Morton Arboretum
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Lisle, Ill. 60532
(630) 968-0074
Cost: $12, $11 seniors, $9 ages 2-17, free kids under 2. On Wednesdays, $8, $7 seniors, $6 kids, free kids under 2. Free parking.
Hours: 7 a.m.-sunset daily. Visit website for Children's Garden hours.
Sponsored listing:
Millennium Oak
Long before there were people at the Arboretum, there
were trees. If our Millennium Oak could talk,
oh, what tales it could tell since it's about 250 years old!
The Millennium Oak pre-dates Illinois' 1818 statehood. Located in the oldest part of the Arboretum, close to where Joy Morton originally built his home in 1909, the tree stands in an area where community founders recall having seen Potawatomi Native American temporary encampments.
The towering oak tree, which is found on the West Side near P-26, is Illinois' official Millennium Landmark Tree. America the Beautiful Fund selected the tree as the state's Millennium Landmark Tree in part of the White House Millennium Council's decision to raise awareness of the importance of trees' witness to our nation's growth. In 2000, America the Beautiful selected one landmark tree in each state to be protected and used to promote the respect and care for trees.
Explore 1,700 acres of plants and trees. Walk, run or bike nine miles of paved roads or hike 16 miles of trails. There is a Children's Garden and Maze Garden. The "Family Explorers Backpack" lets visitors rent a bag full of science tools, guides and props to enhance their experience in the Children's Garden. Costs $5 per backpack. One backpack is good for up to five children. Suggested for families with children 2-6. Backpacks are available at the Visitor Center daily from April-October: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (weather permitting).
Story time is available in the Children's Garden every Friday 11-11:20 am April-October.
Our favorite close-by hiking spot
By Andy J. on Friday, September 30, 2011
Lots of great trails to explore, which the kids will enjoy. And maybe the best children's garden you'll find anywhere. Plus, a very nice restaurant and a great gift shop! Worth visting throughout the year.