Four Indoor Gardens and Conservatories in Massachusetts

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

There is no better way to find a breath of tropical air than by visiting one of Massachusetts’s indoor gardens, conservatories, or greenhouses. These lush escapes offer a green getaway even when winter lingers. Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat, a family-friendly outing, or inspiration for your own spring garden, these destinations provide a welcome reprieve from winter’s chill.  

Northampton: The Botanic Garden of Smith College 

Nestled on the campus of Smith College, this stunning conservatory is home to an impressive collection of plants from around the world. The Lyman Plant House features several greenhouses, including a tropical room, a dry desert house, and an orchid collection. If you visit in early March, you’ll catch the annual Spring Bulb Show, a vibrant preview of the season to come.

Nearby: Grab a coffee and pastry at Woodstar Café or explore Thornes Marketplace for unique local shopping. 

Boylston: New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill 

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill offers year-round beauty with its Orangerie and Limonaia, two stunning conservatories filled with citrus trees, palms, agave, camellias, and other subtropical flora. February and March are ideal times to visit as the conservatories are filled with 2,000 orchids in the Garden’s annual orchid exhibition. NEBG frequently hosts workshops, seasonal events, and art exhibitions, making it a perfect day trip.

Nearby: Stop by the Farmer and the Fork café inside the Garden for a cozy lunch with garden views. 

Waltham: Lyman Estate Greenhouses 

Historic New England’s Lyman Estate Greenhouses in Waltham offer a unique glimpse into 19th-century horticulture with their beautifully maintained collection of camellias, orchids, and tropical plants. The greenhouses are among the oldest in the country and provide a warm, inviting escape from winter’s chill. A visit in late winter is especially rewarding, as the annual Camellia Blooming Season showcases these stunning flowers in full display.

Nearby: Visit Moody Street in Waltham for a variety of dining options, including In a Pickle for brunch. The Charles River Museum of Science and Industry is a great way to continue the historic exploration of Waltham. 

Westford: The Butterfly Place 

The Butterfly Place is magical indoor nature experience that lets visitors walk among free-flying butterflies in tropical environment. Butterfly species that propagate here are from all corners of the world. It’s a perfect escape from the cold for all ages.  

Nearby: Evviva Trattoria features a menu of modern Italian food including the signature Montanara-style fried crust pizza.  

No matter where you are in Massachusetts, you’re not far from a botanical retreat waiting to transport you to warmer days ahead. Whether you’re escaping the winter chill, getting a head start on spring inspiration, or simply looking for a beautiful place to unwind, these indoor gardens and conservatories offer the perfect nature-filled respite. So, shake off the winter blues and step into a world of greenery—spring is just around the corner! 

TOPICS: Boylston, Northampton, Waltham, Westford