Chicago's Lincoln Park Conservatory

This beautiful conservatory is truly a wonderful place to visit. Located in the beautiful Lincoln Park area of Chicago, this conservatory is a must see anytime you want to visit Chicago.

One of the best things about the conservatory is, unlike many of the attractions in Chicago, it is free to enjoy. You can find parking either right next to the conservatory, which is paid parking, or on Cannon Drive, which is free and kitty-corner to the conservatory. You can also park in the adjacent parking area for Lincoln Park Zoo, which is about $10-12.

The conservatory is immediately adjacent to the Zoo. There is an entrance to the Zoo right next to the main building of the conservatory, so you can take in both attractions free.

The downside to this attraction is that all of the greenhouses are very hot and humid. Aside from that however, it is a very peaceful place. Those that enter find themselves stunned speechless and can only speak of the beauty of this place. As you walk among the various greenhouses, you will see Ferns, Orchids, Roses, and a variety of other flowers and plants.

The conservatory has 4 display houses. Each is aptly named: the Palm House, Fern Room, Orchid House, and Show House. All of them provide a haven from the harsh realities of the world and have for more than a century. What I found fascinating when I did some research was that the conservatory was built in the 1890s. A Victorian era architect named Joseph Silsbee designed the conservatory. Common hobbies of this era were the study and classification of plants, animals, and insects. People were concerned about the effects of increasing industrialization. Conservatories were providing a "tropical paradise," if you will, within the city. Sounds familiar, doesn't it?

As I wandered thru them, I found a very real sense of peace. I truly enjoyed my time at this extraordinary conservatory. The best part of my visit was the fact that I was also able to take away many photographs of the flowers. Some of them truly stunned me, even after the trip was over.

Therefore, I would whole-heartedly advise anyone visiting Chicago to take in this beautiful, and much loved landmark. You won't be disappointed if you choose to spend a morning or afternoon at this "tropical paradise" within the beautiful and diverse city of Chicago.