You Can Step Into A Literal ‘Tropical Pyramid’ To Escape The Winter In Alberta
By Britanny Burr on March 11, 2025.
Alberta winters are long, cold, and relentless. It’s something we know all too well yet endure year after year. Some people escape by jetting off to tropical destinations, while others hunker down and count the days until spring. But what if you could experience the warmth and lush greenery of the tropics without ever leaving the province? At the Muttart Conservatory in Edmonton, you can do just that. Inside its striking glass pyramids, you’ll find a world where palm trees sway, orchids bloom, and waterfalls cascade, all while the snow piles up outside.
The Muttart Conservatory is one of Canada’s most unique botanical attractions. It features four climate-controlled biomes housed within its iconic glass pyramids. The Tropical Pyramid is the ultimate winter escape, offering visitors a taste of lush rainforests filled with towering banana plants, vibrant bromeliads, and cascading vines. With its warm, humid air and the sound of water trickling through a jungle-like setting, it’s easy to forget you’re still in Alberta. The immersive environment transports you to a different world, making it the perfect antidote to subzero temperatures and grey skies.
For those who want to explore beyond the tropics, the Arid Pyramid offers a completely different kind of beauty. This desert-inspired biome is home to a striking collection of cacti, succulents, and drought-resistant plants from around the world. Towering agave plants, gnarled Joshua trees, and delicate desert flowers thrive in this sun-drenched space, showcasing the resilience of plant life in extreme environments. Meanwhile, the Temperate Pyramid mimics the changing seasons, featuring plants that flourish in climates similar to Alberta’s, with rotating floral displays that bring bursts of colour throughout the year.
Adding an element of surprise to every visit, the Feature Pyramid changes regularly. It offers new seasonal exhibits, themed floral displays, and interactive installations that keep things fresh and exciting. Whether it’s a spring tulip extravaganza, a whimsical holiday wonderland, or a vibrant summer garden, each display is carefully curated to showcase unique plant varieties and artistic arrangements. No two visits are ever the same.
Beyond its captivating plant life, the Muttart Conservatory offers a variety of experiences to enhance your visit. Daily guided pyramid tours provide fascinating insights into the different biomes and the species they house, while self-guided tours allow for a leisurely exploration at your own pace. If you visit on a Wednesday evening, you can enjoy Happy Hour at Muttart, where guests ages 18 and up can sip wine or cocktails from Café Bloom while strolling through the pyramids. It’s a perfect midweek escape for anyone looking to unwind in a unique setting.
Located in Edmonton’s scenic river valley, the conservatory is surrounded by walking trails and beautifully maintained outdoor gardens. It’s a great spot for a relaxing stroll before or after your visit, with seasonal plant beds cared for by local horticultural groups. The Marigold Gift Shop inside the conservatory offers an array of locally made crafts, souvenirs, and exotic plants to take home, making it easy to bring a little piece of the Muttart magic with you.
For those planning a visit, tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Members and pass holders can book in advance. The conservatory is open seven days a week, with extended evening hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays for those looking for a quiet, adults-only experience. Parking is free, and the Muttart LRT stop on the Valley Line makes it easily accessible by public transit.
Whether you’re looking for a tropical retreat, a botanical adventure, or a relaxing midweek escape, the Muttart Conservatory’s glass pyramids offer a one-of-a-kind experience right in the heart of Edmonton. When the winter blues hit, step inside and let the warmth, greenery, and beauty of this hidden oasis transport you. No plane ticket required.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. The Cool Winter Guide is a special feature about winter activities, bucket list adventures, winter attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
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