An Evening at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Last evening, we had to get out to stretch our legs. Since we had not been to the Chicago Botanic Garden in awhile, my husband suggested that we go there. Also, since we are members of the Morton Arboretum, our parking is free---that always makes for a nice spur of the moment adventure!

We arrived at about 6:45PM. We were pretty surprised that there were not too many people milling around the Garden since it was a lovely evening. In fact, the Garden was pretty dead.

With the Garden being so quiet, quite a bit of wildlife popped out. We saw bunnies, mice, chipmunks, butterflies, and all sorts of birds. We were also able to take our time ambling around as opposed to being part of a herd.

Additionally, we ventured into the greenhouse area. I think that this actually may have been the  first time that we explored the greenhouses! My daughter especially loved checking out the cacti in the arid climate greenhouse.

While looking at the Garden's website today, I noticed that they have free plant giveaways a few days a week for kids. 

Here are the dates and times:

May 16- October 7

Wednesdays - Fridays 11AM-3PM

Saturdays and Sundays 11AM-4PM

The seeds or seedlings are given away in the Fruit and Vegetable Garden while supplies last. Care information and recipes are available.

Here is a list of what is given away:

• June – Blondkopfchen Heirloom Tomato 
• July – 'Mrs. Burns' Lemon Basil 
• August – Dwarf Blue Curled Scotch Kale

• September – Grandpa Admire’s Heirloom Lettuce

A nice little event to watch out for!