Olbrich Botanical Gardens
16 acres of free, stunning gardens featuring a tropical conservatory, rose garden, and a gilded Thai pavilion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom and pleasant temperatures
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Best Time
Peak bloom and pleasant temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
16 acres of free, stunning gardens featuring a tropical conservatory, rose garden, and a gilded Thai pavilion. 
"It's free so idk how it wouldn't be. Unless you hate plants and nature. "
🎯 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy the outdoor gardens for free! Donations are welcome. Parking is also free.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Abundant beautiful spots for photos, from the Thai Pavilion to the Conservatory.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bolz Conservatory
Indoor Tropical Greenhouse
A lush, tropical paradise with exotic plants, butterflies, and birds. A must-see year-round!
Thai Pavilion
Outdoor Gardens
A stunning, hand-crafted pavilion gifted by Thailand, symbolizing peace and friendship.
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Rose Garden
Outdoor Gardens
A fragrant haven showcasing a vibrant array of roses in bloom, perfect for a stroll.
GLEAM: Art in a New Light
Outdoor Gardens
Experience the gardens transformed by captivating light installations after dark.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Admission
+1Check for Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy the outdoor gardens for free! Donations are welcome. Parking is also free.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Abundant beautiful spots for photos, from the Thai Pavilion to the Conservatory.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore 16 acres of gardens; comfortable footwear is key for a pleasant visit.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like 'Cocktails in the Conservatory' or 'GLEAM'.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy the outdoor gardens for free! Donations are welcome. Parking is also free.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Abundant beautiful spots for photos, from the Thai Pavilion to the Conservatory.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore 16 acres of gardens; comfortable footwear is key for a pleasant visit.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like 'Cocktails in the Conservatory' or 'GLEAM'.
🦋 Conservatory Wonders
Don't miss the Bolz Conservatory for a tropical escape with butterflies and birds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Olbrich Botanical Gardens for its immaculate upkeep, diverse plant collections, and beautiful landscaping, noting the pleasant scents and numerous photo opportunities. The free admission is a significant draw, making it a highly recommended and worthwhile visit for all ages. Some mention the joy of seeing unique plants and even wildlife like turkeys.
"Well kept place with large variety variety of plants and other visually appealing landscaping features. Smells were also changing depending on surrounding plants. Many opportunities for beautiful pictures. Very low (in my opinion) entrance price. Well worth visiting for any age."
S pol
"The whole family LOVED this place! It's beautiful free gardens are amazing, with extra events all the time! Especially for members, which if you live close enough & like flowers, easy walking with places to sit all over (for those like me that need the rest every so often) & cool events, then the membership is definitely worth it! Different beautiful colors, blooms are always around a corner. We especially loved the pitcher plants, such rare plants that need care are amazing!!!"
Kronically Yours
"Great place to take in beautiful flowers and plants. We also saw a turkey roaming in the garden.
It's free and can easily take a couple of hours. More if you decide to take in the peacefulness and hang around."
joel m-d
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is located at 3330 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53704. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available. Public transportation options are also available via Madison Metro Transit.
Yes, Olbrich Botanical Gardens offers free parking for visitors.
Yes, guided tours via tram are available for exploring the outdoor gardens.
Absolutely! The gardens are family-friendly and stroller-accessible, making it great for visitors with young children.
You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the gardens. Allow 90+ minutes for a thorough visit, or more if you want to relax and soak in the peacefulness.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the outdoor gardens is free! Donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain the beautiful grounds.
Yes, Olbrich often features special exhibits like the 'Orchid Escape' in the Bolz Conservatory and seasonal events like 'GLEAM' light installations and 'Cocktails in the Conservatory'. Check their website for current offerings.
The outdoor gardens are typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. The Bolz Conservatory has specific hours, and evening events like GLEAM have their own schedules. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a popular venue for weddings and proposals, with beautiful settings like the Tower Gardens.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can find unique items and souvenirs.
📸 📸 Photography
The Thai Pavilion, the vibrant Rose Garden, and the lush interior of the Bolz Conservatory offer stunning backdrops. The seasonal 'GLEAM' event also provides unique nighttime photo opportunities.
Yes, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a popular location for professional photoshoots, including engagement and wedding photography. It's advisable to check their policies regarding permits for commercial or large-scale shoots.
Generally, personal photography is welcomed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's best to inquire with the gardens directly about any specific guidelines or permit requirements.
Morning light is often ideal for the outdoor gardens, offering soft illumination. For the Bolz Conservatory, any time of day provides a tropical ambiance. Evening during GLEAM offers dramatic lighting.
Typically, drone usage is restricted in botanical gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the environment. It's recommended to check Olbrich's specific policies on drone operation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Olbrich Botanical Gardens doesn't have a full-service restaurant, they occasionally host events like 'Cocktails in the Conservatory' which may offer refreshments. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to dine at nearby establishments in Madison.
Visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated areas or while picnicking. However, it's important to be respectful of the gardens and clean up after yourself.
The area around Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Exploring the Atwood Avenue neighborhood will provide many choices.
Occasionally, Olbrich hosts special events that may include food and beverages, such as 'Cocktails in the Conservatory'. Keep an eye on their event calendar for such opportunities.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a popular venue for events, and catering services can often be arranged for private functions held at the gardens. Inquire directly with their events department for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Kids often marvel at the diverse plants, the butterflies and birds in the Bolz Conservatory, and the unique Thai Pavilion. Consider visiting during special events like 'GLEAM' for an extra magical experience, or simply enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery. The free admission makes it an affordable outing for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the Conservatory might have a small fee or be part of special events, the core experience of the outdoor gardens is completely free. Pack a picnic to save on food costs and enjoy a beautiful day out in Madison.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+2Professional photographers often choose Olbrich for engagement and wedding shoots due to its picturesque settings.
Even casual visitors will find themselves capturing beautiful moments with the diverse flora and artistic displays. Remember to check for any specific guidelines regarding professional shoots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Bolz Conservatory
During specific times, the Conservatory may host special exhibits, such as the popular 'Orchid Escape,' showcasing an even wider array of these delicate blooms. It's a perfect spot to visit on a chilly day or when you need a dose of warmth and vibrant greenery. The air is humid and fragrant, providing a truly immersive sensory experience that delights visitors of all ages.
Remember that while the Conservatory is a highlight, it's just one part of the Olbrich experience. Its controlled environment offers a stark yet beautiful contrast to the changing seasons of the outdoor gardens, making it a must-see regardless of when you visit.
The Unique Thai Pavilion
+1What makes this pavilion so special is that it was handcrafted in Thailand and then meticulously reassembled on-site in Madison. Its intricate design and gilded details are a testament to traditional Thai craftsmanship. The pavilion is surrounded by lush tropical plants, further enhancing its exotic appeal and creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
+1Many visitors are captivated by the pavilion's beauty and its unique story. It offers a moment of tranquility and a glimpse into another culture, making it a memorable highlight of any visit to Olbrich. It's a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy and the enduring beauty of art and nature.
+1Experiencing GLEAM: Art in a New Light
+1Visitors can take an evening stroll through the glowing landscapes and the tropical Bolz Conservatory, experiencing the familiar beauty of the gardens in an entirely new and enchanting way. The interplay of light and nature creates a captivating and immersive atmosphere, perfect for a unique date night or a family outing.
+2GLEAM typically runs for a limited time, often in the fall, so it's essential to check the Olbrich Botanical Gardens' schedule for specific dates and times. It's a highly recommended experience that showcases the gardens' versatility and artistic potential, drawing significant crowds eager to witness the spectacle.
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Social
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