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    Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

    4.5 (37 reviews)

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    Sanctuary
    Steve A.

    For those going to this area just north of Lincoln Park, there's more than just a beach. It has a place that's for the birds, literally. Montrose Point offers many opportunities to see our feathered friends, whether flying around, or taking a break from all that. Even the natural beauty is a good reason to come. This is a good reason to come when the weather gets colder and there's no more swimming. As many people come here just for the beach, this part of it doesn't get enough attention. It's a pretty large bird sanctuary. There's been said to be over 300 bird species, though not likely at the same time. A particularly good place is a collection of a few low lying bushes. This is called "The Magic Hedge." It seems many rare birds have shown up here, so birders like this location especially. There's other areas of this to check out. Go to the dunes to find some more migrant birds. The pier is good for finding waterfowl. Migrating is hard. The birds can be tired, so be careful approaching them. Constant flushing can cause stress or death. In summer it's not as happening because that's not when migration is. This gives you a reason to come back later. Best to go here when birds are migrating, which is in the spring and in autumn. It's either where they're going or it's a stopover. The sanctuary is located on Montrose Harbor Drive to the east of the beach where there's a few paths and walkways.

    Redwing blackbird
    Michelle F.

    I'm so glad they did something creative and sustainable with this area along the waterfront. The bird sanctuary has so many beautiful flowering plants for birds, butterflies and bees alike to forage and thrive. There is a little path that goes through the sanctuary and doesn't disturb the plants or habitat. I was able to catch sight of many species along with a brown furry caterpillar too! If you walk a little farther along the waterfront there is also the Montrose dunes.

    Cody S.

    Was confused why would be any bad reviews, they said because they put in concrete paths, but honestly I like it so people with strollers can enjoy it too. This place is so beautiful, makes you forget you are in the city, it's quiet and the birds singing take over the sound. Also close to the lake so you can continue your walk along the lake front! Love this place

    Joe C.

    A nice little escape but not to far from everything. It does feel substantially more isolated. It's quiet because the golf course gives ample buffer from the highway. I honestly can't name all the birds but there are a wide range. Song birds, plovers, pelicans, ducks, geese, crows, etc. There's colonies of bird in sand dunes, sea faring bird more towards the beacon and waterfront promenade. Inside the sanctuary there's more song birds in the shade but you'll often see woodland animals such as woodchucks, bunnies, and squirrels. It has pretty good forest coverage for those hot summer days. But right about now it seems pretty good for birding.

    One of the entry points into Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
    Phil S.

    12/17/20 - Even though I've lived in Chicago my entire live (except 4 years) it's really amazing how much of Chicago I was completely unaware of. Thanks in part to Sarah S (Yelp Elite). I found out about this Bird Sanctuary that is located in the area within Montrose Harbor. As Covid continues I have taken the time to explore Chicago and by walking almost 14,000 miles as of this date 12/17/20 since 06/04 I have found so many cool places that I would have never seen by being in a car whizzing by. Unfortunately for me this time of year really didn't yield much at the bird sanctuary as all the trees are barren of foliage and the grasses and bushes are all brown and dormant. I did see one bright red male cardinal but not much else, still walking through this area I could see the low hanging canopies on bushes and trees when in full bloom covered w/leaves and grasses would yield a perfect place for birds to nest and find shelter. As you walk out towards the lake there is a lot of natural grass lands where birds would nest during the warmer months. Along the grass line and beach there are also mud walls where birds make their nests. I plan on coming back in the spring or summer as I'm sure there will be many more birds then this time of year. It was an interesting day of discovery. I saw photos by Howard L another Yelp Elite w/the lush green areas full of life.

    Lisa S.

    Birds, chipmunks, bunnies, etc. and so much nature right in the heart of the city! It doesn't get much better than that. Plus it's located close to the Dock at the Montrose beach which has drinks and food at decent prices.

    John B.

    This spit of land holds several trails amongst a variety of trees, and I had no trouble hearing and seeing the birds one comes for. A concrete waterfront surrounds the peninsula, offering little opportunity to interact with water (arguably for the better, given the cold and the wind), but an excellent view of the city skyline. It's hardly the largest or most impressive piece of nature, but the fact that this space is carved out for birds is definitely worthwhile, and the birds seem to appreciate it.

    Beautiful views from the Montrose Bird Sanctuary
    Sarah S.

