The Chicago Traveler

Garfield Park Conservatory Provides Year-Round Refuge

by Matt B on May 3rd, 2008

If you need a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the Windy City, but you can't make it to one of Illinois' natural wonders, visit the urban oasis that is the Garfield Park Conservatory.

Covering 4.5 acres (18,211 m²) of the north end of Garfield Park, the conservatory is one of the largest and most remarkable in the country. This humongous garden contains trees, flowers, cacti, and exotic plants from all over the world. Visitors can experience various climates via six interconnected greenhouses and two grand exhibition halls, offering everything from a wet and warm atmosphere to dry desert air. Curious little ones will be amazed by oversized hands-on exhibits and plant life.

Opened to the public in April 1908, the Garfield Park Conservatory always has something new to see. Flower shows change with the season, and several informative displays and activities are available. There are also numerous demonstrations and workshops where attendees can learn about gardening, cooking, and plant identification.

Best of all, admission to the Conservatory is free! There is also free parking available just south of the main entrance. Open every day of the year, it's always a good time to stop and smell the roses' and the daffodils, and the tulips, and the hyacinths'

Photo credit (c/o Flickr): puroticorico, -Lori-, kudzuplanet, paul goyette, nipplerings72, James Jordan, ElDave

Garfield Park Conservatory: 300 N Central Park Ave; 312-746-5100
Sun ' Weds, Fri ' Sat: 9:00 a.m. ' 5:00 p.m.
Thurs: 9:00 a.m. ' 8:00 pm.
Free parking lot
Public trans: Bus # 82 or Green Line train (Conservatory)
http://www.garfield-conservatory.org/

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POSTED IN: Architecture & Attractions, Sports and Recreation