Explore St. Louis

The Missouri Botanical Garden offers photographers a special opportunity to capture the magic of Dale Chihuly’s “Glass in the Garden” exhibition in the early morning light on the second Saturday of each month.

Photographers may use tripods or monopods inside the Climatron and Shoenberg Temperate House from 7 to 8 a.m. on Aug. 12, Sept. 9 and Oct. 14 only. During regular visiting hours, tripods and monopods are not permitted inside any of the conservatories; the Garden only allows handheld cameras indoors. However, a limited number of photographers will have these two conservatories to themselves during this hour reserved just for them. Visitors with tickets to see “Glass in the Garden” will be admitted to the Climatron starting at 8:30 a.m.

Reservations are required for the photo sessions and only 25 photographers will be admitted each time. The cost per one-hour session is $50 ($25 Garden member) for one photographer. For a reservation, call (314) 577-5101. Upon arrival, a wristband will be issued that allows entry into the Climatron.

Photographers may not bring additional guests or equipment such as lights that require electricity.

The early morning access is open to both amateur and professional photographers for their enjoyment. Photos taken of the “Glass in the Garden” art may not be used or sold for commercial purposes.