The Mitchell Park Conservatory, is also known as "the Domes" because of the fantastic seven-story glass-encased buildings. The Arid Dome's ecosystem is reminiscent of the desert. It has one of America's finest collections of cacti outside of the desert. Be on the lookout for Madagascar Periwinkle, Golden Barrel Cacti, African Aloe, and the Dragon Tree, all truly magnificent to the eye. If you want to cover five continents-worth of tropical rainforests, look no further than the Tropical Dome. It's home to 1200 tropical plants, plus exotic birds and iguana's. You can smell the turmeric and cardamom in the air as you pass by the star fruit trees. The Floral Dome is where the big shows happen, based on either a cultural, historical, or literary theme. Whenever you go, there are experts on hand to give demonstrations advice to all you aspiring green thumbs.
Experience a desert oasis, a tropical jungle and special floral gardens . . . all in one afternoon! Come to the deserts of Africa, Madagascar, South America and North America in the Arid Dome where one of the world's finest collections of cacti, succulents, shrubs and arid-land bulbs grow. An Oasis of Pampas Grass and desert palms beckons as paths lead you past many plant oddities with intriguing geometric forms, subtle coloration and unique adaptations to hot, dry habitats.
Stroll the jungle-like trails of the Tropical Dome and see a rich diversity of plants from the rainforests of five continents. Showy flowers, fruits, nuts, spices and a multitude of orchids and bromeliads surround you as you're drawn toward a rushing waterfall in this paradise. Be sure to look for the colorful birds that call the Tropical Dome their home.