Volunteer Park Conservatory
Historic Victorian glasshouse in Seattle's Volunteer Park, showcasing over 3,500 exotic plants. A botanical gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Volunteer Park Conservatory
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Victorian glasshouse in Seattle's Volunteer Park, showcasing over 3,500 exotic plants. A botanical gem.
"A wonderful Seattle gem, always over the moon to be surrounded by their beautiful plants.
"🎯 Free Entry Days
Visit on the 1st Thursday & Saturday of the month for free admission! :ticket:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking and exploring, so comfy shoes are a must for enjoying the park and conservatory. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Glasshouse
Main Conservatory
Step into a lush, humid world filled with over 3,500 exotic plants. A true botanical treasure.

Cactus & Succulent Garden
Conservatory
Marvel at a diverse collection of desert flora, including unique species you might not see elsewhere.

Seasonal Blooms
Conservatory
From vibrant dahlias in fall to spring flowers, the conservatory offers a changing display of natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Free Admission Days & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Days
Visit on the 1st Thursday & Saturday of the month for free admission!
:ticket:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking and exploring, so comfy shoes are a must for enjoying the park and conservatory. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Great for Photos
The lush greenery and unique plants make for stunning photo opportunities.
:camerawithflash:💧 Humid Environment
It's a greenhouse, so expect humidity! Dress in layers and stay hydrated. :sweat_drops:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Days
Visit on the 1st Thursday & Saturday of the month for free admission!
:ticket:👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking and exploring, so comfy shoes are a must for enjoying the park and conservatory. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Great for Photos
The lush greenery and unique plants make for stunning photo opportunities.
:camerawithflash:💧 Humid Environment
It's a greenhouse, so expect humidity! Dress in layers and stay hydrated. :sweat_drops:
🛍️ Charming Gift Shop
Find reasonably priced plants and unique souvenirs.
:gift:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Volunteer Park Conservatory as a charming and beautiful urban oasis, perfect for a peaceful escape. Many appreciate the diverse plant collections, especially the cactus garden, and the affordability, particularly on free admission days. While small, its beauty and the surrounding park make it a highly recommended spot for a relaxing visit.
"Recently did a photo shoot here for a marriage proposal. It’s a lovely place — small but very charming. When we were there, it wasn’t crowded. You need to arrange the shoot in advance and be considerate of visitors. There’s a beautiful park nearby with more open space to continue the session."
Photographer Leonova
"What a wonderful Seattle gem.
I always enjoy my visits here, they are short and sweet and I am always over the moon to be surrounded by their beautiful plants.
This is a Victorian styled building located at Volunteer Park. It is filled to the brim with many varieties of orchids, ferns, pitcher plants, bromeliads, air plants and more. I fell in love with Staghorn ferns after seeing them here for the first time years ago.
I also quite enjoy their cactus garden.
They do have a sweet little gift shop with reasonably priced live plants, I managed to leave with only two of them today.
We came specifically for the conservatory today but stay and enjoy all the other amazing things at Volunteer Park."
Anjuli Webster
"What a surprise! Love this place. Saw so many beautiful plants and flowers we haven't seen before. $6 admission fee for adult. $4 for kids or students."
Christina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Volunteer Park Conservatory is located at 1400 E Galer St, Seattle, WA 98112. It's accessible by car, with parking available around Volunteer Park. Public transportation options also serve the area, making it a convenient destination.
Yes, there is parking available around Volunteer Park. However, it can fill up quickly on weekends and during special events, so arriving early is recommended.
Several bus routes serve the Volunteer Park area, making it accessible via public transit. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options. :bus:
The pathways inside the conservatory are generally accessible for strollers, though some areas might be a bit narrow. The surrounding park also offers paved paths. :stroller:
The conservatory is part of Volunteer Park, which also features the Seattle Asian Art Museum, a water tower with city views, and expansive lawns and trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $6 for adults and $4 for children or students. However, the conservatory offers free admission on the first Thursday and Saturday of each month.
:ticket:The conservatory is usually open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
For general visits, advance booking is usually not required, especially on weekdays. However, for special events or photo shoots, it's advisable to check their policies and make arrangements.
