School and Youth Programs

Blend the Conservatory’s unique resources with a hands-on learning experience and a dose of fun to get your students excited about plants, art and other wonders of the natural world. Conservatory Education programs offer fun plant focused activities to inspire curiosity and ignite learning. Pre-K programs are specifically designed to complement Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards to support school readiness. K–12 programs are aligned with Ohio Standards in the areas of Life Science, Earth & Space Science, and Fine Arts.

Please note: The Children’s Garden will be closed March 2 – 27.

2026 School and Youth Programs

• All educator-led programs are $9/person including accompanying adults.
(The Columbus Arts & culture fee is included in the price)
• Two teachers per classroom are admitted free of charge with registration
• Each program can accommodate a total of 25 guests
• All programs include Conservatory admission for the day
• Each Program is 45 minutes. Pre-K programs are 30 minutes.
• Programs must be booked at least 14 business days in advance
• All tours require a minimum of 10 guests to book

Butterfly Explorers | Pre-K January 4 – June 5 & September 7 – December 11

Engage in the life of a butterfly to investigate metamorphosis, anatomy and symmetry through developmentally appropriate songs, games and movement activities.

Garden Detectives | Pre-K January 4 – June 5 & September 7 – December 11

How do vegetables grow? Explore the science in the gardens and unlock the mystery of where our food comes from through developmentally appropriate activities.

Blooms & Butterflies | K - 5th February 23 – June 5

Discover the wonders of butterfly anatomy, metamorphosis and adaptations, while exploring our Metamorphosis Lab and encountering live butterflies in the Pacific Island Biome.

Carnivorous Plants | K - 8th January 4 – June 5 & September 7 – December 11

Explore the amazing adaptations of “meat eating” plants. Engage in direct observation and team-based play to survive a trip through a carnivorous plant bog!

Bugs & Botany | K-5th September 7 – December 11

Discover the complex relationships between plants and the tiny creatures who help them grow. Observe live and preserved specimens, then create a flower with a “secret” UV message only pollinators can see.

The Nature of Glass | 6th-12th January 4 – June 5 & September 7 – December 11

Investigate glass as a unique material and learn the science behind glassblowing. Explore our collection of glass art by contemporary artist Dale Chihuly, then fuse science with art to create your own “glass” masterpiece.

Biome Exploration | 9th-12th January 4 – June 5 & September 7 – December 11

Venture through the Conservatory’s biomes. Observe key plants from each location, learn their functions and adaptations and discover how they are used by native animals and humans in the region.

Self-Guided Programs We offer self-guided programs. Explore all the Conservatory has to offer including our interior biomes, Children’s Garden and seasonal exhibits! Complimentary activity packets are available to guide and enhance your visit.

• $8 per guest.
• March 1 - May 29
• Arrival time of 10:30am or later
• All tours require a minimum of 10 guests to book

registration form

Auxiliary Programs

NEW! Virtual Programs Franklin Park Conservatory educators will bring interactive programs to your school! Our virtual programs consist of a 45-minute program and a learning extension kit for your classroom. Starting at $200. 30 students max per program. Contact us for additional information and availability.