The Morton Arboretum

Illuminations is one of my favorite things at the Arboretum. I am delighted they were able to do it despite the pandemic. Actually, it seemed like there were more lights and decorations than I remember in previous years! I understand why people cant get out of their cars, but it was a little difficult following a very very long line of cars for 30 minutes and then letting out at the exit. Not sure how to change that though. All in all it was lovely

Its autumn. Unimaginably beautiful nature contributed to my first impression of this place. In addition to the fact that the Morton Arboretum is beautiful, I have to mention that everything was so colorful - mix of green, yellow and red, and that it looked wonderful! the wooden statues are very interesting and huge. an ideal place to bring a child or to walk in nature with a partner / friend. little to say I am thrilled with the place!

Illumination is a wonderful display of lights that highlights the beauty of trees in winter, bare of leaves but so lovely with all the lights! Designed to perfectly showcase the beauty of the trees in Winter! Lovely music accompanies the lights (on your radio) and it is very nice to just drive along & admire everything! Highly recommended! Became a member in September & enjoyed pre-sale discount ticket prices for Members only on October 1st, definitely recommended!

This is a massive space of green space with beautiful trees, great troll hunt, really nice trails and beautiful (absolutely beautiful) fall colors. It is kind of amazing that a space this big is just hidden on this area! I love it! I will definitely visit again.

Really beautiful place to walk around and enjoy time outside! We took our dog here on the dog day and it was a blast even though it was cold. Also love taking the girls I nanny here to play at their playground. Can’t wait to visit again for the Christmas lights!

We went for the lights and we were not disappointed. They were beautiful. Be sure to set your radio for the music it is amazing. I think the drive through allowed you to see all the different area and hope you have that option in the future. Thank you for a beautiful experience.

I glad to arboretum did not let Covid keep it down and still have the Illumination event as a drive-thru. The lights were beautiful. Luckily we brought our own hot chocolate for the ride.

Very nice paths for hiking/walking. Not very crowded and everyone on the trail were wearing masks. Nice to get out of the house for some fresh air.

The go-to place for beautiful cultivated trees and shrubs from all over the world in an ideal setting; immaculate grounds and surprises all throughout to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. My bit of heaven in amoungst the noise of the city. I am a long time member and go there every chance I get to feel refreshed, calm and yet rejuvenated all at the same time.

The Illumination was cool. There were some things that could be better. Headlights off, decorations on both sides of the road, wished that the whole drive was as lit up as the entrance. Was disappointed that it was more of a light show than trees being lit up. We expected way more than what we saw. Also there is no point in a timed entry. We were there 30 minutes early and went in.. Try again next year? Maybe.

Ive lived in the Chicago area for most of my life, and I regret that I discovered this place just now! Really great place to take a long walk and enjoy nature. Place is huge, but there is a road that winds around the entire park and there are little parking lots along the way. The main parking lot (P1) was busy when we arrived, but the crowds disappeared as we got deeper into the park. Highly recommend and I plan on coming here regularly.

Great location to enjoy the woods and trails. My kids enjoy going there to see the trolls. If you enjoy the outdoors, the membership pays for itself

Love Morton Arboretum! We come here for mother day and they’re Christmas lights every year. It’s also a great spot for family or engagement photos. They always have a ton of activities going on and a cute play area for kids. There’s a restaurant and a super cute gift shop.

Second time visiting the arboretum and still felt like we have only explored less than 10% of it! It’s a very big area with gardens, trails, lakes, etc. Definitely recommend to families for a relaxing day. Biking and driving are on the same road, so just need to be slow and careful. The fragrance garden is small but elegant. The trolls have added a lot of fun to the arboretum. We got the membership and can’t wait to come back for the fall foliage!

Illumination 2020 was extremely disappointing! I knew it wouldnt be like past years, but the drive thru experience is so poor, it would have been better to skip a year. I can honestly drive through my neighborhood and see better Christmas lights.

