Frequently Asked Questions

Show Gardens / Seminars / Exhibitors / Features / FAQ

Need help finding other information? Peruse the Frequently Asked Questions below or visit our Table of Contents.

What are the dates and hours of the show?
Where can I purchase tickets and how much are they?
How do you purchase tickets for the Preview Party?
How do I get to the show and where can I park?
Are there hotels near the show and do they offer special show rates?
Can I go in and out of the show during the day?
Do tickets allow multiple entries over a few days?
Is photography allowed (still and video)? In the seminars?
What is the most comfortable time to attend?
Are strollers allowed at the show?
What dining options are there at the show?
Is the Cow Palace handicapped accessible?
Is there a place to leave plants and other purchases during the day?
What is the parking fee?
How can I get more information about attending or exhibiting at the show?


What are the dates and hours of the show?
Mar. 16-19, Thurs. & Sun. 9am to 6:30pm, Fri. & Sat. 9am to 9pm.

Where can I purchase tickets and how much are they?
Visit our Tickets page for information about purchasing tickets next winter. Prices for 2000 are: $14.50 Regular price (Mar. 16-19), $12.50 Advance (through Mar. 15) and Evenings (March 16-19, 3:00-9:00 p.m.), and $11.50 Group (20 or more tickets, through Mar. 10).

How do you purchase tickets for the Preview Party?
Visit our Preview Party page or contact the Friends of Recreation & Parks at 415-750-5441.

How do I get to the show and where can I park?
Visit our Transportation page for directions and parking information.

Are there hotels near the show and do they offer special show rates?
Yes, there are hotels in San Francisco and near the San Francisco Airport that offer a discounted show rate. Visit our Accommodations page for a list of participating hotels and rates.

Can I go in and out of the show during the day?
Yes, if you get your hand stamped before you leave. Hand stampers are located at the main exit.

Do tickets allow multiple entries over a few days?
No, tickets are good for one day only.

Is photography allowed (still and video)? In the seminars?
In the garden and other main exhibit areas, both still and video photography are allowed. In the seminars, only still photography is allowed.

What is the most comfortable time to attend?
The most comfortable times to see the show are weekdays and evenings (after 3pm). Remember, tickets sold at the door after 3:00 pm on any show day are $2.00 off!

Are strollers allowed at the show?
Strollers are allowed, but discouraged. It can be difficult to navigate through the show during peak hours with your stroller, and it can be troublesome to other visitors. A child backpack is preferable.

What dining options are there at the show?
There is an elegant sit down garden cafe located near the seminars and Orchid Show. Cow Palace concessions are also located in the concourse.

Is the Cow Palace handicapped accessible? Are there wheelchairs available? Where is there handicapped parking?
The Cow Palace is handicap accessible with parking available in the main lot (the parking attendants will direct you). The Cow Palace does not have wheelchairs available, so if you need one you should bring your own. Keep in mind that it can be difficult to navigate through the show during the peak hours, 9am to 3pm, especially on the weekend.

Is there a place to leave plants and other purchases during the day? How can I get large items to my car?
Yes, there is a free package check located in the concourse. If you have a large item to pick up from a vendor, you may also arrange to drive up to the side of the hall and meet them to load the item(s).

What is the parking fee?
Ample parking is available at the Cow Palace for $7 per day, $15 for buses. No in-out privileges.

How can I get more information about attending or exhibiting at the show?
Click here to request more information about attending, exhibiting in a booth (educational or commercial), creating a garden, or participating in any other part of the show.