Building the Future

It was worth the wait! We've been busy making improvements for our one million-plus annual visitors, and it's time to welcome you through our new "front door" at the Chicago Botanic Garden. 

Welcome Plaza

With your safety in mind, we opened the traffic-free Welcome Plaza in front of the Visitor Center this spring. It's a visitor-friendly place for you to meet up with family and friends and use the staffed ticketing kiosks. You can also stop by guest services if you need help with anything, and use the new accessible restrooms.

Picnic Glade

This summer we'll be unveiling the Stone Family Picnic Glade, featuring both covered and open spots. Imagine summer evening picnics or fall lunches in this beautiful lakeside setting, overlooking the Malott Japanese Garden.

Health and Safety

Behind the scenes, we’re making water system improvements that will reduce the risk of any disruptions in service. And our new electric trams are quieter, smoother, and more energy efficient. Please note that tram tours now leave from the Welcome Plaza.

Thank you for your support and for your patience through the construction. We're thrilled to be giving our visitors a refreshed experience.

 

Funding for water main improvements is supported in part by the: PUBLIC MUSEUM CAPITAL GRANTS PROGRAM: ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE ILLINOIS STATE MUSEUM.