Such an amazing outdoor space. After coming here once, I decided to purchase the membership, and its the best $60 Ive ever spent!! I can come here to walk, run, bike, drive around, meditate, take photographs, easy lunch, lay on the ground, explore nature, and so much more.

So much to see and a great place to take your family. Hiking trails galore, a great place to bike ride. In the fall, there is a variety of trees so the colors of the leaves are outstanding. They are always adding new events. In the wintertime they have all the trees decorated with lights and music. Its a beautiful sight to see.

One the most beautiful locations around! Every season has its special attractions, but in the spring and fall it is a must see attraction! There is a wonderful childrens play area to keep the little ones happy.I love the west side of the arboretum. There are gorgeous collections of crab apples and magnolias. The large areas of daffodils should not be missed. Fewer visitors and less noisy than the east side. Marmo lake trail has a collection of redbud trees that are stunning in the spring.The main area, on east side, has a beautiful walk around another lake. There are seasonal displays along its path. If course, covid has changed those events firvthe Immediate future.It is such a peaceful place with so many varieties of trees and shrubs that it is worth a visit at anytime of year.

I love this place. So much that I just became a member. Its beautiful, well kept, staff is very friendly. They after taking time blocks at the moment to prevent too many people visiting at once. The place is very clean. Right now they have a fun maze to interact. The winter is also fun to go to the light show. Fun and interactive for people of all ages.

This was my first visit... and despite the need for masks and social distancing... it was a beautiful, most enjoyable place to be for the day. In fact, the park seemed to be doing an excellent job of helping maintain safety and it definitely helps that theres so much space to roam. I will definitely be going again! ️

This is a great to enjoy the outdoors and easily socially distance. Beautiful trails. Kids had an awesome time doing the troll hunt for the 6 trolls. All are easily accessible from paved parking lots-just a short walk down a flat mulched trail. Perfect day out!

Will be our new family Christmas tradition.Such an awesome light show!

Acres and acres of trees. The gardens and lake near the visitor center are pretty but do get crowded. I recommend bringing a bike or driving farther to explore the less popular areas. Wonderful variety of trees. Went to a beautiful wedding there.

I went to the Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum and I think they could of done a better job. There was a lot of sections that were really dark. The price for admission is a bit high at $37 per car for a 2-mile ride that’s not well lit. I would definitely visit the Arboretum again but not for the light show.

Illuminations at the Morton Arboretum is truly a sight to behold. Its about a mile walk, basically a loop of beautifully lighted trees that change colors. Some to various types of music or laser. We were there for the evening show, so the pathways are quite dark. Concession stands along the way sell hot beverages perfect for the cold weather. Can hardly wait for this years presentation. Was told by one of the staff to see Illuminations when there is snow on the ground. Its quite magical. This is a ticketed event where you select a time slot that sells out quickly. Dont miss it! Stop by the gift shop on the way out. They have so many beautiful things to purchase.

We always enjoy going here to remind ourselves of the many species of trees/plants. Its a great place to learn about and enjoy Mother Nature.

Good variety of easy trails. It was also pretty empty on a Tuesday.Be aware of some of the one-way trails.

Our family went for the scarecrow fest so cute all the scouts who worked so hard. The fall gardens were amazing. We were masks and everyone was respectful of social distancing even the children. Dont forget to check out the trolls!

Always something to explore and enjoy. Bike, jog, walk, or even drive the loop and enjoy the glorious trees. We saw tadpoles in a lake and just enjoyed the magic of being in nature. Trails are well maintained and labeled. People are respectful.

The childrens garden is perfect for nature exploration and childrens imaginations of all ages! The arboretum has so much to offer.

