Krohn Conservatory - Greenhouses and pathways lead to a white building.
1 / 10

Krohn Conservatory

4.7
·5k reviews·Cincinnati, United States

An Art Deco glasshouse sanctuary showcasing 3,500+ plant species, from arid deserts to lush rainforests, plus a magical butterfly exhibit.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings/evenings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Krohn Conservatory - Greenhouses and pathways lead to a white building.

Krohn Conservatory

Best Time

Summer mornings/evenings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An Art Deco glasshouse sanctuary showcasing 3,500+ plant species, from arid deserts to lush rainforests, plus a magical butterfly exhibit.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"It's the kind of place that quiets your mind and lifts your mood."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Bring Water for Summer

The butterfly exhibit can feel like a sauna in summer; stay hydrated!

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the different plant zones.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Butterfly Exhibit

Butterfly Exhibit

Special Exhibit Hall

Hundreds of butterflies flutter around you in a magical, immersive experience.

TikTok+3
Rainforest & Desert Houses

Rainforest & Desert Houses

Various Domes

Explore diverse climates, from lush rainforests with waterfalls to arid desert landscapes.

TikTokInstagram
Bonsai Collection

Bonsai Collection

Bonsai Room

Admire the intricate beauty and artistry of meticulously shaped miniature trees.

TikTok
Holiday Show

Holiday Show

Main Conservatory

A festive transformation with seasonal decor, often featuring miniature city models.

TikTokInstagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat (and Crowds!)

The butterfly exhibit can feel like a sauna, especially during summer heat waves! Visit early or late in the day for a more comfortable experience. Limited parking is also a common issue, so consider arriving early or exploring alternative transport options. Reddit

Seasonal Wonders & Value

While the permanent collections offer year-round beauty, the annual butterfly show is a major draw. Admission is a budget-friendly $10, making it an accessible escape. Check seasonal hours before your visit, as they can vary. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings/evenings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Escape the cold, enjoy exhibits
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibits
Why
Unique seasonal displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A beautiful place to visit! #VisitCincy #cincinnati #conservatory #plants
@visit_cincy
277 likes • 5.4K views

💧 Bring Water for Summer

The butterfly exhibit can feel like a sauna in summer; stay hydrated! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the different plant zones. Reddit

So beautiful🤍🦋 #botannicalgardens #cincinnati #krohnsconservatory #butterfly #bachelorette
@_allie._.mae_
67 likes • 3.4K views
Krohn Conservatory presents Gothica Botanical. This year’s butterfly show plays with the contrast between light and dark. The shadowy black foliage and deep-hued blooms set the stage for hundreds of iridescent butterflies to shimmer in the light. Be sure to visit now thru August 10. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at cincinnatiparks.com 🦋🦋🦋
cincyparks
1.3K likes • 29.2K views

🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky

Arrive early or be prepared for limited parking, especially on busy days. Reddit

🦋 Butterfly Etiquette

Admire the butterflies from a distance; no touching with bare hands. Reddit

We welcomed a delicate delivery from our friends at @cincyparks Krohn Conservatory! Today, 347 #butterflies took flight in our Wings of the Tropics exhibit. Curious about their #journey from afar to our #tropical #garden? Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing the fascinating behind-the-scenes process soon!
fairchildgarden
0 likes • 2.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Bring Water for Summer

The butterfly exhibit can feel like a sauna in summer; stay hydrated! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the different plant zones. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky

Arrive early or be prepared for limited parking, especially on busy days. Reddit

🦋 Butterfly Etiquette

Admire the butterflies from a distance; no touching with bare hands. Reddit

⏰ Check Hours Before You Go

Hours vary by season, so confirm before your visit. Reddit

💰 Great Value for Money

Admission is affordable, making it a budget-friendly outing. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Krohn Conservatory as a beautiful, relaxing urban oasis with a magical butterfly exhibit and diverse plant collections. While the conservatory itself is praised for its beauty and affordability, the butterfly exhibit can get extremely hot, especially in summer, making it feel like a sauna. Parking can also be a challenge.

