On The Garden Path

Image Gallery SERENITY ABOUNDS: The garden paths at Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Ill., offer visitors a peaceful walk along winding paths surrounded by beautiful, fragrant trees and flowers. Courtesy of Chicago Botanical Garden

The Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Ill., is one of the most visited public gardens in the United States. It features world-renowned plant collections and displays on 385 acres, which are situated on nine islands surrounded by 81 acres of lakes.

The garden features more than 20 display gardens, including the Gardens of the Great Basin, the Bruce Krasberg Rose Garden, Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden, and English Walled and Japanese gardens. In addition, the garden also includes three native habitat areas, and the Buehler Enabling Garden features tools and techniques to help people of all ages garden for a lifetime.

Visitors will also enjoy a variety of restaurants and boutiques on the grounds, as well as tram and guided tours, educational programs and exhibits.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a leader in horticultural research, conservation and education. Research programs focus on collecting, evaluating, introducing and preserving plants native to the Midwest climate.

The garden is also committed to conserving rare Midwest plant species and is working with regional, national and international organizations on behalf of plant conservation. The garden also offers more than 450 educational classes for adults.

The garden has established and assisted in various programs throughout the county, including community gardens, school gardens and public library programs. A horticultural therapy program, recognized internationally, offers training and services to people with mental and physical disabilities at schools, hospitals and mental health facilities throughout the region, as well as at the garden's Buehler Enabling Garden.