FGR’s Guide to Parks & Greenhouses

Whether you’re someone who likes to read a book on a park bench or a connoisseur of succulents in your apartment, everyone enjoys time amongst the plants. You may live in a city, but now you have an excuse to stop watching Netflix– there’s plenty of greenery for you to Instagram.

Garfield Park Conservatory
If the Windy City is boasting actual wind, a bit of a chill, or intense rain, this is a wonderful spot to feel among nature without braving the midwest weather. Wander around long enough and you’ll likely forget you’re in Chicago. 300 N. Central Park Ave.

Lincoln Park Conservatory
You’ll find flowers from all over the world in this architecturally amazing building. If you have any relatives visiting from out of town during any season, take them here before you subject yourself to another Skydeck “glass box” experience. 2391 N. Stockton Dr. 

Palmisano Park
Bridgeport’s small hideaway is jaw-dropping. A prairie, fishing pond, and a running track (not to mention awesome views of the skyline) are available for anyone who decides to drop by. 2700 S Halsted St.

Lurie Garden
If you’re not a huge fan of taking warped photos of yourself and friends in The Bean (or Cloud Gate if you’re not from here) find the hideaway of Lurie Garden at Millennium Park. No matter how loud The Loop is, it’ll be pleasantly quiet amongst the flora here.

Milton L. Olive III Park
From here you’ll see gorgeous, unique views of the city and seemingly endless Lake Michigan. Ride a bike, take a leisurely walk, or find a tree to nap and read under, then head over to Navy Pier to get even more scenic views. 500 N Lake Shore Dr.

Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
Easily one of the most relaxing locations in the city, this area is so well hidden most people aren’t aware it’s there. Turn on some de-stressing tunes or an informative podcast and you can lose a whole afternoon in this glorious area. 125 W Fullerton Pkwy

Promontory Point
Come here for the fresh air, stay here for the views. This Hyde Park peninsula is a frequent spot for weddings and engagement photos. Designed by Alfred Caldwell (of the above Lily Pool), this is a lovely spot to feel like you’re getting away, but not too far. 5491 S Shore Dr.

Burnham Park
Promontory Point is located inside 600-acre Burnham Park, located on the Lakefront, south of Grant Park. Named for Chicago’s famous architect and planner Daniel H. Burnham, this park features a popular skate park at 31st Street, bird sanctuaries, and beautiful natural areas. 1200-5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.

Humboldt Park Formal Garden
You’re probably quite familiar with multiple areas of Humboldt Park, but off Sacramento and Luis Munoz Marin Dr. is the formal garden, completed in 1908 and designed by Jens Jensen (and recently restored), where you can feel like you’ve just wandered into a Pride and Prejudice reboot. This is a breathtaking spot to drink your coffee on the weekend.

Ping Tom Park
One of many great locations in Chinatown, this park not only boasts more beautiful greenery, but has architecture to rival all other parks in Chicago. You’ll be wishing you visited sooner after you spent the day here. 1700 S Wentworth Ave

North Park Village Nature Center
Though you’ll likely be traveling a distance to visit, you won’t be disappointed. The wildlife alone will occupy your eyes, and the almost endless trails will give you quite the workout. Drop by the education center to learn a bit more about the 46-acre nature preserve. 5801 N Pulaski Rd

Northerly Island
Trails, fishing, and sightseeing, oh my! Grab your coffee and breakfast to-go and arrive early on a Sunday morning before the many people who frequent this park arrive. Seeing the sky change colors at sunrise with this epic sight of a skyline will wake you right up. 1521 S. Linn White Dr.