Muttart Conservatory

One of Edmonton’s most iconic structures, the Muttart Conservatory offers a year-round escape into the beauty of the world’s plant life.

Vibrant, colourful, tranquil and inspirational, the pyramids’ display gardens are a welcome oasis for all.

Designed by award-winning Canadian architect Peter Hemingway, the Muttart Conservatory officially opened in September 1976. The Muttart Foundation donated half of the Conservatory's original $2 million construction cost. The City of Edmonton and the Province of Alberta provided the balance of funding.

Tour the Pyramids

Join us every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday for a guided tour of the arid, tropical and temperate pyramids. Tours run 20 minutes per pyramid and are led by enthusiastic interpreters.

If you are visiting during the week and can’t make it to a guided tour, or prefer to explore the pyramids at your own pace, you can access self-guided walking tours in each pyramid.

Tropical Pyramid

The jungle-like environment is lush, green and fragrant, while the air is humid and warm. The plants come from tropical rainforests, tropical evergreen forests or tropical grasslands, and are often showy and bright. A waterfall cascades into the centre of the pyramid where small fish and water lilies make their home. An Orchid Hut houses many orchid varieties, some of which perfume the air.

Temperate Pyramid

A view from inside the Muttart temperate pyramid.This pyramid best represents plants from those parts of the world closest in climate to ours here in Edmonton. Changing with the seasons, colourful floral displays enhance the rich foliage. Carefully controlled environmental conditions allow the plants to go dormant in winter and burst into spring growth of green leaves and colourful blooms while snow still lingers in Edmonton. The result is dramatic seasonal changes that are a feast for the senses.

Arid Pyramid

A view from inside the Muttart arid pyramid.The plants here come to us from the hot and cold dry areas of the world, spanning five continents. They share an ability to thrive in environments with dry air, irregular moisture and wide day/night temperature fluctuations. To survive their harsh environment, these plants have evolved into unusual shapes and forms. Often, these plants are of economic importance in otherwise non-arable lands.

Feature Pyramid

Our feature pyramid exhibit changes completely 5-7 times per year, providing new experiences to visitors. Unique themed displays and fabulous seasonal celebrations highlight the creativity of the Muttart staff.