    I had been meaning to check out Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary for ages. When I finally got out there, I liked it so much, I went two mornings in a row! It's just beautiful, a nice respite from the hustle & bustle of the city with wood-chipped paths and lovely views of the Chicago skyline & lake. I was a bit worried I wouldn't be able to find it, but you just head towards Montrose Harbor and you'll see the bird people & signs along the bend. Now I'm no hardcore bird enthusiast but I love animals of all shapes, sizes and types. I'm a crazy chick that takes spiders outside instead of smooshing them. A sanctuary for birds seemed like a fun place to walk around and get my nature on while checking out some fun flying feathered friends. There are a ton of very well versed bird watchers at Montrose Bird Sanctuary. I'm talking wearing bird watching safari style gear, binoculars hanging around the neck, professional cameras, discussing bird shop. Don't let that intimidate you though as everyone I briefly chatted with was kind and humored my bird ignorance teaching me things here and there. One guy explained how birds love blond hair so I needed to remove my sunglasses from my head because they would be long gone. Thanks guy! Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is a spot birdwatchers from near & far gather to see the over 340 species of birds that have been spotted here. That's a heck~of~a~lot~! I heard people mentioning coming from out of state to view the wildlife, so really as Chicagoans we're lucky to have this spot in our backyard. You'll find most visitors are here during peak migration times as that is mostly what the sanctuary is known for - a migration stopping point. The center of the bird sanctuary is called "The Magic Hedge" known for it's magical properties luring in the most rare of the rare. You'll always find the most bird people on the Magic Hedge. There's also a pretty stellar dune habitat with interesting inhabitants and on the pier that sticks out (Montrose Harbor), you can not only find a bunch of fishermen but waterfowl. The area has been recognized by the city of Chicago since 2001 with improvements to the area constantly being made. Honestly, I think they need people on a more regimented trash duty because I was sad to see more than there should be at a natural habitat. All that said, this sure is a tranquil place to spend a morning. You can walk along Montrose Harbor, the beach or spend time in the wooded area of the bird sanctuary. Word on my street is to get there really early - like right at sunrise - if you want to catch the good bird action. Be sure to stay on the trails, don't litter and respect the nature.

    Trail at entrance to the sanctuary
    Howard L.

    Yikes, except for 4 year job-related stay in Houston, I've been a lifelong resident of Chicago for 63 years. Yet, it took a friend, actually a friend of my daughter's, to alert me to this Chicago hidden gem: https://news.wttw.com/2018/04/11/chicago-bird-sanctuary-best-place-state-see-spring-migration There's no doubt it's a gem, at least for bird watchers and nature lovers, but whether it's hidden or not depends on how much you know about Chicago. Apparently, I don't know that much in this regards! She knew I was an amateur bird watcher of sorts and might be interested, and she was dead right. This is a nice, peaceful, and relatively obscure enclave, right at the Montrose Street exit of LSD, and as you loop over onto West Montrose Harbor Drive, you will find tons of free street parking, and the sanctuary bordering the lake. I've never been back here, and I may also check this spot out for watching the annual Chicago Air Show. There are (or can be) lots of birds, peaceful paths through the sanctuary as well as along the lake, and it's also a most pleasant venue for getting your fitness steps in. To boot, you can also treat yourself to a great view of our beautiful skyline. You definitely get a nice retreat from the hustle and bustle of Chicago, but you also know you're not anywhere else either. We did not go at morning or evening bird-watching prime time (it was about 2pm), but had ourselves a most pleasant outing for a stroll. The most exotic birds we saw today were red-winged blackbirds, crows, and small white sea gulls of some sort. Will be back for sure!

    Jim L.

    Cute little place off of the Chicago Lakewalk near Montrose Beach. It is a small nature area with many trail dissecting the area. There are many birds and the lake is beautiful. We came here because we were in town for work and Covid was high, we were looking for something not so popular, we chose this place. It wasn't too crowded and many people even wore their mask outdoors. We are glad we stopped.

    Jane V.

    A bird lover and nature lovers Paradise. Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary can be found by following Montrose Avenue east until crossing Lake Shore Drive and into Lincoln Park.  From there, take a right at Montrose Harbor Drive, the street next to the gray-painted bait shop.  Follow the curve and Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary will be on your left. If you drive, park on the street. Visit the magic hedge, on the west side of the sanctuary, but stay on the trails as much as possible in order to not disturb the nesting and resting Birds. Make sure you take the path in One Direction and return in the opposite direction in order to navigate the whole area. Don't forget to walk down to the pier where you will see rare ducks, loons, and possibly peregrine falcons.

    I think this is a natural spring
    Kyle H.

    What a great hidden spot for birds, trees, and nature! Started by a group of residents in 2001, a decade really does a lot for building a nature preserve, with many different kinds of birds, and did I spot a natural spring? Of course, there was garbage, too. Is there still a committed effort (ie. City of Chicago budget item) to keeping this place clean from garbage (and also clean of humans doing private acts in public, from what I've read here)? I would love to see more trees planted, such as oak, willow, and other oak savannah natives! There certainly is room! But winding paths among trees, prairie grasses, all the way to the sandy Montrose Point is the perfect summer activity. Add to it, some picnicking, with stellar views of the City, and your soul will be renewed.

