the Ruin Garden.
You’ll walk along the Carriage trail to the Stumpery—the newest garden, on its way to becoming a true woodland fantasy—and then climb the hill to the Temple of Love before ending at the Rock and Stream.
During the tour, you will navigate the 136 steps of the Vista and traverse unpaved trails, woodland paths, and areas of grass and gravel. As such, this tour is for those who are comfortable walking more than 1 mile up and down stairs and hills, and sturdy shoes are a must.
Sunday, May 24, 2026
10:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., $50 per person, plus Eventbrite fees
Explore all of Untermyer Gardens with Conservancy founder and President, Stephen F. Byrns.
Now in its 15th year of restoration, Untermyer Gardens’ 43 acres are more captivating than ever. On this special extended tour, Stephen F. Byrns, President and founder of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, will guide you through all the beautifully restored and newly created garden spaces. As the visionary behind the gardens’ transformation, Mr. Byrns brings unparalleled knowledge of their history, design, and architecture, offering a truly engaging and insightful experience.
The tour begins at the Walled Garden, leading you down the Vista to the remnants of the Color Garden, where you’ll pause for a relaxing break with light refreshments. From there, you’ll descend through the Ornamental Vegetable Garden and Orchard, explore Rhododendron Walk, and discover the Ruin Garden.
You’ll walk along the Carriage trail to the Stumpery—the newest garden, on its way to becoming a true woodland fantasy—and then climb the hill to the Temple of Love before ending at the Rock and Stream.
During the tour, you will navigate the 136 steps of the Vista and traverse unpaved trails, woodland paths, and areas of grass and gravel. As such, this tour is for those who are comfortable walking more than 1 mile up and down stairs and hills, and sturdy shoes are a must.
UNTERMYER GARDENS HISTORY TOUR
CHOOSE FROM THESE 2026 TOUR DATES: April 19, May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2, August 30, September 20
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
Learn the history of this magnificent estate as you explore the gardens on this 60-minute tour. Welcome to the Untermyer Gardens history tour, a guided tour led by one of our expert volunteer docents. This tour covers the Walled Garden, its Lower Terrace, and additional garden areas such as the Temple of Love, and the top of the Vista. The route may vary according to the interests and abilities of the group. For an easier route, please register for one of our Easy Walking Tours.
Throughout the tour, you will learn about the rich history of Untermyer Gardens, beginning with its origin in 1862. The tour will take you through the estate's three owners, emphasizing its world-famous heyday during the Untermyer years, its decline after 1940, and the remarkable restoration efforts that have been ongoing since 2011 to the present day. The tour will also highlight the remarkable architecture of the gardens, with an emphasis on Samuel Untermyer and his wife Minnie, and their place in early 20th century history. You will learn about their contributions to the gardens, which are regarded as some of the most beautiful and intricate in the world. Our knowledgeable docents will take you on a journey through time, where you will gain insight into the cultural and historical significance of the Untermyer Park and Gardens. So, come join us for an educational and engaging tour that is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for this magnificent estate.
Please wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
CHOOSE FROM THESE 2026 TOUR DATES: April 19, May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2, August 30, September 20
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
Learn the history of this magnificent estate as you explore the gardens on this 60-minute tour. Welcome to the Untermyer Gardens history tour, a guided tour led by one of our expert volunteer docents. This tour covers the Walled Garden, its Lower Terrace, and additional garden areas such as the Temple of Love, and the top of the Vista. The route may vary according to the interests and abilities of the group. For an easier route, please register for one of our Easy Walking Tours.
Throughout the tour, you will learn about the rich history of Untermyer Gardens, beginning with its origin in 1862. The tour will take you through the estate's three owners, emphasizing its world-famous heyday during the Untermyer years, its decline after 1940, and the remarkable restoration efforts that have been ongoing since 2011 to the present day. The tour will also highlight the remarkable architecture of the gardens, with an emphasis on Samuel Untermyer and his wife Minnie, and their place in early 20th century history. You will learn about their contributions to the gardens, which are regarded as some of the most beautiful and intricate in the world. Our knowledgeable docents will take you on a journey through time, where you will gain insight into the cultural and historical significance of the Untermyer Park and Gardens. So, come join us for an educational and engaging tour that is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for this magnificent estate.
Please wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
UNTERMYER GARDENS HISTORY TOUR: Beyond the Walled Garden
CHOOSE FROM THESE 2026 TOUR DATES: May 31, July 26, August 23, September 6
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
Welcome to this Untermyer Gardens special history tour, a 60-minute guided tour led by one of our expert volunteer docents.
