“Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light.” - Theodore Roethke.

Once a year, hundreds of tree peonies put on a spectacular show at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve in Westchester County, NY.

This garden had been on my bucket list for a while, but it wasn’t until last spring that I got to witness the breath-taking beauty.

Mind you, I was fortunate to live in an apartment with an amazing peony garden on the property a few years ago, but these tree peonies are other-worldly. It’s hard to tell in the photos, but some of the blooms were as big as my head!

These ethereal beauties were so captivating that I visited three times in one week as they approached peak bloom around mid-May.

Taking in the vibrant colors, the sweet fragrance, the delicate ruffles…connecting with nature in this way filled me with much needed hope and joy, especially after my surgery.

I highly recommend visiting the Rockefeller State Park Preserve in May to see the tree peonies in bloom. It’s truly a sight to behold.

Good to know:

• The garden is located right next to the visitor’s center and art gallery at the entrance to the Park - you can’t miss it!

• The entry fee is $6 per vehicle - or go after 4:30pm, it’s free.

• Last spring, we visited on May 11th, 15th, & 17th - with the 15th being peak bloom. Keep an eye on the RSPP Instagram for updates - looks like it may be an earlier bloom this year.

Can’t visit the garden in person? I’Ve GOt you - check out the free downloads below or purchase a print!