Visited on a perfect, weather Saturday afternoon. It was packed but worth the visit. There is so much to see so plan to do nothing else for the remainder of the day because you will be tired!!! We walked around for a couple hours and just embraced nature. We ended our day with a 35-minute tour on the Grand Tram to capture the parts of the gardens that we weren't able to. The fruit and vegetable garden was beautiful. We tried a delicious raspberry lemonade ($13). Note: If you are planning to park there, you will pay at the gate (card only). Entry fee to get into the gardens is sold separately (rates different for Cook County residents). Definitely worth visiting! read more

Chicago Botanic Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Glencoe, Illinois

Took a Sunday in late May and spent 5 hours there. After going through the visitor center and over the bridge, there are different ways you can go. For us, we made a left and followed nearly the perimeter of the inside of the grounds. This route took us in somewhat of a circle of the main section where we veered off for some detail in places and saw quite a variety of different local and international foliage. To do the Japanese Garden - you go off for a bit but come right back. At the SE part of this - it takes you across the length of Evening Island with various flora, fauna, and a carillon, then back to the main area. We saw some interesting gardens in the rocks with a short jaunt off to Spider Island (a short out and back). We then finished the circle - while seeing the fruit and vegetable garden. Once we finished - we'd seen about 75% of the place with very little backtracking and covered 4 miles! We then went inside the circle to see the central building where the greenhouses are (3 of them in the same major building)- then tiredly went back to our car. Immense variety in botanics. Some places bloomed earlier; some were in full bloom. read more

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I only come for the holiday lights and they never disappoint! I think in the last few years they've added such great displays and I look forward to it every year! Parking is easy and it is easy to navigate. read more

Chicago Botanic Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Glencoe, Illinois

I've been visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden for a number of years now and I'm still in awe of the place every time I come. I came on Mother's Day recently and visited their model railroad garden for the first time (it was never open all the other times I've visited) and it was quite the fun experience. I've never seen something like it before and really enjoyed seeing the recreation of various American landscapes and the vast number of model trains racing on the tracks. The Garden covers a huge area and it will take the majority of the day to walk through everything. It's definitely one of the most beautiful spaces you'll find in the Chicagoland area and an ideal manicured nature escape from the city. They do have tram rides available right outside the entrance- I have yet to go on one but if I go again this year, it'll be the first thing I do. They have a pretty good cafe near the entrance with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating- I recommend getting the tacos and skipping the pizza. read more

I want to preface this by saying I only saw the light show Lightscape and not the gardens during the day, also this review is very late. The light show was very well organized and spaced out, very festive and beautiful! I will say in the beginning it was a bit crowded but once you walked a bit further from the first two exhibits, it got less crowded but keep in mind it might be a bit garden but it will get busy and there will be people a bit everywhere walking. I really enjoyed my time here! There's music, different themes, lights, art installations, and seating along the way. Lots of places to stop and grab a drink or a bite to eat as well. It takes about 1 hour to an 1 hour and half to do the full circuit. A holiday activity that everyone will enjoy! read more

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This is the best place to spend your money. Nothing better to perk up your winter : Flower power!

This garden is massive - there is so much to see and is perfect for anyone who loves nature or just wants a quiet place to walk. I give my upmost respect and appreciation for the hard-working staff who make this place so beautiful and clean. It's paid admission but gladly will support to upkeep this place. There is tons of paid parking if you are visiting. ($10) This was one of many times visiting and I will be coming back more in the future. read more

