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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Krohn Conservatory
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

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.
"It's the kind of place that quiets your mind and lifts your mood."
💧 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Butterfly Exhibit
Special Exhibit Hall
Hundreds of butterflies flutter around you in a magical, immersive experience.

Rainforest & Desert Houses
Various Domes
Explore diverse climates, from lush rainforests with waterfalls to arid desert landscapes.

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

Holiday Show
Main Conservatory
A festive transformation with seasonal decor, often featuring miniature city models.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat (and Crowds!)
Seasonal Wonders & Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 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.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early or be prepared for limited parking, especially on busy days.
🦋 Butterfly Etiquette
Admire the butterflies from a distance; no touching with bare hands.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 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.
🅿️ Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early or be prepared for limited parking, especially on busy days.
🦋 Butterfly Etiquette
Admire the butterflies from a distance; no touching with bare hands.
⏰ Check Hours Before You Go
Hours vary by season, so confirm before your visit.
💰 Great Value for Money
Admission is affordable, making it a budget-friendly outing.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times and special events. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, Cincinnati Metro buses serve the Eden Park area, providing an alternative to driving. Check their schedule for routes and times.
The conservatory is generally accessible, with paved paths and ramps. However, some areas might have uneven terrain.
Krohn Conservatory is situated in Eden Park, which offers beautiful grounds, walking paths, and overlooks, including the Eden Park Overlook.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Check for potential discounts for seniors, children, or group rates. The general admission price is already quite affordable.
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.
🎫 🌿 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.
Yes, the butterfly exhibit is intentionally kept warm and humid to support the butterflies, which can feel like a sauna, especially during summer.
Krohn features distinct environments like the Desert House, Fern House, Palm House, and a Rainforest area, showcasing a wide variety of plant species.
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.
Absolutely! The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and the magical atmosphere of the butterfly exhibit make it a fantastic spot for photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full restaurant, there's often an Italian Ice cart available for a refreshing treat.
Outside food and drinks may be restricted, especially in exhibit areas. It's best to consume them in designated outdoor areas or before entering.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Tripod policies can vary. It's advisable to check the conservatory's specific rules regarding photography equipment to avoid any issues.
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.
Yes, the holiday displays, often featuring miniature city models, are very photogenic and a popular subject for visitors.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always check their guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. Just be prepared for the heat in the butterfly exhibit during warmer months and bring plenty of water for the little ones.
🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Gardeners
The Bonsai collection is particularly noteworthy for its artistry and the sheer dedication involved in shaping these miniature trees. Keep an eye out for seasonal exhibits, which often showcase rare or themed floral displays, offering new discoveries with each visit.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
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. The interplay of light and shadow within the glasshouse, combined with the diverse plant life, creates a serene and inspiring atmosphere for creative exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Butterfly Show
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. Despite the heat, many find the experience incredibly rewarding and educational, with opportunities to spot various species and learn about their journey.
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.
Exploring the Diverse Biomes
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. 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.
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.
Art Deco Architecture and History
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit