Insider’s Guide: Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Marvel at the breathtaking displays of horticulture and art at Phipps Conservatory!

Established in 1893, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is home to one of the oldest flower shows in the world. A wide variety of exhibits and seasonal flower shows examine new themes regularly, providing visitors with new experiences at every visit. The 15 acre facility includes a 14 room glasshouse and 23 distinct gardens for guests to explore.

Stroll through immersive exhibits like Tropical Forest Hawai'i and the Butterfly Forest for an intimate look at the natural world. Spot historic artworks as well as modern glass art throughout the conservatory and stop at the Center for Sustainable Landscapes for chance to see The BETA Project art exhibit. With so many family-friendly experiences, there's sure to be something for everyone to enjoy!

Main Photo Credit: Paul G. Wiegman courtesy of Phipps Conservatory

Visit the Phipps Conservatory during March Madness in Pittsburgh at PPG Paints Arena
Credit |
Phil Johnson II courtesy of Phipps Conservatory

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation

Monday-Thursday: 9:30-5
Friday: 9:30-10
Saturday-Sunday: 9:30-5
Visitors can check here to see room closures prior to arrival.

Admission

Adults: $21.95
Seniors(62+) and Students over 18: $19.95
Children 2-18: $13.95
Children under 2: Free
Members: Free with valid photo ID

Phipps Conservatory uses timed tickets and requires guests to purchase tickets in advance. As part of the Museums for All program, Phipps offers general admission for up to 4 people for $3 each with presentation of an EBT card from any state.

Location

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is located at One Schenley Park in Pittsburgh’s vibrant Oakland neighborhood.

Parking

Visitors are encouraged to travel to Phipps by bus or bike. Bike parking can be found at the Welcome Center. If you travel by car, free parking is available in the center island and metered parking is available on either side of Schenley Drive(free on Sundays). There are also lot parking options.

Group Tours

While all visitors are welcome to take a self-guided tour some may prefer a group tour. The Conservatory Tour is limited to 40 guests at an additional charge. The Production Greenhouse and Sustainability tours are temporarily on hold, check back for updates.
Group tours need to be reserved at least 30 days in advance.

Credit |
Paul G. Wiegman courtesy of Phipps Conservatory

Current Exhibits

Fall Flower Show: Hometown Harvest

Oct. 7-29, 2023
The longest running fall flower show in the nation returns with a chrysanthemum-themed show that dates back to 1894! Hurry, this show only lasts for a few weeks.

Garden Railroad: Pennsylvania Through the Four Seasons

Oct. 7, 2023-March 3, 2024
All aboard! Follow the tracks of this miniature railroad display and experience all four distinct seasons of our wonderful state! You'll travel through an outdoor summer camp, chug past lighthouses and ferris wheel, fuel up at a county fair and even see a holiday train going to and from a tree farm!

Tropical Forest Hawai‘i

Go on an immersive experience through the history, culture and nature of the Hawaiian islands. This 12,000 square-foot, 60-foot high exhibit takes visitors through native and endemic species, interactive stations and even a model canoe!

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Seasonal Exhibits & Programs

Every season at Phipps brings a new flower show. From Spring to Winter the flower shows offer visitors new and exciting themes to explore. Phipps also offers an assortment of adult education courses and kids programs as well as virtual exhibits so visitors can continue their exploration of horticulture.

Embrace Sustainability

When visiting Phipps Conservatory be sure to experience their LEED certified buildings: the entrance pavilion and Center for Sustainable Landscapes. The Center for Sustainable Landscapes(CSL) is designed to be as environmentally sustainable as possible and produces its own energy. The CSL is home to The BETA Project, an immersive art exhibit seeking to restore the connection between people and nature.

Fall in Love at Phipps

Looking to tie the knot? Awarded the Elle Bazaar Best Garden Wedding Venue in the World, Phipps Conservatory offers couples stunning backdrops and a variety of options to customize their wedding.

Credit |
Leann Marie Photography courtesy of Phipps Conservatory

FAQ

How long does it take to walk through Phipps Conservatory?

The average self-guided tour takes roughly 90 minutes to complete, but visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring.

Can I take pictures at Phipps Conservatory?

Snap away! Phipp’s encourages visitors to take photos and videos for personal use. Just be sure not to set up any tripods.

Can you bring a packed lunch?

Visitors are welcome to bring their own lunch but can also get lunch on site. Cafe Phipps offers a wide variety of options that can be ordered in person or ordered ahead.

Are there free admission days?

Check out Allegheny County RADical Days for free admission dates between late September and mid-October.

Is there air conditioning?

Phipp’s facilities are equipped with AC and heat but temperatures can fluctuate depending on the season, so wearing layers is recommended. Don't worry about carrying your sweater around, there are lockers available in the Welcome Center.

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Jess I.

Author

Jess I.

Jess Iacullo, better known around the 'Burgh as Hungry Grl Big City, is an avid bagel lover and South Side resident. Originally from New Jersey, Jess knows a thing or two about pizza, is obsessed with Heinz ketchup, and enjoys the fact that fries in salads are a thing. When she's not writing about the food scene and creating content for her clients, you can find her relaxing with outdoor yoga, a long walk, or an iced coffee the size of her head from Big Dog.

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