Chicago & Western Suburbs
Need some great destinations for one-day or weekend getaways? No problem. There are many options for getting out of town and enjoying a little breather. And for a destination? Plenty to choose from. The Chicagoland region abounds in breathtaking public and private gardens plus stellar garden centers. In Chicago there are wonderful conservatories. Then hit the road and drive west to those great garden centers. This is summer. Go out there and have fun. Download the map and location information here.
Indiana & Michigan
Road Trip Rule number one for making your stress melt away—get off the interstates. Sure, the fast highways can get you to your destination fast (except when they can’t) but it’s amazing how a trip to Indiana or Michigan is instantly transformed once you make a right turn down an exit ramp and start tooling along a nice two-lane local highway. There’s so much to see—cows, horses, interesting old farm houses, farm stands with fresh local produce, good restaurants. The pace of life suddenly slows down as you take your foot off the accelerator, and the grass gets greener. Really. Download the map and location information here.
Wisconsin & Northern Illinois
Just one look at the map says it all—Wisconsin is a wonderland when it comes to things horticultural, and the rolling landscape with its glacial moraines make it a history lesson as well. Clearly one day will never be enough. Neither will a weekend. With so many places to visit, you’re going to find yourself returning again and again. Each public garden listed here is memorable, but so are the garden centers with their interesting niche offerings. And don’t forget to pick up some cheese on your way home. Download the map and location information here.
Rockford
When the early settlers discovered a ford across the very pretty Rock River, the word spread. The settlers formed a settlement and named it, what else, Rockford, and it evolved into today’s lovely mid-sized city. Whether you’re coming from Wisconsin or points in Illinois, Rockford is an easy drive. Once there, you’ll be glad you came. Many public and private gardens to visit. The garden shopping is good here as well — stone work, antiques, woody plants. Definitely worth a trip (or more). Download the map and location information here.
