MEMBERSHIP FAQ

As a Wildflower Center member, you’ll enjoy enriching experiences and valuable benefits.

There’s always something new to see and do at the Wildflower Center, including new programs and exclusive hours so you can explore the garden before it opens to the public. You’ll also enjoy the benefit of knowing you help provide a fun and engaging educational experience for Austin-area students and visitors from around the world.

To help you navigate your Wildflower Center membership, we’ve compiled frequently asked questions to assist you. Choose the category that best fits your need:

I’m considering membership.

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Who can be a member?

Anyone can be a member! We only ask that the primary member be 18 or older. Membership is intended for noncommercial use by individuals and cannot be transferred. Admissions, guest passes or discounts granted as a privilege of membership can never be sold to another person or entity.

What does Wildflower Center membership include as benefits and privileges?

At all levels, annual membership includes one year of free admission to the Wildflower Center as well as:

  • Discounts on merchandise and classes
  • A subscription to Wildflower magazine
  • Members-only access to our Spring and Fall Native Plant Sales
  • Private access to the gardens during Member Mornings select days from 8 to 9 a.m. CT  
  • Reciprocal benefits at over 300 additional gardens across North America and so much more! See the benefits associated with each level of membership.

Which membership level is right for me?

The Wildflower Center offers a range of membership options designed to meet the needs of most visitors. Explore the various levels and rates and contact us at [email protected] or 512.232.0220 with any questions regarding the level that best suits you.

Do you offer student, senior or military memberships?

A discount of $10 off our Individual, Dual, Family, and Supporter levels is available to seniors (age 65 and over). The Wildflower Center does not offer student or military memberships at this time (though UT students, faculty and staff enjoy free admission).

I am interested in joining the Wildflower Center as a member, but I’d like to visit first. What can I do?

Many guests decide after a day at the Wildflower Center that they want to become members. Guests who purchase general admission may apply that cost towards an annual membership on the same day as their visit. Ticket refunds are limited to the number of admissions allowed by the membership and may only be applied with the ticket receipt at the Admissions Kiosk the same day as the visit. General admission may not be applied after the day of the visit or to memberships purchased online.

Do I need to add a second name on membership applications for the Dual level and above?

It is not required that you specify a second cardholder name at the Dual level and above. However, at least one named cardholder on record with Wildflower Center needs to be present to take advantage of free admission. We do not record the names of additional visitors, caregivers or children.

Is it acceptable to lend my membership card to a friend or family member?

No. Memberships are nontransferable and valid only for the person(s) whose name is printed on the card. Valid photo ID is required for all member adults to gain free admission to the Wildflower Center.

Can I use my membership on a field trip or group visit?

No. Member benefits are for private/individual visits and are not applicable for group visits. For more information on field trips and group visits please call 512.232.0100.

Can my caregiver bring my children to the Wildflower Center and use my card?

Unless the caregiver is named on the membership, they will need to pay admission. We recommend either the caregiver is one of the named members on your membership or you purchase a separate membership for them.

How do I become a member?

Memberships are available:

  • Online
  • In person
  • By calling 512.232.0220
  • By mailing your membership contribution to 4801 La Crosse Ave., Austin, TX 78739, Attn: Membership

Is my membership contribution tax deductible?

According to IRS regulations, the amount paid for Wildflower Center membership is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, minus the fair market value of benefits for which you are eligible. You will receive a tax receipt from The University of Texas at Austin separate from your membership cards and welcome materials. Please keep this for your tax records.

What are the rules and expectations related to membership at the Wildflower Center?

  • The primary member must be 18 years or older.
  • Memberships are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
  • Membership at the Wildflower Center is intended for noncommercial use by individuals (excluding Corporate Memberships).
  • Admissions or discounts granted as a privilege of membership can never be sold to another person or entity.
  • Photo identification is required at the time of visit and should match the person whose name is on the membership. At least one card-holding member must be present with guests.
  • The Center reserves the right to revoke memberships for abuse of member privileges or for inappropriate conduct.
  • The Center reserves the right to change its pricing and benefits structure at any time.

