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Conservatory of Flowers: A Victorian Jewel

Discover a world of rare and exotic plants inside this iconic Victorian greenhouse in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco.

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Step into a tropical paradise at the Conservatory of Flowers, a stunning Victorian-era greenhouse in Golden Gate Park. Home to over 2,000 species of rare and exotic plants from around the world, this living museum offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the fascinating world of botany.

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.
  • San Francisco residents receive free admission with proof of residency.
  • Allow at least 1.5-2 hours to fully explore the Conservatory's diverse plant collections.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding Golden Gate Park, including the nearby Japanese Tea Garden and Botanical Garden.
  • Check the Conservatory's website for information on special events, exhibits, and workshops.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, the N-Judah light rail or the 5-Fulton bus are convenient options. The N-Judah will require a transfer to another bus line. The 5-Fulton bus will drop you off near the park entrance on Fulton Street and Arguello Boulevard, from which it is a short walk to the Conservatory. A single ride on Muni costs $3.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Golden Gate Park, follow John F. Kennedy Drive to the northeast side of the park. The Conservatory of Flowers will be on your left. Note that on Sundays, JFK Drive is closed to vehicular traffic, making walking and biking more accessible.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    Request a drop-off at the intersection of Nancy Pelosi Drive and JFK Drive or the intersection of Bowling Green Drive and JFK Drive, which are the closest to the Conservatory. Be aware that JFK Drive is car-free. From Fisherman's Wharf, a taxi to the Conservatory will cost approximately $23-$28.

  • Parking

    Limited street parking is available on John F. Kennedy Drive and Conservatory Drive. Parking is also available in the Music Concourse Garage, located near the California Academy of Sciences, about a 10-minute walk away. Access to the garage is from Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive or Fulton Street at 10th Avenue. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $5-6 per hour. Note that on Sundays, no driving or parking is permitted on JFK Drive near the Conservatory.

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Discover more about Conservatory of Flowers

The Conservatory of Flowers, a captivating landmark in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, invites visitors to explore a world of rare and exotic plants within its elegant Victorian-era glasshouse. Completed in 1879, it stands as the oldest building in the park and one of the first municipal conservatories in the United States. This architectural gem, constructed primarily of wood and glass, showcases a diverse collection of flora from tropical and aquatic environments. Originally commissioned by James Lick, a wealthy San Francisco businessman, the conservatory was intended for his private estate. However, Lick's death led to the sale of the unconstructed conservatory, which was then gifted to the city by a group of prominent citizens. Since its opening, the Conservatory of Flowers has charmed generations with its stunning displays and serene atmosphere. Inside, visitors can wander through a series of galleries, each recreating different ecosystems. The Lowland Tropics gallery immerses you in a steamy jungle environment, while the Highland Tropics gallery replicates the cool, misty cloud forests of tropical mountaintops. The Aquatic Plants gallery features a mesmerizing collection of water lilies and carnivorous pitcher plants. The Conservatory has faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including fires, storms, and earthquakes. A particularly devastating windstorm in 1995 shattered much of the glass and damaged the plant collection. However, thanks to dedicated restoration efforts, the Conservatory was restored and reopened in 2003, continuing to serve as a beloved cultural and botanical landmark.

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