The Olbrich Botanical Gardens are located in Madison, Wisconsin.
Angel Trumpet in the Conservatory
There are 16 acres of outdoor gardens, as well as, a 10,000 square foot conservatory. The conservatory is open from 10am – 4 pm (masks currently required indoors). Although the gardens are free to visit, the conservatory requires a $6 fee.
The Sunken Garden at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
The Sunken Garden contains water features, sculptures and is lined with flowers, shrubs and trees.
Purple, Black and Blue Salvia and Hairy Ball Plants
I was quite taken with this unusual looking plant, I had never seen it before. When I read its name, ‘Hairy Balls’, I could not stop laughing. For the rest of our visit, every time my husband or I saw the plant we would shout out, “Look! More Hairy Balls!” then we’d laugh all over again. Maturity is not always our strong suit.
Lussier Bridge at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
The Lussier Bridge connects the Rock Garden to the Wildflower Garden.
Monarch Butterflies and Zinnias
It was great to see so many Monarch butterflies!
Prairie Dropseed Meadow at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
There are 18 different gardens to stroll through, so pick a day that’s not too hot so you can enjoy the gardens in their entirety.
Thai Pavilion at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
To access the Thai Pavilion Garden you have to cross a bridge over Starkweather Creek. This is the furthermost point of the gardens.
Additional Things to Know
Current hours are 10 am – 6 pm
Gift store hours are 10 am – 4 pm
Library hours are 10 am – 1 pm
Parking and Entrance to the outdoor gardens are free (donations suggested)
Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen
Bring water
Consider printing out a map of the gardens
Give yourself at least a few hours here. The next garden I will cover is Boerner Botanical Gardens located in Hales Corners, Wisconsin. As always, wishing you happy travels and fantastic adventures in this thing called life.
(All pictures are available as Fine Art Prints or Digital Downloads for purchase through Alamy. If you see something you like, click on the link. If you are unable to find it, use the Contact Me page and I will make sure the image is available.)
More Botanical Gardens
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Rotary Botanical Gardens in Wisconsin
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens
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Visiting Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, Wisconsin
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