At the Conservatory

Playland at the Conservatory:
A Garden Railway Celebrating San Francisco's West End
November 18, 2011 ­ - April 15, 2012

Step right up for a ride back in time as the Conservatory of Flowers presents an all new garden railway display celebrating the legendary Playland at the Beach and a bygone era of seaside amusement that was located on San Francisco's West End. In a dazzling display landscaped with hundreds of dwarf plants, model trains and trolleys wend their way past the famed Sutro Baths, zip around a replica of the Victorian-era Cliff House and whiz through a fantastic mini version of San Francisco's beloved Playland at the Beach. Young and old alike will marvel at the sight of its most famous attractions including the Big Dipper, Diving Bell, Fun House, Airplane Ride and more all creatively crafted from recycled and repurposed materials while the sounds of the arcade and even Laffing Sal¹s boisterous voice transport visitors right back to the midway. The exhibit also includes real memorabilia and photographs from Playland and beyond in a fascinating display that tells the story of San Francisco's lost ocean-front treasures.

Learn more about this special event.

Conductor of the Day

All aboard!!! The Conservatory of Flowers offers train enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to be Conductor of the Day during the run of Playland at the Conservatory. Join us before the Conservatory opens to visitors! Conductors receive a whistle and engineer's hat, get the chance to start the trains that day and can try their hand at the arcade games in the exhibition. Afterward wishing the train bon voyage and enjoying the amusements of Playland, Conductors and their guests enjoy the serene Conservatory before the doors open to the public. A $50 donation to the Conservatory is required, which provides for the Conductor and three guests. For extra guests, general admission fees are added. Choo-choo!!

For more information, contact Development Associate Eddie Edelson at eedelson(@)sfcof(dot)org or 415-577-2584.

Playland at the Conservatory is open Tuesdays – Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm, through April 15. Not available on Christmas and New Year's Day, as the Conservatory is closed.