Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Madison (must see)

Olbrich Botanical Gardens is located in Madison. Named for its founder, Michael Olbrich, the gardens are owned and operated jointly by the City of Madison Parks and the non-profit Olbrich Botanical Society. The gardens were established in 1952. The gardens consist of 16 acres of outdoor gardens and a 10,000-square-foot conservatory.

Noteworthy additions to the gardens were the Bolz Conservatory in 1991, and a Sala Thai, 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. Opened in 2002, it is one of only four sala outside of Thailand and one of two in the United States (the other is located in Hawaii). The gardens are made up of several separate areas.

The Bolz Conservatory is a 10,000-square-foot greenhouse housing over 750 plants representing over 70 families and over 550 different species and cultivars. The plants are native to tropical and sub-tropical regions. The structure itself is a glass pyramid measuring 100 by 100 ft (30 by 30 m) and rising to 50 ft (12 m) at the apex. The temperature is maintained between 65 and 80 degrees fahrenheit (between 18 and 26 °C), although the sun may warm it to 100°F (35 °C) in the summer. The relative humidity is maintained at 70% or above.

In addition to the tropical plants, the conservatory is home to species of birds including canaries, waxbills, diamond doves, Goldian finches and owl finches. There is also a koi pond, featuring koi and goldfish. Frogs, toads, and geckos are also present.

Admission to Olbrich Botanical Gardens is free, though a small fee is charged for entry into the conservatory.

All in all, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a quiet oasis in the city with beautiful surroundings. The Thai temple area is fantastic. It is highly worth a visit.