Krohn Conservatory is one of those Cincinnati locations that when you walk in, you know you’ve discovered something special. It feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret garden and the nearby urban surroundings make it even more endearing. I’ve taken my kids to see the trains at Christmas time and the Butterfly Show is always a huge hit, but I was more than a little curious to visit their new show, Honey Bees in the Summer Breeze.
Your first question is probably the same as mine: Are there live bees flying around? Since this follows up the butterflies, it’s a valid inquiry! Thankfully, there are no bees buzzing around, except adorable signs and real life images. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect out of this show and I am by no means a bee expert. In fact, like most people, I tend to steer clear of them. But when I told my three year old where we were going, he immediately lit up and said, “Like Buzz-Buzz from Mickey Mouse?!” Perfect, my toddler knows more about this exhibit than I do!
When we walked in to Krohn’s main exhibit space, I was blown (or buzzed?) away! I was used to poinsettias and Christmas trees and my senses were instead flooded with bright colors and cheery views. I don’t think I stopped smiling the entire time we were in there. My two toddlers immediately started to explore and besides having to say “just look, don’t touch” about two million times, they did really well.
They noticed things that I didn’t – a hive hanging from a tree, fish swimming and all the various colors. I was pleasantly surprised by how much they learned and how much they enjoyed it. We danced like a bee, smelled the flowers and genuinely had a good time together.
There’s more to the Honey Bee show than just the beautiful display. Families can visit the exhibit any time (except Mondays, they are closed) between now and August 21, but Saturdays are your best bet for extra kid friendly fun. Each Saturday, they have special events planned for families that will educate and entertain. There will be bee themed crafts and activities, along with the opportunity to learn and do a bee dance or two.
Also, definitely mark your calendar for Friday, July 29. From 6-9 p.m., Krohn will host an outdoor viewing of The Bee Movie, right on the front lawn! Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy one of the true gems of our city.
For more info and to plan your visit, buzz on over to Krohn Conservatory’s website!
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati publications and sites. With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.
