***A SEPARATE, PRE-PAID RESERVATION AND ADMISSION TO THE WINTER CARNIVAL ORCHID SHOW IS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE CONSERVATORY ON JANUARY 27 AND 28.*** Those attending the Orchid Show may attend the zoo after. Those attending the zoo may not attend the Conservatory without a pre-paid ticket. Those coming just to visit the Conservatory’s gardens will still need to purchase a ticket for this weekend. No refunds for this event.
Click HERE To Purchase Tickets. Advanced Purchase Required
During the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, all things cold are celebrated. One event stands out and gives attendees a way to escape to the tropics without even getting on a plane; the Winter Carnival Orchid Show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory on January 27 and 28, 2024, from 10am – 4pm.
Do I have to pay to go to the Conservatory this weekend, even though I am not there for the Orchid Show?
Yes! This is the one time of year that there is an admission fee to the Conservatory. Admission into the Conservatory for Winter Carnival Orchid Show weekend (regardless if you are coming or the Orchid Show or not) will be $8 for adults, and $6 for Como Friends Member, seniors 65+, and children under 12. No refunds will be given for this event.
Do I have to pay to visit the zoo?
No! You only have to pay if you plan on visiting the Conservatory.
What if I want to visit the Zoo and the Conservatory?
You will need to make a separate reservation for the Conservatory by clicking HERE. You can visit the zoo before or after your visit to the Conservatory. If you just want to visit the zoo, no reservations are required.
Can I walk up and get a reservation to the Orchid Show?
Sorry, no. Prepayment by credit card and advanced reservations will be required. Click HERE to make your reservation.
Where do I enter?
Entrance for the Orchid Show will be at the Japanese Garden Gates. Entrance to the zoo is still at the Visitor Center.
Where can I buy orchids from a vendor?
Vendors will be located on the Covered Porch, which is the final part of your experience. Please note that once you reach the Covered Porch, reentry to the Conservatory displays is not permitted.
Where are the orchid displays located?
Orchids will be featured in every room of the Conservatory. Guests are free to explore in any direction.
I have a question about a plant or my own orchid. Who can I talk to?
Volunteers throughout the Conservatory will be happy to help! Please step aside from the flow of traffic to ask your questions and keep the lines moving.
Last year was so busy. What improvements have been made?
To ease congestion, we’ve introduced free-flowing traffic throughout the show, eliminating the previous set path. Lines will still form due to the popularity of the event, and some will cue outside and in the Ordway Garden. Please dress for the weather. We’ve also added an extra hour on Saturday.
Can I take photos of the displays?
Quick, candid photos are welcome! Please be courteous and avoid holding up the flow of traffic to take specific shots.
I can’t make it to the show. Can I get a refund?
Unfortunately, refunds are not available. However, you may forward your ticket email to a friend or family member to use.
My ticket says 12:30 PM. When should I arrive?
Please arrive at your scheduled ticket time. Early entry is not allowed.