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This review is for their "Lightscape" only. I have written a separate review on the visit for the "Chicago Botanic Garden," but that was awhile ago and their ticketing format has changed after COVID. However, I never got a chance to check out the venue at night, and I thought it would be fun to take our 2.5 year-old son with us. I had to say that the tickets were pricy: $34 for non-members plus $3 convenience fee for each ticket that was purchsed online ($30 for members and the convenience fee waived). Fortunately, kids under 3 were free. Discounted parking was purchased online as well for $15. If purchased onsite, that would become $25. Anyway, I know there were too many numbers being said, our grand total for this trip, including 2 adults and parking, was $89. Entering to the "Lightscape" was fast since we had the tickets ready. We didn't come during the holiday season, yet the event ended the weekend after the new year and we visited on the very last Saturday. For individuals who love Christmas, they would be able to listen to seasonal music again and re-live the festivity. In the beginning of the line, there was a poster listing the food vendors and a map for the route. I believe it was approximately 1.3 mile long. Arrows were only pointing forward. In other words, one wasn't allowed to walk in a reserved direction. Restrooms were available at the entrance. Of course the infamous porty-potty installs could be seen throughout the journey, yet I would recommend using the actual facility before commencing the walking, especially when you had a young toddler who was yet diaper-free. Various ways, shapes, and patterns of lights were displayed. People were courteous enough when capturing photos so they weren't blocking the walking paths. Our son was very fond of the "fire lights." They weren't "light" by definition. They were actually little fire torches that occupied a portion of field, with Andrea Bocelli's music in the background. He was just SO impressed and moved by everything presented. We went on a snowy January evening and eveyone dressed up accordingly. The temperature wasn't ultra low, so it made the experience a pleasant one. The paths were salted properly. In addition, there were workers stationed at corners to direct traffic or to make themselves available to answer questions. We weren't so sure if we would come annually due to the price we paid. Thinking about it, that could have been the best deal for the family since my 2.5 year-old son's ticket was free and he had his exercise and everything made sense to him. I realized that there were activities that a young toddler couldn't participate, but this one was appropriate for the entire family to enjoy and to make memories together. read more

Chicago Botanic Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Glencoe, Illinois

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I really enjoy the Chicago Botanic Garden. It was recommended by me to a coworker. I have gone during the summer as well as during their Lightscapes. Both had a mix of adults and children. GARDEN: - Lots of different areas with a wide variety of gardens - Can go in an exhibit with butterflies - VERY well kept throughout - Mini train area with landmarks from across the country (very popular with kids) LIGHTSCAPES: - Very cool lights throughout, moves to the best of the music, different music/themes at different sections - Offer alcohol for adults (like hot cocoa with alcohol) - Offer snacks/refills on drinks (including alcohol) as you go through - More substantial food along the way you can stop at if you are hungry with a variety of food - Tickets can sell out, so try to order far in advance (I ordered in August to go in November) read more

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Loved it! It was a cold night but we were dressed for it. Five of us walked the 1.3 mile path to see all the lights and displays. This is the second Botanic Garden light tour we've done this December and it was the best. Well done. read more

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The Botanic Gardens advertises a "Lightscape" show at Christmas. The management sold tickets to the night-time show for December 14, 2025. It did not adjust its show even though the forecast showed sub-zero temperatures that evening. It could have canceled and refunded money. Instead, it allowed ticket-holders to attend a so-so light show with no adjustment for weather. No extra warming stations or temporary shelters were provided along the mile-long walkway. Visitors saw what they could and some, like us, turned back due to bitter cold. I will not give the Botanic Gardens another dime. read more

First time here. Love the beautiful grounds and the gorgeous gardens. Was lucky enough to get to see the butterflies and blooms, which were very nice and beautiful butterflies. Nice place for nature walks, observing wildlife, and taking pictures. Even got a chance to see a rainbow from in the water spurt over the main pond/lake area. The tram tour was fun and informative. Would highly recommend this place. read more

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I've always enjoyed the Chicago Botanic Garden any time of the year as it's a beautiful scenic walking trail. You can easily catch up on your step count, have fun conversations, and learn a lot about the plants and area. If you are hoping to see it covered with flowers would recommend going later in the spring as if you go in April everything is emptied out. Even so, you can get some great pictures without the flowers. If you are an Illinois resident, would recommend to take advantage of one of the free days. You can still bike ride to the location, for car parking there's a fee. The must see areas in my opinion are the Japanese Garden (look for the fish) and the Rose Garden. I have taken one of the guided tram tours and they are very entertaining and fun to do at least once. Also beware that when walking in the further parts of the garden, you may notice that the Canadian geese staring you down on the trails... they are not afraid of humans - luckily they didn't attack (this time)! read more

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It had been a few years since I've been to the Chicago Botanic Garden. I forgot how peaceful and serene it is here. Once you get past the visitors center, the crowd thins out. There are MANY different trees, flowers, lakes, lagoons, birds and animals to see. The park is huge and there are many places to explore. To see everything that there is to see will take several visits. There is a tram that will take you on a tour of the garden so you can figure out which places you want to visit. You are allowed to bring water and baby needs into the park. Plan on coming early, as it gets busy later in the day. I plan on coming back to the Chicago Botanic Garden to take advantage of all that is here. read more