How do I contact the membership office?

  • Email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to include your full name and address.
  • Call 512.232.0220, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday.

I just became a Wildflower Center member.

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How long does it take to receive my membership cards?

Your digital membership cards and welcome materials will arrive by email within approximately one week of membership enrollment. If you enrolled online, your membership confirmation email provides you with immediate admission. If it’s been more than three weeks since your contribution and you haven’t received your membership cards, or you would like to request a physical membership card, please contact us at [email protected] and include your name, current address and phone number.

When will my membership expire?

Your membership is valid for one year from the month you purchased it. For example, if you purchased your membership on any day in October, your membership expires one year later on Oct. 31. You can always email us at [email protected] or call 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday) to inquire about your expiration date.

I have not received my membership materials. What do I do?

Please contact us at [email protected] and include your name, current address and phone number.

Can I bring guests to member-only events?

For events with exclusive access and discounts for members (e.g., Spring and Fall Native Plant Sales), guests may not be permitted in the member-only areas but may be permitted in other areas of the gardens. For other events, the invitation/information about the event will indicate whether guests are permitted.

How do I contact the membership office?

  • Email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to include your full name and address.
  • Call 512.232.0220, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday

How do I use my digital membership card?

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What are digital membership cards?

Starting in September 2020, the Wildflower Center began offering digital membership cards, which can be downloaded and saved to your smartphone. Going digital means you never have to worry about forgetting your membership card, in addition to being more environmentally friendly and helping to reduce administrative costs. After joining or renewing your Wildflower Center membership, you will receive an email within two weeks with a link to download your card.

How will I use my digital membership card?

Your digital membership card is unique to your membership and displays your name, membership level, expiration date and a barcode for us to scan. Simply show your digital membership card to our staff at the Admissions Kiosk or Gift Store to take advantage of your member benefits!

Do the digital membership cards work on Apple and Android devices?

Your digital membership card is supported on Apple’s iOS 6 and newer, as well as Android devices.

How do I add the digital membership card to my iPhone?

For iPhones: Access the email from your smartphone and click the “Download” button, then click “Add to Wallet” and “Add.” The card will automatically go to your iPhone’s Apple Wallet. It can be accessed in Wallet at any time. Watch the tutorial video below for a walk-through with step-by-step instructions.

How do I add the digital membership card to my Android?

Android users need to download WalletPasses from Google Play. After you have the app, access the email from your smartphone and click “Download” in the membership email, and the card will automatically go to your WalletPasses app, where it can be accessed at any time. Watch the tutorial video below for a walk-through with step-by-step instructions.

How do I load the digital card into Google Pay (G Pay)?

Google Pay (G Pay) passes are compatible with Android phones, iPhones, and PC devices. To install your digital card to G Pay you just need to follow these steps:

I’d prefer not to use a digital membership card, what should I do?

By default, all members will now receive a digital membership card sent to the email address provided. If you prefer to receive a paper membership card instead, please contact us at [email protected] or call 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday) to learn about options for a physical card.

I don’t have a mobile phone; what can I do?

Please contact us at [email protected] or call 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday) to learn about options for a physical card.

My family member is also on this membership account also. How can they receive the digital card?

First, install the digital card to a compatible phone (iPhone or Android). Then open the installed card in your phone:

  • iPhone users can find the digital card inside of a pre-installed app called “Wallet.”
  • Android users should have “Wallet Passes” app installed per card download/install instructions. The digital card will get stored in there.

Once you open the digital card, go to the “back of the card” by pressing the back of card button:

  • iPhone users should see a “three dots” icon at the top right corner of the screen.
  • Android users should see an “i” icon at the bottom right side of the screen.

Once you tap the back of card button, it will show you the back of your card. Tap on the sharing options button:

  • iPhone users will see a “square with an arrow pointing up” button at the top right side of the screen.
  • Android users will see a text box that says “Share card” button below the “automatic updates” button.

