By JEFF MARTIN
The Villager
When the snow is falling and the icy wind is blowing, you could do far worse with your time than stand beneath a palm tree.
Or immerse yourself among ferns.
Maybe witness carnivorous plants chow down on a housefly.
Kneel down and follow the graceful, random patterns of koi.
In terms of day trips within Western New York, there are few that are more appropriate in the winter than a trip to the Buffalo and Erie Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Avenue.
region’s architectural gems and attractions. Designed by celebrated landscape
architect Frederick Law Olmsted—who also designed Central Park and
other Buffalo parks—the conservatory houses a collection of plant life from
across the globe.
Located in South Buffalo, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens offers an escape from the oftentimes cold and hostile winter weather, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to explore tropical and desert landscapes while surrounded by exotic plants.
Opened in 1900, the gardens’ historic glass conservatory remains one of the region’s architectural gems and attractions. Designed by celebrated landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted—who also designed Central Park and other Buffalo parks—the conservatory houses a collection of plant life from across the globe.
Towering palms located in the dome are some of the oldest palms in the state. To the immediate right of the dome, visitors can walk through lush rainforest environments with waterfalls and koi-filled ponds. There’s the desert room, highlighting succulents that bloom in unexpected colors.
For those looking to stay a little longer, the gardens offer a variety of events throughout the year, including flower festivals, plant exhibits, and art shows. Outside, the gardens are not sprawling but they do have just the right amount of visual accent, with distinct areas including a rose garden, a native plants garden, and a seasonal discovery garden designed specifically for children.
The latter features a pond, sandbox, and butterfly-attracting flowers that allow kids to learn about nature through play.
For members, there are classes throughout the year. Perhaps you like growing orchids or learning the basics of gardening.
Check the garden’s website for more information.
The facility is currently undergoing an exciting expansion project. This ambitious project includes over 14,000 square feet of renovated space and more than 16,000 square feet of new construction. A new, accessible visitor entrance will be relocated to improve accessibility, and the addition of state-of-the-art classrooms, modern event spaces, and an expanded gift shop will provide new opportunities for education and community engagement.
This expansion project is a collaboration between the Botanical Gardens, Erie County, Wendel Companies, and Turner Construction. An informational session was held on October 23, allowing the public to learn more about the project and provide feedback.
While the expansion project will be significant, the gardens will remain open throughout construction. The project is expected to begin in the spring and be finished in 2027.
The Botanical Gardens is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (with some holidays excluded) and offers a variety of ticket prices: $16.50 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, $9 for children ages 3-12, and free admission for children under 2. Visitors will find plenty of free parking in a designated lot or along the South Park ring road.