Eco-Friendly Tram

Olbrich's new 12-passenger tram provides free rides around the 16-acre outdoor gardens, primarily for visitors needing assistance.

"We're very excited to offer this service to our visitors," says Roberta Sladky, Director of Olbrich Botanical Gardens. "As Olbrich has grown, we've found that some of our visitors aren't able to get to the outlying gardens, such as the Thai Pavilion Garden and the Perennial Garden. While we provide free wheelchairs and two electric scooters, tram service will offer a whole new dimension for all visitors, particularly for those who need assistance."

The eco-friendly electric tram meets standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act and has been modified to accommodate a person in a wheelchair. It travels in a circular route around the Gardens, with riders getting on and off at a number of stops to enjoy Olbrich's many gardens. As they ride, passengers hear an interpretive message about Olbrich's history, gardens, and sustainable gardening practices.

The tram operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily service. Daily service continues through August (and on Labor Day), then weekend service is available in September and October.