
W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory
A historic Victorian glasshouse in Tacoma's Wright Park, housing over 500 species of exotic plants.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Victorian glasshouse in Tacoma's Wright Park, housing over 500 species of exotic plants.
"Step into a warm, humid paradise filled with exotic plants and classic Victorian charm."

Free Entry, Donations Appreciated
Admission is free! Consider leaving a donation to support this beautiful botanical gem. :heart:
Photography Permit Needed
Casual photos are fine, but professional shoots require a permit. Plan accordingly! :camera:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Glasshouse Architecture
Main Conservatory
Step back in time in this stunning, historic Victorian-style glasshouse, a true architectural gem.

Tropical Plant Oasis
Interior Conservatory
Immerse yourself in a warm, humid paradise filled with over 500 species of exotic tropical plants.

Seasonal Floral Displays
Main Conservatory
Be captivated by vibrant, ever-changing floral arrangements that bring color and life to the conservatory.

Cactus and Succulent Collection
Dedicated Section
Discover a fascinating array of desert flora, from spiky cacti to unique succulents.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Donations Welcome for This Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry, Donations Appreciated
Admission is free! Consider leaving a donation to support this beautiful botanical gem. :heart:
Photography Permit Needed
Casual photos are fine, but professional shoots require a permit. Plan accordingly! :camera:
Warm & Humid Inside
Dress in light layers; it's warm and humid inside, like a tropical escape! :sweat_drops:
Explore Wright Park Too
Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding 27-acre Wright Park. :park:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Donations Appreciated
Admission is free! Consider leaving a donation to support this beautiful botanical gem. :heart:
Photography Permit Needed
Casual photos are fine, but professional shoots require a permit. Plan accordingly! :camera:
Warm & Humid Inside
Dress in light layers; it's warm and humid inside, like a tropical escape! :sweat_drops:
Explore Wright Park Too
Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding 27-acre Wright Park. :park:
Check for Events
The conservatory is free unless there's a special event. Always good to check their schedule! :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory as a 'picturesque hidden gem' and a 'tropical dream.' They love the free entry, the stunning Victorian architecture, and the diverse collection of plants that create a tranquil oasis. Some note it's small but offers a big surprise, making it a worthwhile stop.
"We were in town visiting family and they took us here initially to check out Seymour Conservatory. The conservatory is a Victorian-style glasshouse, that has that classic, almost storybook look with its dome and curved glass panes. Inside, it feels like stepping into a lush little oasis, warm, humid air with the scent of flowers and greenery wrapping around you. There is a white selection of tropical plants, Seasonal floral displays, Cactus and succulents. The vibe is tranquil, colorful and intimate. We also saw the yellow frogs also called the golden dart frog which fun fact: they’re considered the most poisonous frog species on Earth but frogs bred in conservatories or zoos aren’t toxic, since their diet lacks the specific alkaloid-rich insects from their rainforest home that produce the poison. The lady working at the gift shop even gave us recommendation to visit the beautiful Stadium Highschool featured in the movie 10 Things I Hate About You.
If you’re in town please visit Tacoma’s most picturesque hidden gem. Entrance is free and they have a box provided for donations."
Karen Greene
"This was just a quick stop off for us. It is free to get in. You can walk through it in 10 minutes or so. Longer if you really want to enjoy the beauty. I would say it's worth checking out if you are in the area. They also have a pretty cool gift shop."
Bobby Brown
"Such a lovely garden. Small glass house big surprise. My first time here and fall in love with this place for variety of plants that I've never seen. Charming corners with green growing foliages."
Larry Pham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory is located at 316 S G St, Tacoma, WA 98405, within Wright Park. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available around the park. Public transportation options may also serve the area.
Yes, there is typically parking available around Wright Park, which surrounds the conservatory. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
The conservatory is a prominent Victorian-style glass structure and is usually easy to spot within the 27-acre Wright Park. Follow the signs for the conservatory once you enter the park.
Yes, it's a bit of a drive from Portland, Oregon, but many visitors find it worth the trip. It's closer than the Seattle conservatory.
Driving is the most common method. If coming from Seattle, it's a straightforward drive. Check local transit for bus routes if you prefer not to drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory is free! However, they do accept donations to help maintain the beautiful grounds and collections.
The conservatory is generally open Wednesday through Sunday, but hours can vary, especially if there are special events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
