Reviews of Olbrich Botanical Gardens (Tourist Attraction)

Sarah Urban

Olbrich has always been one of my favorite places in Madison. It's a nice, safe place to walk or sit. Our daughter grew up walking through these gardens, and now that she is an adult, she has cherished memories of her many hours here.

Wynona Calderon

Olbrich is a very beautiful and gorgeous garden in Madison! Everything is absolutely charming from the entrance to the pathways, landscape, plants and then to the conservatory. There are lots of butterflies, birds, quail in the conservatory. I can also see the Thai Sala, it is lovely and wonderful, everyone should not miss this spot! I really enjoy my time here and I would highly recommend this place to especially to anyone who loves natures and gardens!

Karen Copper

Beautiful plants and flowers inside, along with the beginning of a live butterfly exhibit. Outside, very hot. Rose garden has not quite reached its full glory yet. We visited the country's only Thai temple there. Lots of gold and many beautiful sculptures.

Martha Ortega

When we entered this place, my husband reported our service dog as well as his camera, that wasn’t for commercial purpose because the lady at the entrance asked. While my husband was taking pictures of my daughter, Patti comes up to my husband, asking for a photography license, which, of course, we didn’t have one as it was for personal use only. Then she approached me and questioned my daughter’s service dog, I presented her the ID and the card where it states that the service dog cannot be denied entrance, to which she responded that she didn’t need to see the ID, as she will not obey the ADA rules. She was really rude, unpleasant, and was determined to have us leave the premises. Patti is a bitter person and if she’s not able to do her job obeying laws in a nicely manner, she should look for another place. The garden is a public place where everyone should enjoy visiting. Looking at the reviews of the garden, I noticed that the common denominator of many of the complaints is Patti not respecting the permits for service dogs and people taking pictures of the place. Her job evaluation should be revised and noted as us tax payers pay for her salary.

Jinsoo Kim

It is free of charge for the entrance. Despite that, we were amazed at the various plants and flowers. Very peaceful and fantastic place. Some people were shooting photos in the place. It might have been more beautiful if it were spring as more flowers would have bloomed.

Joel Pranikoff

Beautifully maintained. Each season is wonderful.

John Doyle

What an incredibly picturesque and peaceful place to visit. Such a wide variety of plant and flora species are rarely cultivated in one place. Shaded walkways wind through the vegetation and beautifully manicured fountains, statues, and architecture. A must see in late spring, summer, or early fall if you are in the Madison area.

Cindie Bishop

So peaceful and beautiful. A perfect place to get rid of some calories AND relax your mind while you do it!

Madeline Field

I very much enjoyed my visit here! The gardens are beyond impressive, even in the fall when I visited. If you lived in Madison I can imagine that you could easily visit here multiple times a year and not get sick of it. They have a gorgeous Thai temple which is actually the only authentic Thai temple in America! The layout makes it very enjoyable to wander without aim. Let the path lead you!

OmegaFLASH 》

Stunning. Really. When you get there you could take many small paths that each have their own little story to tell and they all loop together in the end. Great place to bring your kids or a first date! A learning center will be opening there soon and I can't wait to see what it has to offer! Will definitely be coming back time and time again!

Arm

Affordable and worth the trip! All gardens are lovely and the live art is great for both kids and adults to look at and play with.

Jessie Knott

If you're a nature lover, I highly recommend visiting Olbrich. You'll definitely want to go back after you do. They have a large variety of plants and flowers. You will also spot a lot of butterflies and bees. My friend had her wedding ceremony here. So incredibly gorgeous!

Jacque Wyffels

Beautiful grounds, and the butterfly exhibit was amazing. I will definitely be going back.

mplsmndude tr

Madison is so lucky to have such a beautiful place for people to visit and be with and in nature. Highly recommend!

Bob Taylor

The outdoor gardens are beautiful and free! Truely superb!

Ryan Mears

The Gleam event is a really cool way to showcase Olbrich at night. I'd definitely check it out!

Kyle Jero

I've been enjoying the outdoor gardens for years in the spring, summer, and fall, but only recently started going to the indoor part this winter. What a little oasis the conservatory is. My daughter loves watching the birds and checking on how the bananas are doing. We can hardly go a week without winding up there now. Highly recommend for cold winter days with young kids where you're struggling to find something to do.

