Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a secluded oasis of natural beauty in the heart of Columbus. This dynamic attraction features a carefully curated selection of plants, trees, wildlife and artwork in a sprawling and lush garden park. Natural exhibitions change from season to season while exotic indoor plants can be seen year-round in the conservatory. Spot some of the feature sculptures dotted around the park or learn about the many different species living here through the informative garden displays.
This quiet, tree-lined area offers a relaxing refuge from the busy city beyond the Franklin Park gates. Explore the gardens by wandering along the 1-mile (1.6-kilometre) walking path that loops around this green space. Laze about on the carefully manicured lawns or sit by the pond and count lily pads. Visit the John F. Wolfe Palm House, a grand Victorian-style glass greenhouse with 43 species of palms from around the world.
Explore the conservatory to see rare and exotic tropical plants housed within the Himalayan, rainforest and desert-themed gardens. Two precocious macaws live in the Rainforest Biome, so make sure you’re willing to share your snacks! Beautiful ferns and tropical coconut and banana trees grow in the Pacific Island Water Garden. In spring, hundreds of tropical butterflies make this garden their home.
Take some time to relax in the rooftop Zen Terrace and Grove gardens. Stop by the Garden Café for lunch and a cup of coffee to get you ready for your return to busy city life.
Franklin Park Conservatory is located 2 miles (3 kilometres) east of downtown Columbus and is open daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas days. Tickets include admission to see a selection of temporary and permanent artworks on display in the gardens. Admission times are subject to change dependent on weather, so check ahead before planning your visit. Come in the spring and summer to see a full array of colourful blooms or visit in winter to escape from the cold and snow to the warm, tropical paradise inside.