Yes, special events may affect regular operating hours or require separate admission. It's always a good idea to check their schedule before your visit.
Yes, there is a donation box provided for visitors who wish to contribute to the conservatory's upkeep.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse collection including tropical plants, seasonal floral displays, cacti, and succulents. It's a lush oasis with over 500 plant species.
Casual photography is welcome and encouraged! However, professional photo sessions require a permit, which costs around $30 per hour.
You can walk through the main areas in about 10-15 minutes, but you can easily spend longer if you want to truly soak in the atmosphere and admire the plants.
Visitors have noted seeing yellow frogs (golden dart frogs) in the conservatory. It's also a Victorian-style glasshouse, offering a unique historical ambiance.
The conservatory is generally accessible, with pathways suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The warm and humid environment is a key feature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The conservatory itself does not have a cafe or restaurant. However, there is a gift shop that might offer small items. You'll find dining options in the surrounding Tacoma area.
Outside food is generally not permitted inside the conservatory to maintain the delicate environment. However, Wright Park offers picnic areas if you wish to bring your own food.
The conservatory is located in Tacoma's Stadium District, near downtown, offering a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to explore after your visit.
The gift shop primarily sells souvenirs and plant-related items. It's best to check with the shop directly for current offerings, but snacks are not its main focus.
Many visitors recommend exploring the dining scene in downtown Tacoma or near Ruston Way for a variety of culinary experiences after your conservatory visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings on weekdays offer the best light and fewest people, creating a serene backdrop for photos. Golden hour light can also be beautiful.
Yes, professional photography sessions require a permit, typically costing around $30 per hour. Casual photos for personal use are generally allowed without a permit.
The Victorian architecture, lush tropical foliage, and seasonal flower displays are all highly photogenic. Look for charming corners and vibrant colors.
Yes, you can photograph the plants and any wildlife, like the golden dart frogs, as long as you are respectful of the environment and other visitors.
While tripods are generally allowed for personal use, large professional lighting equipment might be restricted, especially during busy times. Always check with staff if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🌿 Plant Lovers & Gardeners
💖 Couples & Romantic Outings
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory
The conservatory's enduring appeal lies not only in its historical architecture but also in its role as a living museum. It houses over 500 species of plants, creating a vibrant and ever-changing display. Visitors can wander through sections dedicated to tropical plants, cacti, succulents, and seasonal floral arrangements. The warm, humid interior provides a welcome escape, especially during the cooler months of the Pacific Northwest. The presence of unique inhabitants, such as the golden dart frogs (which are non-toxic when bred in captivity), adds an extra layer of fascination for guests. The conservatory has undergone renovations over the years to preserve its historic integrity while ensuring its continued functionality as a botanical showcase.
Beyond its botanical and architectural significance, the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory serves as a beloved community space. It's a popular spot for quiet contemplation, casual strolls, and even intimate events like elopements. The fact that it remains free to enter, relying on donations, underscores its status as a cherished public asset. Its integration within the larger Wright Park, a 27-acre urban oasis, further enhances its appeal, offering visitors a chance to enjoy both manicured botanical displays and expansive parkland.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at the Conservatory
For those planning a professional photoshoot, it's important to note that a permit is required, typically costing around $30 per hour. This ensures that the conservatory can manage visitor flow and protect its delicate environment. However, for personal use, visitors are encouraged to take photos and share their experiences. The best times for photography are generally weekday mornings when the light is soft and the crowds are minimal, allowing for unobstructed shots and a more peaceful shooting experience. Capturing the unique inhabitants, like the golden dart frogs, can also add an exciting element to your photographic collection.
When composing your shots, consider focusing on the contrast between the man-made Victorian structure and the organic beauty of the plants. Look for leading lines created by the architecture, the vibrant hues of the flowers, and the intricate patterns of the leaves. The humid environment can sometimes create a soft, diffused light, which can be very flattering for plant photography. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the plants themselves, ensuring your pursuit of the perfect shot doesn't disrupt the tranquil ambiance of this botanical gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit