University of Illinois Conservatory and Plant Collection

The University of Illinois Conservatory is a botanical garden with multiple greenhouses and outdoor areas displaying plant species from tropical to temperate climates in separate environments. The collection contains thousands of specimens organized to show visitors the range of plant diversity and how different species adapt to their conditions.

The facility began as part of the Illinois Natural History Survey and grew into an educational center combining botanical research with public exhibits. Over time the greenhouses and gardens expanded to serve both scientific work and visitor learning.

The botanical garden serves as a gathering place where students and visitors from the community come together to learn about plant life and ecosystems. The different zones create informal learning spaces where people naturally explore and discover new plants.

Visitors can explore the conservatory at no cost throughout the year, with different plants flowering and thriving during various seasons. It helps to plan your visit around when certain collections are at their best, as some areas may have limited access at certain times.

One section dedicates itself to protecting endangered plant species native to Illinois, allowing visitors to see rare plants that no longer grow elsewhere in the region. This research area shows how botanists work to preserve local species for the future.

Location: Illinois

GPS coordinates: 40.10240,-88.22250

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:03