Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) will debut The Garden of Tomorrow on September 12th, 2026 — a new botanical destination in Norfolk, Virginia that integrates rare plant conservation, immersive design, and a permanent collection of works by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.
The project marks one of the most significant expansions in the 175-acre garden’s history and is expected to draw fall travelers from across the DMV region and beyond.
A conservatory built around endangered species and living art
At the core of the project is a two-story, 26,000-square-foot conservatory housing desert and tropical biomes.
The structure is designed as a living sanctuary for some of the world’s most threatened and endangered plant species — many of which carry untapped ecological, scientific, and potential medicinal value.
NBG plans to share knowledge and resources with botanical institutions worldwide to advance plant diversity conservation for future generations.
Visitors will navigate the conservatory via an elevated canopy skywalk before emerging into an open-air sky meadow.
The broader complex also includes a new environmental education center built for hands-on learning and expanded access to the garden’s waterways.
Chihuly’s permanent installation at the center of the experience
A defining element of The Garden of Tomorrow is CHIHULY: The Perry Collection, a nationally significant permanent installation embedded throughout the conservatory and entry pavilion.
The sculptures draw from natural forms, color, and movement, placing glass art in direct dialogue with the surrounding landscape.
Among the works is the Chiffon and Sangria Azalea Chandelier (2024), created specifically for NBG to honor the 220 African American Works Progress Administration workers who transformed the land and planted the garden’s iconic azaleas — individuals NBG now recognizes as its original Curators.
Chihuly’s work is held in more than 200 museum collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
A new kind of public garden for the region
“Art begins with nature. We set out to offer a unique perspective on the world around us, one that encourages people to pause, reflect, and simply take a breath while reconnecting with a sense of joy,” said Peter Schmidt, President & CEO of Norfolk Botanical Garden.
NBG is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and recognized as a Virginia Historic Landmark.
The garden is located roughly three hours south of Washington, D.C., making it an accessible day or weekend trip for DMV-area residents this fall. Full details about The Garden of Tomorrow are available at the official project website.
