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San Francisco, California / Museums

Conservatory of Flowers

A stunning Victorian wood-and-glass greenhouse in Golden Gate Park, housing 1,700 species of rare aquatic and tropical plants in the oldest building in the park.

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Conservatory of Flowers
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What is the Conservatory of Flowers known for?

It is a greenhouse and botanical garden in Golden Gate Park that houses a collection of rare, exotic, aquatic, and tropical plants, including approximately 1,700 species.

What are the hours?

The Conservatory is open Thursday through Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with last entry at 4:00 p.m. It is closed on Wednesdays.

Is it free?

Admission is free for all visitors on the first Tuesday of every month. Additionally, the nightly 'Photosynthesis' light art installation is free to the public.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the Gardens of Golden Gate Park are described as a place for family fun and they offer Garden Camp registration.

What is the history of the building?

Completed in 1879, it is the oldest building in Golden Gate Park and the oldest public wood-and-glass conservatory in North America. It was originally intended as a private conservatory for James Lick before being placed in the park after his death in 1876.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Conservatory of Flowers is a historic greenhouse and botanical garden located in the eastern end of Golden Gate Park at 100 John F. Kennedy Drive. Completed in 1879, it stands as the oldest building in the park and the oldest remaining municipal wooden conservatory in the United States. This Victorian wood-and-glass structure is a designated San Francisco Landmark 50 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, visitors can explore a vast collection of about 1,700 species of aquatic and tropical plants. These rare specimens are displayed beneath an iconic glass dome that allows natural light to flood the interior. The facility serves as a quiet respite and a source of inspiration, though visitors should note that the West Gallery is currently closed for renovation. Historically, the structure was originally intended as a private conservatory for James Lick before it was placed in Golden Gate Park following his death in 1876. Since opening in 1879, it has remained one of the most visited locations in the park, serving as a key attraction alongside the Japanese Tea Garden and San Francisco Botanical Garden. For those visiting during the winter months, the conservatory hosts the annual Night Bloom event from November through early January. This immersive experience uses light and sound to transform the greenhouse into a radiant jungle, adding a modern layer of sensory experience to the the historic wood-and-glass architecture.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on the first Tuesday of every month for free admission.
  • Plan your visit between 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., keeping in mind that last entry is at 4:00 p.m.
  • Check the schedule for the 'Photosynthesis' light show, which begins 30 minutes after sunset nightly.
  • Avoid visiting between January 21 and February 4, 2026, due to the annual maintenance closure.

Nearby context

The Conservatory of Flowers is situated in the eastern end of Golden Gate Park, where it serves as one of the three main Gardens of Golden Gate Park sites, alongside the Japanese Tea Garden and San Francisco Botanical Garden.

Sources

Evidence and links