First-time visitors should know that there is a lot of walking at the arboretum. For the Troll Hunt - take your car, especially if its your first time, like it is mine. I suggest downloading their app - it has the tours on there, and maps to go with each tour. The maze is closed for Covid. Bring a few bottled waters, a backpack, and a few snacks (that wont melt!) We came on a Friday, and there is plenty of room between folks, but masks are required, if you cant be less than 6ft apart/social distance, and inside of the buildings. Lavatories are throughout, and theres plenty of sun and shade. Enjoy! PS you really do have to park by #4 or #5 lot to see Joe. The road will not get you any closer.

The illumination show 2020 was not only over priced but there was more dark areas than illuminated areas.If I could rate this “illumination show” zero stars I would. If I wanted to go see Christmas lights, I would’ve gotten a better show driving through my neighborhood.

We had an absolute blast on the Troll Hunt. We hiked to 4 and drove to parking areas near the last two. I understand the Troll Hideout had been taken down prior which is a bummer but still an amazing day. The trees were all different colors. The scarecrow displays were a fun surprise. An all around excellent day.

Illumination is just the sight to put you in a holiday spirit. Great job done by the arboretum!

You can come here feeling lazy, drive around and stick to the short trails. Or you can spend all day walking or biking the many, many options around the East and West side. Clean bathrooms; a luxury during this time of closed everything. Always a pleasure to visit.

This is the first time Ive been here and I would highly recommend the troll hunt to anyone and everyone! Its so much fun! Your kids will enjoy it as well as you and your spouse and your family.

Lovely Arboretum just outside of Chicago in Lisle. Wide variety of trees and other plants from all over the world. Current attraction include the Trolls. Well worth a day trip.

This is one of my most favorite places to visit. The variety of trees are amazing. It is relaxing to take a short walk around the pond. The food from the cafe is very tasty and vegetarian meals are available as well. Although the cafe is currently closed due to the virus, but they have other options to choose food from.Their shop has some very unique gifts as well. Also because of the virus you do have to check in before you visit, but you feel very safe here.

This is my favorite place to come when I’m home in the suburbs. This summer my mom and I have come almost every weekend and we never ever get bored of it.Come for a long walk and bring some chairs to relax in afterwards.

Ive been going to the Morton Arboretum for decades. Its a wonderful place to explore nature. There is a gift shop, restrooms, a Childrens Garden, a Café and places within the Arboretum can be rented for events. Try the Tram ride for a guided tour of the tree collections. Drive through and stop at one of the many areas for hikes, picnics, exploring gardens or taking photographs.

One of the only natural refuges in the Chicagoland area, the Morton Arboretum is an oasis of open green space with lots to admire as you take a stroll or picnic within their beautifully manicured forests. Be prepared for crowds in warmer months, especially if there is a global pandemic underway. If youre looking for a quieter portion of the Arboretum, the Western portion is a favorite among readers and others seeking solitude in nature.

What a fantastic day! Love this place so much fun

It was lovely to be out in nature. They handled the flow of people seamlessly. It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Staff was both friendly and helpful. Loved it!

Had a wonderful time exploring with my grandchildren. We had fun discovering trolls and the many different kinds of trees. It was great feeling the warmth of the sun on our faces and just relaxing from all the chaos of the pandemics and the politics.

This is just a beautiful place to visit ... check out the Holiday Lights if you can get a ticket...the tour / show us about 25 minutes, but nicely done and all proceeds help the Arboretum maintain.

Great place fir hiking. Must make reservations on line during pandemic.

Saturday October 31st.This was my first visit. I had family in from California and wanted to do something outdoors with them. The trails are well maintained and had gentle ups and downs.(except for the climb to see Joe....)We were two weeks to late to see the fall colors but just breathing in the crisp air was enough.I highly recommend a visit and I know I’ll be back to see the Christmas illuminations.I have two wishes for a future visit. One is that there were a dedicated picture spot outside the visitor center. A sign saying Morton Arboretum made out of wood that my family could have stood in front of.I also really really wanted to purchase a simple cotton tshirt that said “Morton Arboretum, the Champion of trees, Lisle, Illinois”The gift shop is full of the most interesting gifts, books and one of a kind items.I really wanted a shirt to wear and brag about this wonderful place.I’m thankful for the day with my family and am thankful for all I saw and learned. Morton Arboretum is so very important to educate all of us about nature.