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Finally convinced the hubby and kids to take me here after asking them for almost 2 years! Messed around and got the Membership deal for my whole household because it just made more sense and I've never been more excited about a membership. The Chicago Botanic Garden is so peaceful and zen. I loved everything about our visit and I got to take great pictures. The Japanese Garden is a must see along with the Rose Garden. I got there around 3pm and the place was only open until 6 so we didn't get to go to all the areas, but I got a whole year to use my membership! Looking forward to the Night of 1000 Jackolanterns. As a member you get 20% off all the ticketed events. If you're a nature and plant lover I highly recommend!!! read more

This place is magical no matter what time of the year you go. There is something about these gardens that brings you peace and tranquility to your soul. We visited on Sunday night with tickets our neighbors Amy gave us to see the 1000 Jack o Lanter exhibits. OMG, the amazing artwork done on these huge punkins is amazing. I'm a huge plant lover, and my family calls me plant mama, but this is at another level of art. They are so beautifully done that you don't want to leave. Please, if you haven't visited this event, it's well worth the money and time. read more

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One of my favorite places in the Chicago area! It's the perfect place to walk and enjoy nature and all the beautiful flowers and lush gardens. Admission is free, but they do charge a hefty parking fee. I don't mind, though; because it's so worth it. They often host special events, and it's nice to come with family, friends, or out of town guests. They have nice eateries or you're welcome to pack a picnic. I've been here a few times for seminars in the conference/meeting area and those are always well done as well. They have a gift shop that has really nice things; great garden tools, plants, and a variety of gift items. All around a great place to spend a few hours or a whole day. read more

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This is a great place to go with the whole family! Fabulous attention to accessibility and education throughout this huge garden. My husband and I stopped off here on our way out of Chicago to up north and it proved to be an excellent place to stretch our legs and take in refreshing air! There's a beautiful model train area that features all of these model trains and "road side attractions" of the United States which was so much fun to look at. There weee art exhibits throughout the gardens and benches and even a library you could go and look up information. We could have spent days here! With your admission, you get a trolly ride around most of the garden -- you get to see islands and meadows and research labs and you can get off at certain points and walk back if you'd like or simply ride the trolley and enjoy the day. My husband and I had my Service Dog in Training (SDiT) with me and the trolley people were exceptionally professional and polite. If we lived closer, this would absolutely be someplace I'd have a membership to. Very professional, beautiful, exceptional place I could see bringing lunch or work or meditating in a little corner! read more

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I am obsessed with this place. I bought a membership in June even though I had never been before, and it was way overdue. Since then I've come here on average once every other week to walk around and take it all in. This is my happy place. And all the guests are so nice and everyone politely says "hello" to everyone else when they cross paths (at least during the members-only hours). I love coming here in the morning because it's less crowded and the sun isn't at a crazy high UV index yet. It's the best. I've also been here a few times for their 10am free concerts on Thursday, which is a cool perk, and I hope to go back for some of the evening concerts they do, too. Highly recommend. I want to live here. read more

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The Chicago Botanic Gardens is such a beautiful place! We had a wonderful time walking out among various plants and flowers. Lots of education happening here! We enjoyed the train garden and spoke to one of the men that volunteers here. He was like a little kid, you could tell he enjoyed teaching all that would listen at the model train garden. It was fun to see all the landmarks made out of natural materials. We took the tram ride with Keith. He was a great guide, providing lots of education in a fun and informative way. We decided to get out at the last stop before the end, at the butterfly exhibit. So glad we did! We really enjoyed learning all about the various stages of a butterfly's development and having them land on us (spoiler alert - it tickles!) They check to make sure you don't have any hitchhikers on you as you exit by going into a buffer zone. If I lived here, I would buy a membership for sure! So much peace and tranquillity and a beautiful setting. It would be fun to return for each season. read more

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Just beautiful. I highly recommend purchasing a membership so you can enjoy the various seasons over the course of the year. There are all sorts of events, market days and classes worth experiencing if you want an even more immersive time there. My personal favorite feature: the cafe. If weather permits, I recommend having a light meal at the cafe right next to the entrance. I believe they source locally to cook with the freshest ingredients around. Watch the birds flutter around beside a reflective water feature and enjoy all that nature has to offer! - AT read more