"Beautiful place, inside and out. Butterflies were AMAZING but good grief be careful it had to be 120 degrees in the exhibit right now with the heat wave!!! We had some good laughs about how sweaty we all were, like a sauna but with butterflies. We had so much fun and the staff was wonderful"

3vollove

"The trip in the heat was worth it! The butterfly exhibit was gorgeous and just spending time with nature is relaxing. Nice to go at your own pace and the tickets are well priced.

Prepare for trying to find parking as it is limited, bring lots of water during the summer, and wear comfy shoes!"

Hattie Dorsey

"Step away into an urban oasis, and absorb all the beauty around. The fern house, rainforest, desert and special exhibits always leave me feeling at peace. Doors open at 10am and hours vary by season so check before you go. Admission is only $10.00 for adults and kids under a certain age are free. The annual butterfly show is a must see."

Corey Brill

What People Like

Magical butterfly exhibit
Diverse plant collections
Affordable admission

What People Dislike

Very hot in butterfly exhibit
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Krohn Conservatory is located in Eden Park, Cincinnati. Many visitors drive and find parking nearby, though it can be limited. Public transportation options are also available. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times and special events. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Yes, Cincinnati Metro buses serve the Eden Park area, providing an alternative to driving. Check their schedule for routes and times. TikTok

The conservatory is generally accessible, with paved paths and ramps. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. TikTok

Krohn Conservatory is situated in Eden Park, which offers beautiful grounds, walking paths, and overlooks, including the Eden Park Overlook. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is typically $10 for adults. Children under a certain age are often free. Special exhibits, like the butterfly show, may have separate or included pricing. TikTokReddit

While you can often purchase tickets at the door, buying online in advance is recommended, especially for popular events like the butterfly show, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Instagram

Opening hours vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Krohn Conservatory website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Check for potential discounts for seniors, children, or group rates. The general admission price is already quite affordable. TikTok

Yes, the conservatory has permanent collections like the Desert House, Fern House, and Palm House that you can explore independently of the special butterfly exhibit. TikTok

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The butterfly show is a highlight, featuring hundreds of live butterflies flying freely in a dedicated exhibit. It's often themed, like 'Gothica Botanica,' with unique decor. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, the butterfly exhibit is intentionally kept warm and humid to support the butterflies, which can feel like a sauna, especially during summer. TikTokReddit

Krohn features distinct environments like the Desert House, Fern House, Palm House, and a Rainforest area, showcasing a wide variety of plant species. TikTok

Visitors are asked not to touch the butterflies with their bare hands to protect them. Watching them fly around is a magical experience in itself. Reddit

Absolutely! The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and the magical atmosphere of the butterfly exhibit make it a fantastic spot for photography. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full restaurant, there's often an Italian Ice cart available for a refreshing treat. Reddit

Outside food and drinks may be restricted, especially in exhibit areas. It's best to consume them in designated outdoor areas or before entering. Reddit

Being in Eden Park, you might need to travel a short distance for a wider selection of restaurants. Downtown Cincinnati and nearby neighborhoods offer many choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The butterfly exhibit is a prime spot, but also explore the diverse plant houses, the waterfall in the rainforest section, and the unique Art Deco architecture of the building itself. TikTokInstagram+1

Tripod policies can vary. It's advisable to check the conservatory's specific rules regarding photography equipment to avoid any issues. TikTok

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, especially in the denser plant areas. A macro lens can be great for capturing butterfly details. TikTok

Yes, the holiday displays, often featuring miniature city models, are very photogenic and a popular subject for visitors. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check their guidelines. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Krohn Conservatory is a fantastic family outing! The butterfly exhibit is a guaranteed hit, offering a magical experience as butterflies flutter around. TikTokInstagram+1 Kids will also love exploring the different plant houses, especially the rainforest with its waterfall, and searching for unique plants. TikTok

