Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
4.8(11,068)4.8 out of 5 stars, 11068 reviews Columbus, OH
About Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers a unique blend of art and nature, featuring stunning Chihuly glass pieces integrated into beautiful botanical displays, making it a visually captivating experience for families.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families looking for a relaxing and educational outingAll ages, with specific appeal to young children due to the butterfly exhibitIdeal for families with children aged 3-12 who enjoy interactive and nature-based activities
Why families love it
- Chihuly glass art installations throughout the gardens
- Interactive butterfly exhibit allowing close encounters with butterflies
- Diverse climate areas showcasing tropical and desert plants
- Beautifully maintained outdoor grounds and themed gardens
- Friendly and helpful staff enhancing the visitor experience
- Butterfly exhibit for hands-on learning about nature
Insider tips
- Plan your visit around special exhibits like Blooms & Butterflies for the best experience
- Take your time to explore each climate area; it's designed to be enjoyed slowly
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enhance the experience
Good to know before you go
- Visiting during peak holiday seasons when crowds may diminish the experience
- Expecting a fully interactive children's area if the canopy is closed
- High admission price of $106 for a family visit, perceived as not providing enough value
- Children's garden and canopy area closed during visit despite good weather
- Some visitors felt there wasn't enough to see for the price compared to other attractions
- Crowds
- Can get busy during holiday seasons and weekends; consider visiting on weekdays
- Value
- Admission is $106 for a family, which some reviewers felt was high considering the experience. The value may be better for those specifically interested in botany or art rather than casual visitors. No discounts mentioned for closed exhibits.
What parents say
"Visited from out of town, strictly for the Chihuly exhibit! Loved the entire experience. Beautiful botanical gardens with Chihuly glass pieces perfectly intertwined. Friendly staff and a lovely gift shop. A relaxing must see experience!"
a week ago
"Hands down stunning experience to go to. This is a beautiful place that needs to be taken in slowly. They have different climate areas that show the wild tropic plants and dessert depiction and the grounds outside are magnificent. The palm house is a place you just want to linger in and stay. They had their butterfly exhibit when I went and I highly suggest trying. They also have stunning permanent art structures of Dale Chiuly throughout. Their Bonsai trees are stunning and they also sell them. Their gift shop is very nice also. This is a Columbus gem."
a month ago
"Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful escape right in the heart of Columbus. The variety of plant collections, seasonal displays, and themed gardens make it an enjoyable experience for all ages. One of the highlights is the butterfly exhibit—it’s a truly magical experience to walk among dozens of colorful butterflies fluttering around you. It’s especially neat for kids, offering an up-close look at nature in a fun and interactive way. Overall, it’s a great spot for families, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a relaxing and educational day out."
3 weeks ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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