Garfield Park Conservatory

NileGuide Expert tip:

This beautiful conservatory is easily accessible from the Green Line El. Make sure to go on a day that is pleasant (or cooler if possible), because it's warm inside.

Description:

• The Garfield Park Conservatory is often referred to as "landscape art under glass" and is one of Chicago's best kept secrets. Off the beaten path, it is located on the West Side and is easily accessible by the CTA Green Line. In the late 19th century, each of the three large parks on Chicago's West Side (Garfield, Humboldt, and Douglas parks) had their own conservatories and greenhouses, but over 20 years they were not kept well, became obsolete, and were demolished. For their replacement, the Parks Commission decided in 1905 to build "the largest publicly owned conservatory under one roof in the world" at Garfield Park. The Conservatory now houses several natural landscapes; impressive among them are the Palm Room and the Fern Room.
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