Once you tap on this button, you will see different sharing options depending on your platform (email, Bluetooth, etc). We strongly suggest sharing via email (it’s the most stable option based on both systems’ architecture).

If you are using Google Pay, please note: Due to Google’s internal structure, the sharing option above is not available for membership cards. However, members can forward the original email with the download link to the person who wants to download the card and use the Google Pay option as usual. The big difference between Google Pay and Wallet Passes is that the same link can be used for both members.

As always, we will request a corresponding photo ID upon entry to ensure that only named members are using your digital card.

I downloaded my digital card but I can’t find it.

If you have an iPhone, the card will automatically download to Apple Wallet. Check the app for your new card (scroll through any cards that are already there—it may be hiding!). If you have an Android, you’ll need to download WalletPasses from Google Play prior to downloading the card. Also, when you are near the Wildflower Center, it should open automatically.

Will I still need to show my photo ID with my digital card?

Yes. The safety of our members is very important to us, and we want to ensure that no one else is using your membership benefits.

How will my reciprocal benefits work when visiting other gardens?

Digital membership cards display the AHS banner and list participation in the reciprocal programs as a benefit of the membership level. Simply show your digital membership card at participating gardens to receive free or reduced admission!

Will my digital card update when I renew my membership?

Yes, this means that you only have to download the card once! The digital card should automatically update when your membership information changes as long as there is not a significant time gap from when it expired. For example, your expiration date and membership level should automatically update the next time you renew or upgrade your membership as long as you do so within approx. 6 months after the expiration date. NOTE: If you have renewed and your digital card is not showing updated information, you may need to refresh your card by opening your wallet, navigating to the “back” of the card (tapping the “i” on Android or the “…” on iPhone), and swiping/dragging down the screen until you see the refresh is occurring (or by navigating to the refresh button on an Android). The information should then show a more recent update date and the front of the card should then show the more recent expiration date. If it still is not showing the updated information after refreshing, please contact the Membership Office.

How do I contact the membership office?

  • Email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to include your full name and address.
  • Call 512.232.0220, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday

I’d like to manage my membership.

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How can I upgrade my membership to a higher level?

You can upgrade to a higher level of membership at any time simply by paying the difference between the two membership levels. We will provide you with a new membership card, but your membership expiration date will not change. However, if you choose to renew at the higher level by paying the full price of your desired membership level, your membership renewal will take effect immediately. This will give you the benefits of the higher membership level for the remainder of your membership year — plus another twelve months!

Please visit us at the Wildflower Center or call 512.232.0220 to complete a membership upgrade.

How do I change a name on my membership?

Please contact the membership office at 512.232.0220 or [email protected] to have your membership cards reissued.

How do I replace a lost or stolen membership card?

Email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to replace your membership card.

I misplaced my membership card but want to visit the Wildflower Center today. Can I still enter for free?

Yes, please stop at the Admissions Kiosk. One of our friendly representatives will look up your membership information when you present your photo ID and allow you entry. But please also contact us at [email protected] or 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday) so we may issue a new card.

I received a renewal notice asking me to renew my membership before it expires. Will I lose any time off my current member year?

No way! By renewing early, you are helping us defer much-needed funds to special programs, exhibit development and other exciting projects. We will never deduct time from your membership year. Your membership will be extended by 12 months from your current expiration date.

I already renewed my membership; why am I still getting renewal notices?

Due to processing time, your payment and renewal notice may have crossed paths in the mail. To confirm that we have received your membership payment, please call us at 512.232.0220 or email us at [email protected].

My family is moving; can I give my membership to someone else?

Memberships are nontransferable and nonrefundable. As a Wildflower Center member, you can continue to use it at participating reciprocal gardens for the remainder of your membership year.

My employer matches my charitable giving. Can a matching gift from my employer be used to increase my membership level?

Matching Gifts will not increase your membership level or overall donation because it is a tax-deductible donation for your employer.

How do I contact the membership office?

  • Email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to include your full name and address.
  • Call 512.232.0220, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday

What is auto-renewal and how does it work?

