Chicago Botanic Garden

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a large botanical museum in New Trier Township featuring 27 distinct gardens and four natural areas spread across about 385 acres. Water features and ponds run throughout the grounds, connecting the different plant sections together.

The site was founded in 1965 as a conservation project, transforming former marshland into an educational center. It focused from the start on plant science and environmental study.

The Japanese Garden showcases traditional design with three islands representing paradise, earth, and sacred wisdom, connected by arching bridges that guide visitors through the space.

The grounds open early each day and stay accessible until sunset, with parking available on site. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time to explore the various gardens at their own pace.

Within the gardens sits the Regenstein School for the Environment, which conducts scientific research through the Negaunee Institute on urban agriculture and plant conservation. This research helps develop new growing methods for city areas.

Location: New Trier Township

Address: 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022

Phone: +(847)8356801

Website: https://chicagobotanic.org

GPS coordinates: 42.14644,-87.78975

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07