Karmen Fiedler

LITERALLY the most gorgeous place in Madison. Lovely volunteers that are kind, educational, helpful, friendly, and all around fabulous. The outdoor gardens are unmatched by anything I've ever seen. They are natural artwork--just masterpieces. And the greenhouse is unbelievably lush and diversely vibrant (and a great place to visit in the winter if you're missing tropical warmth). All the adorable little birds are a treat. Easily one of my favourite places in all of Madison.

Eric Livengood

It was a great experience, although it was a in the low 30's the outside garden was free. The internal garden was very inexpensive at $2.00 per person over the age of 6. Great plants and some birds. An added bonus for Pokemon Go players, lots of spins and and one gym. We went during a community day event and there were plenty of other players there at the time.

Rebecca J

Beautiful, nice paths and walkways. Shady areas and sunny. Lots of benches for breaks and enjoying the scenery.

Shannon Hermanson

Beautiful and free botanical gardens in the middle of Madison. I took my 4-year-old on a sunny October morning and had fun exploring all of the different paths. There's a playground nearby, if your kid gets tired of walking their "legs are really sore", and they just want to swing or go down the slides.

Molly Campbell

So beautiful! So many different plants to admire, and only $2! Definitely excited to come back!

Mory Jahangir

Very nice urban garden conservancy. The butterfly event in late July and early August was outstanding. I would categorize the butterfly event worthy of not to be missed designation. We'll be sure to go back for that event next year.

Zach Wedel

Beautiful park, especially for being free. My kids enjoyed the walk and there was plenty to see. This trip was done at night to see the lights and we were impressed. There was a charge for this special event, but we felt it was very much justified.

Jeff Cowman

Excellent gardens outside and FREE! Also includes an inside Arboretum for $2.00 admission! Highly recommended!

Cindy Bartelt

Wonderful place to visit on a cold winter day. Make sure you wear a cooler top as it is quite warm / humid. Beautiful plants from all over. Nice ambience and flowing water. Highly recommended.

moisesgeovanni gomez

Super awesome place indoor and outdoor are a must!!

Risa Berg

Beautiful gardens. Tranquil and very nice place to visit. Not huge just the right size on a hot day.

Dagmar Degree

I enjoyed the plants inside and out. It was a treat for the eyes and senses. The staff in the gift shop were friendly and helpful. Go!

Jon Tetlak

What a peaceful walk through a well-curated and presented botanic garden this was. I've been to before and Chicago botanical garden is one of my favs. The Olbrich botanical gardens is an absolute delight. The Thai pavilion is a standout and unique staple to check out. It's not just the only one in the country but the only one outside of Thailand. I definitely recommend stopping by here and take a slow stroll to take it all in.

Robert Jensen

Nice quiet spot to walk, meditate, and enjoy life.

Nicole Yarrington

Gorgeous gardens, amazing water displays and very handicap accessible!! We absolutely loved it!!

Michelle Hagen

Beautiful gardens, very well maintained, nice architecture, great place for photos

Candice Miles

Great activity/destination to explore with a variety of plants, butterflies, and a special area for Thai architecture that was beautiful!

branden clark

Amazing place love to come back

Clifford Owens

Olbrich is a wonderful island of beautiful close to downtown Madison. It provides a peaceful place to meander the paths scattered with great views all along the way. I highly recommend this place, especially if you need to clear your head

Tiffaney Q

We've paid 15 bucks to get into gardens this beautiful but this place is free

James Worzalla

A truly beautiful place to visit. The butterfly exhibit was magical and the outside gardens were a great beauty to get lost in

Giselbert Parkhurst

My favorite thing I've done in Madison. I'm here for less than a week and I've already been twice (and considering a third trip). There's something for everyone- beautiful plants, excellent design, curated sculptures. The first day my wife and I mostly wandered around to look at everything, except for a few periods to wait out rain, sit in the Serenity garden, and read a book under a grape arbor.

Judikael Loomsinger

Incredibly beautiful, well kept, sprawling... Very very cheap conservatory admission and free garden access. A new favorite.

