Nature in The City of Chicago

explore the wonders of nature
right here in the city!

nature in the city
1200+ stewardship
volunteers
90 annual gardens
40 bird & butterfly
sanctuaries
22 prairies/grasslands
17 historic lagoons
11 savannas/woodlands
9 river edge habitats
8 nature gardens
8 dune/beach habitats
5 wetlands
3 shrublands
2 world-class
conservatories
1 nature center
1 organic greenhouse
1 urban farm
camping programs for
youth, teens and families
canoeing programs
fishing programs
gardening programs
toddler programs
On the cover: Northerly Island
RECEIVE UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE
YEAR ON NATURE PROGRAMS & EVENTS
Urban Naturalist is the quarterly nature newsletter
of the Chicago Park District. It provides up-to-date
nature program and event listings for all Chicago
parks. In addition to the activities, it also includes
informative nature articles and volunteer profiles.
To sign up for our environmentally friendly online
version, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
To receive a hard copy in the mail, call the North
Park Village Nature Center at 312.744.5472.
w
Did you know that Chicagos 7600+ acres of parkland are home to . . . Nature Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Community Gardens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Nature in the City by Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Nature in the City Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fold-out section
Nature Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Green Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Volunteer Stewardship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Maintaining Parks & Nature Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Keeping Parks Clean & Safe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Wooded Island in Jackson Park
ithin our urban environment, we offer
these natural spots as a way to bring
Chicago residents and guests closer to
nature. We hope this connection goes
beyond just a walk in the park and begins
to create a sense of stewardship and
involvement. We need your help to keep
these nature areas, along with all parks
and beaches, clean and safe. Please
review the list on the inside back cover
of this brochure to see what you can do.
Nature is abundant in Chicago!
We invite you to come out and enjoy it.
Timothy J. Mitchell
General Superintendent & CEO, Chicago Park District
The Monarch butterfly is the
official insect of Illinois. In the
summer, look for Monarchs on
milkweed. Its their favorite plant!
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com 312.742.PLAY(7529) 312.747.2001 (TTY) [1]
table of contents
Spending time outdoors is important for kids! Getting outside and enjoying nature helps children reduce
stress, and keeps them healthy. Try these ideas for some outdoor fun!
tips for parents
in the outdoors
Give your children
unstructured time
outside.
Kids are naturally attracted
to loose parts and rough
edgeswater, sand, rocks,
and mud.
Enjoy nature in
your neighborhood.
Plant a garden, look for
birds or climb a tree.
Let your children
take the lead.
With their natural curiosity,
your kids will quickly find
something for the family
to explore.
Hold a scavenger
hunt in your backyard
or a neighborhood park.
Ask kids to check off items
on a list such as flowers,
bird tracks, a squirrel,
something that makes noise,
colors in nature, worms
and insects in the soil.
Play games to
encourage looking.
Try I see something
you dont see and its
color is. Use yes-and-
no questions to give your
kids clues.
Direct your
childrens attention
and join in their fun.
Point out trees or touch
a leaf with your child;
encourage him/her to listen
for birds, smell the flowers,
or feel the wind or soil.
Dont be afraid of not
knowing the answers.
You dont have to know
everything about plants
and animals to help your
children enjoy them; half
the fun is asking questions
and building a sense of
curiosity and wonder.
Nature areas offer Chicago residents and
guests a variety of opportunities to
discover and appreciate the richness and
beauty of nature in its many forms. There
are more than 50 designated nature areas
in Chicagos parks. They range in size from
0.25 acres to 57 acres and often harbor
significant plant and animal species.
NATURE AREAS PROVI DE
NUMEROUS ECOLOGI CAL BENEFI TS
protect and offer sanctuary for rare and
endangered species
protect the biodiversity of a region
provide habitat, food sources, and shelter
for wildlife
increase soil fertility & prevent soil erosion
aid in stormwater management
act as buffer zones against water
contamination
increase oxygen in the atmosphere
For more information on Chicago
Park District nature areas, such
as descriptions of each site, visit
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
The Chicago Park
District proudly supports
the Leave No Child
Inside initiative.
For more information visit
www.kidsoutside.info.
