Garfield Park Conservatory has been an oasis of green in the urban streets of Chicago since 1908. Conceived as a series of "landscapes under glass," its revolutionary-for-their-time Display Houses showcase more than 10,000 species of plants in gracefully designed natural settings. Additions like the demonstration garden, which focuses on urban agriculture, as well as whimsical play structures in the children's garden give the grounds a modern touch.
Best and worst time to go to Garfield Park Conservatory
There's almost no bad time to go to the Conservatory. It's far enough from the Loop that even on peak weekends, it doesn't get crowded enough to be unpleasant (though parking can sometimes be tight). The four seasonal flower shows can attract huge crowds, but arguably it's worth it to see the extravagant blooms on display. If you prefer more solitude, try going on a weekday or on Wednesday evening, when the Conservatory stays open late.
Must see/do at Garfield Park Conservatory
The Conservatory isn't too large, so it shouldn't be hard to see all the indoor Display Houses in one visit. If you have to pick and choose, make sure to budget time for the Fern House, with its Prairie Waterfall designed to mimic how Chicago's landscape looked millions of years ago. Another must-see is the Aroid House's "Persian Pool," an eye-catching installation of 16 yellow lilypads created by glass artist Dale Chihuly. If you visit in summer, take the kids to the outdoor Play & Grow garden, where they can jump along a stump obstacle course or play a wooden xylophone, among other nature-inspired activities.
Admission to Garfield Park Conservatory
Admission is free, though there is a suggested donation.
Parking and public transportation to Garfield Park Conservatory
The Conservatory is a quick walk from the Conservatory/Central Park stop on the Green Line, and parking in the Conservatory lot is free.
Food at Garfield Park Conservatory
The Conservatory Gift Shop sells prepackaged sandwiches, salads, and desserts, most under $10.
Insider tip for visitors to Garfield Park Conservatory
The neighborhood that surrounds the Conservatory is one of the poorest in Chicago, a fact that makes some visitors wary of exploring beyond the Conservatory itself. But it would be a mistake to visit Garfield Park without stopping by the gold-domed 1928 fieldhouse, set just a little south of the Conservatory on Central Park Ave. Its elaborately carved exterior features gargoyles, eagles, and busts of famous explorers, which can be fun for kids to search out.
Author's bio: Nathalie Lagerfeld is a Chicago-based writer and art nerd who previously blogged for the Groupon Guide to Chicago.
