Tropical plants need tropical temperatures, so visiting Lamberton Conservatory in winter is a welcome escape from the cold! Constructed in 1911, the Conservatory was a cherished addition to Highland Park, which was designed as an arboretum in 1888 by Frederick Law Olmsted.
Inside Lamberton Conservatory
When you first walk inside, you enter a small visitor center with an admissions desk and pay a nominal admission fee. Sign up for an individual or family membership if you are able to visit a few times a year.
2. Seasonal Display House
Exhibits is this section are changed five times throughout the year.
The Spring Show opens around the 1st weekend of spring (March 23) through the Lilac Festival in May. They feature hyacinth, daffodils, and tulips; the color and aroma make for a welcome retreat from winter!
Each December, the Holiday Show welcomes you with holiday lights, greens and poinsettias.
3 & 4. Exotic & Tropical
Continuing on, you feel the change in temperature as you move into the warmer, wetter biome, draped with Spanish moss. Peek around the trees at the details tucked away under lush greens.
You’ll find turtles lounging by koi ponds, tiny quail wandering about, and other random creatures like chipmunks who have come in from the cold.
5. Dessert
Next is the “dessert”, filled with cacti and a large range of plants that typically occupy an arid climate. It’s nice to sit for a while in this area, with plenty of benches to quietly look around and observe.
6. Houseplants
Complete with orange trees and an elevated turtle pond.
7. Courtyard Gardens
This outdoor space is accessible in the warmer months through the Tropical area.
Outside Lamberton Conservatory
You’ll find the Conservatory in the northern section of Highland Park, near the Tulip Bed, Poets Garden and the Reservoir.
More information about Lamberton Conservatory
You’ll often see photographers taking family portraits, folks practicing yoga, and musicians playing strolling music while people relax on the benches.
- Cost: Youth (0-5) Free, Adult (19-61) $3.00, Youth (6-18) / Seniors (62 and up) $2.00.
- Located in the City of Rochester (get directions)
- More information: monroecounty.gov/parks-conservatory
Rochester’s Olmsted Designed Parks
Rochester is fortunate to be one of a handful of American cities that have a park system comprised of Frederick Law Olmsted-designed parks.
Lilac Festival in Rochester, NY
Highland Park draws crowds numbering in the thousands during Rochester’s week-long Lilac Festival in May, though the lilacs are not the only sights to see!
Monroe County parks are free, so take advantage of 12,000 acres of natural, zoological, horticultural, historical and geological experiences!
While the Ellwanger Estate is private, the garden is maintained by the Landmark Society and is periodically open to the public for special events.
The Flower City: Exploring Rochester’s Extraordinary Flowers and Trees
Rochester became a global center for flower and tree nurseries in the mid-1800s, fostering our identity as The Flower City.
When is your favorite time to visit Lamberton Conservatory?
Share with us in the comments. Your insight and experience is invaluable!
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