Location:
Cannon Drive and Fullerton Parkway
Chicago, IL 60614
Located Within:
Lincoln (Abraham) Park
Phone Numbers:
Conservatory
(773) 883-PARK
Features:
Lagoon, Savanna, Woodland
Hours Notes
The Lily Pool is open seasonally from mid-April through mid-November. It is also closed the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the Air and Water Show.
Description
The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is a three-acre natural area located along the southernmost edge of Lincoln Park Zoo. Named for local landscape architect who redesigned it in the 1930s, it is a tribute to the natural ecology of the Midwest. It is meant to mimic a river formed by a melting glacier鈥檚 flow of water as it cuts through rock. The stonework and paths have a natural look reminiscent of limestone bluffs, and a waterfall near the north end of the Lily Pool represents the source of this glacial river.
Today, the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is a haven for wildlife, providing food, water, and shelter for many species of birds, dragonflies, butterflies, frogs, and turtles. And it is especially popular with birders because it provides ideal viewing opportunities from pathways above the water.
Help keep wildlife wild, safe, and healthy by following posted signage and Natural Areas Rules and Regulations. For questions regarding 快播视频 Natural Areas, email nature@chicagoparkdistrict.com. For information regarding permits and rentals, contact the .
History
Originally built in 1889 for raising tropical water lilies, the Lily Pool was redesigned in the prairie style by landscape architect Alfred Caldwell in the 1930s.
In 2001, 快播视频 partnered with Friends of Lincoln Park to begin restoring the Lily Pool鈥檚 historic landscape, which had fallen into disrepair after years of little active management. This process involved the replacement of invasive trees and shrubs with native plants, including prairie and woodland wildflowers. In addition to landscape enhancements, the restoration effort included the installation of accessible ramps and pathways as well as the rehabilitation of the pavilion, council ring, pathways, and the waterfall. Additional maintenance in 2024 provided essential repairs to the pavilion.
Parking/Directions
For directions using public transportation visit .
Map & Facilities
Lincoln Park - Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
Cannon Drive and Fullerton Parkway
Chicago, IL 60614
United States
:
(773) 883-PARK