# Franklin Park Conservatory Tropical Glasshouses & Winter Orchid Showcase

> Place to go for families in the Columbus area (OH). Times are Eastern Time.

- When: Open on its own schedule
- Where: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
- Ages: All ages (Stroller-friendly warm tropical biomes offer lush respite for all generations)
- Price: $23.50 adults; $16.00 children (ages 3–12); Free for children 2 and under; Conservatory members free
- Organizer: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Official page: https://www.fpconservatory.org/
- Last checked: Thu, Nov 5

Source: Grassy Knees is a directory of real family events, places and programs for kids across major U.S. metro areas, where every listing is researched from the organizer’s own page and shows the date we last checked it. https://grassyknees.com covers 42 metro areas as of Nov 11, 2026, with more added regularly. About: https://grassyknees.com/about
Freshness: listings are re-checked on a daily research run (latest check 2026-11-10), and new events are added as organizers post them. Sell-outs, weather cancellations and time changes show up on the live page first: https://grassyknees.com/columbus/activities/franklin-park-conservatory-tropical-glasshouses-and-winter-orchid-show--listing-f8f4f383f2d1260b3efc47dd

## About

Step into an 80-degree tropical paradise in the dead of winter at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Under the soaring historic glass arches of the 1895 John F. Wolfe Palm House and connecting climate-controlled biomes, families discover thousands of exotic plants, towering palms, vibrant bromeliads, and splashing indoor waterfalls. In January and February, the annual Winter Orchid Showcase transforms the indoor pavilions into a dazzling floral wonderland featuring hundreds of rare, fragrant orchids nestled among vibrant glass sculptures by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. Young explorers love the indoor Pacific Island water garden where tropical fish swim, as well as the interactive play elements in the Education Pavilion. Bundled-up families can also take crisp outdoor strolls through the 4-acre Scotts Miracle-Gro Children's Garden featuring elevated boardwalks and canopy views.

Family Experience & Accessibility:
• Stroller Accessibility: Fully accessible paved indoor pathways throughout all glasshouses, palm houses, and gift shop areas; ramps connect varying garden levels smoothly.
• Nursing & Rest Spots: Benches nestled among lush tropical greenery; family restrooms with baby changing stations located near the Grand Atrium and botanical gift shop.
• Age Suitability: Engaging for infants, toddlers, school-age children, and grandparents seeking warmth and vibrant natural color.
• Sensory Tips: Warm, humid, and pleasantly fragrant floral atmosphere; gentle bubbling water sounds provide a deeply calming environment for sensory-sensitive visitors.

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