This place is truly magical. The air feels cleaner when you enter the grounds and your mind feels clearer. The arboretum has a lot to offer. For those with kids, theres a hands on childrens garden; which involves mazes, climbing and water all just right for little people.For those that want to enjoy nature there are the well manicured paths surrounding the visitor center as well as, natural hiking trails surrounding the entire arboretum.The visitor center can be very busy and crowded during the day, especially hot days, however once you start on a hiking trail, its just you and the vegetation.The arboretum has a nice cafe, that has air conditioning for those super hot days that overlooks a beautiful pond. There is also outdoor seating as well. The prices for the cafe are kind of high for the quality of food, but hey your paying for convenience;).There is a Tram tour ( separate fee)that takes you through parts of the arboretum with an experienced guide to explain the history of the trees and different areas. History of trees may not appeal to some, but this was a great relaxing and informative experience. I have only been in summer, but I cant wait to experience the seasonal changes for fall, winter and spring. Highly recommend spending an afternoon or two here!

Cool place but it isnt very clear once you get there where the trolls are and how to get to them. Apparently they are very spread out and requires a good amount of walking especially if you dont know that you need to drive to certain parking lots to be closer to them. The employees we asked werent very helpful and the signs werent helpful either. We walked a ton and only saw 2 trolls, Im not sure how many there even are and left not knowing where I was even supposed to go.

Beautiful place if you just want to wander/hike and dont really care for what you are looking at. We went there to see the Trolls. There wasnt much information on where they were. A map gave you a general idea, but there was no mention that its best to drive from Troll to Troll. The place is huge and there really is no way to walk from Troll to Troll simply because of distance.

Great place to take a hike and relax... Beautiful all year long and throughout different seasons. Love it. Want to go biking there one day.

Beautiful park, nice and clean friendly atmosphere a lot of bathrooms

A must see Gem in Illinois. Unbelievable how nature can take your breath away. You will enjoy the hunting for trolls with the family, you will spend hours enjoying mother earth. First get a map at visitor center take a cooler full of goodies take your bikes, and dont forget hiking boots.

Morton Arboretum is very well cared for and is a lovely walking venue. The plants and trees are labeled and there are unusual varieties of both.The Kids Garden is especially popular with kids and is spread out over gorgeous landscapes. I highly recommend the arboretum for people that enjoy nature, families and travelers who want to see the beauty that lies beyond Chicago.

Went here for a school trip!! Its a very Beautiful place in my opinion,and I LOVE the nature and flowers here. When we went,the only thing was that it was hot and we couldnt have our drinks out with us..they had to be in a bag. Its fun for family,school and other trips! I took some good pictures(again my opinion that the pictures are good) and its just a very unique place!

This is the place to connect with nature. I have been there with Family and we enjoyed alot. The place is huge so make sure you wear cloths and shoes which are comfortable for long walks. We came here before fall but this will be heaven if you visit this place in fall season. There is dedicated garden for Kids which huge enough so you can spend whole day here with kids without they getting bored. The place has a maze which is too good and be careful you might get stuck. You have to bring out your detective to find the way out.The place has store where you will find multiple things you would like to take home. The restaurant here has very great view with lake in front and then the green trees. The glass is so clean that it looks like the place is open which is not.Here you will find different kind insects and birds. The place is clean where ever you go. The place has so many different things varieties that you need to visit and then you have to experience the same.A must visit...

The Morton Arboretum is a beautiful site. They offer something for all ages. What a great place to see and learn the names of plants and trees you have seen in your lifetime. For exercise, you can walk the many trails or bike the arboretums drives. This is place you can enjoy again and again.

1. The best place for family hang out.2. The staffs are friendly.3. You can register yourself as member and they have reward or price when you reach some amount of visitation.4. And when I was there, I had nice experience with their special event. Illuminating forest.5. People who loved arts and trees would love this place.

