School and Youth Programs

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

Location of School and Youth Programs campFranklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

About

School and Youth Programs includes Butterfly Explorers, Garden Detectives, Blooms & Butterflies, Carnivorous Plants, Bugs & Botany, The Nature of Glass, Biome Exploration, Self-Guided Programs, Virtual Programs, and Homeschool Days. Activities include observing butterfly metamorphosis, anatomy, and symmetry; exploring science in the gardens and where food comes from; visiting the Metamorphosis Lab and live butterflies in the Pacific Island Biome; observing carnivorous plant adaptations; and exploring Conservatory biomes.

Programs

  • Butterfly Explorers — Pre-K · Engage in the life of a butterfly to investigate metamorphosis, anatomy and symmetry through developmentally appropriate songs, games and movement activities.
  • Garden Detectives — Pre-K · Explore the science in the gardens and unlock the mystery of where our food comes from through developmentally appropriate activities.
  • Blooms & Butterflies — K - 5th · Discover the wonders of butterfly anatomy, metamorphosis and adaptations, while exploring the Metamorphosis Lab and encountering live butterflies in the Pacific Island Biome.
  • Carnivorous Plants — K - 8th · Explore the amazing adaptations of “meat eating” plants. Engage in direct observation and team-based play to survive a trip through a carnivorous plant bog!
  • Bugs & Botany — K-5th
  • The Nature of Glass — 6th-12th
  • Biome Exploration — 9th-12th · Venture through the Conservatory’s biomes. Observe key plants from each location, learn their functions and adaptations and discover how they are used by native animals and humans in the region.
  • Self-Guided Programs — Explore all the Conservatory has to offer including interior biomes, Children’s Garden and seasonal exhibits. Complimentary activity packets are available to guide and enhance your visit.
  • Virtual Programs — Live, virtual programs directly to your classroom. Our virtual programs consist of a 45-minute program and a learning extension kit for your classroom. Starting at $200. 30 students max per program.
  • Homeschool Days

At a glance

  • Ages: 3–18 years old
  • General schedule: Pre-K programs are specifically designed to complement Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards to support school readiness. K–12 programs are aligned with Ohio Standards in the areas of Life Science, Earth & Space Science, and Fine Arts. Educational programs are offered during spring and summer.

About the provider

Educational programs are offered during spring and summer. Pre-K programs are specifically designed to complement Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards, and K–12 programs are aligned with Ohio Standards in Life Science, Earth & Space Science, and Fine Arts. The Conservatory has created memories since 1993 and states that it connects people to nature and creates life-enhancing experiences. It also partners with all Scout organizations to offer educational, hands-on activities that complement badge requirements.

Last updated October 16, 2026.

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