Visits to the Chicago Botanic Garden are known to turn thumbs green. Residents of North Shore real estate enjoy the botanical beauty of almost 400 acres. Natural areas blend with formal gardens and are spread alongside islands and miles of lake shoreline. Folks love to meander around the pathways all year round. Workshops and classes educate and inspire while special events add a bit of specialness to the grounds.

Wind around the boardwalk to get glimpses of water lilies and lotus flowers in the Aquatic Garden. Secret gardens are found on the boundaries of the Circle Garden creating feelings of intrigue. There’s always time to thoroughly enjoy the fragrance in the Rose Garden. The Native Plant Garden is a great resource for folks living in North Shore homes. Three separate spaces here are divided into a woodland garden, habitat garden and prairie garden. Traditions reign in the Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden. Watch kids learn in the Children Growing Garden. Little ones can dig in and get dirty during workshops and classes.

Stroll about Garden Paths and Find Inspiration by North Shore Homes

Walking the garden paths are a favorite pastime for homeowners living in the North Shore real estate region. Free maps detail themed strolls including fitness walks, harvest hikes and zen walks. Self guided walks focus on specifics such as organics and photography.

Special events create quite a stir. The yearly Orchid Show draws a crowd. Beautiful blooms are offered for sale and gardeners can bring their own plants for repotting. Illinois Orchid Society lectures give insight into care of these popular plants. Extended hours keep the garden open for Summer Nights. Musical performances take place Mondays through Thursday evenings. Boundless bouts of creepy creativity are showcased during Night of 1,000 Jack-o’Lanterns. A howling good time is held by all each October. Highlights include illuminated jack-o’lanterns, the Spooky Pooch Parade and the Autumn Brews beer tasting event. When winter comes so does the Wonderland Express. An all out celebration includes a light show, complimentary holiday photographs and winter bingo.

The Chicago Botanic Gardens are located in Glencoe at 1000 Lake Cook Road. Doors are open year round and hours are seasonal. Stop into the garden shop and find a variety of charming items to bring back home. Call 847.835.5440 for more information.