We took our young grandson the week before Christmas to see Santa and his Reindeer (2 real reindeer). The entire place was beautifully decorated.I've been to several events there and it is always first class - what a gem!!
Wide variety of plants to see. Tropical zone was the most interesting area, with waterfalls and fish too. Quite warm the day we went, and the cafeteria was closed so we couldn't relax with a drink and snack.Highlight was the butterfly exhibit, but this was a temporary display and is now closed.
My family enjoyed the Botanical Gardens, even my 6 year old sons. There is something for everyone here. Front desk staff was very helpful and admission price was very reasonable.
Just an absolutely gorgeous place! Would wholeheartedly urge a stop here when visiting Ft. Wayne (or even the surrounding areas in Northern Indiana). Beautiful plants, flowers, etc. that are divided into various "biomes" that you wouldn't get to see unless you traveled thousands of miles. HIGHLY recommended!!
I love this place at Christmas and judging by the crowds every year most everyone else loves it, too. I've been on family outings at other times of the year and it is fine then, but Christmas is a time of pure magic in the indoor gardens.
You might not spend a lot of time visiting unless you have an annual pass, but I wish I did. I could imagine sitting and reading in one of the different climate rooms on a cold winter day. They include a showcase garden (LOADS of flowers), tropical and desert. While the indoor gardens are wonderful for strolling and lingering, the outdoor ones could be amped up some. Don't get me wrong, it's very nice and enjoyable, I just thought there might be more - like a formal knot garden, perennial, herb, rose, etc. However, it's a peaceful little beauty in the middle of town.
1 degree outside and we walked through beautiful gardens in bloom with falling waterfalls, orange trees, birds of paradise, etc. The artist on our visit used upcycling to create amazing sculptures that pleasantly surprised us both. VERY colorful! The employees were very kind. We were the only people visiting on Tuesday. The music was so calming. It was wonderful to enjoy growing plants, fish, flowers and waterfalls. Our first time to the conservatory made it a little difficult knowing where to park and also enter the building. The website does tell you this but we failed to look for specific directions. We parked at meters beside the catholic church. They will validate parking if you use the garage. Price was only $5 per person. We will go back again and take others who have not been. Very calm and relaxing day. Places to hang up your winter coat so you can really escape the winter day. We want to see the outdoor gardens this spring and summer.Some steps inside but most can be viewed with a wheelchair also.Nice little gift shoppe.
I have enjoyed my visits to the Foellinger-Friemann Botanical Conservatory at any time of year, but it is truly a life-saver during those bleak winter months when you are dying to escape the cold, even for just a couple blissful hours. It is the only place in town in the winter where you can soak up the sun's warm rays in an arid desert or under a humid, lush green rainforest-like canopy of vegetation. Observe their beautiful flowers in full bloom while butterflies flutter by, when everything else in town is frozen and grey. It will lift your spirits! :-)
As the seasons change this facility changes to match the season. In Christmas they have a great display with lights, trees, Santa Claus and even live reindeer. It is a very nice place to take the kids and the price of admission is usually reasonable for what is available tht day. Parking is a problem but once you get there you can have a very nice time.
My wife and I had been here last in 1999 before we had kids. Now that we live here again, we brought our three children and it was well worth it. Not much has changed and that's for the better. the rain forest area is always excellent and the way they change the theme in the first room adds a nice variety. Great time!