The Muttart Conservatory is Edmonton's botanical landmark, a cluster of glass pyramids on the south bank of the North Saskatchewan River with a skyline view back across the valley to downtown. Inside, each pyramid recreates a different climate. The tropical pyramid is a humid rainforest with more than three hundred and fifty species from over sixty plant families, the arid pyramid holds cacti and succulents in a space almost sixty feet tall that is kept cool in winter, and the temperate pyramid shows plants from grasslands, savannas and forests with seasonal displays. A fourth pyramid hosts themed shows that change through the year. It is easy to walk through in an hour, and it is an especially welcome stop when the weather outside is bitter. Entry is modest compared with the big attractions, which makes it good value.
Opening hours are generous. The conservatory is open daily except December 25, with Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 9 pm. Wednesday evenings from five are adults only, which turns the pyramids into a calm date-night option. Last admission is thirty minutes before closing, so do not arrive right at the end. Tickets can be bought online or at the door, and children under two are free.
How to enjoy it
Start in whichever pyramid has a seasonal show, then work through the three permanent climates. The tropical pyramid is the most dramatic and the warmest, so wear a layer you can remove. The arid pyramid is cool in winter and warmer and in bloom in summer. Allow time for photographs, as the glass and the plants make good pictures, and visit the temperate pyramid for changing displays such as spring blooms and autumn foliage.
Where it fits
The conservatory is on 96A Street, a short drive or bus ride from downtown and close to the river valley trails, so it combines well with a walk or with Old Strathcona on the same side of the river. It is a good first or last stop on a cold day, and it works for families, couples and solo visitors alike. Because it is compact, it also fits neatly between a morning at the museum and an evening meal.
What to expect
The experience
Four glass pyramids with tropical, arid and temperate gardens and a rotating themed show, all walked at your own pace.
Best time
Weekday mornings for quiet; Wednesday evening after five for an adults-only visit; any cold day for the warmth.
How long
About an hour, or up to two with photography and a show.
Tips
Arrive at least thirty minutes before closing, wear layers for the humid tropical pyramid and check what is on in the show pyramid.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a warm, beautiful and affordable break from winter.
- Families
- Easy and short, with space for children and lower prices than the big attractions.
- Couples
- Wednesday evenings from five are adults only, a calm and unusual date idea.
- Pair with
- Old Strathcona on the south side, or the river valley trails nearby.
- Time needed
- One hour is enough; add a little for the show pyramid.
Good questions
When is the Muttart Conservatory open?+
It is open daily except December 25, from 10 am to 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and 10 am to 9 pm Wednesday and Thursday. Last admission is thirty minutes before closing.
What is in each pyramid?+
One is a tropical rainforest, one holds desert plants, one shows temperate climates with seasonal displays, and the fourth hosts themed shows. Together they cover a large range of plants in a small space.
How much does it cost?+
Admission is a modest fee that varies by age, with adult tickets around fifteen Canadian dollars. Children under two are free.
Is there an adults-only time?+
Yes, Wednesday evening from five to nine is adults only, for visitors eighteen and over. It is a quieter way to see the pyramids.
Where is it?+
It is at 9626 96A Street, on the south bank of the river valley with a view across to downtown. A taxi, rideshare or bus from downtown is quick.
