Wisconsin · Est. 1952
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Discover a world of botanical wonder and cultural serenity at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a vibrant oasis in Madison, Wisconsin.
Founded
1952
Size
16 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 5a
Best Season
May through September for outdoor gardens, year-round for the Bolz Conservatory.
About Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16-acre outdoor botanical garden and 10,000-square-foot conservatory located in Madison, Wisconsin. Established in 1952, it is jointly owned and operated by the City of Madison Parks and the non-profit Olbrich Botanical Society. The gardens offer a diverse collection of plants and unique architectural features, including a traditional Thai Pavilion, providing an enriching experience for all visitors.
History & Heritage
The vision for Olbrich Park began in 1916 with Michael Olbrich, who envisioned a sweeping park and flower garden. The City of Madison took title of the land in 1921, and the first flower plantings by volunteers occurred in 1933. Olbrich Botanical Gardens was officially born in 1952 with an allocation from the Olin Trust Fund. Significant additions include the Bolz Conservatory in 1991 and the Royal Thai Pavilion in 2002, marking continuous growth and development.
Signature Feature
Royal Thai Pavilion
Opened in 2002, the Royal Thai Pavilion is one of only six sala outside of Thailand and one of two in the United States. It was a gift to the University of Wisconsin–Madison from the Thai Chapter of the Wisconsin Alumni Association and the government of Thailand through its king, Bhumibol Adulyadej. It is joined to the gardens by a 155-foot arched footbridge crossing Starkweather Creek, creating a truly unique cultural and botanical experience.
Bloom-planning note
Best Time to See Blooms at Olbrich Botanical Gardens
The strongest overall display is typically May through September for outdoor gardens, year-round for the Bolz Conservatory.. That window combines the garden's major collections with the regional sequence of flowering trees, bulbs, perennials, and seasonal color.
In the broader Great Lakes & Midwest season, the spring sequence begins with bulbs and flowering trees, builds into a broad summer perennial season, and ends with rich foliage and grasses.
Timing changes with weather, elevation, and individual collection conditions. Confirm bloom progress directly with the garden before planning a special visit.
Photo Gallery
Lush greenery within the gardens
A serene pathway through vibrant blooms
Architectural beauty amidst natural landscapes
Notable Collections
Bolz Conservatory
A 10,000-square-foot tropical conservatory featuring over 750 plant species, free-flying birds, and a waterfall, offering a warm escape year-round.
Rose Garden
An extensive collection of over 700 varieties and 125 rose cultivars, including hybrid teas, floribundas, and hardy shrub roses, providing a fragrant and colorful display.
Sunken Garden
Designed in the style of a traditional English garden, it features limestone terraces, hedges, and an 80-foot reflecting pool, creating a formal and elegant landscape.
Herb Garden
A diverse collection of herbs categorized by their uses, including medicinal, dye, and kitchen herbs, as well as dedicated 'touch' and 'smell' gardens.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
April - September: 10 am – 6 pm daily; October - March: 10 am – 4 pm daily
Best seasonal window: May through September for outdoor gardens, year-round for the Bolz Conservatory.
Parking & Arrival
Free parking available on-site.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible paths and facilities are available 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
- Award for Garden Excellence from the American Public Gardens Association (2005)
- Certified as a Travel Green Wisconsin destination (2006)
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
May through September for outdoor gardens, year-round for the Bolz Conservatory.
Address
3330 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
Phone
(608) 246-4550
Hours
April - September: 10 am – 6 pm daily; October - March: 10 am – 4 pm daily
Admission
Outdoor Gardens are free; Bolz Conservatory requires a small admission fee.
Parking
Free parking available on-site.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible paths and facilities are available throughout the gardens and conservatory.
Insider Tips
- 1Visit the Bolz Conservatory for a tropical escape, especially during colder months.
- 2Explore the Thai Pavilion and its surrounding garden for a unique cultural experience.
- 3Check the official website for seasonal events and plant sales.
- 4Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore all the gardens and the conservatory.
Nearby Attractions
- Olbrich Park (adjacent)
- Henry Vilas Zoo (approx. 5 miles)
- Wisconsin State Capitol (approx. 3 miles)