Venture down the hill with one of our expert volunteer docents to explore some of the lesser-known areas including the Ruin Garden, Rhododendron Walk, Color Garden remnants, Vegetable Garden and Orchard. Follow the Carriage Trail through the woodlands to see the Circular Fountain and Stumpery, then finish your tour at the Temple of Love, with spectacular views of the Hudson River. This route is moderately strenuous and covers a little less than 1 mile with a 182-foot vertical descent and ascent.
Throughout the tour, you will learn about the rich history of Untermyer Gardens. The tour will emphasize the estate's world-famous heyday during the Untermyer years, its decline after 1940, and the remarkable restoration efforts that have been ongoing since 2011 to the present day. The tour will also highlight the remarkable architecture of the gardens, with an emphasis on Samuel Untermyer and his wife Minnie, and their place in early 20th century history. You will learn about their contributions to the gardens, which are regarded as some of the most beautiful and intricate in the world.
During the tour, you will walk up and down stairs and along uneven paths, so we recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat. Please note that strollers are not advised for this walking tour.
SEASONAL HIGHLIGHTS GARDEN TOUR
CHOOSE FROM THESE 2026 TOUR DATES: April 26, May 10, June 21, July 19, August 9, September 27, October 11
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
Come and see what's in bloom at Untermyer Gardens on this one hour walking tour throughout the gardens!
Experience the breathtaking beauty of our lavish plantings on this 60-minute tour which will take you to the most stunning flowers and gorgeous plants in the gardens.
Our expert volunteer tour guides will highlight the seasonal beauty of the garden: discussing the monumental architecture, elements of garden design in general and of Untermyer Gardens in particular, plants in bloom, and stunning plant combinations. You will witness the magnificence of the garden as it transforms through the seasons. In the spring, you will be enchanted by the vibrant colors of the profuse flowers, while in the summer, lush foliage will transport you to a world of tranquility. In the fall, the garden will be painted with warm hues, framing the picturesque views of the Hudson River.
During the tour, you will walk up and down stairs and along uneven paths, so we recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat. Please note that strollers are not advised for this walking tour.
CHOOSE FROM THESE 2026 TOUR DATES: April 26, May 10, June 21, July 19, August 9, September 27, October 11
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
Come and see what's in bloom at Untermyer Gardens on this one hour walking tour throughout the gardens!
Experience the breathtaking beauty of our lavish plantings on this 60-minute tour which will take you to the most stunning flowers and gorgeous plants in the gardens.
Our expert volunteer tour guides will highlight the seasonal beauty of the garden: discussing the monumental architecture, elements of garden design in general and of Untermyer Gardens in particular, plants in bloom, and stunning plant combinations. You will witness the magnificence of the garden as it transforms through the seasons. In the spring, you will be enchanted by the vibrant colors of the profuse flowers, while in the summer, lush foliage will transport you to a world of tranquility. In the fall, the garden will be painted with warm hues, framing the picturesque views of the Hudson River.
During the tour, you will walk up and down stairs and along uneven paths, so we recommend wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat. Please note that strollers are not advised for this walking tour.
EASY WALKING TOUR
2026 TOUR DATES:
Saturdays: May 2, July 25, September 12
Sundays: June 28, July 12, August 16, October 4,
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
This leisurely 60-minute walking tour led by one of our expert volunteer guides will cover the Walled Garden and Lower Terrace, including the newly-restored Persian Pool with its intricate sea creature mosaics and Temple of the Sky with its restored Medusa mosaic. All the paths are flat stone dust, and there are ramps that allow access to the Amphitheater and the Temple of the Sky. There are no hills to climb.
Throughout the tour, you will learn about the rich history of Untermyer Gardens, beginning with its origin in 1862. The tour will take you through the estate's three owners, emphasizing its world-famous heyday during the Untermyer years, its decline after 1940, and the remarkable restoration efforts that have been ongoing since 2011 to the present day.
The tour will also highlight the remarkable architecture of the gardens, with an emphasis on Samuel Untermyer and his wife Minnie, and their place in early 20th century history. You will learn about their contributions to the gardens, which are regarded as some of the most beautiful and intricate in the world. There will be some limited discussion of the horticulture but the magnificent plantings will mostly speak for themselves.
