Step inside the Olmsted Greenhouse, a vibrant space for learning, discovery, and connection.
The Olmsted Greenhouse is an educational resource for Vassar students and the surrounding community to connect with plants and the natural environment. Through student research opportunities, hands-on learning for all ages, self-guided tours, and mental health initiatives, the greenhouse aims to foster a sense of community and well-being.
The greenhouse also continues a long tradition at Vassar. Students formed a Floral Society as early as 1868, and the College’s first conservatory dedicated to botanical study opened in 1886. The greenhouse at Olmsted Hall was established in 1974, carrying that history of education, research, and engagement with the natural world into the present.
Visit the Greenhouse
Open to Vassar students Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Community visits are available by appointment.
Reserve the Greenhouse
Interested in hosting an event, using the greenhouse as a meeting space, or reserving a study or lunch spot?
Vassar students, faculty, and staff can request the greenhouse through the College’s EMS reservation system. Log in with your Vassar username and password and search for “greenhouse.” Campus community only, please.
Events
Join ourscience librarian, Isabel, and Greenhouse manager, Alicia, for a cyanotype print-making event at the Olmsted Greenhouse. Registration required.
Campus community only, please.
Join us at the Olmsted Greenhouse for a calm doodling session with Vassar’s Counseling Center! No artistic skills necessary—we are just doodling for fun and to calm the mind. All ages welcome.
This event is free and open to the public.
Join us at the Olmsted Greenhouse for a calm doodling session with Vassar’s Counseling Center! No artistic skills necessary—we are just doodling for fun and to calm the mind. All ages welcome.
This event is free and open to the public.
Join us at the Olmsted Greenhouse for a calm doodling session with Vassar’s Counseling Center! No artistic skills necessary—we are just doodling for fun and to calm the mind. All ages welcome.
This event is free and open to the public.
Connect With Us
Follow the greenhouse on Instagram for a look at our plants, programs, and everyday activity, and join our mailing list to receive the latest news, events, and updates.