Jul 31 Friday
All aboard! The Paul Busse Garden Railway is arriving at Conservatory station.
9 G scale model trains travel across 1,122 feet of track that runs high and low through themed destinations: Fairytale Land, Wild West Town, European Travels and the animal-centric Who Lives Here.
Guests can journey with the trains through a miniature world of 51 botanical models made from all-natural plant material. Special elements to add to your itinerary include an enchanted tree hollow, two waterfalls, a bubbling brook and plantings specific to each themed destination.
Paul Busse Garden Railway opens April 25, 2026.
David Rogers’ Big Bugs brings the hidden world of insects to breathtaking scale. This traveling exhibition features oversized, anatomically accurate sculptures crafted from reclaimed wood and natural materials, revealing the intricate beauty of creatures often overlooked. From towering ants to a giant dragonfly and massive praying mantis, these monumental works invite visitors of all ages to explore, discover, and see nature from a new perspective.
Big Bugs opens June 6, 2026 and will be on display through September 20, 2026.
Aug 01 Saturday
Franklin Park Conservatory owns the largest private collection of Dale Chihuly artwork in any Botanical setting in the United States! Chihuly Nights offers you the opportunity to view 18 installations spectacularly illuminated to create heightened drama and breathtaking views within the backdrop of the interior and of the warmth of the Conservatory.
New this year! A rotating line-up of musicians provides entertainment from 8-9pm, while you relax and enjoy exploring the gardens and plant collections, current exhibitions and James Turrell’s Light Raiment II, and shopping in Botanica Gift Shop & Greenhouse. The Garden Café and cash bar will be open during these evening events.
Aug 02 Sunday
Community Day is the first Sunday of every month. Residents of Columbus and Franklin County receive free general admission. Community Days include access to the entirety of our gardens and collections and current daytime exhibitions. Admission to special engagements on select evenings (Chihuly Nights, Pumpkins Aglow, Conservatory Aglow) is not included.
Community Day is the first Sunday of every month. Residents of Columbus and Franklin County receive free General Admission. Identification is required. Community Days include access to the entirety of our gardens and collections and current daytime exhibitions. Admission to Special Engagements (Chihuly Nights, Pumpkins Aglow, Conservatory Aglow) is not included.