Samantha Quinney

Great place to take friends and family, or just to stroll with friends or a date.

Rachel Marsh

The outdoor gardens are beautiful and well kept. Even though it was very hot during our visit, we managed to get through a majority if the outdoor garden. Big bonus is that it is free if you stay in the outdoor area. We did not visit the conservatory. I knocked off a star due to the fact that the website states the fee to visit the conservatory is "$2 admission; free for Members. Free to all on Wed. & Sat. mornings from 10 - noon." (Copied from website) They should have a disclaimer *except during special events. The actual fee was $8 due to the Blooming Butterfly exhibit. In a group of 8 people, that was more than we were expecting. The employees did at least tell us that the conservatory would be extremely hot (in 95 degree weather) since I was reluctant to pay the additional fee. Full 5 stars if they change their website to a more accurate fee description.

Dylan Chisnell

Absolutely gorgeous place. There are so many plants and flowers! They are also labeled very nicely so you know what you are looking at. If you are want to get lost for a few hours in a stunning, well kept park; this is the spot to go. Did I mention it's FREE! Thank you to the sponsors!

Nate Brenengen

Great place to go for a walk. Nice areas to relax for a bit. Undergoing some construction currently not nothing too bad.

Thomas Shoback

Very well kept gardens, and the staff were helpful and informative. Be prepared if visiting May/June as we just did that many birds are nesting, so pay attention to the signs. One red-winged blackbird made sure I knew they weren't kidding

David Kochie

Came for the light show. Really cool highly recommend setting this

Jacob Aberle

I went to "Gleam" tonight, friggin awesome!

Louis Guzzo

Great presentation of exotic plants. They also just installed a new art exhibit. Watch out not to touch or take out any butterflies.

John Henry Erikson

One of the prettiest free (donations encouraged) parks in the city.

BrandonCiancio

Classes here are awesome! On their website they have multiple pages of available courses to choose. The courses offered are what you may expect of a botanical garden. I have taken a handful of courses and thus far have walked away glad to have invested the price of the class, which are reasonable given the sheer volume and quality of information discussed in the class. Highly recommend for those seeking enrichment activies that focus around nature.

Haillie Passow

Fun place to walk around! Went in the winter so didn't explore the outdoor gardens but hopefully I will over the summer. The tropical area was fun on a chilly day.

mary cooper

A calming walk through some gorgeous flowers, bushes, and ponds. A beautiful Temple surrounded by gardens. Our favorite place to go.

Jorge Rivas

Beautiful garden that is surprisingly larger than you would think. The earlier you get there better if you like peaceful and quiet walks. It is so nice here I nearly fell asleep on one of the comfy chairs they have near a cabin.

brad wiscons

Beautiful gardens with lots of lovely plants. Unfortunately a contracted staff while working on an outdoor walking path improvement was smoking a cigarette! Kind of spoiled the garden's fragrant experience.

Grant Johnsen

Wonderful place to walk around and take pictures!

Ranger B

If you're looking for an interesting place for all types of plants, trails to walk on and viewing nature then this is the place to go. Very nice and inexpensive as the only expense is the 'inside' area which at the time was only $2/person

Carla Salamone

Lovely gardens and great place for family walks.

Josh Woods

Great place for the family & friends to relax. Needs more events that happen for the public closer to dark! Fun nonetheless!

Daniel Kragthorpe

Great place for all ages. Part of the outdoor area right by the doors is under construction (spring/summer 2019). Beautiful place to take a stroll or sit and read a book.

Joe Weaver

It’s free. Unfortunately the treatment reflects this. It’s really a shame because it’s such a nice place but I have been treated poorly every time I’ve encountered staff/volunteers. I just waited with a heavy child in my arms while two people were allowed to cut in front of me. Another time I was accosted by staff for entering an area which is usually public but off limits for that day... through a gate they had left open themselves. There was no signage to that effect. Usually it’s just a dour/rude attitude in general.

Bethany Benisch

Olbrich Gardens is beautiful and still expanding! Make sure to come here during the late summer to see the butterfly show.

David Wells

A great place for the family. Easy access makes it great if you bring little ones. Peaceful and relaxing.

