Beauty blooms indoors and tranquility thrives outdoors during Winter Wonder at Longwood Gardens, on view Jan. 20 to March 24, 2024. In addition to the timeless allure of Longwood’s grand Conservatory where nearly two acres of flourishing gardens prosper under glass, the Winter Wonder season brings new educational opportunities, captivating performances, and the chance to get away without going away. 

“Our Conservatory, embellished with colorful blooms, lush foliage, and inviting fragrance is the perfect antidote to winter’s chill,” said Sharon Loving, Chief Horticulture and Facilities Officer. “Longwood is the ideal destination for an immersive and rejuvenating day trip this season.”

Explore a sanctuary of blooming plants from around the world in the Conservatory. Admire the ethereal beauty of Streptocarpus ‘Concord Blue’ hanging baskets, revel in the mystery of Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Dowon,’ and stand in awe of the cascading blooms of Clerodendrum schmidtii (chains-of-glory). The Orchid House showcases nearly 300 lively blooming orchids, with the display evolving each week to feature new and captivating varieties.

From January to March, fragrant Orange Jasmine (Murraya Paniculata) blooms in the Conservatory along with starbursts of Clerodendrum quadriculare. In March, the elegant Echium candicans ‘Select Blue’ make a graceful return to the Conservatory with unique and towering forms. Not to be missed, Longwood’s famed blue-poppy (Meconopsis ‘Lingholm’) showcase their mesmerizing sky-blue petals in the Main Conservatory mid-March. 
 
“Native to the high elevations of the Himalayan Mountains, these blue poppies are a must-see and an impressive feat achieved through the precise techniques of our skilled horticulturists,” said Loving.

Experience the subtle beauty of winter outdoors as the landscape transforms into a canvas of muted hues. Wander through the tranquil Hillside Garden or immerse yourself in the symphony of copper and umber tones in the 86-acre Meadow Garden, showcasing the harmony of aesthetic design and habitat preservation.

Longwood offers a variety of educational opportunities and experiences that encourage new skills and a greater appreciation for horticulture. From free talks and lectures to more in-depth classes, guests can discover more about our gardens in a variety of ways. The Science Series delves into a variety of topics including the technologies and talent that go into growing plants, an overview of the impact research they are carrying out around the globe; how they keep our surrounding ecosystems thriving, and much more. Each lecture is free with Gardens Admission.

For those looking to improve their plant knowledge and gardening skills, Longwood offers classes and hands-on workshops for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike. Classes throughout the winter months include Grow and Know: Citrus Trees on Jan. 23, Valentine Florals: Beyond the Bouquet on Feb. 6, Getting Started with Vegetable Gardening on March 16, and more.

Longwood’s lush Conservatory serves as an inviting venue for live performances. A stellar winter lineup features renowned artists in classical, jazz, and organ music for those looking to expand their musical horizons. Highlights include performances by the likes of Nicole Keller on Feb. 9, the Martha Redbone Roots Project on March 14, and more. Limited tickets for performances include all-day Gardens Admission. 

The Gardens are open every day except Tuesdays from 9 AM–5 PM. Admission prices are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors (age 62+), $13 for students (ages 5–18 or with valid student ID), and free for ages 4 and under. Group rates are available.

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