If you'd like to visit a rain forest and a desert on the same day while in Cincinnati, head to a perennial favorite, Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park. There you can see more than 3,500 species of plants that have come from around the globe to grace this Art Deco-era conservatory built in 1933. The Krohn began with greenhouses, which were established in the 1880s, and has grown to include not only the conservatory, but educational programming and special exhibits that attract visitors of all ages.
Attend special seasonal shows that take place throughout the year at the Krohn. These include the annual Christmas Holiday Floral Show and the spring International Butterfly Show, which in 2009 featured butterflies from India and in 2010 displayed butterflies from Japan. In 2011, the Butterfly Show presented 16,000 butterflies from Brazil that flew around freely in a Carnival-themed atmosphere.
Visit during the hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Hours vary during special events. Permanent exhibits at the conservatory are free for visitors, but there is a charge for special shows.
Orient yourself at the Cincinnati Parks Visitor Center in the lobby of Krohn Conservatory. Look at the conservatory map to plan your day.
Check out the major exhibits in the conservatory. The Palm House, with its 20-foot waterfall, boasts a tropical climate, as does the orchid house and the indoor rain forest with its many ferns. The bonsai collection features dwarf trees and shrubs, and a tour of the desert garden yields prickly cactus plants and yuccas as well as more than 1,000 other dry-climate plants.
Take classes at Krohn's Conservatory. Choose from educational programming or guided tours. Classes are posted online.
Rent out the conservatory for special occasions. Provide a floral backdrop for weddings or any type of reception by renting space on Mondays or for evening events.
Finish your visit in the gift shop. The Krohn Conservatory Shop offers an array of rare plants and gift items for horticulture lovers.
