For my birthday, I wished for wine, brunch, and The Orchid Show. Yes, you read that right. I wanted to see The Orchid Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden. After years of wanting to see, this was the year. See, orchids are my absolute favorite. And this year we made it happen.
Highlights:
- The theme of the year is Orchids in Vogue, and takes a playful look at how orchids have been celebrated in popular culture. It was neat learning how orchids played a role in architecture and also seeing it in movies.
- Grand entrance. This 15-foot tall “wind chime” made from Vanda orchids greeted us even before we stepped in. It was definitely a sign of good things to come!
- Breathtaking canopy of orchids. My favorite part of the show — just amazing!
- Cool dresses! How amazing are these “dresses” made from natural materials?
- Kid-friendly fun. Let’s face it, to some kids this may not be their cup of tea. But there are certain things to do to keep the kids entertained such as playing a little iSpy with unique trees carved in different shapes.
or sniffing different orchids in various fragrances.
- Gorgeous and unique flowers. Need I say more? Just take a look at these photos.
We Wish:
- The weather was warmer. The kids would have loved to explore the brand new Nature Play area.
Tips:
- Visit on a Monday with the kids and participate in storytime at Lenhardt Library next to the entrance to the Orchid Show.
Bottom Line:
If you love beautiful flowers, and especially orchids, The Orchid Show is well worth a visit. There are certainly a few things to keep the kids busy, but it wouldn’t hurt having a little one-on-one time enjoying the beauty of these gorgeous flowers.
Nitty Gritty:
Website: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/
Location: 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL
Hours: The Orchid Show is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ticket prices: Ticket prices for members/nonmembers are as follows: adults $10/$12, seniors 62+ and children 3-12 $8/$10, children 2 and under are free. Buy parking in advance for faster entry. Visitors can save more than 30 percent with a special online package that includes parking and two tickets.
Parking: Plenty of parking at the lot. Fee to park.
Stroller-friendly? It may get a little crowded with the stroller. There is a stroller parking available.
Crowded: We visited on a late afternoon on Saturday, and it wasn’t too crowded. We had about an hour and 15 minutes to enjoy the exhibit.
