Phipps Conservatory was a gift to the City of Pittsburgh from industrialist Henry Phipps. Phipps made his fortune in steel and real estate, giving millions away. He wanted to “erect something that will prove a source of instruction as well as pleasure to the people.” The result was Phipps Conservatory, his best-known legacy. In Schenley Park, Phipps created nine spectacular display houses featuring “silvered” domes and glass vaults, and an elaborate stone entrance. Construction, which took one year, cost Phipps $110,000, a fortune at that time.

When the Conservatory opened December 7, 1893, it was the largest conservatory and had the finest collection of tropical plants in the country.

For the first 100 years of operation, Phipps was managed by the City of Pittsburgh. In July 1993, Phipps Conservatory, Inc. took over management of the Conservatory. In 1997, the Board of Trustees voted to change the name to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Today, Phipps is among the nation’s oldest and largest Victorian glasshouses featuring lush tropical plants, palms, orchids, ferns, succulent plants, seasonal flower shows and butterflies. Outdoor gardens and collections include: the Discovery Garden, Japanese Courtyard Garden, Outdoor Garden, bonsai, perennials, herbs and aquatic gardens.