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Phenomenal! I visited for one of their "free admission" days, which also happened to be Columbus Day, so it was quite busy. I could see how going on a regular day would be even more enjoyable, with plenty of peaceful walking trails and sitting areas tucked away in the gardens. From the moment we walked in, I was delighted by the landscape and views, walking over the bridge with hanging flowers and overlooking the lagoon. Unfortunately, it was a bit of a chilly day, so we were looking forward to some respite in the greenhouses, but they were closed. However, there is a cafe and gift shop in the visitor center if you need to warm up. We also went over to the Regenstein Center and were able to see their bonsai tree exhibit in the courtyards, which was really cool. My other favorite part was the Japanese Garden. Even though it was October, and not what you'd consider peak bloom season, there was still a surprising amount of beauty to take in. I'm hoping to come back and visit again in the spring, and also around the holidays to see the Lightscape. I know both will be sensational just based on my first experience at the gardens! read more

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It was one of the prettiest Botanic Gardens I have seen. It is large and so we got on the little transfer vehicle that have us an overall view of the gardens. Then we went to a few of the different areas. That night there was a concert. My friend went but I had other plans. They also have morning concerts. I was just visiting g but would go back when I am back in the area. read more

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ORCHID SHOW- We have been tobthe garden a few times any always a good plant day. We went this time to the orchid show. They have advanced tickets so you get right in and not too crowded. It's on for several weeks. The theme was India, makes sence because most orchids grow there. There was 3 large rooms and 2 greenhouses worth. They had from the everyday one to the fancy ones. Took us about 2hrs to see everything. They had an adjacent violet sale next to. Overall good plant day lots to see, pretty amazing. We just joined and will be trying to go as much as we can read more

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It's been over 10 years since I first reviewed the gardens and a lot has changed since then and I'm overdue for an update so here we go! The gardens themselves are still the same beautiful, well cared for gardens from years past with frequently updated signage for the plants and so many nooks and corners of the garden to explore. Every time you visit (especially in the springtime) you'll see something different. Throughout the year they'll have special shows and events. June is a great time to see the roses. Another favorite is the Orchid show, which has ballooned over the years from simple displays of prized orchids to a magnificent exhibit of orchids in some areas from floor to ceiling that also extends from the showroom into some of their gardens. Now as for the nitty gritty, the pay structure has also changed significantly in the last few years. While the parking price has gone down ($8 per car, more for vans and bigger vehicles) they now charge individual admission price which varies ~ $13-17 depending on what day of the week you go. Similar to the Chicago museums though they do have several free days throughout the year (and maybe even each month?). You do still have to pay for parking. If you like plants it's definitely worth a visit. read more

Chicago Botanic Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Glencoe, Illinois

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The Chicago Botanic Garden has to be by far the most beautiful, well designed, and colorful garden I have ever been to. From the moment you drive up to enter to park you can see an arrange of well landscaped colorful flowers and trees of all varieties. This place will definitely leave you with an appreciation for nature and have you in awe! At only $24.95 per person, if you live outside the cook county, lies a garden you can literally spend an entire day walking around and appreciating the beauty each section holds, as well as, grabbing a bite to eat at their cafe. I loved the fact that this garden holds a garden area with its own apple orchard and mini grape vineyard and you can see all the produce they grow during summer. My favorite area had to be a tie between the walk around dock with Lilly pads and giant Willow trees in the distance and their area with miniature landmarks that had miniature trains running throughout. Just a note if you are visiting, the actual Garden is located about a 25 minutes drive from the actual city but so worth the drive! read more

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Beautiful gardens, walking paths and garden beauty. As a member free parking, entry and the ability to enjoy this nature preserve. The volunteers and staff do a wonderful job of transforming the seasons during the year. read more

So much to explore and enjoy at these gardens. Normal admission is $23.95 plus $10 parking. It was worth the money to me. read more

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Nice looking and very calming. The lake is green slime. Flowers are beautiful. Staff well versed. However; the price of admission is steep. This is run and owned by cook county. To charge a non-resident of cook county only 10% less is insane. My cook county taxes paid for this and for someone from lake county to pay $2 more for admission is absolutely wrong. A cook county resident should pay next to nothing and a lake county resident a lot. $20 for admission is ridiculous. If you still go make sure you have eaten elsewhere. I just paid over $19 for a chicken wrap sandwich. Insanity. A can of beer that I refused to buy was $12. Some other canned vodka drink was $14. Totally not worth it. read more

Love the Botanic! Really big place to walk and see the beautiful nature! Love the flowers read more

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Very nice outdoor gardens, good for a day with friends or family. Nice seasonal things to do.

