We ask that all guests visit the Conservatory only with members of their immediate households, reserve tickets before visiting, and wear face coverings indoors and outdoors.
Health & Safety ProceduresWe are working with state and local entities to comply with all the guidelines and requirements related to COVID-19. We are monitoring the evolving situation and adapting our policies to
protect the health and safety of our community. It is with your support and cooperation that the Conservatory can remain open. Thank you for keeping the Conservatory a safe place to visit!
Vulnerable Population HoursEvery Thursday, the Conservatory will open at 9am for guests with high-risk considerations, such as seniors or individuals with compromised immune systems.
February 20 to May 31Blooms & ButterfliesEnjoy hundreds of exotic butterflies flying freely through the Pacific Island Water Garden, a warm tropical haven filled with bright nectar blooms.
April 1 to April 30Columbus BloomsMore than 125,000 tulips, narcissus and other stars of the season bloom throughout gardens and container displays in this dazzling celebration of spring.
April 2, 2021 to January 9, 2022Paul Busse Garden RailwayFeaturing nine G-scale model trains that travel through four enchanting botanical landscapes themed after the Wild West, fairytales, European villages, and animal habitats.
January 23 to May 31Bringing Reverence to Nature: An Exploration of Botanicals in PaperThe paper artwork created by Columbus artist Lea Gray is still in bloom in the Cardinal Health Gallery.
On Permanent DisplayChihuly CollectionThe Conservatory’s permanent collection of Chihuly glass artwork remains on view daily. Chihuly Nights are select evenings when the Conservatory will be open 7–10pm.
Resilience In Nature: We Are The Roses That Grew From Concrete In collaboration with All People Arts, Creative Women of Color, Maroon Arts Group and Transit Arts
We believe nature is essential to the human experience, and we recognize that, historically, Black artists have been left out of the narrative. This juried exhibition in the Cardinal Health Gallery strives to connect people with nature while helping build a stronger community and amplifying the voices of Black artists.
The Conservatory is currently seeking submissions from Black artists in central Ohio. Submissions are due April 11.
Experience lush, colorful, summer blooms and whimsical topiaries throughout the gardens and biomes.
Bash at the Conservatory June 25
Enjoy a fresh, socially-distanced take on the Conservatory’s annual Bash at the Barn fundraiser! This year’s Bash expands from the Wells Barn to the entire Conservatory. Guests can explore ten acres of lush outdoor gardens and engaging exhibitions indoors and out.
Bash ticket purchases and sponsorships help support the Conservatory’s horticulture, education and community outreach programs. Space is limited!
Learn about pollinators and all they do for our ecosystems! The event is located in the Scotts Miracle-Gro Community Garden Campus and is free to the public.
March 16, 6-7pmGarden Pest ManagementThis class will explore the concept of Integrated Pest Management and how it can help you tame pest problems in your vegetable garden and home landscape.
March 17, 6–7:30pmThe Sustainable Kitchen: St. Patrick's Day DinnerCelebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a culinary journey. You’ll cook a rustic Irish dinner of lemon parsley baked cod and colcannon—a traditional side dish of mashed potato with sautéed leeks and cabbage. Then toast the end of your journey with a Guinness float and homemade chocolate sauce.
March 18, 7–8pmCookie Decorating with Plenty O’Cookies: St. Paddy’s Day EditionBake up your own batch of sugar cookies before the class and tune in to enjoy an entertaining evening dedicated to the art of cookie decorating!
March 19, 6–8pmPaint & Sip: Butterfly WingGrab a beverage and learn to paint a butterfly wing inspired by the Blooms & Butterflies exhibition. All painting experience levels can participate thanks to Sarah’s step by step instructions.
March 20, 10–11:30amThe Sustainable Kitchen: BrunchIt’s the weekend and you know what that means, time for brunch! Join us to learn how to make the greatest meal of the day (in our opinion!). You’ll cook a leek and prosciutto frittata topped with an arugula salad and moist blueberry muffins accompanied by a refreshing orange mojito.VirtualSign Up
March 23, 6–7:30pmHerb GardeningLearn how easy herbs are to grow. We will discuss the basics of garden design to create a visually pleasing and functional herb garden for your use. Also, we will cover some historical uses of these plants including as. medicine, seasoning, fragrance and display.
March 24, 6–7:30pmThe Sustainable Kitchen: Date NightLearn to cook a date night dinner that’s elegant but so easy to make. It will impress your significant other so much that they won’t be able to wait until you cook again. You’ll be making pecan-crusted chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese and dill, broccolini and citrus vinaigrette and a delicious cocktail.
April 8, 6–7:30pmIncorporating Native PerennialsLearn a step-by-step process to transform urban lawns into native perennial, plant-pollinator beds. Identify which native perennials are best suited to the local environment and about keystone plants that support the survival of pollinators and birds.
April 13, 6–7:30pmComposting 101Whether you live in an apartment, house or on a farm, composting is a convenient and responsible way of getting rid of your vegetable scraps and food waste while creating nutrient-rich topsoil for your garden and potted plants. In this class, we will explore what composting is, how anyone can get started and how to maintain a successful compost bin.
April 20, 27, 18 & May 4, 11 6–8pmSoil Health 101 (4 week course)Learn about soil from an expert! The first course is an introduction to soil, the second is on soil health and function, the third is about cover crops, and the final course is on soil and water quality.
May 18, 6–7:30pmWorm Bin WorkshopWorm bin composting, also known as vermicomposting, offers a unique and responsible solution for disposing of food waste utilizing the power of worms! In this hands-on workshop, we will cover the science behind composting with worms, build a worm bin and discuss best practices to keep worms working for you.VirtualSign up
Host Your Event At The ConservatoryLove is always in bloom at the Conservatory! The botanical gardens are a gorgeous location for your special day. Our outdoor venues are perfect for a romantic ceremony and our indoor venues allow for a destination-style wedding experience.
Now booking weddings and receptions in 2021 and 2022.
On View Now Through Late OctoberBonsai CollectionA rotating selection of trees from the Conservatory’s Bonsai Collection will be on display in the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse and the Bonsai Courtyard.
Included in general admission and special engagementsPlan A Visit
January 20, 8amMembers Only Retired Orchid SaleMembers can shop a limited selection of orchids that have retired from the Orchids exhibition. In order to prioritize safety, reservations must be made to shop between 8am and 12pm.
April 2, 2021 to January 9, 2022Hot ShopThe Hot Shop, the Conservatory’s Glass Blowing Studio returns to offer daily glass-blowing demonstrations, classes, and personal sessions.
April 2, 11am-2pmTrain Sand ArtCelebrate the return of the Paul Busse Garden Railway exhibition by creating a train-themed sand art necklace. Supplies are limited.
DonateStudies show that spending time in nature has physical and mental health benefits. Through our natural displays, community outreach and access programs, the Conservatory is uniquely positioned to address the added stress felt by so many recently.
VolunteerBe a part of an organization you love! Opportunities are available all year throughout the organization: visitor experience, horticulture, education and exhibitions.