The Morton Arboretum

With 1,700 acres and more than 222,000 live plants, The Morton Arboretum is an impeccable setting for leisurely strolls, bird-watching and family outings. Spend the day exploring the grounds and take in the vast degrees of the ever-changing seasons expressed through nature. 

When Joy Morton, founder of the Morton Salt Company in Chicago, established The Morton Arboretum in 1922, he envisioned a “great outdoor museum” of trees. True to his vision, The Arboretum conducts ongoing leading scientific research on tree health and tree improvement, collects and displays trees for study and enjoyment on the grounds, offers educational programming for adults and children and presents nature-related activities year-round for people of all ages and interests. The living collections continue to inspire visitors to appreciate, learn about, plant, and protect trees.

Arbor Day
Arbor Day is an annual national celebration of trees observed by The Morton Arboretum with family-friendly events and educational programs around the last Friday in April.

What to Do During Your Visit

  • Explore the Grounds - 9 miles of drivable roads and 16 miles of trails 
  • Play in the Children's Garden 
  • Get Lost in the Maze Garden 
  • Hop Aboard a Guided Tram Tour 


Bloom Report
The Bloom Report is written by the Arboretum’s Manager of Plant Records, Ed Hedborn. It is typically published on Fridays through spring to give guests a chance to plan their weekend visits. The Arboretum also publishes a weekly Color Report in the fall.

Tickets to The Morton Arboretum
Members only need time-entry tickets on weekends and holidays. Guests must purchase timed-entry admission prior to arriving. 
Price Range: $9-$12 (Wednesdays are discount admission day) 
Purchase tickets online here
(630) 968-0074 


Upcoming Events

“Visit, explore, learn and experience the joys of the ever-changing seasons 365 days a year.”