Wonderful Gardens... A must see and do at least once. Plan for at least three hours here... and more : ) Nature Bathe. It's been a minute since we've been here... so much beauty. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly... Thank You. The earth laughs in flowers... Ralph Waldo Emerson read more

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Exceeded expectations and a great place to visit. Multiple paths and places to walk outside of enjoying the gardens. There is a cafe there and gift shop. read more

12/26/22 - The Last Night of the Lightscape show @ Botanic Gardens in Glencoe. My sister invited me to come up and see the Lightscape. Her daughter is visiting from AZ along w/her 2 sons, friend Tom & yours truly. At first glance I wasn't overly impressed, but as we walked the garden in 14 degree weather there were a number of really cool light displays, some as simple as bright colored lights, to flashing array of different color lights, then synchronized lights flashing & timed to music. It was a great way to spend time w/my niece, nephews & sister (family time) enjoying the great outdoors. It was a bit. Joy but we were bundled up pretty good w/layers so we could enjoy the time outside. It seems silly but 14 degrees felt a bit balmy after the -8 degree temps on 12/23. read more

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Let me preface this with the fact that I am not a member and this was my first visit. We had driven by this fall and saw the signs for the Lightscape and decided to purchase tickets. Tickets and parking were not cheap. We purchased both on line so it was easy entry and parking for us. It was a chilly night so we were dressed for the weather. Very important to check the weather report before you go as you will be outside walking about a mile. The walk was pleasant - there are some walkways that aren't paved so those that we passed with canes had a long walk ahead of them. We also saw families pulling wagons with their kids in them. The lights and music were very pretty. We did notice some of the lights on one path looked like they were knocked over. There were lots of employees around but none to fix the tobbled over lights. I have been to Disney many times (and I hate to compare) but for the price to see Lightscape, I expected more. It can be a fun event for a family or group to stop at the concession stands along the way and enjoy the lights & music without making the trip to Disney World. read more

My mom my husband and I are visiting from Penna. We all had a great time on a docent led tour! Diane was super enthusiastic and excited to extend our tour, Patterned after Nature. She was knowledgeable and outgoing. Returned a few days later. A couple of glitches. The booth attendant called me "buddy." I was like buddy?! She corrected herself so no big deal. Then waited in line at the information desk while service to be a little uneven. read more

We love visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden to walk and enjoy the day surrounded by nature. Every visit feels refreshing, with gorgeous gardens, peaceful trails, and scenery that changes beautifully with the seasons. It's the perfect place to slow down, take in the views, and recharge. read more

A huge park well maintained. It pays to be a member. Staff are really friendly and helpful. Great exhibits. read more

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CBG hosting a evening holiday lightshow called "Lightscape" where we purchased tickets online ($35) which included parking (well worth the price). Long lines are expected to this event which the day we went was a little above freezing. There are signs everywhere to illustrate the dazzling landscapes around the park. The entire event was around 2 hours to walk-thru. There are 2 areas from start to end where you are able to use the portable potties (expect long lines to use it). I would highly recommend ordering the tickets online and dress warm. These showings have varies times so parking spots are in rotations. read more

Chicago botanic garden is such a gem! I love that they offer so many free days so we can make it a point to visit often. The train exhibit was a toddler's dream come true; my son would make us go through it 500 times before he had enough! It's closed for the season now, but there's always something special popping up like the jack-o-lanterns and Christmas lights! I will say, it's not always the most stroller friendly, so that's definitely something parents have to note. They do have great picnic areas though, and even some seated outdoor areas as well for munching! Overall, totally worth it for a family visit on a free day. Parking is cheap, and you can truly make an entire day out of it for kiddos of all ages! read more

Chicago Botanic Garden - Botanical Gardens Near Me - Glencoe, Illinois