Are you tired of the damp cold weather? It’s time to discover the warm, inviting gardens of faraway lands at your closest indoor botanical garden.
Step inside the garden oasis and awaken your senses to the lush green foliage, soothing sounds of water, tropical blooms, cacti, and a feathered friend may fly close by. The gardens are alive and thriving year-round and provide the perfect respite from the damp cold weather.
Indoor botanical gardens play a central role in the study and conservation of plants and their role in the world’s ecosystems. These magnificent gardens under glass allow the trained and the untrained observer to appreciate and discover more about our world.
Discover four outstanding indoor botanical gardens in Ohio.
- Cleveland Botanical Gardens: Weave through the Madagascar Glasshouse and experience a world-class collection of animals and exotic plants, including “upside-down” trees and a chameleon or two. The Costa Rico glasshouse will transport you to a lush rainforest of towering trees and tropical vegetation.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Located just two miles from downtown Columbus, this conservatory showcases extensive gardens and collections of biomes. The magnificent Victorian-style greenhouse dates back to 1895, and the floral displays change with the seasons. The historic greenhouses take you from the arid deserts of the American Southwest to the pulsating Amazon Rainforest.
- Irwin M. Krohn Conservatory: The Conservatory was established in 1933 in Eden Park in Cincinnati. The conservatory is nationally recognized and showcases more than 3,500 species of plants from around the world. Inside you will discover the Fern House, Palm House, Desert House, Orchid House, a Bonsai Gallery, and a Floral Showroom.
- The Conservatory at Miami Hamilton: The Conservatory operates as an instructional and research program of Miami University. Their extensive collection of plants and interpretive programs are open year-round and free for the public. They host a series called “Learn it at Lunch,” available in person and on zoom.
While the earth is waking from winter’s slumber, stroll through new lands and explore the unique and exciting world under glass at one of these beautiful indoor gardens today.
Various classes, workshops, and events for all ages are available. Check out their websites for further information and operating times.