Hadassa 1

Olbrich is an icon of Madison! It is a must see for people visiting the area. The gardens are beautiful and the events are spectacular and child friendly. What a blessing to have such a beautiful place to visit for free!

April Salisbury

Wonderful experience. My two year old grandson and twelve year old son were amazed excited through the whole trip. Only experienced the outdoor biome today. But, beautifully done.

Beth Magstadt

Even though they are currently under construction the gardens were beautiful as always! We enjoyed a short stroll through with our little one in a stroller.

FrostyTheDark

Olbrich gardens is always a beautiful and fun excursion. This time of year, however, (early spring) was a little lackluster. So make sure to give the plants a little time to grow and check it out on a warm summer day.

Brad Ferguson

It's a nice place to spend a little while walking around through a beautiful garden and they only ask for a small donation if possible

Nathan Flaminio

What a wonderfully beautiful place! We had a very nice walk around. The gardens are gorgeous. The atmosphere very pleasant. Was a little worried about some of the very mean looking bugs, but they didn't attack us, so all was well. Saw some wildlife, and lots of bees. People were kayaking and biking in the area. Well worth the trip!

Calvin Wainwright

A fantastic place to take in the serene power of nature's beauty.

Pallabi Nandi

This place is a must visit for nature lovers like me. Gorgeous trees, colorful flowers everywhere. The staffs are nice. Great for a romantic walk or just an hour of alone time.

Linda Sanders

Beautiful! One of Madison's gems. There is currently expansion and construction, but don't let that deter you.

Jeannette Julga

Beautiful gardens. Many winding walkways. Peaceful. Guaranteed to have an enjoyable walk.

David Engebretson

Wow, such a beautiful place! There are so many different paths and secrets to explore. The golden pavilion is something that's really worth experiencing, and overall the ambiance of Olbrich is incredible. Highly recommended!

Margaret T

The Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Conservatory was the highlight of our trip to Madison, WI. It is an incredibly inexpensive yet beautiful place to visit. The gardens are free and the conservatory is $2/person. Parking is free and widely available. The conservatory truly felt like a tropical rainforest overflowing with (labeled!!) tropical plants. Calatheas, alocasias, peperomias, hoyas--you name it! The gardens cover 16 acres, so bring your walking shoes. We especially appreciated the various art installations throughout the gardens. This is a must-see hidden gem in Madison. Suitable for all ages/definitely kid friendly. I would suggest visiting in both the daytime and at night to see everything lit up.

Timoteo

This is a truly hidden gem in Madison! It is beautifully maintained and taken care of! We were greatly surprised by the size and depth of the place, and its great knowing that it is still expanding and upgrading!

Sarah P

Beautiful gardens, first time visiting and I was shocked at how big the grounds are! Admission is free, donations are appreciated. We will definitely go back! The Thai Gardens were amazing.

Emily Weitzel

It was a fun family experience. The gardens were beautiful!

Allie Matthies

Beautiful gardens but ridiculously photography policy. I wanted to snap some pics for a friend and they wouldn’t allow it even though I wasn’t charging for the photos without a photography permit (which is like $50 for a day). Since the gardens are gorgeous, I’m still reluctantly giving a 5. So beautiful,

Jennifer Johnson

Olbrich is a true Madison treasure! I am so grateful to have these beautiful gardens to visit for free.

Victoria Fisher

These gardens are wonderful. They’re much larger than I was expecting. You could really wander for hours here. Unfortunately they are also a bit crowded and you can’t really get lost in them — there are always other people around.

Neal Schroeder

Splendid location that a full afternoon with the family we all enjoyed

Jianjun Jiang

A great botanical garden! Small but has a lot of plant collections. Beautiful!

Greg Currence

Beautiful gardens! A little more description on some of the plants would make it 5 stars.

Danielle Mank

Olbrich Gardens is beautiful! A little Garden of Eden right in Madison. And it's free if you don't go into the biodome thing. But that's only $2 or so.

Dev Achten

Very beautiful. Wonderful location for a date or photography. The current construction made it a bit difficult to get back to the building from the outdoor gardens.

Kelsey Wotzka

So beautiful! So much to see and very well designed. A lot of care obviously goes into this place.