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com 312.742.PLAY(7529) 312.747.2001 (TTY) [2] [3]
nature areas
McCormick Bird Sanctuary in Burnham Park
Dunes/Beaches
Dunes occur wherever wind-blown sand
has a chance to temporarily or permanently
stabilize into a ridge. The prevailing west-
east wind direction makes Illinois dunes petite
versions of our neighboring Indiana dunes,
but no less interesting. A natural beach does
not have sand ridges like a dune, but shares
some of the same vegetation. Come explore
these habitats, home to unusual grasses,
flowering plants, and birds.
Jackson Park
63rd Street Beach
63rd St. & Lake Michigan
Lincoln Park
Foster Beach
Foster Ave.
& Lake Michigan
Montrose Beach
Montrose Ave.
& Lake Michigan
North Avenue Beach
North Ave. & Lake Michigan
Kathy Osterman Beach
Between Ardmore Ave.
& Hollywood Ave.
at Lake Michigan
Loyola Park
1230 W. Greenleaf Ave.
Rainbow Park & Beach
3111 E. 77th St.
just southeast of the fieldhouse
South Shore
Cultural Center
7059 S. South Shore Dr.
BI RD & BUTTERFLY
SANCTUARI ES
This bird icon identifies the
nature areas designated by
the Chicago Park District as
Bird & Butterfly Sanctuaries.
Look for it in the Nature Area
listings on the following
pages. These areas have a
great variety of native plants
that provide food and shelter
for many birds. Come out
with your binoculars in
spring and fall, the best
times to see the greatest
variety of birds. You can
see the butterflies fluttering
all summer long.
Montrose Beach Dunes
Lagoons
Chicagos historic
lagoons are man-made
bodies of water that
provide habitat for birds,
crayfish, dragonflies,
turtles, frogs and fish;
and support native
vegetation along the
shoreline. Come out
and experience it all!
Auburn Park
406 W. Winneconna Pkwy.
Columbus Park
500 S. Central Ave.
Douglas Park
1401 S. Sacramento Ave.
Garfield Park
100 N. Central Park Ave.
Gompers Park
4222 W. Foster Ave.
Humboldt Park
1440 N. Sacramento Ave.
Indian Boundary Park
2500 W. Lunt Ave.
Jackson Park
6401 S. Stony Island Ave.
Lincoln Park
North Pond Nature
Sanctuary
2045 Lincoln Park West
Rowing Lagoon
South Pond
Marquette Park
6734 S. Kedzie Ave.
McKinley Park
2210 W. Pershing Rd.
Riis Park
6100 W. Fullerton Ave.
Sherman Park
1301 W. 52nd St.
Stearns Quarry Park
2700 S. Halsted St.
Washington Park
5531 S. Martin Luther
King Dr.
General locations are
used for nature area
addresses. For specific
location information
and directions, visit
STOCKED
These lagoons are
stocked with catfish
and bluegill once a
month in June, July
and August. A fishing
license is required to
fish in Chicago. More
fishing information
on page 20.
Humboldt Park Lagoon
Nature Gardens
Nature gardens showcase native Illinois plant
species while attracting wildlife including birds,
small mammals, butterflies, moths and other insects.
Experience the variety, color, beauty and environmental
benefits of landscaping with native plants.
River Edges
A river edge is the transitional habitat between
the river and the adjacent park. These naturalized
banks provide food for migrating birds and
shelter for herons, ducks, muskrats and turtles.
Discover the Chicago River and its rich wildlife
habitat at these river edge parks.
Prairies/Grasslands
Prairies are grasslands that are dominated by perennial grasses, sedges and
wildflowers. Dont be fooled, there is much going on below the surface too,
with plant roots extending 520 feet deep. As the roots die back each fall, they
add organic material and naturally fertilize the soil making prairie soil some of
the best in the world. Discover prairies at their prime in the summer.