    Fall foliage
    Amy Z.

    A beautiful escape to nature without leaving the city, but still with a view of the city skyline! I love running through the winding paths here. Just make sure to heed the "No pets allowed" signs - they're hidden behind the overgrown bushes at most entrances, and we got yelled at by some aggressive bird watchers for walking our (very well-behaved) dog through once. Oops.

    Skyline view just outside of the bird sanctuary

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    Amazing little discovery off busy Montrose Beach. Easy to get lost in the beauty!

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    Ask the Community - Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

    Hello! I'll be visiting Chicago for Christmas and staying within a mile of this. Is there any indoor shelter/viewing area, or is it just trails? I have a three year old & would like to bring her along but am not sure how long she can stand the cold.

    Just trails. No indoor shelters to view.

    Are there any organized bird watching walks available to the public?

    You may want to check with the local Sierra Club or Audubon Society. The Chicago Park District does not offer such services.

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    Review Highlights - Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

    The Magic Hedge is the expanse of wild nature, emphasis wild nature, in an otherwise rolling sea of concrete industry.

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    Palmisano Park

    Palmisano Park

    4.7
    (47 reviews)
    8.3 mi

    Underrated and beautiful. It's got a fantastic view of the city skyline and there's a whole…read moreindustrial vibe going on but I don't mind it. It's serene and if it wasn't so warm I'd go to it more often. It's good for a long walk but there's no trees along that walk so I'll be frequenting more in the fall va the summer.

    Check out this incredible transformation of a quarry into a park in Bridgeport. In between it was a…read morelandfill. Palmisano Park has went through a lot of changes to be sure. A lot of nature of course. There's trails and an interpretive wetlands among the many things to come across while going through. Best to know about the transformation before going. It used to be the Stearns Quarry. The city purchased it in 2008, cleaned it up, and opened it the next year. Has lots of nature to see and more to do. There's more than a mile of paths, including recycled timber boardwalks, and walkways. At first this was the site of a coral reef if you can believe it. Limestone was formed, and there's been fossils discovered here that are now in the Field Museum. In the 1830s it became a quarry, and operated until 1970 when it became a landfill. There's a fishing pond that still has the old quarry walls. After opening this park there was cause for celebration. The community before this had a lack of green space. Have to go here if you like parks that have been restored from abandoned areas. It's quite impressive. There's all kinds of plants and wildlife.

    Photos
    Palmisano Park .BridgePort (Halsted St/Archer Ave) Cool Place for Relax/Meditation/Walk/Jogging/Exercise/fishing! Middle of the City! Nice!
    Palmisano Park .BridgePort (Halsted St/Archer Ave) Cool Place for Relax/Meditation/Walk/Jogging/Exercise/fishing! Middle of the City! Nice!
    Palmisano Park
    Palmisano Park

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    North Park Village Nature Center

    North Park Village Nature Center

    4.6
    (70 reviews)
    5.0 mi

    Come here to learn about nature and natural areas. It certainly is a good place for children…read morewanting to know more. North Park Village Nature Center has a long and interesting history through the years. A lot of after school programs. There's also day camps in summer among other things. A kind of hidden place surrounded by the North Park Village campus. It's over 58 acres of natural area and educational facility. There's trails going through prairies, savannas, wetlands, and woodlands. Before this was a nature center, this used to be a sanitarium for tuberculosis patients to get care and live. The city chose this site in 1909, and it operated until the 1970s when tuberculosis was eradicated mostly. It was saved from being demolished for commercial property, and this park was created. Learn more in the Discovery Room, which is located in the middle of it. There's also plenty to explore outside, with the trails and woodlands of the Walking Stick Woods. Has programs for children, families, and adults. The Eco-Explorers summer day camp has nature themed activities and games. Bigger area than it seems to be. It's located at Peterson and Pulaski. This is a good place for exploring nature whether adults, children, or whoever wants to know about this kind of stuff.

    I visited here again yesterday with the Chicago Nature Journaling Club. I hadn't explored too much…read morewhen I was last here but did so a bit more to find a place to journal. I didn't realize that they had so many different habitats here, but there are woodlands, prairie, savannah, and wetlands. There's an area in which there's a man-made waterfall and stream which is quite nice and peaceful. I really like it here, and I'm lucky it's pretty nearby. I didn't know until I was here yesterday that this nature center was once a part of the Chicago Tuberculosis Sanitarium. for nearly 60 years. It's quite different now, obviously, and I'm glad they found a way to put this land to good use for the benefit of the community.

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    North Park Village Nature Center
    North Park Village Nature Center
    TIL the creepy shriek squirrels make when I tried to figure out what terrifying creature made the sound.

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    TIL the creepy shriek squirrels make when I tried to figure out what terrifying creature made the sound.

    Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary - hiking - Updated June 2026

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