escape from manhattan, ... in manhattan - the lotus garden

Who said you need to go far away for a little escapade from the city?

"Once upon a time back in the sixties, a grand old movie theater stood on the west side of Broadway, north of 96th Street. Eventually, the building fell into such disrepair that it was torn down—leaving an empty lot. Would-be gardeners in the neighborhood took over, planting a riot of flowers in "The Broadway Gardens," while the local politicians, realtors and bankers squabbled over the lot's future." (from The Colombia Condominium website)

The lot became a garage and a bunch of determined Upper West Siders worked for more than a year with the building owner to persuade him to transform the roof of the garage into a neighborhood green space and an amenity that would enhance his building's charms and value.

And there you have it, in a nutshell, the story of The Lotus Garden, a community garden, built on the roof of the garage of the Columbia Condominum, on West 97th Street between Broadway and West End Avenue.

It's a lush urban jungle up there with two fish ponds, fruits trees, herbs, flowers, ...

The garden is accessible on Sundays between 1 and 4 pm. But for a mere $20 you can become a key owner and come whenever your heart desires. Plus, you'll be contributing in helping buy new plants and maintaining this surprising space. I am buying mine!


If you want to learn more about The Lotus Garden, check out their website: www.thelotusgarden.org