Skip to content

August: Splish, Splash, Explore!

As we near the end of Summer, August continues to surround us with nature, beauty and most of all, exploration! This month’s theme is Splish, Splash, Explore! There is so much to see and do this month including events, classes and special programming.

Please note: Conservatory Explore Nights are evening experiences occurring after General Admission and require Special Engagement tickets.

Events & Programs

More To do

Stay in Touch

Know Before You Go

admission rates   Become a Member  View Map

Splish, Splash, Explore! Events & Programs

Here are water-themed events and programs to add to your calendar.

The grand opening of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory Saturday, May 19, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio. The 2-acre garden encourages children to connect with nature. (Jay LaPrete/AP Images for Franklin Park Conservatory) Conservatory Explore Night: Splish, Splash, Explore! August 5 | 5-9pm | Special Engagement Admission Required

A rare opportunity to explore the Conservatory at night, these special engagement summer themed evenings will feature music, family fun activities, a scavenger hunt, a cash bar for the adults, food trucks, and all Conservatory amenities, including the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden will be open to explore.
Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden Open Daily | 10am-5pm | Included With Admission

Cool yourself off at the water features in the Children's Garden! Included in General Admission. Water features are open until October 1.
Educational Programs All Month | Daily & Weekly Programs Available | Included With Admission

Dive into Ohio's streams, ponds and lakes and learn about the creatures living in them. Located in the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden. Daily from 10:30am–1pm
August Community Day August 6 | 10am-5pm | Free with Franklin County or Columbus ID

Community Day is the first Sunday of every month. Residents of Columbus and Franklin County receive free General Admission. Identification is required.
Garden Safari June 3-September 10 | 10am-5pm | Included With Admission

Thirty larger-than-life animal topiaries will be on display this summer! Explore the Conservatory Courtyards, Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden and Grand Mallway to discover topiaries filled with plants and colorful moss that mimic the colors and textures of fur, skin, scales and feathers.
Paul Busse Garden Railway June 3- January 7, 2024 | 10am-5pm | Included With Admission

Guests can journey with the trains through a miniature world of 47 botanical models made from all-natural plant material. Special elements to add to your itinerary include an enchanted tree hollow, two waterfalls, a bubbling brook and plantings specific to each themed destination.
Cocktails at the Conservatory - Boardwalk Bash August 17 | 5:30-9:30pm | 21+ | Reservations required

Throw on your swimsuit and pack your cooler: Cocktails at the Conservatory is headed to the boardwalk! We’re throwing a beach boardwalk party and cracking open some beer and seltzers. Tickets are available now and may sell out quickly!

More to do

Open During Admission Conservatory Biomes Experience the planet’s natural diversity in the Conservatory’s biomes. From the arid deserts of the American Southwest to the hot and humid Amazon Rainforest, the biomes allow you to explore these ecosystems right in the heart of central Ohio.
Open During Admission Botanica Gift Shop & Greenhouse Botanica Gift Shop & Greenhouse carries a large variety of species for plant lovers. Pick one up and watch it grow!

Stay In Touch

Follow us on social media or receive our emails to stay up to date on everything happening this month and learn more info about water.

Stay Connected

Join our email list to get exclusive offers and updates on Conservatory events