Bessemer Park
8930 S. Muskegon Ave.
Horner Park
2741 W. Montrose Ave.
Lincoln Park
Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
2400 N. Cannon Dr.
Nichols Park
1355 E. 53rd St.
Ogden Park
6500 S. Racine Ave.
Portage Park
4100 N. Long Ave.
Prospect Gardens Park
10970 S. Prospect Ave.
Rutherford Sayre Park
6871 W. Belden Ave.
Legion Park
W. Peterson Ave. to W. Foster
Ave. at the Chicago River
Lincoln Park
Marovitz Golf Course
4440 N. Lake Shore Dr.
Montrose Point
Montrose Ave. & Lake Michigan
Marquette Park
6734 S. Kedzie Ave.
Ashburn Prairie
6735 S. Kedzie Ave.
Marquette Park Golf Course
6734 S. Kedzie Ave.
North Park Village
Nature Center
5801 N. Pulaski Rd.
South Shore
Cultural Center
Stearns Quarry Park
2700 S. Halsted St.
Winnemac Park
5001 N. Leavitt St.
Burnham Park
Burnham Nature
Sanctuary
4700 S. Lake Shore Dr.
McCormick Bird
Sanctuary
Northerly Island
1400 S. Lynn White Dr.
Soldier Field
southeast of the stadium
Canal Origins Park
2701 S. Ashland Ave.
Canalport River Walk
Columbus Park
Columbus Park
Golf Course
500 S. Central Ave.
Douglas Park
Douglas Park Golf Course
1401 S. Sacramento Ave.
Gompers Park
4222 W. Foster Ave.
Jackson Park
Bobolink Meadow
Jackson Park Golf Course
Wooded Island
California Park
3843 N. California Ave.
Canal Origins Park
Fishing Station
Clark (Richard) Park
3400 N. Rockwell St.
Non-motorized boat launch
Eugene Field Park
5100 N. Ridgeway Ave.
Gompers Park
4222 W. Foster Ave.
Horner Park
2741 W. Montrose Ave.
Kiwanis Park
3315 W. Carmen Ave.
River Park
5100 N. Francisco Ave.
Non-motorized boat launch
Fishing Station
Ronan Park
2900 W. Lawrence Ave.
General locations are used
for nature area addresses.
For specific location information
Ronan Park River Edge South Shore Cultural Center Prairie Nichols Park Nature Garden
Savannas/Woodlands
A savanna is a wooded area with ground cover
consisting of native grasses and wildflowers and
a tree canopy that covers or shades between
10-50% of the site. A woodland is similar to a
savanna but with more trees covering 50-70%
of the site. Oaks, hickories and elms are some
of the species youll find in these nature areas.
From treetop to woodland wildflowers, these
lush and layered landscapes offer a variety of
habitats for wildlife, such as migratory birds,
insects, and invertebrates.
Shrublands
Shrubland areas are dominated by a variety of
native shrubs ranging in height from 3-10 feet.
These spots are ideal for bird watching as they
provide structure, cover and food for birds.
Grab your binoculars and explore.
Burnham Park
Burnham Nature Sanctuary
Columbus Park
500 S. Central Ave.
Hurley Park
1901 W. 100th St.
Jackson Park
Bobolink Meadow
Wooded Island
Lincoln Park
Bill Jarvis Migratory
Bird Sanctuary
North Park Village
Nature Center
5801 N. Pulaski Rd.
Mary Berkemeier
Quinn Park of Trees
6239 N. McClellan St.
South Shore
Cultural Center
Washington Park
5531 S. Martin Luther
King Dr.
West Pullman Park
401 W. 123rd St.
Burnham Park
McCormick Bird Sanctuary
Jackson Park
Wooded Island
Lincoln Park
Montrose Point
Montrose Ave. & Lake
Michigan
Wetlands
Wetlands are low-land areas saturated with water
for at least part of the year, and dominated by
plants that are able to have their feet wet. These
areas are home to insects, birds and other wildlife
and are alive with activity from dawn to dusk.
Gompers Park
4222 W. Foster Ave.
Lincoln Park
Bill Jarvis Migratory
Bird Sanctuary
North Park Village
Nature Center
5801 N. Pulaski Rd.
Ridge Park
9512 S. Longwood Dr.
South Shore
Cultural Center
General locations are used
for nature area addresses.
West Pullman Park Savanna
It takes an oak tree
20 years to start
producing acorns.
Gompers Park Wetland
Columbus Park Woodland
South Presidents Court Garden in Grant Park
gardens
The City of Chicagos motto is Urbs in Horto, which
means a city in a garden. Our city is home to a vast number
of beautiful gardens, and many of those are located in
Chicagos parks. Over 75-acres of gardens enhance our parks
and provide amazing sights and smells throughout the year.
Chicago Park District gardens are planted for the summer by
June 15th, fully splendid by July 15th, and most hold their color
well into October. Earlier in the year, look for spring plantings at
a few parks, including Grant Park. These gardens are at their
peak mid-April to mid-May.
