Posted in Michigan Nature January 08, 2017 by Sophie Boudreau

Visit This Year-Round Natural Oasis In Michigan To Beat The Winter Blues

When those chilly Michigan days have you down, it can feel almost impossible to remember what life was like before the streets were coated in ice and the green grass was covered with mounds and mounds of snow. But there’s one destination in Michigan that will allow you to walk among vibrant, beautiful plant life year round — and it’s almost enough to make you forget that it’s cold outside.

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The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is located on Detroit's beloved Belle Isle.

It prides itself on being the nation's oldest continuously running conservatory, having been constructed in 1902 and opened to the public in 1904. Generations of Michiganders have made lasting memories within its walls.

But this isn’t your ordinary greenhouse: it’s like an entirely new world of natural wonder to explore.

There’s something truly magical about the glass dome that sits at the center of the conservatory, welcoming visitors from across the world.

Inside, the conservatory is comprised of five separate sections, each of which maintains a unique charm. Be sure to spend time immersing yourself in every area.

For a mini tropical vacation, enter the Palm House. Tropical plants and warm temperatures will make you forget that you’re in Michigan.

If you have an eye for succulents, you’ll appreciate a walk through the conservatory's Cactus House, which features a wide selection of dry-weather plants.

Few areas of the conservatory are more charming than the Tropical House, where you’ll learn about the growth of various fruits.

The Show House and sunken Fernery are also major attractions at the Whitcomb Conservatory, drawing in visitors of all ages with natural beauty and delight.

In warmer months, the conservatory features a stunning outdoor area to explore, complete with gardens, ponds, and grassy sections galore.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor perusing the plant life, a bride looking for the perfect wedding venue, or simply a lover of all things botanical, you will undoubtedly find what you’re looking for at the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory.

Have you ever made a visit to this one-of-a-kind conservatory? Was your experience special in any way? Please feel free to share your stories in the comment section below, or click here for more information.