Current hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, with Sofia's Play Garden open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the model railroad garden open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (the model railroad garden will close for the season on October 31)

Due to set up of the 2026 holiday show, the floral display hall will be closed from November 5 through 28.

The Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory will be closed on November 11 and 12 for holiday show set-up.

Kenefick Park has officially reopened and Big Boy 4023 is looking better than ever thanks to a fresh coat of paint! Come see two of the greatest locomotives ever to power Union Pacific Railroad on the southwest point of Lauritzen Gardens property. Admission is FREE and the park is accessible during the garden’s operating hours.

We love picnics, but they must be enjoyed in designated areas. If you pack a lunch or a snack, please plan to eat it at the tables by the front ponds or at Kenefick Park. We do not allow picnicking or outside food in the garden (with the exception of Tempo of Twilight concerts).

Current highlights include: fall foliage, ornamental grasses, beautyberry, conservatory terrariums, and more!

Discover the rich history and iconography of La Catrina, one of the most recognizable figures of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), through eight larger-than-life skeleton sculptures by Los Angeles artist Ricardo Soltero. An elegant female skeleton and an icon of Mexican heritage, La Catrina approaches death not through sadness, but as a colorful celebration of life. See these colorful and joyful works, with accompanying signage in both English and Spanish.

Mother-daughter artist team Camille and Rose Werther bring their love for the unusual, the overlooked, and the fascinating in the botanical world through their art, each in their own style. Camille’s work reflects her ongoing love affair with wildflowers. The flowers chosen reflect those that are flowering within driving distance of Omaha over the growing season. Rose’s work explores the structures of unusual plant life. Each plant featured was chosen for its unique features, from the skeleton flower that turns transparent when hit with rain to carnivorous plants such as the Venus flytrap.

Shawnequa Linder’s work explores the balance between chaos and harmony through vibrant textures, color, and light. Blending traditional and experimental techniques, she creates landscapes and portraits that evoke depth, emotion, and curiosity. Her art invites viewers to reconsider beauty and discover new perspectives within the interplay of light, shadow, and form.

Whether it’s a visit to the iconic 20’ tall poinsettia tree, a tour through the lush conservatory to see the holiday express, or finding the perfect gift in the gift shop, there is a natural magic at Lauritzen Gardens that makes the season Merry & Bright. The garden closes at 3:30 p.m. with the last daytime entry at 2:30 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Daytime tickets DO NOT include admission to Bright Nights, but all day passes will be available.

Make the most of winter break with nature-filled fun at Lauritzen Gardens! Designed for children ages 5-12, each 3-day camp session will feature engaging nature themes, hands-on activities, and exploration throughout the festive indoor and outdoor gardens.

Courses at the garden cover a wide variety of topics. From floral design, to painting, to practicing wellness or learning about plants- There’s something for everyone! REGISTER TODAY!

Find out about the opportunities available for your group, class, or scouting troop to explore our 100-acre outdoor learning laboratory.

Engaging and FUN classes and workshops are available for children and families at the garden year-round. Register for hands-on, educational programs, like family workshops and Lil' Sprouts, that will connect you to the natural world.

Celebrate your child’s birthday with a nature-themed party at Lauritzen Gardens.