We welcome groups of all ages to the tour the Rawlings Conservatory.
Cell phone self-guided tours are available at any time during the hours we are open to the public.
A guided tour of the Rawlings Conservatory is a virtual trip around the world and through history! The Palm House is a spectacular example of Victorian architecture and culture, built to exhibit plant specimens collected during a time of avid world-wide exploration. The orchid room features the largest plant family, which can be found in almost all possible environments on every continent except Antarctica. The Mediterranean House represents five major regions with temperate climates and cool, humid, foggy winters and hot, dry summers. The Tropical House has an incredible variety of plant forms – tropical rain forests cover only 7% of the earth’s surface, yet house nearly one half of the world’s plant and animal species, including plants that evolved with the dinosaurs. The Desert House’s collection spans the desert belts around the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, where plants are adapted to make the most of scarce water supply and extreme temperatures. Join us for an in-depth look at our collection of plants and experience first-hand their connections and contributions to the food, medicines, and economic vitality of our Earth.
Tours and programs may be scheduled for school groups or for adult groups (gardening clubs, photography clubs, senior centers, etc.). Please make reservations at least two weeks in advance. Contact our educational programs coordinator at 410-396-0008, 410-396-7839 or by e-mail at Glenda.weber@baltimorecity.gov.
