The Great Escape: Old Westbury Gardens

Here's our weekly hourly getaway for folks or families who may need some time for themselves now that the hustle and bustle of school is almost over. 

For today's escape we are taking a short drive to a magnificent place - Old Westbury Gardens, only a few towns over, is worth visiting any day of the week.

During the summer and until the early fall this preeminent garden will be chock full of events, some of which occur weekly. 

On Wednesdays at 10:30am head behind the mansion, bearing left, follow a meandering path to the Demonstration Gardens and you will find a Tai Chi class underway performing their moving meditations. On Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:15am, go to the South Terrace lawn for gentle flow yoga.

This weekend's theme on June 24 and 25 will be Midsummer Nights. Friday from 7pm until 10pm, you can enjoy the soothing sounds of jazz while tasting their offerings of wine, microbrews, and appetizers. Saturday from 6pm until 9pm, bring a picnic dinner and watch modern dance reminiscent of Isadora Duncan performed by Dance Visions NY--inspired by Shakespeare's A Midsummer Nights Dream. Bring something diaphanous to wear in the spirit of the moment and make sure to stroll the lantern lined gardens romantically illuminated.

Every Wednesday tote along some dinner and enjoy the Picnic Pops series from June 29 until July 27, arrive by 6:30pm for a dance lesson, the concert will begin afterwards at 7pm.  

On Fridays at 4pm from July 8 until July 12 they are holding Garden Explorers for children ages six through 12. 

Sundays at 3pm from July 10 until the 24th will be West Porch Beech Tree Concerts.  Enjoy classical sounds under the shade of an 150 year-old tree by the Westbury House. 

Here are some singular events that may peak your interest:

July 7 the Astronomical Society will be on hand to guide you through the galaxies along with a flashlight stroll amongst the gardens at their Summer Stargazers event.

July 9 go on a Bat Walk with biologist, Rachel Bricklin from Fordham University at 7pm. 

July 16 have your little one bring a furry plush toy to a Teddy Bear Picnic held in the Cottage Garden. Finger foods, crafts, and games are included in the price.

July 30 learn all about succulents and desert plants at their Some Like it Hot lecture.

If you forgot to pack a picnic or need a food boost, head over to the Cafe in the Woods located in the shade of the North Allee.

Some events require advance registration and the fee for these events always includes the admission price so be sure to check the website for more information and specifications. Besides touring the Phipps estate, don't go home without touring the scenic 200 acres filled with pathways, a pond, pools, fountains, and intricate gardens.

Address: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

Phone: (516) 333-0048