Franklin Park Conservatory - a tropical getaway in our backyard

 

Spring has only just started, and in Ohio, that could still mean snow in the forecast.  But after a long winter, some times we just want to get away!  A tropical vacation sounds perfect until you see how much it costs.  But lucky for us, we have a little tropical getaway spot right in Columbus and it only costs $13!

Franklin Park Conservatory opened in 1895 as part of the city beautiful movement.  It was inspired by World's Fair designs and includes 88 acres of public park with gardens, a lake, paths, and of course the beautiful greenhouse!  Step inside and you'll forget it still feels like winter outside... in fact, you might want to check your coat at the door because you'll be down right hot!

 

 

Every time we visit the conservatory the orchids are always in full swing and are incorporated into every room.  There's the mountainous region, desert, tropical, palm house, and a rotating exhibit, currently Blooms & Butterflies (one of my favorites!).  

 

We seriously thought about having our wedding in the Palm House when we looked for a venue.  The room was under renovation though and it worked out for the best because I imagine it gets pretty toasty in June in a greenhouse with tuxes.  :)

 

 

Although one of the smaller rooms, the desert is always fascinating to me.  How such large plants can survive on such little water... and can also produce things like aloe and agave nectar... amazing!

    

As someone with their own butterfly garden, I could have stayed for hours in the Blooms and Butterflies exhibit!  (I also never wanted to leave after being in the warm humidity again.)  We stayed long enough to hear about some of the species they collect for the exhibit and saw the twice-daily release of more butterflies (recently escaped from cocoon status).  I think butterflies are just so interesting in general... changing from a mere bug crawling slowly on the ground to a beautiful butterfly that can fly many miles.  

 

Besides an escape from Ohio weather, Franklin Park hosts several events including Asian Festival, fundraisers (like Hat Day), kids activities, plant sales, and field to table events.  Definitely a fun place to visit and forget how cold it is outside!