***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 $5 for adults, and $4 for Como Friends Member, seniors 55+, 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. You do not need to make a reservation for the zoo.
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.
So I have my reservation, I’ve paid my $5, and I go through the Japanese Garden gate to enter the Conservatory, then what?
Enjoy the show! You may also continue to visit the zoo if you would like. Those attending the Orchid Show have the ability to purchase quality orchids from our excellent vendors. Orchid plants and orchid-related items will be for sale from the following vendors: Arnold J. Klehm Growers Inc., Deerwood Orchids, New World Orchids, Sophie’s Orchids, and members of the Orchid Society of Minnesota.
Now in its 49th year, the Winter Carnival Orchid Show has solidified its reputation as the ultimate winter destination for orchid enthusiasts across the Midwest. Picture this: the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, adorned with hundreds of orchid plants from the Conservatory itself, the Orchid Society of Minnesota members, and various individual and commercial orchid growers. Together, they transform the Conservatory into a tropical haven where orchids reign supreme, replacing the chill of winter with the vibrant colors of these exquisite blooms. Beyond the sheer beauty of the orchids and captivating displays, vendors will be on hand, offering a delightful array of plants and other orchid-related treasures.
Join us for a journey into a tropical oasis, where orchids take center stage and the atmosphere is infused with the warmth of these stunning flowers. Immerse yourself in the world of orchid culture with insights from our exceptional members and vendors. And, of course, don’t miss the chance to acquire high-quality orchids from our outstanding vendors. Among them are esteemed names such as Arnold J. Klehm Growers Inc., Deerwood Orchids, New World Orchids, and Orchids Limited, each offering a selection of exquisite orchid plants and related items for you to take home. Don’t just witness the Winter Carnival Orchid Show—experience the allure of orchids in a tropical setting, where the magic of these enchanting blooms awaits you.
