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.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 4,815 reviews
Type
Botanical Garden
Website
olbrich.orgHighlights
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.
+1
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.
"I’m a regular. The grounds, people, and, sun eating rooted critters are: AMAZING!!! This is one of the best places to hang out in MadTown! The gardens (outside) are FREE. I save the trip inside ($)for the winter, it feels to me (a very well traveled bloke) just like getting off of a flight in a tropical local.
GO GO GO"
Rich Yaeger
"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
"I’m a career public gardener and have spent over 25 years managing and visiting botanic gardens around the country. I happened to stop in Madison on my way out west and am so glad I did. Once in a while I am completely taken by surprise by a garden, and this was one of those times. I think Olbrich may fly under the radar because of its somewhat remote location- but it absolutely deserves a visit if you can manage it. Impeccably maintained, expertly curated and creatively arranged. I can’t say enough about it. Late summer can be challenging for gardens, but the plant health and flower power from the parking lot to the gardens beyond was on point. In fact, if you’re a gardener, the entire town will captivate you- with sunflowers and wildflowers on most corners and colorful gardens in front of most homes and businesses. If the Director of Horticulture or Executive Director of Olbrich should read this review, well done! The employees were very kind to me and my kids and I had the pleasure of speaking with several during our visit- docents, gardeners and the gift shop staff. While we only had one day in Wisconsin, this garden and those that work here made it a great one. Thank you!"
Christian Primeau
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit