The Franklin Park Conservatory is a hidden gem in Columbus, OH. You would be amazed at how many people have lived here their entire life and have never been. It’s great for families and a place that, while always familiar, seems to offer something new each time you go. There are over 400 plant species from around the world in different biomes including a Desert Biome, Himilayan Mountain, and our favorite, the Rainforest Biome. What’s really nice is that you can go in any weather as there are inside and outside attractions. Let’s explore!
Currently they have a bonsai exhibit, which our kids loved even though they did not get any of the karate kid reference jokes I made. Total waste of good material. Some of the bonsai trees were over 50 years old! There were tree’s inside and outside in various courtyards. There is also a Chihuly glass art collection. Unfortunately they have cancelled the glass blowing demonstrations for the year due to Covid. When this comes back, though, it is always a family favorite. My middle daughter could stay there all day watching them make vases, glasses, plates and other beautiful creations.
Next thing to talk about are the biomes. We love the Rainforest Biome. In the spring there are butterflies all around. You can see the cocoons and if you are lucky, can even see butterflies come out of their cocoons and spread their wings for the first time. Climb up the steps to the tree house for a birds eye view of the whole room! The desert biome is probably our next favorite, but watch the kiddo’s. No matter how many times you tell them not to, they always want to touch the cactus!
We recently discovered things to do outside of the conservatory building. There is an entire kids park to play on! I do have to commend the staff there. In one section they have kaleidoscopes that look down at flowers and are very cool. They had people stationed right by it wiping it down after kids explored, so they are doing their best to keep everyone safe! There is a splash pad for the little ones. Later this summer there will be a multi-level train exhibit outside that we are definitely going back for!
There is a gift shop on site and a few options for food. A food truck was parked outside when we were there and it looked like the outdoor cafe was open. The inside cafe was closed. In the past we have brought our own picnic lunch and ate in the open area by the cafe.
To wrap up, great day trip, rain or shine there is a lot to do. It’s an economical option as you can bring your own lunch and if you get the family pass, you can go multiple times in the year. For more information check out their web site at https://www.fpconservatory.org/ . For more pictures, check out our album on Facebook.