Horticulture has been a major part of the history of Snug Harbor. Ever since it was founded in 1977, the Staten Island Botanical Garden has been constantly evolving. From its initial plantings of its English Perennial border to the addition of the New York Chinese Scholar's Garden to its merging with Snug Harbor Cultural Center, this cultural assimilation of gardens should be a "must visit" on every tourist's list.

Nestled within the grounds of Snug Harbor are several beautiful gardens all serving different purposes for the community. The botanical gardens at Snug Harbor consist of displays that represent the variety of flora that can be manipulated by man to conform to what is desired, be it aesthetic or functional. Throughout history, gardens have reflected some of the tastes of the periods and the ways in which man saw his relationship to nature. Remaining true to this purpose, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden has created a number of gardens which include representations from particular periods along with contemporary styles. In presenting them to the public, these gardens are enjoyed for their own qualities, used as educational tools, or as backdrops to events.