By Alison

Easily overlooked near the occasionally sketchy intersection of Sherbourne and Carlton, the Allen Gardens Conservatory is one of the prettiest, and cheapest, places in the city to get out of the rain and snow. The palatial greenhouse, which seems a bit out of place in the otherwise slightly seedy park, houses all manner of flora. Steamy rooms are filled with exotic blooms, including (for you Susan Orlean fans) a few rare orchids, while other rooms overflow with foliage that’s just perfect for hiding stolen kisses.