Gardens
The following list contains Chicagos most popular park gardens. There are many more neighborhood gardens
located throughout the city. For a complete list, visit our website at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Douglas Park
Formal Gardens
Corner of Sacramento Ave.
& Ogden Ave.
Garfield Park
City Garden,
Demonstration Garden,
Monet Garden
at Garfield Park Conservatory
300 N. Central Park Ave.
Grant Park
Buckingham Fountain
Flower Gardens
Lake Shore Dr. & Buckingham
Fountain 500 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Cancer Survivors Garden
Upper Randolph St. just
east of Daley Bicentennial
Park Fieldhouse
Congress Median Garden
Center Median off of Congress
Pkwy., between Columbus Dr.
& Michigan Ave.
Congress Plaza Gardens
Michigan Ave. & Congress
Pkwy.
Congress Triangle Garden
Center triangle on Congress
Pkwy. & Michigan Ave.
Formal Gardens
Corner of Balbo Ave. &
Michigan Ave. across from
the Hilton Towers Hotel
North Presidents Court
Columbus Dr. & Congress
Pkwy. just north of
Congress Pkwy.
South Presidents Court
Columbus Dr. & Congress
Pkwy. just south of
Congress Pkwy.
Spirit of Music Gardens
Corner of Balbo Ave. &
Michigan Ave. just north
of Balbo Ave.
Over 300 different
species of birds migrate
through Chicago each year
including the Ruby-throated
Hummingbird, which can fly
up to speeds of 60 miles an
hour and can fly backwards.
used for garden addresses.
Garfield Park Conservatory City Garden
[12]
Humboldt Park
Formal Gardens
Corner of Humboldt Blvd.
& Division St.
Jackson Park
Osaka Garden
59th St. & Cornell Dr.
Perennial Garden
South of the Museum
of Science and Industry
between Cornell Dr. &
Lake Shore Dr.
Lincoln Park
Grandmas Garden
Corner of Stockton Dr. &
Webster Ave. (3 blocks long)
Great Garden
West of Lincoln Park Zoo
off Stockton Dr.
South Lagoon
Flower Garden
West of Lake Shore Dr.,
north of North Ave., at
south end of the lagoon
Marquette Park
Demonstration Gardens
6743 S. Kedzie Ave.,
along circle drive thru park
South Shore
Cultural Center
Formal & Herb Garden
Washington Park
DuSable Museum
Flower Gardens
740 65th Pl.
Washington Square Park
Fountain Garden
901 N. Clark St.
Great Garden in Lincoln Park Osaka Garden in Jackson Park
used for garden addresses.
Help the disappearing bees!
Honey bees help pollinate
1/3 of the food we eat
and they are disappearing
at a frightening rate.
Plant a bee friendly garden
by including Sunflowers,
Echinacea, and Lavender.
Lake Shore Park Community Garden
TEACHERS! Interested in turning a Chicago
park or nature area into an outdoor classroom?
The Nature Oasis program can help. For more
information visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
or email us at nature@chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Nature Oasis
The Nature Oasis program helps Chicagoans experience and enjoy the wonder
of nature right here in the city. It strives to cultivate environmental awareness and
appreciation by offering a wide range of nature-based programs throughout the
seasons in locations across the city for all ages.
Programs and events generally take place in parks with unique and compelling
nature areas, such as the Humboldt Park Lagoon and South Shore Cultural Centers
Nature Sanctuary. Examples of these programs include bird workshops, kayak and
canoe programs, family camping, toddler events such as Toddler, Tunes & Turtles,
Stroller Struts, Family Fish Festival, Earth Day Clean-Ups and the winter Polar
Adventure Days series. Many of these programs are free with no prior registration
required just show up and have fun. However, some programs do require prior
registration and/or have minimal fees. All of these programs are open to the public.
View a list of these programs in the Urban Naturalist, the quarterly nature newsletter
of the Chicago Park District. See page 1 for more information on the Urban
Naturalist. You can also get Nature Oasis program information on our website
at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com 312.742.PLAY(7529) 312.747.2001 (TTY) [17]
Polar Adventure Days at Northerly Island
Family Kayaking Day at Washington Park
Harvest Gardens at Washington Park
Harvest Garden
Harvest Garden gives children ages 8-12 a three
season in-depth experience with organic vegetable
gardening. While the primary goal is to help children
appreciate nature by giving them a broader
understanding of it, the aim is also to incorporate
other areas of learning. The children read books,
participate in creative writing and visual art activities,
and play games.
