What are some of the best/biggest orchid store/garden in the USA?
 

I have a friend who is wanting to get into orchids, and for his birthday I want to bring him to the biggest and/or best orchid store or garden in the United States so he can check stuff out. We both work for an airline so we fly for free, so anywhere in the USA works, preferably cities with good public transportation from the airport so we don't have to rent a car. Any ideas?

I answered this on GardenWeb, where I directed them to seek the most customer friendly orchid vendor (not the biggest), because they need guidance. My take was that neither knew anything about orchids. Feel free to throw out your suggestions. Posting here, because I want to see what people say.

Mmm well I would recommend the big orchid nurseries or check out when an international orchid is going to happen? OMG it was be my dream to visit an international orchid show ❤️

If i could go to any greenhouse in the united states i would choose Andy's Orchids in California. A close second would be RF Orchids in Florida.

Make sure the vendor is open to the public. Many aren't, some have "open house" dates and others are "by appointment only".

And my suggested destination is Hawaii! (Disclaimer: I've not done orchid tourism there. That's why I'd go.)

Miami area has many in that area. R.F. Orchids in Homestead is awesome!!! If you research all the orchid places in or near Homestead you will be surprised. I used to live there. Good luck
Karen

I would recommend Hauserman's Orchids it is about 10 miles SW of Ohare. But a rental car is required as it would take a long time to go from Ohare to Hausermann's via public transportation.

Andy's Orchid is definitely one of, if not best, when it comes to orchid species. I visited his open house a couple of times, and once by appointment. I was very impressed by the sheer amount of species he has.

The facility itself is also quite impressive. He has 5 or 6 different greenhouses imitating different climates. And it is definitely a candy land for orchid nerds. I usually spent hours wandering around the various green houses.

Andy's Orchid also provide great customer service as well. I called Andy up to ask for potting advice for the Vanda tricolor I bought from him a few weeks back. He remembered me and gave me some insights on the subject.

Don't forget orchids limited in Minneapolis. The owners are passionate about beautiful orchids and their plants are in primo condition, even if they are a bit pricey.

I'm with you there! I just think after visiting a show like that I'd have to eat bread for the rest of my life as I'd spend all our money! :D