Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore photo
ParkMaryland, US

Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore

The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory is a historic glasshouse oasis in Baltimore.

About

The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory is a historic glasshouse oasis in Baltimore. As one of the oldest surviving glass conservatories in the United States, it offers visitors a captivating journey through diverse botanical environments, all housed within the beautiful Victorian architecture of its main structures.

This verdant escape boasts five distinct display houses: the towering Palm House, the vibrant Orchid Room, the fragrant Mediterranean House, the lush Tropical House with its waterfall and koi pond, and the arid Desert House showcasing resilient succulents and cacti. Beyond the glass, 1.5 acres of outdoor gardens burst with seasonal color and provide a haven for pollinators. From the impressive Bismarck palms stretching to the 50-foot-high ceiling of the Palm House to rare Thai Constellation Monsteras in the Tropical House and ancient Saguaro cacti in the Desert House, the Conservatory is a living museum of plant diversity.

Visiting this botanical gem is a memorable experience that transports you far from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you seek respite from winter's chill, inspiration for your home garden, or a picturesque backdrop for photography, the Conservatory offers a unique blend of historical charm, architectural beauty, and natural wonder, fostering a deeper appreciation for plants from around the world. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

& Architecture Buffs * Photography * Couples

What to do here

Explore the five distinct climatic houses, observe the unique plant adaptations in each, and enjoy the beauty of the seasonal outdoor displays. You can feed the koi fish in the Tropical House, attend educational workshops, or visit during special annual events like the Spring Flower Show or Holiday Poinsettia Display.

Seasonal info

Look forward to major flower displays throughout the year, including spring flower shows, fall chrysanthemum displays, and festive holiday poinsettia arrangements. The Conservatory also hosts a Summer Concert Series and the Druid Hill Farmer's Market from June to September.

Accessibility

The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory is ADA accessible and family-friendly, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.

Don't miss

1

Don't miss the awe-inspiring **Palm House** with its towering palms and Victorian architecture. The **Orchid Room** features a continuously rotating display of exquisite blooms. In the **Tropical House**, look for the tranquil koi and goldfish pond and impressive fruiting plants. The **Mediterranean House** offers fragrant citrus trees and herbs, while the **Desert House** showcases fascinating cacti and succulents, including large saguaros and agaves. Outside, the **1.5 acres of outdoor gardens** provide seasonal floral spectacles.

Wildlife you might spot

12

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Check the Conservatory's official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation and any special event closures before your visit, as vehicle traffic may be impacted during certain festivals.

Take advantage of the free parking available just outside the Conservatory for convenient access.

For a truly unique experience, visit during the colder months; the warm, humid interiors of the houses provide a delightful tropical escape from winter.

Don't forget to bring some quarters if you'd like to feed the friendly koi and goldfish in the Tropical House pond.

Look for specific iconic plants such as the towering Bismarck Palms in the Palm House and the large Saguaro cacti in the Desert House – they make for impressive photo opportunities.

Stop by the gift shop before you leave; they often sell plants grown right in the Conservatory's greenhouses, allowing you to take a piece of the magic home.

Frequently asked questions

The main attractions include five distinct glass houses: the historic Palm House, the colorful Orchid Room, the aromatic Mediterranean House, the lush Tropical House with a koi pond, and the exotic Desert House. Additionally, 1.5 acres of outdoor gardens offer seasonal beauty.
Yes, the Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory is ADA accessible, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can comfortably explore its diverse plant collections and exhibits.
The Rawlings Conservatory houses a wide array of unique plants, including towering Bismarck and Bottle Palms in the Palm House, a rotating selection of rare orchids, fruiting tropical plants like banana and coffee, fragrant citrus trees such as Ponderosa lemon, and a significant collection of saguaro cacti and agaves in the Desert House.

Recent snaps at this place

View all