Chicago has five historic conservatories in public parks, one of which is the Lincoln Park Conservatory. According to the Chicago Park District, “During the early nineteenth century developments in iron and glass building technology led to the construction of conservatories in cities throughout Europe and the United States. Later in the century, as people were increasingly concerned about the ill effects of industrialization, they became fascinated with nature and interested in collecting and classifying plants. Large conservatories with display and exhibit rooms gained popularity, and Lincoln Park's small greenhouse no longer seemed sufficient. Architects Silsbee and Bell were commissioned to design a much more substantial building.”

Built between 1890 and 1895, architects Joseph Silsbee (1848-1913) and Mifflin Bell (1847-1904) designed a crystalline Victorian form consisting of a vestibule, four display halls - a palm house, fernery, tropical room, and a show house for seasonal flower exhibits. It was considered a ‘paradise under glass’.

Today, the Lincoln Park Conservatory continues to be a popular place for visitors and Chicago residents, especially during their annual flower shows! Click the button below to visit the conservatory and look for upcoming events.