2026 TOUR DATES:
Saturdays: May 2, July 25, September 12
Sundays: June 28, July 12, August 16, October 4,
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m.; $15 per person
This leisurely 60-minute walking tour led by one of our expert volunteer guides will cover the Walled Garden and Lower Terrace, including the newly-restored Persian Pool with its intricate sea creature mosaics and Temple of the Sky with its restored Medusa mosaic. All the paths are flat stone dust, and there are ramps that allow access to the Amphitheater and the Temple of the Sky. There are no hills to climb.
Throughout the tour, you will learn about the rich history of Untermyer Gardens, beginning with its origin in 1862. The tour will take you through the estate's three owners, emphasizing its world-famous heyday during the Untermyer years, its decline after 1940, and the remarkable restoration efforts that have been ongoing since 2011 to the present day.
The tour will also highlight the remarkable architecture of the gardens, with an emphasis on Samuel Untermyer and his wife Minnie, and their place in early 20th century history. You will learn about their contributions to the gardens, which are regarded as some of the most beautiful and intricate in the world. There will be some limited discussion of the horticulture but the magnificent plantings will mostly speak for themselves.
PRESIDENT'S TOUR
Sunday, June 7, 2026
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., $25 per person, plus Eventbrite fees
Are you ready to experience the exquisite beauty of Untermyer Gardens like never before? Then join the President of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, Stephen F. Byrns, on a 90-minute walking tour that will take you on a journey through the gardens as seen through his expert eyes.
As the driving force behind the restoration of Untermyer Gardens, nobody knows the gardens better than Mr. Byrns himself. With his vast knowledge of the history, design, and architecture of the gardens, he will provide you with a unique and captivating perspective that will leave you in awe.
During the tour, you will traverse down the 136 steps of the Vista and make your way up a woodland path to the Temple of Love. As such, we recommend wearing sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven in some areas. Please note that strollers are not advised for this walking tour.
If you're a lover of Yonkers history, architecture, or just appreciate the beauty of a wonderfully restored garden, this tour is a must. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the gardens with the President of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this magnificent treasure.
Sunday, June 7, 2026
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., $25 per person, plus Eventbrite fees
Are you ready to experience the exquisite beauty of Untermyer Gardens like never before? Then join the President of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, Stephen F. Byrns, on a 90-minute walking tour that will take you on a journey through the gardens as seen through his expert eyes.
As the driving force behind the restoration of Untermyer Gardens, nobody knows the gardens better than Mr. Byrns himself. With his vast knowledge of the history, design, and architecture of the gardens, he will provide you with a unique and captivating perspective that will leave you in awe.
During the tour, you will traverse down the 136 steps of the Vista and make your way up a woodland path to the Temple of Love. As such, we recommend wearing sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven in some areas. Please note that strollers are not advised for this walking tour.
If you're a lover of Yonkers history, architecture, or just appreciate the beauty of a wonderfully restored garden, this tour is a must. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the gardens with the President of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this magnificent treasure.
SUNSET TOUR
Select Thursdays, June 18, July 16, August 13, September 17
Times vary; $20 per person plus Eventbrite fees
Experience the rare and magical time between the end of the day and the beginning of night, while the garden is closed to the public. Enjoy a guided evening stroll from golden hour to dusk, beginning in the Walled Garden, then taking in the view from the Vista, and ending at the Temple of Love. You'll notice changes in the light, lengthening shadows, and plants that look their best in the evening. There will be time for photographs and relaxation.
Select Thursdays, June 18, July 16, August 13, September 17
Times vary; $20 per person plus Eventbrite fees
Experience the rare and magical time between the end of the day and the beginning of night, while the garden is closed to the public. Enjoy a guided evening stroll from golden hour to dusk, beginning in the Walled Garden, then taking in the view from the Vista, and ending at the Temple of Love. You'll notice changes in the light, lengthening shadows, and plants that look their best in the evening. There will be time for photographs and relaxation.
Specialty Tours 2026
Occasional Specialty Tours in 2026 will include Bird Walks, Fungi Tours, Plant Walks, and Sunset Tours. They will be listed here by date.
SPRING FUNGI WALK
Saturday, May 23, 10:00am - 11:30am; $20 per person plus Eventbrite fees
Walk through the wilder areas of Untermyer Gardens searching for spring fungi.
Our world would not be the same without fungi! There are a vast variety that inhabit our ecosystem and provide us with many things including food, decomposers, and even bioluminescence. They have a profound effect on our landscape. During this fungi walk we will discuss major specimens that can be found in the springtime northeastern landscape. The spring is one of the most bountiful seasons for foraging and has many types that arise with the warming temperatures. Furthermore, we will discuss major tree specimens where foraged fungi can be easily found and harvested, because if you know your trees, you'll know your fungi!
