8 Underrated Gardens & Parks in Chicago That Only Real Locals Know

Chicago Is Home To Many Beautiful Gardens and Parks

Chicago can be a busy place, but it’s also home to some amazing secret spots where you can relax and recharge. These tucked-away parks and gardens offer a peaceful escape just waiting for you to discover them.

Garden of the Phoenix

Where to find it: On Jackson Park’s Wooded Island.

This Japanese garden sits between two lagoons in Jackson Park. Built in 1893 for the World’s Columbian Exhibition, it celebrates U.S.-Japan friendship. You’ll see a restored pavilion and cherry blossom trees that bloom pink if you come in the spring.

Winter Garden at Harold Washington Library

Where to find it: Ninth floor of the Harold Washington Library.

This one’s inside a library, so unless you’re visiting for books, you might not think to go up. You’ll find it on the 9th floor. The glass-roofed Winter Garden bathes you in sunlight, no matter the season. You can sit under potted trees and use the WiFi to work or read.

Cancer Survivors’ Garden

Where to find it: Enter through Maggie Daley Park, walk east.

Find this peaceful space near the Loop’s busy attractions. Enter through Maggie Daley Park and walk east to see 40-foot granite columns, a metal pavilion, and flower gardens.

Marvel at vibrant blossoms and bask in the site’s unique healing aura, especially during the evening golden hour.

Botany Pond at University of Chicago

Where to find it: Near the quad in Hyde Park at the University of Chicago.

This pond sits in the middle of the UChicago campus. Students say kissing someone on the bridge means you’ll marry them – at least according to the university’s old Tumblr page. Even if that’s just a rumor, the ducks gliding by each spring are worth the visit alone.

Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool

Where to find it: North of Lincoln Park Zoo.

This 3.14-acre garden near Lincoln Park Zoo looks like a Midwestern river. You’ll find a waterfall, native plants, and a pavilion for viewing.

Note: It’s usually closed in winter and reopens in April, so double check before you go.

Milton Lee Olive Park

Where to find it: Near Ohio Street Beach.

This park near Ohio Street Beach offers some of the best Lake Michigan views. Locals enjoy lounging under the honey locust trees or perching on the park’s granite benches.

You can even hang a hammock here. It’s a go-to spot for reading or simply watching the world drift by.

Burnham Wildlife Corridor

Where to find it: Within Burnham Park along Lake Michigan.

This 100-acre space runs along Lake Michigan and Lake Shore Drive. You’ll find three nature areas: Burnham Centennial Prairie, Burnham Nature Sanctuary, and McCormick Bird Sanctuary.

Regulars swear by visiting during spring and fall migrations to catch migratory birds in action.

Grant Park Rose Garden

Where to find it: Near Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.

Hidden within Grant Park, this quaint rose garden is a lovely spot to take a breather. White archways frame the roses and make the entire place feel like a Monet painting.