Lately, it’s been a little hard trying to connect with nature outside of watching a David Attenborough documentary or playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons. With fall weather making the days comfortably cool, perhaps it’s time to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and experience nature in person.
A Brief History of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Intended as a way to preserve public access to Lake Monona from increasing residential development, Michael B. Olbrich began purchased the land around Starkweather Creek with plans to build an expansive park and municipal garden center. Sadly, Olbrich did not live to see his idea into action.
In 1952, Madison Park Commission began work on creating the Botanical Gardens. Today there are 16 acres filled with multiple outdoor gardens as well as a conservatory that houses a tropical paradise year-round.
The Outdoor Gardens
The Olbrich Gardens has 16 acres of outdoor garden displays. Each garden area has been designed to showcase the beauty of each plant as well as delight the senses of those who walk through them. Every season hosts a breathtaking display; whether its bulbs in the spring, annuals, and perennials during the summer, mums and swaying grasses in the fall, or evergreens dusted with snow in the winter.
Don’t forget to visit the Thai Pavillion while you’re there: a gorgeous structure that was a gift from the Thai Government and one of only four located outside of Thailand.
The Bolz Conservatory
Even in the dead of winter, you can still see exotic plants in full bloom and bask in the tropical environment within the conservatory. Free-flying birds and, during certain parts of the year, butterflies flit throughout the glass enclosure. Banana plants, vanilla producing orchids, and coffee bearing shrubs mingle with carnivorous plants and waterfalls.
Hours of Operation, Admission Fee, and Other Information
During October, the outdoor gardens and the conservatory are open from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm Sunday through Saturday. Starting November 1, both are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday through Saturday. The outdoor gardens are free of charge, though donations are always appreciated. The conservatory charges $6.00 but has free admission for those that are 5 years and younger or if they are Olbrich Botanical Society members.
New procedures have been introduced to help keep staff and guests safe and to ensure proper physical distancing in accordance with the CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health. It’s never a bad idea to call ahead or visit their website to see the current procedures and guidelines since they are always subject to change.
While you’re in the area, stop by Smart Motors Toyota and test drive a car. We’re happy to help you find a new or used car that will fit your needs. We’re also the only official Toyota Rent A Car provider in the Madison, Wisconsin area. Our hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
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