Morton Arboretum

By Christine Escobar

Morton Arboretum located in the west suburb of Lisle, includes 1,700 acres of more than 4,000 kinds of trees, shrubs, and other plants from around the world. It was founded in 1922 and includes several walking trails, gardens and lakes. One of the newest areas at Morton Arboretum, and a destination in itself, is the Children's Garden.

 

A Special Garden Preschoolers Can Explore

The Children's Garden is a brilliant blend of nature exploration and children's playground for children of all ages. The Children's Garden includes two main areas: Backyard Discovery Gardens and Adventure Woods. Within these are ten themed gardens. In the Children's Garden, preschoolers can climb, slide, splash, learn about different plants and trees, and have lots of fun with nature as the backdrop. Colorful details and whimsical touches such as tiny houses, benches and a windmill add to the fanciful feel. Free drop-in programs for kids are held on weekdays and weekends year round.

What Parents Should Know About Morton Arboretum

Although the entire 4-acre Children's Garden includes paved trails, some trails at the arboretum are not  stroller friendly. For dining, the Gingko Restaurant is located in the Visitor's Center at the entrance. Here you'll find sandwiches, hot entrees and salads, as well as a Children's Menu.

The adjacent Gingko Cafe is another option for a quick dessert, snack or drink. There is plenty of seating in the dining room which is surrounded by glass windows overlooking the grounds. There is also additional seating outdoor on the terrace. Booster seats and high chairs are available in the dining room.

Well maintained restrooms are located in the Visitor Center and include changing tables. Restrooms are also located outdoor near the Children's Garden in Central Plaza. The picnic area is open to visitors unless reserved for a special program or event. On hot days, be sure to drink plenty of water, as much of the Children's Garden is not beneath shade, with the exception of parts of the Adventure Woods. Children's birthday party options are available thoroughout the year.

Parents should also remind preschoolers to climb on play structures only and not on living trees. Children are not allowed to pick leaves, flowers, fruits, or other plant parts. 

Details 

Hours
The Arboretum is open 365 days a year.
The grounds open at 7 a.m. year-round and close at 7 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier.

Visitor Center hours
8 a.m.–5 p.m. November through February 8 a.m.–6 p.m. March through October.
The West Pavilion of the Visitor Center opens at 7 a.m. each day for restroom access and is open whenever the grounds are open.

Children's Garden
9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. November through February 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. March through October. Extended hours on Thursday evenings until 6:30 p.m., May-August.

Admission
$9 Adults (18–64) ($6 Wednesdays) $8 Seniors (65+) ($5 Wednesdays) $6 Youth (3–17) ($4 Wednesdays) Free under age 3 

Map and Directions