Garfield Park

Garfield Park is a botanical garden in West Side, Chicago, housing thousands of plant species in eight display rooms under glass and steel. The facility covers just under one hectare and presents tropical palms, cacti, ferns, and aquatic plants in specially designed chambers.

Jens Jensen designed this conservatory in 1908, replacing three Victorian glass houses from the 1880s. His method of planting directly into the ground rather than in pots was a new approach in America at that time.

The eight display rooms follow geographical and ecological zones, letting visitors move from tropical rainforest to desert without leaving the building. Each chamber shows a different climate region with its matching plants, creating a journey through several continents.

The visit leads through all eight climate zones in sequence, with each room operating at its own temperature and humidity levels. Visitors should expect higher warmth and moisture especially in the tropical sections, while the desert rooms remain dry and warm.

Dale Chihuly created sixteen yellow glass water lilies that float permanently in the Persian Pool of the Aroid House. These glass pieces reflect light and water in constantly changing patterns depending on the time of day and weather.

Location: Chicago

Architects: William Le Baron Jenney

GPS coordinates: 41.88639,-87.71722

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:31