IDNYC @ BBG FAQs
IDNYC is a free identification card available for all New York City residents. Cardholders are eligible for a wide array of benefits and discounts, all of which are outlined on the IDNYC website.
As of January 1, 2017, Brooklyn Botanic Garden is no longer offering free, one-year memberships to eligible IDNYC cardholders. We were delighted to participate in the first two years of the IDNYC program to help with its successful launch! We encourage cardholders to apply for membership at other cultural institutions across the city participating in the IDNYC program, including museums, zoos, other botanic gardens, and performing arts centers. If you are interested in becoming a BBG member, please visit our membership page for rates and information.
Please note: As a courtesy to cardholders issued their IDNYC card in 2016, the deadline for BBG membership applications has been extended to January 31, 2017.
Here are some frequently asked IDNYC @ BBG membership questions and our answers.
Choose the category that best describes your question:
I already became an IDNYC @ BBG member, and I’m planning my visit…
What can I do during my visit?
With free, unlimited admission to the Garden as a BBG member, you can experience every season at the Garden, from the spectacular blooms of spring to the serene beauty of a snow-covered Garden in winter. You also have free access to Members’ Summer Evenings, the Chile Pepper Festival, and other private and public events. Start by exploring BBG’s 52 acres with a Seasonal Highlights Tour. Afterwards, stroll on your own through the Shakespeare Garden, the Cranford Rose Garden, Cherry Walk, and the new Shelby White and Leon Levy Water Garden. Check bbg.org for hours and admission and Plants in Bloom for must-sees when you visit!
Please help protect and preserve Brooklyn Botanic Garden when you visit: No smoking, climbing trees, or picking flowers or vegetables. With the exception of Members’ Picnic Nights, no outside food or beverages are permitted in the Garden. Scooters and bikes are not allowed on the grounds; please note that bike racks located at each entrance fill up early on busy weekends.
Can I bring my children to BBG with my IDNYC @ BBG membership?
Your IDNYC @ BBG membership includes free admission for children ages 17 and under, so bring your young naturalists and make a day of it! Build a giant bird’s nest together in the Discovery Garden, or pass secret messages back and forth while lounging on the Osborne Garden’s “whispering benches.” BBG offers drop-in family activities, Children’s Garden classes, and much more for kids!
Can I bring guests to the Garden?
Guest passes are not included with an IDNYC @ BBG membership. During regular admission hours, guests will need to purchase a ticket to visit the Garden. To bring a guest free every time you visit, upgrade your membership to Dual or above! Please contact Membership at [email protected] for more information.
I’d like to manage my membership…
How can I upgrade my membership?
Memberships may be upgraded at any time! Level upgrades do not change the expiration date. Members who wish to upgrade within two months of expiration may also choose to simply renew at the higher level. Please email [email protected] for more information.
How do I replace a lost or stolen membership card?
Email [email protected], and we will be happy to replace your membership card. There’s a $5 fee for replacement membership card.
I misplaced my membership card but want to visit the Garden today. Can I still enter for free?
Yes, just stop by one of the admission booths. BBG’s admissions team can look up your information and issue a temporary membership card.
I never received my membership card. What do I do?
Please contact us at [email protected] and include your current address to expedite a replacement membership card.
What other benefits do I receive with my IDNYC @ BBG membership?
Members receive a 10% discount at the Garden Shop, the café, and on adult classes. Learn to paint with the Garden as your inspiration, make botanical jewelry, and master urban gardening with BBG’s adult classes!
More benefits:
- Admission to Members’ Plant Sale Preview
- Subscription to BBG’s Plants & Gardens members’ newsletter
- Privileges at botanic gardens across the country
- Member discounts from local, national, and online merchants
- Borrowing privileges at BBG’s Library
My IDNYC @ BBG membership is about to expire…
How do I renew my membership?
We hope that you’ll fall in love with BBG during your year as a member. There’s always something new to discover in this ever-blooming, ever-changing landscape! Experience the Garden through all four seasons and renew your membership online, in person, or by calling Membership at 718-623-7210. By renewing, you are also supporting educational, community, and children’s programming at BBG. Thank you.
Have another question?
Email us at [email protected].