UNDER I LLI NOI S SKI ES
is for children ages 10-13 who are
ready for the next level of camping. The
goal of this program is for children to engage in
more advanced camping skills as well as expose them
to camping out in a more remote setting away from the
city. During the program, children will engage in outdoor
activities such as archery, canoeing, fishing, and campfire
cooking. Campers spend one day at a city park before heading
out of Chicago to spend three days and two nights camping
out under the stars. This program is offered in July and August.
To check dates and locations, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Register in person at participating parks.
[18] [19] www.chicagoparkdistrict.com 312.742.PLAY(7529) 312.747.2001 (TTY)
Urban Campers at Marquette Park
The program is offered after-school hours during the spring and fall (five weeks
each) and in the summer through the summer day camp program (eight weeks.)
Children learn to plant, maintain, harvest and winterize the garden. They prepare
and participate in a variety of gardening activities such as making herbal
vinegars, pickles, salsa and soap, craft projects, and music fun. At the end of
the growing season, participants are invited to the Harvest Festival at which
they exhibit their produce. The day has a real county fair atmosphere and is filled
with live animals, story telling, square dancing, and all sorts of fun and games.
To view a list of parks offering the Harvest Garden program, visit
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com. For more information or to register, call a
Harvest Garden park directly. Online registration is available for select parks.
Camping
URBAN CAMPERS is a summer camping
program for children ages 9-12. The goal of this
program is to introduce campers to outdoor skills
such as tent set-up, fishing and teambuilding.
Urban Campers is a week-long experience and
runs for a half-day, Monday through Wednesday,
and ends with an overnight camping experience
from Thursday morning through Friday morning.
During the campout, children will cook dinner over
the fire, listen to campfire stories and make smores.
The five-day program is offered at various parks in
late June, July and August. For a list of parks and
weeks offered, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Fishing
Few of Americas big cities have fishing as good as we have
in Chicago. Nine species will keep you occupied all year; coho
& king salmon, perch, brown trout, smallmouth bass, steelhead,
carp, catfish and panfish. The variety of waters will also keep
it interesting with 11 stocked lagoons, six harbors, 26 miles
of beautiful lakefront and five really great spots on the Chicago
River for largemouth bass and crappie. Every method of fishing
can be seen in these locations, including spinning, casting,
and fly fishing; live bait, lures and flies.
A fishing license is needed to fish in Chicago.
For license information visit www.dnr.state.il.us.
For Chicago fishing maps and other fishing information,
visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Garfield Park Conservatory Fern Room
Take a stroll in one of the more than 550
parks in Chicago and youre sure to
experience nature, but a number of
Chicago Park District facilities specialize
in putting people in touch with nature on
a different level. The following seven
Chicago Park District sites offer a unique
greening experience through their
programs, facilities and unbelievable
natural surroundings. Come out and
explore, fish, bike, plant and much more
at these havens in the city.
GARFI ELD PARK CONSERVATORY
300 N. Central Park Ave. 312.746.5100 or www.garfieldconservatory.org
Open daily from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. and Wednesdays until 8 p.m.
The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest and most stunning
conservatories in the nation. Often referred to as landscape art under
glass, the conservatory occupies approximately 4.5 acres inside and out,
where thousands of plant species are on display throughout eight rooms.
Travel through the conservatory and experience the lush flora in the
Fern Room or Palm House, or discover how plants get energy in the
Sugar from the Sun exhibit. Also check out the seasons best floral
displays in the Show House. The conservatory was designed by
Jens Jensen, renowned landscape architect, in collaboration with Prairie
School architects Schmidt, Garden and Martin. The Garfield Park Conservatory
is owned and managed by the Chicago Park District. The Garfield Park Conservatory
Alliance is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to the funding and
development of programs and visitor services at the conservatory.
Paved walkways within natural terrain. The Fern Room is not wheelchair accessible.
MAYOR DALEY S
FI SH N KI DS
program is open to
groups of children
age 8-18. This free
program runs mid-
June through August
at all park lagoons
and six harbors.
