Photo: Mandee F
Photo: Joan Bruhmuller
Photo: William Errera
The Morton Arboretum
★4.8(14,002 reviews)$Activity
🕑 3-5 hours for a full visit including Children's Garden and Troll Hunt👶 All ages, especially toddlers through middle schoolers🧡 Saved by 350+ families
About
The Morton Arboretum is a magical outdoor destination where kids can explore 1,700 acres of trees, gardens, and nature trails. The 4-acre Children's Garden features hands-on activities, water play, and climbing areas, while the famous Troll Hunt sends families on an adventure to find massive wooden troll sculptures hidden throughout the grounds. It's the perfect blend of education and outdoor adventure that keeps kids engaged for hours.
Highlights
- ✓The Troll Hunt - six giant wooden troll sculptures hidden throughout the arboretum
- ✓Children's Garden with water features, climbing areas, and nature play
- ✓Seasonal events like Illumination (winter light show) and summer concerts
Pro Tips
- 1.Download the Troll Hunt map from their website before you go - kids love checking off each troll they find, and it makes navigating the massive grounds easier
- 2.The Children's Garden gets very busy on weekends; arrive right at 9 AM opening or visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience
- 3.Bring a wagon or rent one on-site - the distances between attractions are significant and little legs tire quickly
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) for blooms and mild weather, or fall (September-October) for gorgeous colors. Weekday mornings offer the best experience with fewer crowds.
What to Know
Food: Ginkgo Restaurant & Café on-site with kid-friendly options; outdoor picnic areas available throughout; food trucks often present on weekends · Parking: Large paid parking lots throughout the grounds ($15-20 per vehicle); parking near the Children's Garden fills quickly on nice weekends · Bathrooms: Clean restrooms with changing tables at main visitor center, Children's Garden, and throughout the grounds · Strollers: Stroller-friendly on paved paths, but many trails are woodchip or natural surface; a sturdy all-terrain stroller or wagon works best · Accessibility: Most paved paths are wheelchair accessible; accessible tram tours available; some natural trails may be challenging
Seasonal Notes
Illumination light show runs late November through January (requires separate ticket). Spring brings blooms and special Mother's Day events. Summer offers outdoor concerts and extended hours. Fall features pumpkin displays and harvest activities. Winter is still open but cold - dress warmly!
Real Experiences
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Nearby Eats
The on-site Ginkgo Restaurant offers salads, sandwiches, and kids' meals. Nearby Lisle has family chains along Ogden Avenue (5 minutes away), or head to Naperville (10 minutes) for more extensive dining options including Portillo's and Lou Malnati's.
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