Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful 130-year-old historic garden oasis in the heart of one of Columbus’ most diverse neighborhoods. The gardens are a public garden, free to all visitors who want to explore the beauty and splendor of seasons past.
A short history of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens:
In 1870, Franklin Park was established as a National Historic Landmark. In 1879, the park commissioners began constructing a greenhouse to protect plants throughout cold winters. Later additions were made through the years and in 1966, The Benjamin Franklin Memorial Conservatory opened its doors to visitors of all ages from around Ohio and beyond. Today it is home to over 16,000 plants.
The greenhouse is home to over 15 different gardens representing various climates and regions of the world. Each section has its unique theme including desert, tropics, aquatic house (fish), rock garden (Chihuly glass sculptures) cactus house (contains a large collection of succulents) as well as a children’s garden, seasonal gardens, and the historical section.
The Conservatory is especially popular during the holidays as it offers a unique display of poinsettias (December) and an impressive all-bloom holiday flower show that includes traditional themes such as Santa’s workshop, Nutcracker displays, and over 25 larger than life gingerbread houses.
Mini Zoo
In addition to the Conservatory, The Franklin Park Children’s Zoo was added in 1927. Today it contains a wide variety of animals from all over the world including tigers, lions, wolves, and bears as well as reptiles such as snakes and lizards. The zoo plays host to various events throughout the year including Brew at the Zoo (fundraiser), Boo at the Zoo (Halloween event), and Breakfast with Santa.
As far as educational opportunities are concerned, Franklin Park is home to over 100 different types of events for all ages. Popular examples include classes on gardening, art initiatives such as flower arranging, free lectures, and walking tours.
Expansion
The Conservatory is currently undergoing a $22 million expansion to add: an indoor garden featuring plants from the tropics and desert regions of Africa, Asia, and America; an outdoor butterfly house with over 25 species of live butterflies in their natural habitats; additional children’s exhibits such as a mirror maze and a treehouse; and an outdoor amphitheater.
Located at 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a place where visitors can enjoy year-round beauty and quiet reflection.
Franklin Park is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm every day except Wednesdays when it closes at 2:30 pm. It has been designated as an official American Garden by the American Association for State and Local History.
