Nebraska · Est. 1994
Lauritzen Gardens
An urban oasis of beauty and tranquility in the heart of Omaha.
Founded
1994
Size
100 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 6a
Best Season
April to October for outdoor gardens; year-round for the conservatory.
About Lauritzen Gardens
Lauritzen Gardens is a 100-acre botanical garden and arboretum located in the riverfront hills of Omaha, Nebraska. It serves as a tranquil oasis and educational destination, featuring a diverse collection of native and non-native plant species. The gardens are dedicated to conserving endangered plants of the Great Plains and advancing the understanding of the region's biological diversity.
History & Heritage
The gardens originally opened in 1994 as the Omaha Botanical Gardens after years of preliminary study and planning that began in 1982. The visitors center opened in 2001, at which point the center rebranded to its current name, Lauritzen Gardens, honoring the philanthropy of the Lauritzen family. Over the years, it has expanded to include numerous specialized gardens and a world-class conservatory.
Signature Feature
Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory
The Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory features world-class architecture paired with a world-class plant collection. It consists of 10,000 square feet for tropical plants and 5,000 square feet for temperate plants, housed in two uniquely different display gardens. The conservatory provides a stunning year-round garden experience with a waterfall and vibrant floral displays.
Photo Gallery
Vibrant spring blooms along the garden pathways.
Lush foliage inside the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory.
Tranquil water features surrounded by native Nebraska plants.
Notable Collections
Founders' Garden
The first garden established at Lauritzen Gardens in 1993, featuring a shade hosta collection.
Rose Garden
A formal garden showcasing a wide variety of beautiful and fragrant roses.
Children's Garden
An interactive space designed to engage young visitors with nature and gardening.
Herb Garden
A collection of culinary, medicinal, and aromatic herbs.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Monday - Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Wednesday - Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Best seasonal window: April to October for outdoor gardens; year-round for the conservatory.
Parking & Arrival
Free parking available for approximately 550 cars in the unique parking garden.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Accessible pathways and facilities throughout the gardens and conservatory.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice - Best Botanical Gardens
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
April to October for outdoor gardens; year-round for the conservatory.
Address
100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108
Phone
(402) 346-4002
Hours
Monday - Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Wednesday - Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission
Standard admission rates apply; discounted rates for veterans and free for members.
Parking
Free parking available for approximately 550 cars in the unique parking garden.
Accessibility
Accessible pathways and facilities throughout the gardens and conservatory.
Insider Tips
- 1Visit the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory for a lush, tropical experience even in winter.
- 2Check the events calendar for seasonal exhibits like Bright Nights and the Antiques & Design Show.
- 3Take advantage of the extended evening hours on Mondays and Tuesdays during the summer.
- 4Don't miss Kenefick Park, which is open and free to the public during garden hours.
Nearby Attractions
- The Durham Museum (1.5 miles)
- Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (2.0 miles)
- The RiverFront parks (2.5 miles)