It's a great way to introduce children to nature and different climates in a fun, engaging way. The affordable admission makes it a budget-friendly option for a family day out. TikTokReddit Just be prepared for the heat in the butterfly exhibit during warmer months and bring plenty of water for the little ones. Reddit

🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Gardeners

For those with a green thumb or a deep appreciation for flora, Krohn Conservatory is a must-visit. You'll find an impressive collection of over 3,500 plant species from around the world, meticulously cared for in distinct environments. TikTokInstagram Explore the Desert House for unique succulents, the Fern House for delicate foliage, and the Palm House for towering tropical specimens. TikTok

The Bonsai collection is particularly noteworthy for its artistry and the sheer dedication involved in shaping these miniature trees. TikTok Keep an eye out for seasonal exhibits, which often showcase rare or themed floral displays, offering new discoveries with each visit. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Krohn Conservatory offers a visually stunning experience for photographers and art enthusiasts. The Art Deco architecture of the building itself provides a beautiful backdrop, Instagram+1 while the vibrant colors and textures of the plants offer endless photographic opportunities. TikTok+1 The butterfly exhibit is a dream for capturing close-up shots and magical moments. TikTok

Beyond the natural beauty, the conservatory often features themed exhibits, like the 'Gothica Botanica' butterfly show, which adds an artistic and conceptual layer to the visual experience. Instagram The interplay of light and shadow within the glasshouse, combined with the diverse plant life, creates a serene and inspiring atmosphere for creative exploration. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Butterfly Show

The annual butterfly show at Krohn Conservatory is a major draw, transforming the space into a vibrant ecosystem. Past themes like 'Gothica Botanica' have blended dark, dramatic foliage with hundreds of iridescent butterflies, creating a truly immersive and magical experience. TikTokInstagram+2 Visitors often describe the butterflies flying freely around them, a surreal and enchanting encounter. TikTok

It's important to note that the exhibit is kept warm and humid to support the butterflies' life cycle, which can feel intense, especially during hot summer days. TikTokReddit Despite the heat, many find the experience incredibly rewarding and educational, with opportunities to spot various species and learn about their journey. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, consider going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat and crowds. This allows for a more comfortable and intimate experience with these delicate creatures. Reddit

Exploring the Diverse Biomes

Beyond the special exhibits, Krohn Conservatory is a treasure trove of diverse plant life, meticulously curated into distinct biomes. The Desert House showcases resilient succulents and cacti adapted to arid conditions, offering a stark contrast to the lushness found elsewhere. TikTok

The Fern House transports visitors to a humid, shaded environment, filled with a variety of delicate ferns, while the Palm House features towering palms and tropical foliage, creating a sense of being in a faraway jungle. TikTokInstagram The Rainforest section, often featuring a beautiful waterfall, further immerses you in a vibrant, humid atmosphere, complete with exotic plants and the soothing sound of water. TikTok

These distinct environments provide a year-round escape and a chance to learn about plants from all over the globe. It's a peaceful oasis where you can wander at your own pace, absorbing the beauty and tranquility of nature. TikTokInstagram

Art Deco Architecture and History

Krohn Conservatory itself is a significant architectural gem. Built in 1933, it's a stunning example of Art Deco style, characterized by its geometric patterns, sleek lines, and the extensive use of glass to maximize natural light. Instagram+1 This historic glasshouse has been a beloved landmark in Cincinnati for decades, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and man-made artistry. Instagram

The conservatory's design not only makes it visually appealing but also functional, creating ideal environments for its diverse plant collections. Walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time, appreciating both the botanical wonders within and the architectural elegance of the structure. Instagram+1

Beyond its permanent collections, Krohn often hosts special exhibits, including a popular holiday show that transforms the space with festive decorations and sometimes even miniature city models, adding another layer of charm and appeal to this historic Cincinnati attraction. TikTokInstagram

You may also like