We've visited many other cities' botanic gardens, but somehow had skipped the Chicago one altogether...until last week. My family finally made the trip north to Glencoe to tour these free gardens (parking gets the $$). There was a sunny sense of calm during our quick escape. We surprised ourselves by spending a glorious four hours meandering, sitting and snacking (on heirloom tomatoes and aged cheddar), and recommend this getaway to anyone who has a beautiful, free day ahead of them...
I'm excited to live near Brooklyn Botanic Garden soon!!
Emily
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Chicago residents who don't have a whole day to spend trekking up to Glencoe can still get a spectacular (and free) dose of natural splendor at the city's two conservatories. I'm partial to the Garfield Park location (right next to the green line), but the Lincoln Park one is awesome too. I live in Seattle now, and miss them both.
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For Chicago people not on the north side, don't forget the Morton Arboretum in Lisle.
www.mortonarb.org/
Originally founded in 1922 by the founder of the eponymous salt company, it's 1,700 acres of forest, savanna, prairie and planted gardens (including a great set of kids' gardens) are worth visiting. Lots of kids classes and nature camps, as well as year-round adult education (nature photography, botanical art, landscape design etc).
My family has a membership, which is fairly-priced (and essential for repeat visitors because it gives you free admission and free parking whenever you want to go).
view Jim G's profile