Ladd Arboretum

Ladd Arboretum is a botanical garden along McCormick Boulevard in Evanston that spans multiple acres beside the North Shore Channel. The park displays various tree families including birch, legume, maple, oak, and pine species distributed throughout the grounds.

The arboretum was officially dedicated in 1960 with the planting of a ginkgo tree in memory of Edward Rixon Ladd. This founding marked the beginning of the site as a green space and botanical center for the community.

The site houses an education center with exhibits about fossils, seeds, and mounted animals that help visitors understand the local environment. These displays connect people to the natural world around Evanston in a hands-on way.

The grounds sit beside the North Shore Channel and are most easily accessed on foot or by bicycle. The open space offers plenty of room to walk around and explore the different tree collections at a leisurely pace.

A special section within the gardens is the International Friendship Garden, maintained by a local Rotary Club, which showcases award-winning rose varieties. This rose garden displays cultivars that have been recognized for their exceptional quality and blooms.

Location: Illinois

GPS coordinates: 42.05680,-87.70060

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:00