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Conservatory of Flowers: A Victorian Gem

Explore a world of exotic plants in a stunning Victorian greenhouse, a historic landmark in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park.

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The Conservatory of Flowers, located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, is a historic greenhouse and botanical garden. Completed in 1879, it's the oldest building in the park and one of the first municipal conservatories in the U.S., housing a diverse collection of rare and exotic plants.

A brief summary to Conservatory of Flowers

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Tuesday of the month for free admission, but be prepared for larger crowds.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Check the Conservatory's website for information on special exhibits and events.
  • Wear layers, as temperatures inside the Conservatory can be warm and humid.
  • Take advantage of the free Golden Gate Park Shuttle to reach the Conservatory from other points in the park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the N-Judah light rail or the 5-Fulton bus to Golden Gate Park. From the east bay, take BART to a San Francisco station, then transfer to the N-Judah or 5-Fulton. Several other bus lines also serve the Gardens, including the 7, 43, and 44. A single ride on Muni costs $3.

  • Walking

    From other attractions within Golden Gate Park, such as the Japanese Tea Garden or the California Academy of Sciences, the Conservatory of Flowers is easily accessible by foot. Follow John F. Kennedy Drive northeast; it's a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes.

  • Ride Share

    Request a ride to the intersection of Nancy Pelosi Drive and JFK Drive, or Bowling Green Drive and JFK Drive, the closest drop-off points. From there, it's a short walk to the Conservatory. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft estimate a fare of $23-$28 from the Ferry Building.

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Discover more about Conservatory of Flowers

Step into a world of exotic flora at the Conservatory of Flowers, a stunning Victorian-era greenhouse nestled in Golden Gate Park. This architectural marvel, completed in 1879, is not only the oldest building in the park but also the oldest remaining municipal wooden conservatory in the United States. Originally commissioned by wealthy businessman James Lick for his private estate, the conservatory was purchased by a group of prominent San Franciscans after his death and donated to the city. Its design is believed to be patterned after London's Kew Gardens, featuring a grand central dome and arched wings constructed primarily of redwood and glass. Inside, you'll discover a lush paradise teeming with over 1,700 species of rare, exotic, and endangered plants from more than 50 different countries. The conservatory is divided into several galleries, each showcasing different ecosystems, from lowland tropics to highland tropics, aquatic environments, and a potted plants gallery. Don't miss the nightly light show, 'Photosynthesis,' which illuminates the Conservatory with colorful visuals and music after sunset. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse plant collection, the Conservatory of Flowers offers a tranquil escape and a captivating glimpse into the world of botany.

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