Prior registration is
required by calling
312.742.4969.
green facilities
FACI LITI ES
ACTIVITI ES
LEGEND
Walk
Cycle
Fish
Explore
Hike
Plant
Bird Watching
Wheelchair Accessible
Fishn Kids at DuSable Harbor
In July & August, look for fishing along
the Chicago River at Columbus Drive.
LI NCOLN PARK CONSERVATORY
2391 N. Stockton Dr. 312.742.7736
Open daily from 9 a.m. 5 p.m.
Discover tropical palms, ancient ferns and splendid orchids at
the Lincoln Park Conservatory. In the heart of Lincoln Park, this
historical facility houses four show rooms capturing botanical
splendor with plant species from all over the world. The Fern
Rooms lush greenery and the Orchid Rooms exotic brilliance
connect visitors to nature amidst the urban jungle. The Lincoln
Park Conservatory, owned and operated by the Chicago Park
District, was designed by nationally renowned architect of the
Victorian Era Joseph Lyman Silsbee in collaboration with architect
M.E. Bell. Lincoln Park Conservancy is a not-for-profit volunteer
organization, dedicated to preserving, restoring and enhancing
the natural, historical and cultural assets of Lincoln Park, through
advocacy and the implementation of special projects.
Paved walkways within natural terrain.
The Fern Room is not wheelchair accessible.
HUMBOLDT PARK
1400 N. Sacramento Ave. 312.742.7459
Hours at the Nature Classroom in the Boathouse vary. Call the park to confirm.
Located on the citys west side, Humboldt Park is a large, energetic park.
Within this bustling 207 acres lies a serene natural setting, which includes a
meandering stream designed in 1906 by Jens Jensen, founder of the Prairie-
style of landscape architecture, a large lagoon with a naturalized shoreline,
and several smaller ponds and native plantings. The Park District recently
conducted an ecological restoration of the prairie stream and lagoon in the
spirit of Jensens design, so what you see today is very similar to the original
design. Humboldt Park is an ideal place to enjoy a nature walk, bird-watch,
fish, or bike. The parks lagoon is stocked with bluegill, crappie, green
sunfish and a variety of other fish, and home to other aquatic life such
as crayfish, dragonflies, turtles, tadpoles, frogs, toads and waterfowl.
Additionally, the 1908 Prairie-style boathouse, a Chicago Landmark, is
home to a nature classroom and gallery space, and offers programs such
as Group Nature Walks and Family Quests.
NORTH PARK VI LLAGE NATURE CENTER
5801 N. Pulaski Rd. 312.744.5472
Open daily from 10 a.m. 4 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Holidays)
North Park Village Nature Center is a 46-acre nature preserve and environmental
education facility with trails that wind through woodlands, wetlands, prairies and savannas.
The diversity of native plants and animals here gives visitors a glimpse into the natural
history of Illinois. Indoors, enjoy interactive displays and a collection of natural objects.
Outside, the preserve acts as a living laboratory to study natural processes. Four festivals
each year (springs Maple Syrup Fest, summers City Wilds, autumns Harvest Fest, and
the Winter Solstice Festival) feature seasonal activities. Educational programming is
offered throughout the year for all age groups, from pre-schoolers and families to seniors.
In the summer the Chicago Park District offers EcoExplorers, a week-long summer camp
where children discover nature in a safe and supportive environment. The Nature Center
welcomes volunteers to help with field work, such as planting, weeding and trail
maintenance; lead group field trips; assist during festivals; and more. For the well-being
of visitors and the preserve itself, no pets or recreational articles (bikes, skis, etc.) are
allowed. Collecting of any materials is prohibited.
Building and portions of the trail system.
Northerly Island Humboldt Park Lincoln Park Conservatory North Park Village Nature Center
NORTHERLY I SLAND
1400 S. Lynn White Dr. 312.745.2910
Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor
Day, and on weekends throughout the year. It is closed during events at
Charter One Pavilion, Soldier Field and McCormick Place.
Northerly Island is a 91-acre peninsula located just south of the Adler
Planetarium and east of Soldier Field. Today, Northerly Island is dedicated to
nature-based and passive recreation activities such as bird watching, fishing
and cycling. A central feature of the island is a developing 30-acre prairie
grassland planted in 2004 with 40 native species of prairie grasses and
wildflowers. Given its natural setting and proximity to Lake Michigan, Northerly
Island is home to some of the best fishing and bird watching in Chicago.
