Conservatory of Flowers San Francisco
San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers is the Western hemisphere's oldest existing public conservatory, one of the few wooden conservatories in the world and the oldest building in the city's Golden Gate Park. When it was originally constructed in 1879, it was made primarily with materials shipped in from South America. The large wooden beams were crafted of wood that could stand the extreme humidity that would be necessary to nurture plants accustomed to conditions in a tropical jungle. The entire structure was recently restored after extensive wind damage nearly destroyed it completely.

Four rooms feature four different types of plants: lowland tropic plants like coffee, chocolate and vanilla; aquatic plants including enormous lily pads that can actually support the weigh of a person; seasonal potted plants; and highland tropic plants including gorgeous and rare orchids. An additional room features temporary exhibits. All displays are educational, well-organized and visually impressive. Special features throughout the conservatory make this a great place to bring the family as well.

Click here for the Conservatory of Flowers San Francisco website