Really beautiful place, full of lush, interesting plants. This is the perfect place for someone who is into botany, or to even bring their kids here. Its a fun way to learn about nature. Its a good place to take them, so they dont spend 100% of the time on their tablet or phone. Beautiful place, morning or night. My favorite time is in the evening, though, because of the lights on the trees.

Beautiful place with friendly staff. Walked 8 miles and enjoyed every minute of it. Packed a lunch and ate under a tree, the picnic tables were removed from the picnic area. Cant wait for my next visit.

I can’t believe it took me so long to visit this place. It’s such a huge place with endless paths. Must bring walking shoes! They have a large kid-friendly area and a cafe by the main visitor center. I wasn’t a fan of the troll hunt personally, but I loved the scenery.

Illumination is something youll have to see in your own eyes. It is breathtaking and it gave me goosebumps. Its beautiful! Highly recommend!

This place is absolutely beautiful!!!! Its a must especially for families

$15.00 per person to get in the gate. Defiantly ware walking shoes. Dont bring extra things to carry if you are planning on finding the trolls. If you are bringing the kiddos that dont walk well bring a wagon or stroller. Nice place to have a family pictures, picnics.

Terrific place to walk, ride, relax, picnic, hike and enjoy nature. Nicely kept with easily marked paths throughout. The staff is very friendly and accommodating.

Very big. A lot to see. Come prepared to walk

Great place to spend with the family and keep the social distance. Buy tickets ahead they are limited every hour. Good place to hike and enjoy nature.

Beautiful tree museum! A must visit. Great for long walks. Very well kept!

Beautiful place to enjoy and appreciate trees. I wish it werent so close to the interstate which is noisy.

Amazing experience. Wonderful location for hikes, walks and relaxing overall nature experience. Multiple resources for all ages and clean accessible bathrooms.

Beautiful, wild, natural settings with wide open spaces and nice trails. We could have spent the whole day exploring. The trolls were cool, but frustrated that covid prevented us from getting closer.

Love this peaceful place!! The Trolls add whimsy. Great place for the whole family!

Beautiful place, peaceful, big enough to visit several times and has always new to check. Love the trolls and all the arbpretun. Great for everybody who loves nature

Amazing walk throughout the place! Everyone followed the social distancing rule.

The Morton Arboratum is a wonderful experience for anyone who loves trees, gardens or nature... We spent hours walking around and probably still havent seen everything they have to offer... It was a delightful experience...

Gorgeous with plenty of walking and driving options so there is something for everyone. Looking for an interesting Instagram moment? Head here

The troll hunt is lots of fun. Give the kids a map and let them run...

ITS TERRIBLE the holiday light show is so underwelming barely any lights. In the begging its beautiful but when you go in its empty maybe a couple lights but thats all DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY. Maybe next year will be better.

Well worth the membership for families. So much to explore! The troll hunt is highly recommened however I do wish they didnt have fences and flags around them... The Childrens Garden has recently reopened and is a great space for families.

Beautiful grounds with extensive walking paths. Despite it being full of people everyone was spread out you still had plenty of privacy and solitude to enjoy the fall scenery.

Perfect time to go with the leaves changing color.

Saw the light show at night boy I was amazing im going to see ifni can gather a couple friends and go again!

This is a very large arboretum, perfect for an afternoon of hiking and biking, or a family visit to the childrens area. It can get crowded, but they handle crowds very well and the parking is very organized. The childrens area is very adventurous and perfect for little kids. The food is also very delicious, and not too overpriced. The hiking and biking trails out in the woods are very well-kept and fun. Some highlights for me are the expansive hedge maze with a lookout tower encompassing a tree, and the wading pond where you can catch tadpoles and water-bugs. This arboretum is a long drive from Chicago, but the trek is definitely worth it.

