Behind the scenes Glasshouse tour

On the Behind the Scenes Glasshouse Tour you will discover the wonders of our tropical plant collection and rare plants not normally seen by the public. This tour is a must for orchid fans, aroid freaks, and all those who appreciate the joy of growing plants indoors. 

This tour begins at the The Calyx, our horticultural display centre where the cafe is open from 8am and toilets are available. This is a walking tour in a behind the scenes workplace where our horticultural staff are working hard to maintain these gems of our plant collection. Enclosed footwear is preferred, participants need to follow the directions of their guide and during the tour we will be entering hot, humid tropical environments in relatively confined spaces within the glasshouses. Places on this tour are limited to 10 people. If you have special needs or would like to bring a larger group please contact our tours team to arrange a private tour.

The tour finishes at the Fernery in the upper gardens near the Woolloomooloo gate opposite the Art Gallery of NSW on Mrs Macquaries Road. 

The Calyx is in the centre of the garden, approximately 5 minutes walk from the Woolloomooloo gate, 10 minutes from the Henry Lawson Gate and 15 minutes from the QEII Gate next to the Opera House. If entering via the Morshead, Palace or Conservatorium Gates on Macquarie Street, participants are either required to work down a long flight of stairs or walk via the Greenway Terrace next to the Conservatorium of Music which adds an additional 15 minutes walking time. For more information click to see the Garden Map, the Accessibility Map or download the Gardens App .