Salt dynasties and expansive gardens aren’t exactly the first things that pop into most people’s heads when they think of the Windy City, but a trip to Morton Arboretum could change that. The botanical kaleidoscope is the legacy of Mr. Joy Morton, one-time owner of the Morton Salt Company.
At the entrance, make sure to get a map of the place, and ask about what things are in bloom. Near the first parking lot are Visitor Services, Gift Shop, and Ginkgo Restaurant, with its tempting cuisine. To one one side of these buildings is a short trail around an idyllic lake. On the other side is a hedge garden with a maze-like design, the perfect spot for bridal photography.
A short drive or tour on the Acorn Express Tram will take you to the other sections of the 1,700 acre Arboretum, with its impressive variety of over 3,600 types of plants from around the world. During the right season, the wildflower meadow offers the most impressive walk.
If you need a break from the frenzy and noise of the big city, Morton Arboretum offers the perfect escape.