Springtime blooms are practically here: Chicago’s flower hotspots to color your spring

Spring in Chicago means vibrant blooms as the city's parks, gardens, and green spaces come to life. The city has plenty of spots to catch the best of spring flowers, from the iconic cherry blossoms in Grant Park to charming neighborhood gardens.

Garfield Park Conservatory – Garfield Park

Garfield Park Conservatory is a spring gem in Chicago, bursting with vibrant flowers and greenery. It is one of the city's most beautiful spots and the perfect place to catch spring in full swing. Inside, tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths fill the Palm House and Show House, while outside, azaleas and magnolias add pops of color to the gardens. Whether wandering the rooms or enjoying the outdoor blooms, it’s a peaceful spot to embrace the season’s beauty.

While at the conservatory, enjoy this year’s flower show, Rooted in Mystery. Discover the secret world of plant roots through educational displays about root structures that educate visitors on the hidden ecosystem beneath the soil.

Garfield Park Conservatory also offers a variety of innovative and educational events and programs year-round. Follow the link for more information.

Lincoln Park Conservatory – Lincoln Park

The Lincoln Park Conservatory, an antique gem built in 1895, features a stunning collection of tropical, desert, and seasonal plants spread across its lush rooms. Visitors can explore everything from vibrant orchids in the Palm House to fragrant flowers in the Seasonal Display House, making it a year-round destination for plant enthusiasts.

This year’s seasonal display, "Spectrum of Spring," celebrates the vibrant color families of plants and flowers with a distinctive design and color palette. The show will run until May 11, and admission for Chicago residents is always free. Follow the link for reservation information.

Jackson Park – Hyde Park

Jackson Park is a rich, historic park known for its role in the1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. The park was designed by famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who also designed New York’s Central Park. Jackson Park features beautiful lagoons, bridges, and statues that still reflect the grandeur of the fair.

The Japanese Garden (Garden of the Phoenix) in Jackson Park, initially created for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, was named to represent Chicago's rise from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

It offers a peaceful escape with koi ponds and winding paths. Hundreds of cherry blossoms given by Japan in 1973 as a symbol of the friendship between the two nations are planted along the lagoons. Yoko Ono's "Sky Landing" art installation adds a modern touch to the garden. So many hidden treasures make Jackson Park a must while celebrating springtime in Chicago.

Tulips on Michigan Avenue

Each spring, the tulips along Michigan Avenue, especially on the Magnificent Mile, transform Chicago’s iconic streets into a vibrant sea of color. The tulips are planted annually by the city and have become a beloved tradition. Once the blooms fade, the bulbs are carefully dug up, and a Tulip Bulb Giveaway event is held, free for the public to collect.  The program is part of Chicago’s ongoing commitment to green urban spaces and seasonal beauty. Follow the link for last year’s flyer to get more information for 2025’s giveaway.

Every spring, Chicago comes alive with bright blooms, offering countless spots to soak in the season’s vibrant colors. No list would be complete without these must-see locations for flower lovers. 

Ping Tom Memorial Park – 1700 S. Wentworth Ave., Chinatown

Columbus Park – 500 S. Central Ave.,  Austin

Washington Park - 5531 S. King Dr., Washington Park