Dress appropriately for the weather. We will be walking on uneven ground, flights of stairs, grass, gravel, and wood chip paths, so WEAR STURDY SHOES. Consider wearing a hat and sunscreen and bringing water with you.
Instructor Vincent Galatolo is the Director of Plant Health of the Horticulture Division at New York Botanical Garden. He started his journey in horticulture at Clemson University and completed a fellowship at Claude Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France and Morris Arboretum in PA. Prior to arriving at NYBG, Vincent worked at Rock Cobble Farm in CT. One of Vincent’s biggest passions aside from plant health is fungi production and foraging. He has spent over a decade cultivating a wide variety of fungi and foraging in the northeast.
Saturday, May 23, 10:00am - 11:30am; $20 per person plus Eventbrite fees
Walk through the wilder areas of Untermyer Gardens searching for spring fungi.
Our world would not be the same without fungi! There are a vast variety that inhabit our ecosystem and provide us with many things including food, decomposers, and even bioluminescence. They have a profound effect on our landscape. During this fungi walk we will discuss major specimens that can be found in the springtime northeastern landscape. The spring is one of the most bountiful seasons for foraging and has many types that arise with the warming temperatures. Furthermore, we will discuss major tree specimens where foraged fungi can be easily found and harvested, because if you know your trees, you'll know your fungi!
Dress appropriately for the weather. We will be walking on uneven ground, flights of stairs, grass, gravel, and wood chip paths, so WEAR STURDY SHOES. Consider wearing a hat and sunscreen and bringing water with you.
Instructor Vincent Galatolo is the Director of Plant Health of the Horticulture Division at New York Botanical Garden. He started his journey in horticulture at Clemson University and completed a fellowship at Claude Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France and Morris Arboretum in PA. Prior to arriving at NYBG, Vincent worked at Rock Cobble Farm in CT. One of Vincent’s biggest passions aside from plant health is fungi production and foraging. He has spent over a decade cultivating a wide variety of fungi and foraging in the northeast.
TOTALLY TREES TOUR
Saturday, June 6, 5:00pm - 7:00pm; $25 per person plus Eventbrite fees
Join arborist, educator and tree enthusiast Levi O'Brien to explore the world of trees at Untermyer
You don’t need to be a gardener, naturalist or scientist to appreciate the trees all around you. Embark on an entertaining and educational walk through the beautiful formal gardens and woodland carriage roads of Untermyer Gardens as you discover the historical importance, cultural meaning, ecology, biology and horticulture of some amazing trees. Learn to observe and appreciate trees holistically across their many dimensions, and pick up some foundational skills of tree identification along the way. With an eclectic collection of historic estate trees, woodland remnants, and unusual cultivars of natives and non-natives, Untermyer Garden is the perfect place to connect to trees!
Levi O’Brien is an arborist/garden consultant, an expert on all things tree and wood related and, above all, an educator. He is on faculty at the New York Botanical Garden, a Graduate student at SUNY ESF studying Forest Pathology, and a green-woodworker. He spends most of his time avidly pursuing knowledge about dendrology, horticulture, ecology, arboriculture, and wood history and use, in order to make it available to the public.
Saturday, June 6, 5:00pm - 7:00pm; $25 per person plus Eventbrite fees
Join arborist, educator and tree enthusiast Levi O'Brien to explore the world of trees at Untermyer
You don’t need to be a gardener, naturalist or scientist to appreciate the trees all around you. Embark on an entertaining and educational walk through the beautiful formal gardens and woodland carriage roads of Untermyer Gardens as you discover the historical importance, cultural meaning, ecology, biology and horticulture of some amazing trees. Learn to observe and appreciate trees holistically across their many dimensions, and pick up some foundational skills of tree identification along the way. With an eclectic collection of historic estate trees, woodland remnants, and unusual cultivars of natives and non-natives, Untermyer Garden is the perfect place to connect to trees!
Levi O’Brien is an arborist/garden consultant, an expert on all things tree and wood related and, above all, an educator. He is on faculty at the New York Botanical Garden, a Graduate student at SUNY ESF studying Forest Pathology, and a green-woodworker. He spends most of his time avidly pursuing knowledge about dendrology, horticulture, ecology, arboriculture, and wood history and use, in order to make it available to the public.
Calendar: Click on any date to expand the calendar and see what is happening that day.