Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory

Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory is made up of three large glass domes, each 140 feet across and 85 feet tall. Each dome contains different plant environments, from tropical to desert climates, all under glass.

The glass domes were built between 1959 and 1967, replacing an older conservatory that had occupied the site. The construction reflected new building techniques that made it possible to grow plants from around the world under controlled conditions.

The domes showcase plants from around the world, reflecting how different cultures have shaped what people grow and appreciate. Walking through each section, you notice how the displayed species connect to the regions they come from.

The domes are open year-round, with rotating displays that show what blooms or grows with the season. Wear comfortable shoes, as there is much to see and you can easily spend hours walking through the different sections.

The Tropical Dome holds around 1,000 plant species, including a kapok tree that ranks among the tallest trees ever grown under glass. This tree shows how the building's height makes room for unusually large plants to thrive.