The Regenstein Learning Campus opened on September 10, 2016. The seven-acre campus is designed to serve learners of all ages, and facilitate connections between people and the environment. The centerpiece of the Learning Campus is the new Learning Center, a 26,700 square-foot building that features 12 indoor and two outdoor classrooms, a nature laboratory, early childhood classrooms, the ITW kitchen and spaces for wellness classes. The Nature Play Garden, with its rolling hills and series of multisensory gardens, provides areas for hiding, exploring, learning and gathering.
The Regenstein Learning Campus will be home to the Joseph Regenstein, Jr. School of the Chicago Botanic Garden, which offers a year-round continuum of nature-based learning through more than 1,500 classes, programs and events.
Press Release
The Regenstein Learning Campus Opening Celebration will be held on September 10 and 11, with activities taking place from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. each day. Visitors can sample some of the classes that will be held on the seven-acre campus, which is designed to serve learners of all ages who are inspired by the natural world.
Deeply Rooted
Chicago Botanic Garden scientists, educators and horticulturists credit their personal growth and professional development to early doses of “Vitamin G” (a term that describes the benefits of exposure to green environments). Their words and childhood pictures best capture the joyful impact of nature on their lives.
Learning in the Natural World
Getting outside and playing in nature are more than just down-to-earth fun. A growing body of research shows that nature play encourages creativity and problem solving, boosts academic performance, helps people focus, reduces stress and promotes positive social relationships.
Education Programs
A continuum of nature-based educational programs serving infants through retirees is offered year-round at the Chicago Botanic Garden. With curricula ranging from free, informal drop-in activities to professional certificate programs, the Garden meets the needs of learners of all ages, abilities, interests, and income levels.