Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Welcome Center_CREDIT Paul g. Wiegman

Spring is a symbol of renewal and growth when the first blooms bring expectation and excitement. Something is always in bloom at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This Pittsburgh landmark, famous for its glasshouse structures, was a gift to the city from Steel magnate Henry Phipps in 1893. The philanthropist wanted to create a space where people could learn about plants and nature. Though grand for its time, renovations and additions made over the years turned the Phipps into the impressive botanical garden it is now.

The Orchid Room at Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens_CREDIT Paul g. Wiegman

Phipps Conservatory is home to several themed rooms, from tropical rainforests to desert landscapes. The 12,000-foot, 60-foot-high Tropical Forest Conservatory is a must-see, especially this spring when the exhibit “Tropical Forest Panama” is unveiled. Visitors will experience this biodiverse country through lush native vegetation. The sound of various species of monkeys will fill the air as you explore the Panama ecosystem. This sensory delight will take you on a journey where you’ll see live poison dart frogs, whip scorpions, and hissing cockroaches. Your Panama adventure begins at the ranger station, where you’ll prepare for the journey ahead. Tropical Forest Panama open on March 1.

Children’s Camps at Phipps Conswervatory and Botanical Gardens CREDIT_Phipps Staff

In addition to all the indoor gardens, the conservatory features outdoor gardens, including the Japanese Courtyard Garden, the Children’s Discovery Garden, and a rooftop edible garden where visitors can get inspiration for their vegetable gardens.

The Spring Flower Show, “A Bloom for Every Room,” runs from March 22 through April 20. As with previous spring flower shows, the event highlights the quintessential flowers of spring, but this year, the Phipp is changing things up, with every room showcasing a different bloom. Each room will feature eye-catching displays celebrating the season’s beauty. Tulips, pansies, and lilies are among the flowers that will take center stage during the show.

Throughout the spring special exhibits will delight guests. In March Garden Railroad: Movie Magic brings the movie lot to live with whimsical scenes from several movie genres like science fiction, horror, westerns and more. The trains pass through miniature movie sets where you’ll hear an explosion amidst a bank robbery, see a helicopter flying above to shoot a horror movie featuring mushroom zombies. In addition to the amazing exhibits, the conservatory offers adult education programs that cover a variety of topics including gardening, culinary arts, nature talks, and more Children’s Story Hour and the Play Farmers’ Market are designed to engage children in a fun and informative environment.

Center for Sustainable Landscapes at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens_CREDIT Paul

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden is more than just a beautiful attraction; it also plays a role in environmental conservation and education, offering programs for visitors of all ages. The Center for Sustainable Landscapes at the Conservatory is one of the greenest buildings in the world and the first and only building to meet seven of the highest green certifications. It generates all its energy and treats all storm and sanitary water captured on-site.

There are so many things to see and do at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, from the Butterfly Forest to the Planets Earth exhibit, it is recommended that guests plan on at least a 2-hour visit.

All the gardens are wheelchair accessible except for the Stove Room. The conservatory also practices sensory inclusivity. The guides are educated in recognizing and assisting those experiencing sensory overload. For more information on sensory inclusivity at the Phipp, a “Know Before You Go Guide” is available on the website.

Broderie-Room at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens_CREDIT-Paul-g.-Wiegman-scaled.jpg

Hours:
Monday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission (at press time):
Adults – $22.95
Seniors (Ages 62+) – $20.95
Students (Ages 19+) – $19.95
Children 2 – 18 – $13.95
Members and Children Under 2 – Free (members, please bring valid photo ID)

Address:
1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Via GPS, use 700 Frank Curto Drive

Phone: 412-622-6914

www.phipps.conservatory.org