Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Pittsburgh (must see)

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is located outside of the downtown region of Pittsburgh in Schenley Park. It was founded in 1893 by entrepreneur and businessman Henry Phipps. It was originally a glass house with nine display rooms that contained plants from around the world.

Two aquatic gardens were added, the first in 1910 and the second in 1939. It wasn't until 2003 that another expansion project would be underway. A welcome center, production greenhouses and tropical forest conservatory were all added. Some of the features include two waterfalls, a stream and a number of bridges.

The conservatory and gardens include both indoor and outdoor plants. Indoor gardens are comprised of rooms that feature palm trees, ferns, orchids, tropical fruits and spices, desert plants and many others. The outdoor gardens include an edible garden that produces fruit and vegetables for the Welcome Center cafeteria. There is also a Japanese Courtyard, a Children's Discovery Garden, an Aquatic Garden and the Botany Hall, which was created to give space to local teachers for classroom-style study.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers special events that are popular among locals and visitors. Flower shows and symposiums are common on the grounds. Art collections in both permanent and roving exhibits are on display. The conservatory and gardens are open daily.

Schenley Park, the home of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, has been named one of "America's Coolest City Parks." This is largely due to the combination of outdoor recreation opportunities, such as the 18-hole disc golf course, and historic relics. Tourists can visit the Westinghouse Memorial and the Neill Log House as part of their walking tour of the area.

Why You Should Visit:
- To see the perfect marriage of plants from around the world in an artistic setting