Today, it is a horticultural and educational institution showcasing exotic plant collections, special exhibitions, and Dale Chihuly artworks.

Biomes representing global climate zones include: Himalayan Mountains, Tropical Rainforest, Desert, and Pacific Island Water Garden.

By 1874, the Franklin County Agricultural Society agreed on the importance of this piece of land, increased the size to 93 acres (380,000 m2), and made it the official site of the Ohio State Fair.

But on May 17, 1886, the site was officially revived when the Ohio State Legislature passed a resolution declaring it open for use as a public park.

Additions to the conservatory totaled 58,000 square feet and included expanded plant collections, classrooms, a library, gift shop, café and administrative offices.

Contemporary artists including Dennis Oppenheim, Laura Stein, and Andy Goldsworthy came together in the exhibition Bending Nature.

Glass artist Debra Moore's orchids were displayed in 2011, and sculpture by Aurora Robson debuted at the conservatory in 2012.

In 2002, the conservatory undertook the first phase of a comprehensive master plan and raised $23 million to support new construction projects.

In September 2009, the conservatory converted four acres of Franklin Park into the four-acre ScottsMiracle-Gro Community Garden Campus.

Its extensive plant collections and special exhibitions provide hands-on learning opportunities about the natural world, gardening, and the arts.