Garfield Park Conservatory552

Garfield Park Conservatory is a fabulous place to learn about plants. From a replica of Monet's Garden to Horticulture Hall, the whole family can find special creations that teach about a wide variety of plants - not all of which are native to Illinois!

Be sure to visit the conservatory's Elizabeth Morse Genius Children's Garden, open every day of the year. A one-of-a-kind experience, everything in this garden is hands-on and interactive. Climb on a flower vine, look inside a seven-foot seed, learn about photosynthesis.

Up on the mezzanine, kids can help pollinate the largest flower in the room before taking a ride down the twirling stem of a green slide. Also, young toddlers and babies are invited to explore the colors and textures of soft-form blocks and play rings in the special permanent Crawling Area, and then they can ride down their own miniature green slide.

The Conservatory also offers classes and workshops each season, from family workshops on gardening to fairs and festivals celebrating plant life.

Birthday parties can be held at the Conservatory as well, although the experience is not staffed. Rooms are available for rental, and children are welcome to participate in activities in the Children's Garden (a donation of $1/child for activities is requested). Call 312.746.5250 or email joan.colon@chicagoparkdistrict.com for more information.