Chicago Botanic Garden Glencoe IL: 7 Breathtaking Gardens, 10,000 Plants, and Endless Inspiration

A Botanical Haven in the Heart of the Midwest

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a horticultural sanctuary that spans over 385 acres in Glencoe, Illinois. With seven distinct gardens, over 10,000 plant species, and a myriad of educational programs, it offers an unparalleled botanical experience for visitors of all ages.

7 Captivating Gardens for Every Season

1. Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden (23 acres)

Inspired by traditional Japanese landscape design, this tranquil garden features serene ponds, meandering paths, delicate bridges, and authentic teahouses. In spring, cherry blossoms paint the garden with ethereal beauty, while autumn transforms it into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows.

2. Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden (12 acres)

A paradise for culinary enthusiasts, this garden showcases over 2,500 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Visitors can wander through rows of colorful tomatoes, plump melons, and fragrant strawberries, while learning about sustainable gardening practices.

3. Rose Garden (3 acres)

With over 3,000 rose bushes representing 150 varieties, the Rose Garden is a fragrant and enchanting display. From classic hybrid teas to delicate English roses, the garden blooms profusely from June to October, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and intoxicating scents.

4. Dixon Prairie (19 acres)

Transporting visitors back in time, the Dixon Prairie recreates the native tallgrass prairie ecosystem. This biodiversity hotspot supports over 200 plant species and attracts a diverse array of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

5. Evening Island (3 acres)

An oasis of tranquility, Evening Island is a secluded island garden accessible by bridge. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene lagoon, it offers a peaceful retreat for meditation, reflection, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

6. Heritage Garden (6 acres)

Celebrating the horticultural history of the Midwest, the Heritage Garden displays heirloom plants and vintage varieties that were once popular in the region. Visitors can trace the evolution of gardening practices and discover the origins of many beloved garden favorites.

7. Sensory Garden (2 acres)

Designed specifically for visitors with disabilities, the Sensory Garden provides an immersive botanical experience. Raised planting beds, aromatic plants, and tactile textures engage the senses and create a stimulating and inviting environment for all.

10,000 Plants: A Botanical Encyclopedia

The Chicago Botanic Garden is home to over 10,000 plant species, making it one of the most diverse botanical collections in the world. From exotic orchids to towering sequoia trees, every plant tells a story of adaptation, evolution, and the interconnectedness of nature.

Notable Plant Collections

• Orchids: Over 1,500 species, including rare and endangered varieties
• Conifers: Over 700 species, representing every major genus
• Hostas: Over 600 varieties, showcasing the diversity of this popular shade plant
• Peonies: Over 500 varieties, blooming in a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes
• Daylilies: Over 300 varieties, offering a continuous display of vibrant blooms throughout the summer

Endless Inspiration: Education, Research, and Conservation

Beyond its stunning gardens and plant collection, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a hub for botanical education, research, and conservation.

Education: Programs for All Ages

• School Programs: Field trips, workshops, and hands-on activities for students of all grades
• Adult Education: Classes, workshops, and lectures on horticulture, conservation, and botanical art
• Family Programs: Fun and engaging activities for families, including guided walks, nature play, and gardening demonstrations

Research: Advancing Botanical Knowledge

• Plant Science Research: Cutting-edge research on plant genetics, conservation biology, and sustainable gardening
• Conservation Programs: Protecting endangered plant species and promoting biodiversity
• Horticultural Innovation: Developing new plant varieties and improving horticultural practices

Conservation: Protecting Plants and the Environment

• Conservation Nursery: Propagating and distributing rare and endangered plant species
• Wetland Restoration: Restoring wetlands to protect wildlife and improve water quality
• Sustainable Practices: Implementing sustainable gardening practices throughout the garden

Garden Innovations: Planting the Seeds of Tomorrow

Aquascaping: A Living Art Form

Aquascaping combines horticulture and aquarium keeping to create stunning underwater gardens. The Chicago Botanic Garden offers workshops and demonstrations on this innovative art form, teaching participants how to create harmonious aquatic ecosystems in their own homes.

Vertical Gardening: Maximizing Space and Productivity

Vertical gardening maximizes space in urban areas and small gardens. The Garden offers workshops and resources on vertical gardening techniques, helping homeowners and gardeners create bountiful and beautiful living walls and green rooftops.

Edible Landscaping: Beauty and Nutrition

Edible landscaping seamlessly integrates edible plants into ornamental gardens. The Garden hosts workshops and provides guidance on how to create beautiful and productive landscapes that provide both aesthetic and culinary enjoyment.

Tables: Garden Facts and Figures