Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

(It's a long post, but it has lots of pictures!)

 

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens was a gift to the City of Pittsburgh from Henry Phipps, a wealthy business partner in the Carnegie Steal Company and successful real-estate entrepreneur.  In 1893, the gardens were opened to the public and ever since have been used to educate and entertain the public.

The building is a gorgeous example of Lord and Burnham Victorian greenhouse architecture

If you are not careful, the gardens can become a labyrinth.  The docent told me to just keep turning right through the 13 different rooms.  I will say the US Botanical Gardens in DC, while great, has nothing on these gardens!

While wandering around I came across something called a rain chain, pictured here.  A great addition to anyone's garden.  Some people hang them off their rain gutters instead of using a downspout. 

Every so often you are greeted by a Chihuly glass sculpture. He has had a lot of great pieces of work at the gardens over the years.  Check out my recent posting for a look at the pieces on display now and others that have come through their doors.

As with any botanical gardens during the holiday time, there was a train exhibition

as well as a variety of truly decked out Christmas trees!
 

It is hard to tell, but the one on the left has chop sticks on it

One made out of live plants

The main attraction is the Winter Flower Show.  There is a Nutcracker theme throughout the garden complete with a sugar plum fairy and gingerbread house

as well as mice and toy soldiers made out of plants.

You can check out the breathable clocks

or bears made out of tree bark.

If you are around, I would encourage you to go before they close January 8, 2012.