For me, Franklin Park Conservatory is a happy place year round.  There are plants to feed my senses, gorgeous glass art installations, and surprises around each turn of the meandering walkway.  During the holidays though, the facility really shines.  The colors seem a little brighter and the lights are shinier.  It is a wonderful destination to find holiday cheer.  This year, the people at the Conservatory have provided plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

The first thing you’ll notice when you walk into the Conservatory are some stunning Christmas trees decorated with bold blue lights.  After checking in at the desk, you’ll find this year’s fairytale inspired train set.  I really enjoyed the setting of the trains.  Adults and older children will have fun picking out the various fairytale characters (my favorite is Jack and the beanstalk), toddlers will just take it all in.

If you can tear yourself away from the train fairytale, there is a Currier and Ives display in a nearby gallery.  Older kids can be challenged to match up the artwork with the accompanying gingerbread houses.  Younger children can be challenged to not touch the gingerbread houses!

Moving on from the front area of the Conservatory there is a pathway leading to the Palm House which is like walking through a winter wonderland.   This area is a perfect location for photo taking because it features giant trees made of up of poinsettias.

In addition to these attractions, there are  plenty of special events happening at the Conservatory throughout the holiday season.  Wednesday evenings the entire building is open late (until 8 p.m.) for candlelit walks and entertainment.  Select weekends also offer crafts for kids.

If you go:

• Parking is free and plentiful.
• The facility is stroller friendly.
• A cafe on site offers lunch items and treats.
• Bring your camera!* Thanks to Kate from http://thekatephotos.wordpress.com/ for providing photographic proof of our most recent Conservatory trip.