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Conservatory of Flowers
-Now Open-
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The Conservatory of Flowers is the oldest existing building in Golden Gate Park. The architect is believed to be Samuel Charles Bugbee, who patterned it after a similar building at Kew Gardens in England. The prefab panels were shipped around the Horn of Africa from London in 1875. This Victorian era greenhouse provides a tropical environment for specialized collections as well as seasonal flower displays. Due to severe storm damage, the Conservatory had been closed to the public since 1995. With the grand re-opening on September 20, 2003, the Conservatory is once again open to the public.
Entrance fee charged
Regular Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 9am - 4:30pm
(last entry is at 4:30pm, Visitors must leave the Conservatory by 5pm)
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In 1999, The Friends of Recreation & Parks' Board of Directors voted to lead a multimillion-dollar fundraising effort to restore the Conservatory. Work began in 2000 and was completed in April of 2003. Attention then shifted to installing the extensive exhibits.
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Visitors entering the newly refurbished Conservatory will be dazzled by the wonderful variety of exotic plants on view.
An arbor with benches in the west wing allows for the easy viewing of hanging baskets. |
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| Walk among the fluttering butterflies at a special temporary exhibit currently in the west wing of the Conservatory of flowers. |
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In the east wing, visitors can see examples of the giant Amazon Water Lily (Victoria Amazonica) in a simulation of its natural environment. |
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After the Storms of 1995 at
The Conservatory of Flowers:
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| The Conservatory was closed soon after the windstorms of 1995. Many of the glass panes were shattered and more severe damage was sustained to the 125 year old wooden structure. Workers covered the large holes with plastic and plywood, while others made temporary repairs to the dome. |
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Last updated on October 16, 2003. Mail comments to: davidg@lightight.com
Photographs and Text Copyright ©2004, David Gardner. All Rights Reserved.
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