Tammi Hoefling

They take very good care of this place and they have a lot of events herr to keep it interesting. The mosquitos are the only reason I can't quite give it 5 stars.

Newton Lee

NOT WHAT AS GOOD AS IT USE TO BE I understand there is a sign at the front entrance that say photographers who are taking senior photos and family photos must pay for a permit, but it is ridiculous. The price is about $30 which is a waste of money and time; might as well allow us to pick their flowers with that price. We came in to take photos and they eyed us as we came in and then had us pay for it despite only going to take pictures not of family or any senior photos but for other reasons. They explained that if we use their garden for any photos, then we have to get a permit from them (which i might add, they never gave to us). They started going over the guidelines which are one of the most obvious guidelines that are/should be common sense. One of my friends asked how about people who use their phones to take pictures, but she couldn't give us an answer, only a "well..." and proceeded to count the money we wasted for a 1 day permit. Olbrich garden is a nice place, but with its ridiculous price of $30 for a dumb permit, it isn't worth it. Not only that, the majority of the areas have art everywhere they just ruin a lot of the scenic views: the thai pagoda for example which have these bird things that hang from it and a person who is guarding the inside of the pagoda, barring us from entering at all, or the weird hanging lights at the tower and the outline of a face hanging above one of the fountains. Art can be beautiful, but laying it out wherever like that doesn't make a garden any more pretty. I suggest Olbrich garden think about the overly expensive photography permit because with that, it deters anyone, any photographers, to take any photos. i suggest anyone who is going to take photos just use a phone camera because $30 is not worth it, or better yet go elsewhere for photography.

Ruth Smith

Gorgeous variety of plants. A great setting to read a book and relax. The gardens are free and open to the public 7 days a week. A Madison gem

Greg Tremelling

We go for the butterfly exhibit every year. Great place!

Amber-skye Tumblin

Went during the winter. Think the outside would be lovely covered in snow! The inside tropical garden area is beautiful and honestly, you can't beat the price! The lady at the desk was helpful and so nice! Hoping to come back during the spring and summer!

Debbie Savaiano

The happy greenery and floral display starts before you enter the gardens. The outside colors and textures will delight you and tempt you into the gardens. Inside is a system of concentric circles with pretty, surprising botanical treats. There are a couple of structures inside, skeletons of buildings, ponds, benches. Great place to relax and chat with friends or hang out alone.

Sulea Shelton

Some of the most beautiful plant and animal life I have ever seen. It was very relaxing and enjoyable.

Jason Daughenbaugh

Fantastic place loved it for sure I'll be back again

Jeff Wood

Great place, even while part of it is under construction. Inspired to have landscaping like this at home!

Dan Gailey

Had an amazing view of the lake! Along with a gorgeous Thai pavilion. Also had many varieties of perennials and annuals!

Marc Yarmoff

The Olbrich Gardens are the lovely green space I was craving after months of winter. The grounds are in a lovely condition and are filled with interesting plants. There are many little books to sit in that are out of the wind and in the sun. Don’t miss the Thai pagoda (made by Thai artisans and shipped to Madison), or the indoor tropical greenhouse. My favorite spot: the bench in the greenhouse where you can watch the quails.

Kamiwp Linn

Wonderful garden in Madison! Must go! I went there alone by bicycle.the trail from midtown to Olbrich is a stunning one. I like the ways they decorated and various types of plant.

Linda Evans

This little gem and Madison. Everyone should go here there are so many different plant environments. There's something new year round. They are fantastic plant sales.

bardia khoshroo

Great garden beautiful place for walk. It is very relaxing and peaceful.

Leslie Eshelby

Oibrich is one of Madion’s Gems. It is not downtown but it is worth finding. There is free parking and free entrance to everything except the indoor dome. We visit various months. In winter we treasure the warmth. Spring through fall we love to walk in the outdoor areas and watch the progress of the plants. The Thai Conservancy can be a moving destination. Beautiful gardens. Especially enjoyed the Thai garden which was built in Thailand and transported here and put together on the grounds, Must see if in and around Madison

Tyler Wendell

Beautiful place to walk around with family or friends. Very large. It wore our toddler out.

Cristal G

This place is probably much prettier in spring or summer but Fall was ok too. And I loved the building and water falls, river and colors.

