Boston is home to many renowned museums, but today, one in particular captivated me—the Harvard Museum of Natural History. I had been meaning to visit for quite some time, drawn by a collection that perfectly blends my fascination with flowers and my appreciation for glass: the Blaschka Glass Plant Models Ware Collection, more commonly known as Glass Flowers.
The moment I stepped inside, I headed straight for this exhibit. As soon as I entered, I was astonished. The plants displayed under glass cases couldn’t possibly be made of glass—they looked too real! Their colors, the intricate details, even the delicate transparency of some pieces were simply unbelievable.
This extraordinary collection was commissioned by George Lincoln Goodale, the first director of Harvard’s Botanical Museum. Created between 1887 and 1936 by the father-and-son team Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka in their Hosterwitz studio near Dresden, Germany, these models were groundbreaking. At the time, botany was taught using rudimentary papier-mâché or wax models, but Goodale envisioned a more accurate way to represent plant life for students. Over fifty years, the Blaschkas meticulously crafted 4,300 glass models depicting 780 plant species. The collection consists of 847 life-sized models and over 3,000 enlarged representations.
Now a permanent exhibit at the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Glass Flowers attract 200,000 visitors annually. Regarded as one of Harvard’s most treasured collections, it remains the only one of its kind in the world. If you’re in Boston, make sure to experience this breathtaking collection for yourself—you truly won’t believe your eyes!
Find your way with 128 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Don’t miss Schlesinger Library on Harvard’s campus, a hidden gem in Boston, for an enriching experience of women’s works. Look for original manuscripts!
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Union Park, located near downtown, was designed in the mid-19th century, inspired by English-style residential squares. Come for a tranquil retreat!
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Sip of Joy, a cozy family-run café in South End, blends Turkish and American flavors, offering flawless coffee, pastries, and a peaceful retreat.
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Arlington Street Church in Boston houses the world's largest themed collection of Tiffany stained glass windows — an unmistakeble artistic marvel.
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Step into Boston’s Puppet Free Library on Newbury Street, where over 200 vibrant puppets await, spreading joy through lending since 1976.
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Rouvalis Flowers in Beacon Hill charms every season with stunning blooms, dried arrangements, and gifts — perfect for adding beauty to any Boston day.
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Cacao in Boston, run by a Dominican couple, offers rich hot chocolate, spicy cocoa, and delightful truffles — sweet haven for reading or writing.
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Escape the rush at Zuzu’s Petals in Cambridge’s Inman Square — a cozy, screen-free haven for fondue, wine, conversation, and homemade delights.
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Gypsy Place in Cambridge offers a bohemian vibe, fresh juices, vegan treats, and great coffee. Try the Azurite Bowl or Tiger’s Eye Truffles for a delicious energy boost!
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Zinneken’s in Harvard Square serves authentic Liege waffles with indulgent toppings. Cozy vibes, rich coffee, and the perfect sweet treat near Harvard University!
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Regina Pizzeria in Boston’s North End has served legendary pizza since 1926. The white pizza is a must-try! Expect a wait, but it’s worth every bite.
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Caffé Vittoria, Boston’s first Italian café since 1929, serves rich espresso, tiramisu, and affogato in a charming, old-world setting. A must-visit in the North End—cash only!
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128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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