Columbus' Franklin Park Conservatory is one of Columbus' best kept secrets located just east of Olde Towne East, four blocks away from The Broadwin Condominiums:

Franklin Park Conservatory is a botanical jewel located on East Broad Street in Franklin Park, just two miles east of downtown Columbus, Ohio. Ninety acres of outdoor green space, 400 plant species, 100 butterfly species, 800 feet of model railroad track, 7,000 panes of glass, and 100 years of tradition make Franklin Park Conservatory one of Columbus's most popular and unique destinations for residents and visitors of all ages.

In 1895, the Conservatory opened its doors as a premier destination for horticulture, social events, and education. Today that mission continues as this historic botanical garden and cultural institution nurtures plants and people through distinguished plant collections, botanical gardens, special exhibitions, and engaging educational opportunities.

The Conservatory boasts several greenhouses that replicate some of the world's most beautiful and diverse biomes. Visitors can explore a cool Himalayan Mountain, a tropical rainforest, an arid desert, and an inviting Pacific Island Water Garden and see rare botanical specimens and animals native to each habitat. In the historic Palm House and Showhouse, the Conservatory also showcases significant bonsai, orchid, and palm collections.

Franklin Park Conservatory is honored to be the only botanical garden in the world to own a permanent signature collection from internationally acclaimed glass artist Dale Chihuly. As part of its unique focus on combining horticulture with fine arts, the Conservatory unites nature's beauty with Chihuly's vibrant Chandeliers, Niijima Floats, Persians, and other forms. For more information about the Chihuly Collection, click here.

Situated in a 90-acre urban park, the Conservatory is surrounded by winding paths through expansive pastoral green spaces, flower gardens, and cascading waterfalls. The park is free and open to visitors year-round. During a visit to the Conservatory, families can picnic in the shelter house, walk the carriage paths, play in the playground, and enjoy the changing displays of seasonal color.

Visit the Franklin Park Conservator Web site