Michael Myers

Beautiful gardens, must visit spot!

Valerie La Tendresse

I've been going to these gardens for years. I love it there. You can visit the outside part free of charge (donations welcome). The indoors part has a small admission fee. I'm not sure if special events cost any extra, so worth checking. I've been to some events/displays there that were included in the cost for the inside. Very worth going any time of year. I typically go at least 3 times each year. Just went today for the 3rd time in 2019 alone. In the name of progress they have construction going on. I still had a wonderful time today.

Rachael Vossen

Beautiful gardens! They are continuing to make expansions and improvements as well. The new Thai area is amazing!

Kathleen Mailman

I love it here. I recently moved to Madison and already feel at home. There is so much to do here. These gardens are the perfect place to relax or explore.

Merriel

Gleam at Olbrich Botanical Gardens was spectacular this year! Many interactive light installations, with lots of opportunities for patrons to participate in the art. The bird sculpture in the Thai Pavilion was particularly beautiful, while the musical sphere was eerily moving.

Diana Byrns

Great garden, well maintained, friendly staff, free entry today!

arlette mullins

My favorite little oasis in Madison. There are so many little spots to stop and read or walk around with friends. Fantastic gardens, great water features and it's perfect during the spring bloom!

Dozy

Very large outdoor botanical garden. It was most pleasant to walk through on a relaxing Friday afternoon.

Monica Cardenas

Beautifully done and enjoyable walk through lush gardens. Authentic Thai Pavilion, the only one in the United States! Fun little paths that weave in and out of main pathway. Easy for seniors and disabled to navigate. Highly recommend for families as well. New construction taking place on grounds.

Brittany Bex

This place is beautiful and so serene. A great place to take a break and go for a nice walk.

Lee Draper

Certainly a very quiet and interesting place to visit get ideas with plants and just walk around and enjoy the atmosphere and environment. Entry is by donation and you can purchase for a small fee to go look at the butterflies lots of parking here. All in all a great place to visit

Jose Mathew

Amazing botanical garden. All names exhibited.

Kimberly Brown

Crackle, gleam and fire event was spectacular. Great night and lovely weather.

Michael Hall

Great place. Old lady staff made my daughter cry. Not a good recent impression

Caleb Strickland

Great time to spend some time relaxing and enjoying some beautiful plants/flowers. The Thai pavilion is extremely beautiful. All of the different gardens are well kept. Will definitely be going back again.

Kyle Goryl

These gardens are gorgeous even before the spring blooms start. The signage is detailed but unobtrusive at the same time. Plenty of spots to sit alone or with a friend and enjoy nature

Beth

Love the Gardens! Beautiful place to walk, nice way to warm up in the winter (in the arboretum), good selection of classes. My favorite things are the shows (especially the Orchid and Bonsai shows) and the spring plant sale. The garden membership is a good deal, gets you into most gardens in the Midwest.

Allie Schaefer

My girlfriend and I came to enjoy the beautiful gardens and enjoy the day. We brought my emotion support animal. She is incredibly well trained and behaved. We were just sitting on a bench enjoying the day. One of the staff members rudly interrupt us, And harrassed us because they said we don't allow dogs. No signs are posted at all. I have all documentation required for her. And they still kicked us out. If you support animals don't patronize them.

Heather Sparrow

Beautiful conservatory! All of the employees were so friendly and helpful! Cute gift shop area! Worth the trip!

Colleen Taylor

A beautiful botanical garden, great spot to bring visitors and show off madison

Joshua Welch

Probably the nicest botanical gardens I've seen. Would love to see it in full bloom.

Grady Knight

Great place for a walk. The paths are well marked and mostly smooth paved. Easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Mary D

Staff and volunteers were very friendly and helpful. The grounds were well cared for and beautiful.

Lucas Finley

Beautifully done and I can tweak it is a good thing you didn't come to do it in a couple of weeks and your family a happy to do it another dog and a must to.

Maureen Pauly-Hubbard

Beautiful gardens, nice sculpture mixed in with plants, clean building, FREE admission, great value

melissa stemper

Very nice place to visit and the outside gardens are free to walk around in.

Jake Russo

Gorgeous gardens and beautiful butterflies. We watched a giant swallowtail emerging from its chrysalis!

