Made of stacked glass in a restored art deco style, this glass house from the 1930s continues to flourish with tropical trees, hanging plants and a large fountain.
The Jewel Box is a gorgeous greenhouse made of layers of glass panes in the center of Forest Park. Year round, countless floral displays with bright natural hues illuminate the interior of this futuristic conservatory. Pick out your favorites from the colorful gems that decorate the interior of this glassy beacon of horticulture.
Stand in the atrium of the greenhouse, which rises 50 feet (15 meters) into the air. Admire the various seasonal floral displays, including particularly beautiful setups for Christmas, Mother’s Day and Easter. The temporary exhibits make the site an intriguing destination for return visits, with changing faces through the seasons.
Inspect the foliage plants and admire the tropical trees that will make you feel as if you’re in the rainforest. Among the highlights of the structure are the fountain and accompanying water feature. Appreciate how the trees are set up in a way that allows as much light as possible to permeate the glassy exterior. Relax on one of the benches facing the gardens just outside the greenhouse.
Baskets and hanging plants dangle from the ceiling, while pots of plants grace the floor. Use this scenic and serene setting for a private function, such as a wedding or dinner. The Jewel Box first opened in 1936, when its art deco design was met with great acclaim.
Visit the greenhouse Monday through Friday from morning until late afternoon and on weekend mornings. Admission is free on Monday and Tuesday mornings. There is an entry fee at other times.
The Jewel Box stands in the heart of Forest Park, a little west of central St. Louis. Ride the public transportation system to the Forest Park Metrolink Station and walk south into the park to find this site.
Stay on the leafy grounds to see other highlights, such as the Saint Louis Zoo, the Municipal Theatre Association and the Nathan Frank Bandstand in Pagoda Lake.
