Garfield Park Conservatory
Chicago, IL 60624
Phone: (312) 746-5100
- Cross Street:
- Fulton Boulevard
- Directions:
- El: Green Line to Conservatory-Central Park
- Best of Citysearch:
- Free Attraction 2008
- Hours:
- Daily 9am-5pm
Editorial Review for Garfield Park Conservatory – by Colin Murphy
Overview
Covering four-and-a-half acres at the north end of Garfield Park, the conservatory houses one of the world's largest indoor gardens. In 1906, architect Jens Jensen broke from 19th-century tradition by designing organic settings for the collections rather than displaying them in pots. Extensive renovations, expanded public programming and high-profile exhibitions have recently brought this West Side oasis renewed public attention.
The Experience
The palm house dominates the exterior, and its soaring tropical species are the first to greet visitors. Eight interconnected greenhouses are divided by climate, from the abundant life of the moist fern room to the odd alien forms springing from the desert house gravel. In the children's garden, a variety of informative displays and activities engage youngsters before they jump into one of two play areas. Adjoining classrooms host horticultural workshops and clinics throughout the year.
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Insider Tips
ParkingIf the free lot connected to the conservatory is full, there's plenty of free parking in Garfield Park proper, just across Lake Street to the south.
The ExtrasThe conservatory rotates flower displays with the seasons, and features a springtime plant and seed sale and an autumn harvest fair.
Know Before You GoThe eastern approach to the conservatory, along West Fulton Avenue, gives an impressive view of the Palm House dome against the sky. However, the beautiful but decayed neighborhoods surrounding Garfield Park can be rough.
User Reviews for Garfield Park Conservatory
08/23/2005 Posted by catbyn
this particular conservatory is hard to find and not in a great location. It is gorgeous, however, and with a little caution is worth the trip. There is another conservatory, in Lincoln Park, which is just as nice, also free, easier to find and has other fun things nearby (zoo, park, nature museum). I would recommend it over Garfield Park.
Pros: Free, Beautiful
Cons: Bad neighborhood, hard to find
08/24/2002 Posted by liquorgirl
I was blown away. I have never seen such beauty. I must of taken 80 pictures from every angle. it is a real must see.
Schedule
| 05/17/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/18/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/19/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/20/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/21/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/22/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/23/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/24/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/25/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
| 05/26/2008 | Brand New Exhibit Sugar From the Sun | |
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