Additionally, the Chicago Park District hosts birding workshops and special
year-round nature programs at the site, including the winter Polar Adventure
Days series. With wild prairie grasses taking root, a beautiful one mile strolling
path, an amazing view of the city skyline and birds migrating through, we invite
you to come out and enjoy the emerging world of Northerly Island.
Take a free Audio Tour of Humboldt Park! Go to the
Humboldt Park page at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
to print out the tour map and download the audio files.
KI LBOURN PARK ORGANIC GREENHOUSE
3501 N. Kilbourn Avenue 773.685.3359 or 3351
Open Wednesdays from June-Sept. 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
and Saturdays year-round 10 a.m. Noon
Discover the wonderful world of nature at Kilbourn Parks
Organic Greenhouse! Spark your curiosity and explore
fun & educational offerings at the Chicago Park Districts
only park with a teaching organic greenhouse. Kids can
get their hands dirty while participating in the Harvest
Garden and Garden Buddies youth programs.
Additional activities include toddler programs, various
family and adult workshops and environmental-themed
projects and crafts. Each year, Kilbourn Park & Organic
Greenhouse hosts a plant sale in May. The Organic
Greenhouse is always looking for volunteersincluding
parents with their children!
The Volunteer Stewardship Program is
a community-based volunteer program
that provides hands-on opportunities in
ecological restoration, land management,
monitoring, and education at Chicago
Park District nature areas. Volunteers
help maintain and enhance nature areas
by controlling invasive species, planting
and seeding native plants, pruning and
mulching trees and shrubs, maintaining
nature trails, educating park patrons,
and collecting data on plant, bird,
butterfly, and dragonfly species.
The Volunteer Stewardship Program not
only benefits our parks, but also
introduces park patrons to Illinois
flora, fauna, and natural history,
creating a natural connection that
helps foster an environmental ethic
in the city of Chicago.
volunteer stewardship
Jackson Park Urban Farm Kilbourn Park & Organic Greenhouse Washington Park
JACKSON PARK URBAN FARM
Located near Cornell Dr. & Marquette Dr. 773.486.6005 or www.growingpower.org
Hours vary, please call 773.486.6005 to confirm.
In 2007 the Chicago Park District partnered with Growing Power, Inc., a non-
profit agricultural organization, to start an Urban Farm in Jackson Park. The farm
produces locally grown food that exceeds certified organic standards. There are
many ways to get involved with the Urban Farm. Allotment plots are available for
people who would like the responsibility of taking on their own garden. Plots are
offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Those who would like to work in the
garden but dont want the commitment of having their own plot can volunteer on
a drop-in basis. Workshops are offered throughout the summer for all gardeners
or anyone who just wants to learn more about gardening. The farm also serves
as a training ground for interns and apprentice farmers. For more information on
workshops, to apply for an allotment plot, or to volunteer, contact the Growing
Power Chicago office at 773.486.6005 or visit www.growingpower.org.
Wheelchair accessible plots.
For more information on volunteer
opportunities within the parks,
visit www.chicagoparkdistict.com
and click on the Volunteering link.
PURPLE MARTI N LANDLORDS
The Chicago Park District worked with the Purple Martin Society to construct purple
martin birdhouses in various locations along the Chicago lakefront and train purple martin
volunteers or landlords to monitor the houses. Landlords check houses for purple
martin habitation and colony development as well as protect houses from house sparrow
and European starling infestation.
VOLUNTEER MONI TORS
The Chicago Park District is a partner with the Habitat Project, a network of conservation
organizations and volunteers who monitor plants, animals, and ecosystems in the Chicago
Wilderness region. Volunteers participate in several monitoring programs including the
Illinois Butterfly Monitoring Network, Chicago Wilderness Plants of Concern, Bird
Conservation Network Census, Dragonfly Monitoring Network, and the Calling Frog
Survey at Chicago Park District nature areas.
