Best Places To See Spring Flowers In Chicago

Renowned artist Henri Matisse once said, "There are always flowers for those who want to see them," and see them you will at some of these exemplary local destinations. Take in the spring season and enjoy these Chicago flora locations free of admission.

Lurie Garden
Southeastern End of Millennium Park
Chicago, IL 60601
312-228-1004
www.luriegarden.org

Millennium Park's five-acre garden is an urban oasis boasting native perennials and bulbs. You won't find fancy schmancy orchids here, but rather proud tulips, sweet crocus and perfectly named flowers like "Glory of the Snow" and "Shooting Stars". You'll also enjoy cheerful daffodils, bee balm, oregano, sturdy hosta, coral bells and day lilies to name a few. The spring flowers have survived another long winter's chill, and they are ready to bloom and take on the forthcoming warmth.

Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Rd
Glencoe, IL 60022
(847) 835-5440
www.chicagobotanic.org

Baby iris, yellow and purple crocus and snowdrops are visible in the Waterfall Gardens of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Boyce Tankersley, Director of Living Plant Documentation, says "It's a great place to come for a walk. The air is invigorating and everything's turning green and coming to life. All the evidence that spring is breaking is here at the Garden." If April showers rain on your floral parade, then be sure to visit the Greenhouses. If you missed the Orchid Show, you can view some orchids on display in the Tropical Greenhouse. Daffodils and tulips will be blooming among the two dozen display gardens. Admission is free but parking can be pricey.

Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N Stockton Dr
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 742-7736

Your happiness and serenity neurons will be firing as you take in narcissus, hyacinths, tulips and lilies of all hues at the historic Lincoln Park Conservatory's Spring Flower Show. Pink and white azaleas and camellias will make room for later Spring bloomers like daffodils, hydrangeas, orchids, spring bulbs and flowering shrubs. Lincoln Park Conservatory a perfect place to take mom on Mother's Day to enjoy the budding spring season.

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Garfield Park Conservatory
300 N Central Park Ave
Chicago, IL 60624
(312) 746-5100
www.garfieldconservatory.org

The Spring Show at Garfield Park Conservatory combines gorgeous plants with vibrant colors in the art installation created by two Chicago artists. The LED light installation is stationed throughout the conservatory. You can expect to see flowers and plants that amplify the colors of the artwork, highlighting the vibrant Azaleas, various spring bulbs and pleasing perennials. Before your visit, head to the website to download the coloring pages that will allow you to create your own custom "colorized" spring artwork.

The Bahá'í House Of Worship For North America
600 Sheridan Road
Wilmette, IL 60091
(847) 853-2300
www.bahai.us/bahai-temple

Just a quick shot north of the city, Chicagoans can enjoy the oldest Bahai temple on the planet. The house of worship aims to convey "the beauty of unity in diversity". Since it's a sacred space, your senses will not be distracted by wailing toddlers or tightly wound dogs. The temple offers nine gardens to enjoy during your visit. Try to sense the colors and varied fragrances around you as you reflect in the atmosphere. Adding to the multi sensory experience, you will be able to view Asian inspired reflecting pools and fountains.

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Jacky Runice has been a columnist with the Daily Herald Chicago since grunge music and flannel was the new black. Her fingers and gray matter have been busy as travel editor of Reunions Magazine; penning a column that was syndicated around the nation via Tribune Media Services. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.