Rawlings Conservatory: Victorian Glasshouses, Tropical Palm Rooms & Winter Orchid Oasis

About this adventure

Erected in 1888 inside historic Druid Hill Park, the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory is the second-oldest glass botanic conservatory in the United States. When winter winds howl outside, the conservatory offers families a magical, balmy tropical sanctuary with five distinct climate-controlled glasshouses: the soaring Palm House, the fragrant Orchid Room, the Mediterranean House, the Desert House, and the lush Tropical House. Children are mesmerized by towering banana trees, giant fiddle-leaf palms, blooming bromeliads, exotic hanging pitcher plants, and spiky desert cacti. Paved, flat walkways throughout every glasshouse make navigating with strollers effortless. Benches positioned among the greenery offer peaceful spots for resting and feeding babies, while clean ADA-accessible family restrooms and dedicated free parking directly adjacent to the conservatory ensure a relaxing, warm winter retreat.