Maintaining Parks & Nature Areas
The Chicago Park District is committed to providing well maintained parks and
nature areas for the enjoyment of all Chicago residents and visitors. In order to
preserve these areas in the most ecologically sound and sustainable manner, the
Park District adheres to the following management practices:
NATI VE BI ODI VERSI TY ENHANCEMENT
Native biodiversity refers to the number and variety
of living organisms (plants and animals) that are
native to an area. Greater native plant biodiversity
attracts and sustains a greater diversity of native
animals, including birds and butterflies.
I NVASI VE SPECI ES CONTROL
An invasive species is one that reproduces so
aggressively that it threatens the survival and
sustainability of other species, thus reducing
biodiversity. Both native and non-native plants
can become overpopulated in urban nature
areas, thereby requiring management.
CONTROLLED BURNS
Prescribed burns are an ecologically appropriate and
safe management tool used to control the spread of
invasive plants, reduce ground layer accumulations
of dead plant material, increase sunlight penetration
to the ground, increase soil fertility, encourage seed
germination and promote the sustenance of native
plant and animal communities.
Legion Park
Ronan Park
Types of Nature Area Volunteers
SI TE STEWARD/CO- STEWARD
A volunteer who has taken a leadership role at a Chicago
Park District nature area. Site stewards perform regular
site visits, act as a liaison between the Chicago Park
District and the community, and lead and organize
stewardship workdays.
STEWARDSHI P WORKDAY VOLUNTEER
A volunteer who participates at a volunteer stewardship
workday. Under the direction of a site steward,
stewardship volunteers remove invasive plants, collect
seeds, build and maintain trails, install native plants, and
mulch trees and shrubs.
WI LDLI FE POPULATI ON CONTROL
Wildlife species are managed when they become
overpopulated and threaten native biodiversity,
cause significant damage to Chicago Park District
landscapes and cause dangerous conditions for
people. The Chicago Park District follows the
recommendations of the Chicago Wilderness
Biodiversity Recovery Plan, as well as the
Chicago Bird Agenda and the Chicago Nature
and Wildlife Plan. The Park District is also a
member of the Chicago Wilderness consortium,
an alliance of more than 200 public and private
organizations that work in partnership to
protect, restore and manage the regions
natural lands and its wild flora and fauna.
NATURAL LAWN CARE
If you see dandelions in our parks its because
the Chicago Park District is limiting the amount
of chemicals typically sprayed to control weeds.
Regular mowing helps to keep the weeds down,
but dandelions grow back quickly. When you see
dandelions, know that we are maintaining our
parks naturally, keeping them healthy for you and
your family to enjoy.
For more information on these management
practices visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Management Practices continued . . .
THROW AWAY TRASH
Put recyclable materials (paper, plastic
and glass containers, and aluminum cans) in
the blue recycling containers.
Put garbage in the green waste containers.
GRI LL SAFELY
Place hot coals in red cans marked for coals.
Do not place coals at the base of a tree as
this kills trees, and can be dangerous to
unsuspecting people.
Place your grill on grass (not on sand).
DON T FEED WI LDLI FE
Artificial feeding discourages natural wildlife
behavior. Wildlife is better off with a natural diet.
AT THE BEACH
Clean beaches mean cleaner water. The Chicago
Park District cleans the beaches daily, but we
need your help to keep them clean.
Do not feed birds on the beach.
Keep your picnic sites tidy and free of trash.
Put all trash in the green waste containers and
put recyclable materials in the blue recycling
containers.
Do not swim if you are not feeling well.
Put infants and toddlers in swim diapers.
Keeping Parks Clean and Safe You Can Help!
When we all pitch in, these small tasks can make a big difference. Spread the word.
Paper
Plastic containers
Glass containers
Aluminum cans
Everything else
City of Chicago
Richard M. Daley, Mayor
Chicago Park District
Board of Commissioners
Gery J. Chico, President
Bob Pickens, Vice President
Dr. Margaret T. Burroughs
M. Laird Koldyke
Reverend Daniel Matos-Real
Rouhy J. Shalabi
Timothy J. Mitchell,
General Superintendent & CEO
This brochure was printed on paper
that is made of 100% post-consumer
recycled fiber, with eco-friendly inks.
2008-100K
For more information about
your Chicago Park District, visit
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call
312.742.PLAY or 312.747.2001 (TTY). North Park Village Nature Center
Not all parks are featured on this map. Only those with facilities are included.

Nature in The City of Chicago

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Nature in The City of Chicago

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explore the wonders of nature

right here in the city!

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