After enjoying the eight indoor garden rooms make sure you also take the time to explore the ten acres worth of outdoor gardens at Garfield Park Conservatory. Located at 300 N. Central Park Avenue in Chicago, the conservatory provides an oasis of nature and beauty amidst the bustling city.
There are five outdoor gardens located on the property surrounding the conservatory. These include the Artist’s, City, Sensory, Demonstration, and Play and Grow Gardens.
The Artist’s Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago
The Artist’s Garden is designed every year focusing on a different famous artist. The flowers are chosen based on paintings from the artist.
The Artist’s Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago
This garden is located on the front, right side of the property, but you do need to go inside the conservatory to gain access. Horticulture Hall opens into this garden.
The Sensory Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago
The Sensory Garden includes water lilies, carnivorous plants and a labyrinth.
The Sensory Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago
It is located on the left side of the conservatory. You can access it by walking from the back of the conservatory or through the Sugar from the Sun Room.
The Sensory Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago
Beyond the labyrinth is the Play and Grow Garden. This area provides a small outdoor area for young children to play in, supervised by their parents. (Currently closed due to covid. Check their website for the latest restrictions.)
The Demonstration Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois
If you leave the conservatory through the desert room you will enter the Bluestone Terrace, which leads to both the Demonstration Garden and the City Garden.
The Demonstration Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois
The Demonstration garden contains herbs, fruits and vegetables and, of course, more flowers.
The City Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois
The Demonstration Garden merges with the City Garden. Both of these gardens are located behind the Conservatory.
The City Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois
The pond is the central feature. It is filled with an incredible variety of aquatic plants.
The City Garden at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois
Located next to the pond is a large farmed area. The food grown here is donated to Farmer’s Markets and food pantries in the area. There is a path the leads around the perimeter of the property (which is fenced in). This picture was taken in mid August, a good time to visit if you are hoping to see the water lilies in bloom.
Things to Know Before You Go:
Parking is free.
Reservations are currently needed due to covid. Check their website for current restrictions and hours.
The conservatory is free, donations are suggested.
Botanic and Japanese Gardens are some of my favorite places to visit. If there is one within an hour of my travel destination I always make time to check them out. What is the most impressive botanic garden you have ever visited? My next post will take you to Lincoln Park Conservatory, also in Chicago. As always, wishing you happy travels and fantastic adventures in this thing called life.
(All pictures are available as Fine Art Prints or Digital Downloads for purchase at full resolution, unwatermarked, through Alamy. If you see something you like, click on the link. If you are unable to find it, use the Contact Me page and I will make sure the image is available. (I do offer discount rates for fellow bloggers, contact me for more information.)
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The Outdoor Gardens at Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago
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