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What is membership auto-renewal?

Instead of being prompted to manually renew your membership when it expires, we will use the credit card on file to automatically renew your membership at the same level at the then-current rate, unless you provide us with a 30-day cancellation notice.

How will I be billed? Will I get a receipt?

With the auto-renewal plan, you will receive a confirmation email and a mailed receipt for your payment. In subsequent years, we will charge you in the same month of your membership expiration date. You will receive an email notification each time we have charged your credit card and a separate receipt from The University of Texas at Austin will be issued.

Will I get a membership card?

Yes, you will receive a new/updated membership card by email, approximately one week from when you enroll online or after your annual auto-renewal payment is processed. Note: If you already have the digital card installed on your phone, it should automatically update.

Will I receive renewal information?

Because your membership is automatically renewed each year, you don’t have to worry about renewal notices. We will send an email receipt to help you track the payments you have made.

What if my billing information changes?

Please contact our membership office at 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday) to change your information. If your credit/debit card expires during your membership year, we may contact you so you can update that information.

What if I need to cancel my membership?

The support of our members is vitally important to the success of the Wildflower Center. If you must cancel your membership, please contact the membership office by email at [email protected] to end future payments.

I have questions about member benefits.

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Who can be a member?

Anyone can be a member! We ask only that the primary member be 18 or older. Membership is intended for noncommercial use by individuals and cannot be transferred. Admissions, guest passes or discounts granted as a privilege of membership can never be sold to another person or entity.

Do I need to purchase a ticket to see special exhibits or attend special events?

Members receive free admission to special exhibitions during regular hours. Ticketed events, such as Luminations, are not included in your free admission benefit. A ticket or separate admission must be purchased to attend such events. Tickets are usually discounted for members.

Is my membership contribution tax deductible?

According to IRS regulations, the amount paid for Wildflower Center membership is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, minus the fair market value of benefits for which you are eligible. You will receive a tax receipt from The University of Texas at Austin separate from your membership cards and welcome materials. Please keep this for your tax records.

I have guests coming to visit. Is their admission included in my family membership?

A family membership includes up to two adults in the same household and their children/grandchildren under the age of 18. Any additional people will need to purchase admission separately. If you expect to bring guests to the Wildflower Center, the Supporter and higher levels of membership will provide you with included additional guest admission. Consider upgrading your membership level today!

What is the reciprocal admission program?

The program was established by the American Horticultural Society to encourage people to visit gardens while traveling. The Wildflower Center is a participating member of the AHS Reciprocal Admissions Program; as such, your membership with us provides special admission prices (often free) and other discounts at more than 300 gardens currently participating in the program. Simply show your Wildflower Center membership card when visiting one of these gardens — you must have your card with you to qualify. AHS is actively adding gardens to the list; to get the most current list, visit ahsgardening.org/gardening-programs/rap.

Other questions?

Email us at [email protected] or call at 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday). We will be pleased to assist you.

Can I give membership as a gift?

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Can I give a membership to someone as a gift?

Yes! Memberships make great gifts and last all year long. Gift memberships are defined as memberships purchased for individuals or families other than your own, living in a different household. You may purchase a gift membership through our website, by calling the membership office at 512.232.0220 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday) or by speaking to any of our friendly, on-site admissions representatives.

Can I delay the start of a gift membership?

No. Once payment is processed, the membership will be activated in our system. However, all membership expiration dates are extended to the end of the month. So the Member will still receive a full twelve months of membership.

Do I have to include the recipient’s email?

We send the majority of our communication via email. We don’t want anyone to miss out on important updates on upcoming exhibits, events and special programs. Additionally, emails are used as a login for our online registration system. If you are unsure of sharing the recipient’s email address, please feel free to leave it out. Members can provide their email address at any time. To avoid ruining any surprises, gift recipients will not receive a confirmation email at the time of purchase.

Will the Wildflower Center send the membership materials to me or to the gift recipient?

We will send the packet directly to the recipient unless otherwise requested.