Morton is absolutely beautiful! They regularly have new events or special displays. The Christmas lights event is incredible. The troll hunt is delightful!!! The various older buildings are stunning. Three hedge maze is fun. Its a wonderful place to spend a free afternoon!

Amazing peaceful place to visit with family, friends or relaxing walk alone.The food there is also very good and healthy choices as well.Special Troll and Lego exhibits are amazing!!!

Awesome trails. The trolls are epic. Went on a hot steamy day. Bring a camelback if you can. Youll need it.

Wonderful place for a walk in the trees. We went to the walk-in tai chi class and had a good time. There were quite a few cars in the parking lot on a Sunday afternoon but it didnt seem crowded at all. There are a lot of family friendly activities to engage children, and a restaurant, coffee shop with espresso drinks, a big gift shop, and a nice visitors center. It costs $15 per person now, which is a lot more than it did in years past, so a membership makes good sense if you plan to visit more than twice a year.

Beautiful, expansive grounds to stroll, sit, explore & learn. Store and info center now open, so nice chance to shop & cool off for a minute. Trolls are awesome .. check them out during this event extension! Dont forget to reserve your arrival time.

Great place to go any time of year. Beautiful nature walks. Displays at different seasons. They host a run in the fall. Beautiful trees. Handy walking or driving guide

Even during the pandemic, even during the cold, the employees were courteous and respecting of each person they met.They smiled and greeted us, helping us take in all the beauty of the nature that they carefully took care of.

This is a great location for people of every age! The Morton Arboretum is such a positive place for nature and full of creativity. They offer many classes and events throughout the year that can be enjoyed by members and nonmembers alike. If you live nearby, it is definitely worth the membership! The paths are well marked and many of the trees have ID badges so there’s learning to be had along the way. It isn’t usually too busy when we visit but the parking lots do get crowded during events. I have really enjoyed the Illumination event the Arboretum hosts every winter. It is incredible! Such a great place in Lisle, Illinois.

Absolutely beautiful arboretum that is convenient when visiting Chicago.

Had very good fall colors,There is relatively less number of Walking/Hiking trails for adventure enthusiasts

Very very nice Place ! I love this place ! Nice nature and troll !

Beautiful trees, love the changing colors!! The trolls were so much fun. Great to be outdoors!

Vast piece of green, well maintained. One of the piece of woods in Illinois to walk with your friends or your family. So much peaceful, tress is all you can see, so refreshing.15$/ adult and 10$/ adult on Wednesdays only.

Such a special place in the suburbs. A great getaway to nature with options to hike trails, walk a short lake loop, drive various loops, bike or snow shoe. Easy to achieve social distance. Prior to the pandemic they also have offered well organized and fun events. Childrens garden with play areas throughout and maze however this may not be open again for a while.

We live within walking distance to the arboretum, which is why we decided to purchase a membership. Pre-Covid, we had no issues, but since the park has been timed-entry only (which has comprised the majority of our year-long membership), we have had nothing but trouble visiting. Day-of reservations are nearly impossible on the weekends, which is really a letdown when you just want to take a cruise through the grounds (and not even get out of the car)! Recently we had guests whose schedule was uncertain, so we could not reserve a time in advance. When we attempted to reserve a slot the same day, all were booked. As a member, I am extremely disappointed that they do not ensure that members can gain entry. Who knows how long we will have to operate under timed-entry...likely for the foreseeable future...but this is ridiculous. They have to figure out a better way to serve their patrons. They know exactly how many members they have. Since we are not able to fully use our membership, we will not be renewing it.

One of my favorite places to visit. Lots of different length trails to choose from, including short easy ones for the kids. I think the childrens garden has opened up now, too

This place was nice, but I think a little overpriced for $15 per person. Its a good size place and there are many things to do while walking around, but if you wanted to take a tour via bus that was an additional charge which seemed kind of high. The restaurant was a plain restaurant with somewhat decent food, we may come back again if they ever have a free admission day or discounted price.