Make the Muttart your summer destination

News Release
Make the Muttart your summer destination

Muttart Conservatory is opening its doors to visitors once again.
The facility was closed for 18 months for a $13.3-million rehabilitation and an additional five months in 2021 due to pandemic-related public health restrictions. With the move to Stage 2 of the Government of Alberta’s Open for Summer Plan the Muttart is set to reopen Friday, June 11.
“We are excited to welcome Edmontonians back to the pyramids and we have been working hard to get the facility ready for your return,” said Rhonda Norman, Director of River Valley and Horticultural Facilities. “We are pleased to be reopening a facility that people have missed and that helps support the mental and physical well-being of Edmontonians.”
Visitors will notice a new fireplace, living wall, and water feature in Centre Court, an upgraded look and feel for Culina Muttart and the gift store, and a new QR code tour through the pyramids.
Behind the scenes, work was done to breathe new life into the 45-year-old iconic facility. Much of the work was focussed on the Muttart’s heating and mechanical systems all while protecting the plants, both in the pyramids and inside the greenhouses. The work involved replacing and upgrading the critical infrastructure of the building, high priority mechanical, electrical, and structural systems to meet current standards and codes.
“The kind of rehabilitation we did at the Muttart was both challenging and extremely rewarding work,” said Project Manager Lee Wish. “It didn’t result in noticeable changes but it is preserving one of our most treasured year-round attractions for Edmontonians to enjoy for another 40 years.”
When visitors return to rediscover the Muttart Conservatory, they will find many new COVID-19 safety features.
“We’re looking forward to reopening, but things are going to look a little different than people may remember,” said Norman. “We will be providing an enjoyable visitor experience with modifications in place to protect the health and safety of our visitors and staff.”
A number of changes were made in order to follow public health guidelines, including providing hand sanitizer at numerous locations, enhancing cleaning procedures of public spaces and putting up signs to encourage physical distancing. Face coverings are required.
One of the main changes to Muttart operations is tickets will not be sold at the door. All visitors and members must book tickets online at movelearnplay.edmonton.ca. Daily attendance is capped and each ticket comes with a specific entry time, allowing visitors to pick the time they want to visit and enabling the Muttart to manage crowds and ensure physical distancing. Once inside, visitors are welcome to explore the Muttart at their own pace.
A one-way path is now in place and is marked by signs and arrows. The Marigold gift shop is open and Culina Muttart is open for take-out service and limited patio dining for up to six people.
The Muttart is open daily. Wednesdays and Thursdays feature evening hours between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., with Wednesdays being for adults over 18 only. Edmontonians are invited to come visit, and do so in a safe way and in compliance with public health orders and guidelines.
For more information, please visit edmonton.ca/muttart.