With its charming Victorian architecture and lush gardens filled with exotic plants from around the world, the Conservatory of Flowers is an elaborate greenhouse located in Golden Gate Park that seeks to enthrall and educate visitors about the world of horticulture. Featuring approximately 1,700 species, the conservatory is home to many rare and often endangered plants you'd have a hard time finding elsewhere.
Parking and public transportation at the Conservatory of Flowers
Most parking within Golden Gate Park is free, but spaces are usually limited, much like everywhere else in San Francisco. Also be aware that many of the park's roads are closed to automobiles on Sundays and major holidays. Several Muni buses provide service to the conservatory and is your easiest option to get there if you don't want to deal with the headache of parking.
Best and worst time to go to the Conservatory of Flowers
If you want to avoid the admission fees the conservatory is free to all visitors on the first Tuesday of every month. Weekdays generally see smaller crowds than on weekends. The conservatory is closed on Mondays, except for Memorial Day, July Fourth, and Labor Day. Don't go on a Sunday if you're planning on driving, unless you don't mind a little walk into the park.
Admission to the Conservatory of Flowers
Adults are charged $8; youth ages 12-17, seniors above the age of 65, and college students with ID pay $5; children ages 5-11 are charged $2; and children 4 and under are free. Prices are reduced for San Francisco residents who show ID.
Must see/do at the Conservatory of Flowers
The conservatory has revolving special exhibits that are immensely popular, so check their website to see what is currently being featured. The Lowland Tropics collection has plants that become some of our favorite foods such as banana, chocolate, cinnamon, and coffee.
Other places to visit near the Conservatory of Flowers
If you hadn't done it before going into the conservatory you'll definitely want to explore the three-mile area that makes up Golden Gate Park. The park is home to a number of museums including the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum.
Insider tip for visitors to the Conservatory of Flowers
The weather in San Francisco is generally on the cooler side most of the year, but the environment inside the conservatory is much hotter. After all, it is a giant greenhouse. Be prepared for temperatures to exceed 85 degrees. Also take note there are no bathrooms in the conservatory, so guests must use bathrooms located outside in the park.
Author's bio: Dennis Biles is a freelance journalist who was born and raised in the Bay Area. When he's not writing he can often be found losing his mind at Oakland A's games in the Right Field Bleachers.