Yes! Admission is free on the first Thursday and Saturday of every month. This is a great opportunity to visit without the cost.
:moneywithwings:The Seattle CityPASS typically includes admission to major attractions. It's best to check the current CityPASS inclusions to see if the Volunteer Park Conservatory is part of the package. :passport_control:
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You'll find an incredible diversity of plants, including orchids, ferns, pitcher plants, bromeliads, air plants, and a dedicated cactus garden.
A typical visit can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest level. Many visitors also combine it with exploring the rest of Volunteer Park.
Yes, kids often enjoy the vibrant colors and unique plant shapes. It's a great educational outing and a chance to explore nature.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged! It's a very photogenic spot. However, if you plan a professional photoshoot, you may need to arrange it in advance.
Restroom facilities are available within Volunteer Park, typically near the conservatory and other park attractions. :toilet:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Conservatory itself does not have a cafe or restaurant. However, there is a gift shop that may offer small snacks or drinks.
The Capitol Hill neighborhood, adjacent to Volunteer Park, offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy in the park. :sandwich:
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the Conservatory itself to maintain the delicate environment. However, picnicking in the surrounding park is a popular option. :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner offers a photographic opportunity! The diverse plant collections, the Victorian architecture, and the play of light through the glass are all stunning subjects.
Casual photography for personal use is usually fine. However, if you're planning a professional photoshoot (e.g., engagement, wedding, commercial), you will likely need to obtain a permit from Seattle Parks and Recreation.
Mornings often provide softer, more diffused light, which is excellent for plant photography. The light filtering through the glass can create beautiful effects throughout the day.
While tripods are generally allowed for personal use, large professional setups or anything that obstructs pathways or other visitors might be restricted. Always be considerate of others. :camerawithflash:
If you are attending a ticketed event, personal photography is usually permitted. For commercial or media purposes, specific permissions would be required. :microphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. Pack some snacks and drinks to enjoy in the surrounding park, as food is not permitted inside the conservatory. The park itself offers plenty of open space for children to run around after their visit to the greenhouse.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visit during the 'golden hours' for the best natural light. If you plan on conducting a professional photoshoot, be sure to research and secure the necessary permits from Seattle Parks and Recreation in advance.
🌿 Plant Lovers & Gardeners
Don't miss the dedicated cactus and succulent garden, and keep an eye out for the seasonal blooms that change throughout the year. The gift shop also offers a selection of plants for sale, allowing you to take a piece of the Conservatory home with you.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Victorian Horticulture
Inside, visitors are transported to different botanical regions. You can wander through humid tropical rooms, explore arid desert landscapes in the cactus house, and discover delicate orchids. The conservatory houses over 3,500 different plant species, making it a living museum of botanical diversity. It's a place where you can learn about plant adaptations, origins, and the importance of conservation, all within a beautifully preserved historical setting.
Many visitors find the experience to be a refreshing escape from the urban environment. The sheer variety of flora, from towering palms to tiny succulents, offers a sensory delight. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of botanical gardens and conservatories as places of both education and tranquil enjoyment.
Exploring Volunteer Park: More Than Just Plants
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of the Seattle Asian Art Museum, located within the park grounds. Its collection spans various Asian cultures and periods, offering a rich cultural experience. For panoramic views of the city and Puget Sound, a climb up the historic Volunteer Park Water Tower is a must-do. The tower provides a unique vantage point and is often open to the public.
The park also boasts an amphitheater that hosts various performances and events throughout the year, adding a vibrant cultural dimension. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot ducks, songbirds, and rabbits, making it a delightful spot for nature observation.
Photography Tips for the Conservatory
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to highlight the unique textures and forms of the plants. Macro shots can reveal intricate details of flowers and leaves, while wider shots can capture the overall ambiance of the different climate zones within the conservatory. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways with your equipment.
While casual photography is welcomed, professional or commercial shoots may require a permit from Seattle Parks and Recreation. Always check their guidelines beforehand to ensure compliance. The gift shop also offers a chance to purchase small plants, which can be a lovely souvenir and a subject for future photography projects.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit