On Your Own
Field Trips

 
 
 

Weekdays, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 
Available year-round for students and youth groups of all ages

On Your Own Field Trips allow you and your students to explore the Chicago Botanic Garden at your own pace. Discover nature, science, literature, history, geography, art, and more as you explore the different gardens.

FEE: $0 PER BUS (1 TICKET = 1 BUS) Includes parking and admission 

  • Make sure that all teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers have a copy of the entry ticket to ensure free admission.
  • Upon entry, the gatehouse attendant will direct you to your drop-off and pick-up location. 
  • Meet at the Welcome Center. 
  • Access the public picnic area for lunch.

Special Exhibitions

Small, chaperoned groups may visit the Model Railroad Garden (early May through October) and Butterflies & Blooms (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend) free of charge. Please note: Entry is first-come, first-served and based on availability. Only small, chaperoned groups will be admitted at a time and entry ticket must be shown at the ticket booth to receive the discount. On busy days, expect there to be a wait. Exhibitions are open daily, weather permitting.

If you have any questions, please email or call the Registrar's Office at (847) 835-6801.

Visiting the Garden

Gardens especially well-suited for self-guided exploration are highlighted below along with the approximate walking distance to each garden, starting from the Visitor Center.

Native Habitats
McDonald Woods: 0.25 miles or less than 0.1 mile from Parking Lot 3
Dixon Prairie: 1 mile

Formal Gardens
Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden: 0.3 miles
Sensory Garden: 0.25 miles
Buehler Enabling Garden: 0.25 miles
Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden: 0.2 miles

Plant Conservation Science Center
Green roof and indoor interpretation: 0.5 miles
 

On Your Own Field Trips

Come prepared for your learning experience in the Garden. Download these quick field trip activity ideas. Explore the Garden online before your visit. Get our free smartphone app to help you plan.