Jerimiah Jerue

Very beautiful and peaceful. There are some amazing areas that are tranquil and relaxing. The flora selection is amazing. Highly recommend this as a Madison must see.

Whitney Lockhart

Olbrich Gardens is a wonder! It's fairly common to spend 30-90 minutes outside in the nice weather. They offer some pretty unique amenities such as a library to research all your gardening projects, their staff is usually pretty knowledgeable also. They have a gift shop and offer classes on a wide variety of topics garden related. Their Thai gardens are especially pristine! Keep a look out for special events such as their winter show and butterfly exhibit.

Sara Ackerman

Beautiful day to be out. Spring flowers just blossoming. Several areas closed for maintenance but should be open soon as workers were busy cleaning out dead brush. The Thai pavillion, which we really wanted to see, was open. Will be going back in summer to see the gardens in full bloom.

Laura Bierdemann

Beautiful outdoor and indoor gardens. The annual butterfly exhibit is outstanding. There is also an extensive library to help with all of your botanical needs.

AJ Katz

I cant get enough of this place. All seasons are beautiful here. There are wildlife, all kinds of flora and even a few water features. Please consider donating when you come to visit. Entry to the gardens is free, but maintaining them is not :)

Jon Mailman

Awesome place. Went into the arboretum for the first time, this alone is worth a trip. It's a good place for a walk or just to set and take in the surrounding flowers and wildlife.

Teresa Gwaltney

I've been many times and it always feels like the first. The exhibits are always wonderful. Gleam was the best!

katie

Grew up in the neighborhood and have loved watching the gardens change and expand. Stopped by their plant sale this spring, lots of helpful staff ready to answer questions. Cant wait for GLEAM this summer and the butterfly exhibit!

Robert Kinkley

A beautiful place to take a stroll and look at some interesting and vibrantly colored flowers. It has free admission too.

Mary Werger David Smith

Love the gardens! Every time I go, I see something new! The Rose garden is a beautiful garden and there is often a wedding talking place. Check out the gold Thai pavilion with Zen garden, it's incredible! It's free to go to the outside gardens and there is plenty of places to sit, relax, and read a book. The paths are wheelchair accessible. A must see destination when in Madison!

Tabetha CB

There aren’t words for how beautiful this place is in the spring and summer. My kids love it, and I love it just as much if not more. The flowers and plants and decorations are just stunning, and we even got to see some toads hopping around in the mud. The Japanese garden part has such a magical feel to it. As a photographer, I really take in everything down to its smallest details. I can’t wait to go again when the weather warms back up. I’ll have to make a trip by myself so I can capture all the photos that I want to, because the possibilities here are endless.

Richard Coolman

Mary is one amazing volunteer. Thanks for the special tour of the tropical conservatory!

trisha gaffron

Always fantastic! The indoor atrium is always beautiful and bustling. Even in the winter it's great to walk the outdoor gardens because it's so peaceful.

Melissa Merrill

Such a beautiful place! Very nice to walk around and relax. The Thai garden was stunning! The only negative was figuring out how to get into the outdoor gardens. You have to go in to the main building, but the signage wasn’t very clear on that. We walked around for a bit outside trying to figure out how to get in. It looked like there were entrances by the after-hours exit, but there weren’t.

Kentonas Jacksonas

Asian garden was great, the hydrangeas will take your breath away! A must see.

sorcia rock

Its beautiful! I can only imagine going through this garden with a great camera. I honestly believe in good weather defiently can't be too hot, but you could spend hours here enjoying the art, reading about the plants, and exploring their different garden themes.

Danielle Moody

I adore the gardens! A great free sttarction in madsion! They also have the GLEAM exhibit going on right now! $15 entrance fee, but you get to explore the grounds at night with beautiful art installations! I highly recommend that people visit the gardens!

Anita

Olbrich Gardens is a wonder place to get out and enjoy nature. We were very disappointed in the holiday light show as we were expecting so much more. I think Olbrich should go see some light shows and programs at Norfolk Botanical Gardens in Norfolk, Virginia and try to bring that kind of flair to Olbrich. I give four stars, though, because the gardens are clean and well kept.